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AIA Group Limited

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FY2020 Annual Report · AIA Group Limited
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HEALTHIER 
LONGER 
BETTER 
LIVES

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

AIA.COM

AIA GROUP LIMITED

友邦保險控股有限公司  

STOCK CODE 1299

 
 
 
 
 
 
OUR  
PURPOSE

Our Purpose is  
to help people live 
Healthier, Longer, 
Better Lives.

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 a presence in 18 markets –  
wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries 
in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR(1), 
Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, 
Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar,  
the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, 
Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei,  
Macau SAR(2) and New Zealand, and  
a 49 per cent joint venture in India. 

The business that is now AIA was  
first established in Shanghai more than  
a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader 
in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance 
premiums and holds leading positions 
across the majority of its markets.  
It had total assets of US$326 billion as  
of 31 December 2020. 

AIA meets the long-term 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, partners  
and employees across Asia, AIA serves 
the holders of more than 38 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)  Hong Kong SAR refers to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. 

(2)  Macau SAR refers to Macau Special Administrative Region.

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

CONTENTS

OVERVIEW
006  Financial Highlights
008  Chairman’s Statement
010  Group Chief Executive and 

President’s Report

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING 
REVIEW
016  Group Chief Financial  
Officer’s Review
040  Business Review
056  Risk Management
062  Regulatory and International 

Developments

064  Our People

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
069  Statement of Directors’ 
Responsibilities

070  Board of Directors
078  Executive Committee
083  Report of the Directors
096  Corporate Governance Report
110  Remuneration Report

Independent Auditor’s Report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
125 
132  Consolidated Income Statement
133  Consolidated Statement of  
Comprehensive Income
134  Consolidated Statement of 

Financial Position

136  Consolidated Statement of 

Changes in Equity

138  Consolidated Statement of  

Cash Flows

140  Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements and 
Significant Accounting Policies
Independent Auditor’s Report on 
the Supplementary Embedded 
Value Information

265 

269  Supplementary Embedded Value 

Information

Information for Shareholders

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
295 
298  Corporate Information
299  Glossary

AIA AT-A-GLANCE

The only international life 
insurer headquartered and 
listed in Hong Kong and
100% FOCUSED 
ON ASIA

THE LARGEST 
LISTED COMPANY 
ON THE HONG KONG 
STOCK EXCHANGE
which is incorporated and 
headquartered in Hong Kong

Serving the holders of 
more than
38 MILLION 
individual policies  
and over
16 MILLION 
participating members of 
group insurance schemes

PRESENCE 
IN 

18

MARKETS

NO.1  
WORLDWIDE FOR  
MDRT REGISTERED  
MEMBERS
The only multinational  
company to top the table 
for six consecutive years

PAID MORE THAN  
US$16 BILLION  
benefits and claims during 
2020, providing vital financial 
support for customers

Provides protection  
to people across  
Asia with total sum  
assured of almost
US$2 TRILLION

001

ANNUAL REPORT 2020OVERVIEW

AIA’s purpose is to help people live Healthier, 
Longer, Better Lives. In 2020, COVID-19 presented 
a new and unprecedented risk to our communities. 
Our response was swift and comprehensive, 
including provision of medical supplies to our 
communities and free insurance coverage to 
medical frontliners and cleaning workers to give 
them peace of mind as they risked their lives in the 
fight against COVID-19. We extended free COVID-
related cover to more than 25 million policies and 
provided US$1 billion of premium support across  
12 markets. Over the year we paid more than  
US$16 billion in benefits and claims, providing 
essential financial protection when it is needed the 
most. While the effects of the pandemic are far from 
over, we will continue to play a supportive role as 
our communities recover.

The business that is now 
AIA, was first established 
by Cornelius Vander Starr  
in Shanghai in 1919.

Since then, AIA has grown to become 
the largest independent publicly 
listed pan-Asian life insurance group, 
spanning 18 markets and serving 
the holders of more than 38 million 
individual policies and more than  
16 million group scheme members.

Our contributions have supported the 
social and economic progress of our 
markets, while also advancing the 
reach and impact of life insurance 
across Asia. We also take pride in 
the long-term relationships we have 
developed with our customers and 

agents; which in many cases have 
continued for generations.

Guided by our commitment to make 
a significant, positive impact on our 
customers and communities across 
Asia, AIA’s purpose is to help millions 
of people live Healthier, Longer, 
Better Lives. Our Purpose guides the 
decisions we make and the actions we 
take as an organisation – empowering 
and enabling people to understand 
and manage their health, while 
meeting their long-term savings and 
protection needs. We believe that 
helping to create a healthier Asia 
is one of the most important and 
valuable things we can do for our 
communities, today and in the future.

004

2020 MILESTONES

AIA pledges  
US$100 million to create  
the AIA Scholarships
AIA announced the establishment of 
the AIA Scholarships and pledged 
US$100 million to support 100 

undergraduates a year to attend 
universities in Hong Kong over  
the next several decades. The AIA 
Scholarships will support students who 
have demonstrated a track record of 
academic excellence and community 
service, and who need financial 
support to pursue their studies. 

AIA sets up a wholly-owned 
life insurance subsidiary in  
Mainland China
AIA successfully converted its 
business in Mainland China to the first 
wholly foreign owned life insurance 
subsidiary in Mainland China in 
October 2020, following regulatory 
approval in June 2020. In March 2021, 
AIA received approval from the  

AIA tops the table for  
sixth year running
AIA became the only multi-national 
company in the world to rank number 
one in terms of the largest number of 
Million Dollar Round Table registered 
members for six consecutive years.

China Banking and Insurance 
Regulatory Commission to begin 
operations in Sichuan.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

005

2020 RESULTS AT-A-GLANCE(1)

VALUE OF NEW BUSINESS(2)(8)

ANNUALISED NEW PREMIUMS(3)(8)

US$ MILLIONS

US$ MILLIONS

6,510

6,585

5,624

5,123

5,219

4,154

3,955

3,206

2,750

2,765

4,500

4,000

3,500

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX(4)(9)

TOTAL WEIGHTED PREMIUM INCOME(5)

5,942

5,689

5,298

US$ MILLIONS

4,635

3,981

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

US$ MILLIONS

34,002

35,408

30,543

26,393

22,133

40,000

35,000

30,000

25,000

20,000

15,000

10,000

5,000

0

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

EV EQUITY(6)

US$ MILLIONS

TOTAL ASSETS AND TOTAL LIABILITIES

(9)

US$ BILLIONS

67,185

63,905

56,203

52,429

43,650

326

262

284

229

219

175

230

190

185

150

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

TOTAL ASSETS         TOTAL LIABILITIES

70,000

60,000

50,000

40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000

0

006

AIA GROUP LIMITEDOVERVIEW2020 BREAKDOWN BY MARKET SEGMENT

VALUE OF NEW BUSINESS(2)(7)

ANNUALISED NEW PREMIUMS(3)

17%

7%

11%

32%

15%

18%

25%

23%

7%

10%

13%

22%

OPERATING PROFIT AFTER TAX(4)

TOTAL WEIGHTED PREMIUM INCOME(5)

12%

21%

5%

10%

17%

35%

20%

16%

6%

9%

12%

37%

MAINLAND CHINA         HONG KONG         THAILAND         SINGAPORE         MALAYSIA         OTHER MARKETS

Notes:
(1)  The financial information from 2017 onwards is presented on the  
31 December financial year-end basis. The financial information in 
2016 is presented on the 30 November financial year-end basis.

(2)  Value of new business (VONB) is the present value, measured at the 
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 
the required capital in excess of regulatory reserves to support this 
business.

(3)  Annualised new premiums (ANP) is a measure of new business 

activity that is calculated as the sum of 100 per cent of annualised 
first year premiums and 10 per cent of single premiums, before 
reinsurance ceded.

(4)  Operating profit after tax (OPAT) is shown after non-controlling 

interests.

(5)  Total weighted premium income (TWPI) consists of 100 per cent of 
renewal premiums, 100 per cent of first year premiums and 10 per 
cent of single premiums, before reinsurance ceded.

(6)  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.

(7)  Based on local statutory basis, before unallocated Group Office 
expenses and deduction of the amount attributable to non-
controlling interests, VONB by segment includes pension business.

(8)  From 2019 onwards, ANP and VONB for Other Markets include  

the results from our 49 per cent shareholding in Tata AIA Life 
Insurance Company Limited (Tata AIA Life). ANP and VONB for 
2018 and before have not been restated and do not include any 
contribution from Tata AIA Life. The VONB for the Group from  
2019 onwards excludes the VONB attributable to non-controlling 
interests. VONB for 2018 and before have not been restated  
and are reported before deducting the amount attributable to 
non-controlling interests, as previously disclosed. The IFRS results 
of Tata AIA Life are accounted for using the equity method. The 
results of Tata AIA Life are accounted for on a one quarter lag 
basis in AIA’s consolidated results. For clarity, TWPI does not 
include any contribution from Tata AIA Life.

(9)  AIA’s IFRS accounting treatment for the recognition and 

measurement of insurance contract liabilities of Hong Kong 
participating business has been refined to reflect expected 
changes to policyholder bonuses. Comparative information has 
been adjusted for 2019. Comparative information for 2018 and 
prior years has not been restated.

007

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOVERVIEW

CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT

AIA is proud of its reputation  
built over the last century in Asia  
on being there for our communities 
when they need us the most.  
Our colleagues have  
responded to the COVID-19  
pandemic with care and  
dedication as we continued  
to provide uninterrupted  
support to our millions  
of customers.

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Independent Non-executive  
Chairman

Throughout AIA’s long history in the region we have managed our businesses through many periods of change 
and  uncertainty,  earning  our  company  a  reputation  which  is  synonymous  with  trust,  resilience  and  doing  the 
right  thing  for  our  stakeholders.  From  early  2020,  the  COVID-19  pandemic  presented  an  ever-changing  and 
complex operating environment and we witnessed unprecedented shifts in politics, macroeconomics and capital 
markets. AIA’s financial strength and Purpose of “helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives” has never 
been  more  relevant.  I  am  immensely  grateful  to  all  of  our  employees,  agents  and  partners  for  their  care  and 
dedication, remaining steadfast in supporting our customers, their families, and our communities, through this 
most challenging time. 

New  business  sales  were  affected  by  COVID-19  related  containment  measures,  with  value  of  new  business 
(VONB) reducing to US$2,765 million. Our rapid adoption of new digital tools helped maintain business activity 
and,  together  with  more  recent  easing  of  movement  restrictions,  led  to  a  robust  recovery  in  sales  momentum, 
which  has  continued  into  the  beginning  of  2021.  VONB  for  the  first  two  months  of  2021  grew  by  15  per  cent 
compared with the same period in the prior year.

Operating profit after tax (OPAT) increased by 5 per cent to US$5,942 million and underlying free surplus generation 
(UFSG) grew by 7 per cent to US$5,843 million, reflecting our high-quality, recurring sources of earnings. EV Equity 
reached a new high of US$67.2 billion. The Group Local Capital Summation Method (LCSM) cover ratio was 374 per 
cent as at 31 December 2020, demonstrating our resilient capital position and disciplined financial management.

The board of Directors (Board) has recommended a final dividend of 100.30 Hong Kong cents per share, which is 
an increase of 7.5 per cent, reflecting the strength and resilience of our financial results and the Board’s continued 
confidence in the future prospects of the Group. This brings the total dividend for 2020 to 135.30 Hong Kong cents 
per share. The Board follows AIA’s established prudent, sustainable and progressive dividend policy, allowing for 
future growth opportunities and the financial flexibility of the Group.

008

OVERVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDIn the fourth quarter of 2020, we celebrated the 10th anniversary of AIA’s historic listing on the Hong Kong Stock 
Exchange.  AIA’s  market  debut  established  new  records  at  the  time  and  remains  the  largest-ever  initial  public 
offering in the global insurance sector. It has been my honour and pleasure to work alongside our Board members 
as our business has gone from strength to strength over this time to become the largest life insurance company 
in the world by market capitalisation.

All  of  the  Board’s  non-executive  directors  are  independent  and  have  extensive  governance  and  leadership 
experience in the public and private sectors. Together, we are committed to maintaining a culture that upholds the 
highest international standards of corporate governance. We are firm believers that a strong governance culture, 
supported by a sound risk management framework, is fundamental to the sustainability of every organisation.

An  important  responsibility  for  the  Board  is  to  ensure  a  robust  leadership  pipeline  and  effective  succession 
planning. We welcomed Lee Yuan Siong as Group Chief Executive and President on 1 June 2020, following the 
retirement of Ng Keng Hooi. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Yuan Siong and his senior management 
team for their outstanding stewardship of our businesses in these extraordinary times. We are also very grateful 
to Keng Hooi for his valuable leadership and substantial contributions to AIA over many years.

The global impacts of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues continue to be of great significance. 
We  remain  committed  to  playing  our  part  in  the  transition  to  a  brighter  future  and  our  ESG  efforts  have  been 
recognised again in 2020. The rating agency, Sustainalytics, ranked AIA second in our industry out of more than 
270 peers, noting the strength and quality of our corporate governance. Additionally, our ESG Corporate Rating 
score from Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS) remains “Prime”, placing us among the best in our industry 
for our sustainability performance. AIA recognises that there is much more we can do in this area to achieve better 
outcomes for our communities and it remains a personal priority that I share with my Board colleagues, our senior 
management team and all our employees.

The  growing  need  for  AIA’s  products,  services  and  high-quality  advice  has  never  been  more  evident  than  it 
is  today.  Our  strategy  builds  on  the  powerful  structural  drivers  of  growth  prevalent  in  Asia,  underpinned  by 
unprecedented wealth creation, a rapidly expanding protection gap, evolving consumer preferences, the rise of 
digital technology and a focus on long-term sustainability. The Board remains confident that AIA is extremely 
well positioned to capture the enormous opportunities available in the region by providing our customers and 
their families with financial peace of mind at a time when they need it the most, while creating shared value for 
all our stakeholders.

Finally,  AIA’s  strong  performance  and  growth  since  our  initial  public  offering  would  not  have  been  possible  
without the trust of our customers and shareholders. On behalf of the entire Board, I am deeply grateful for your 
enduring support. 

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Independent Non-executive Chairman
12 March 2021

Growth rates are shown on constant exchange rates as management believes this provides a clearer 
picture of the year-on-year performance of the underlying business.

009

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND 
PRESIDENT’S REPORT

AIA has delivered another very strong performance 
reflecting the extraordinary efforts of our outstanding 
teams. I am extremely proud of how our people 
have responded in a rapidly changing operating 
environment. Thanks to their unwavering commitment, 
we helped our customers navigate uncertainty, while 
accelerating our strategic plans.

Mr. Lee Yuan Siong
Group Chief Executive  
and President

010

OVERVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDAIA is a trusted partner to our customers, providing peace of mind when they are concerned about the financial 
security and well-being of their families. While the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been far-reaching, 
my deepest gratitude goes to our employees, agents and partners for their tremendous agility and dedication 
as they adapted to new working practices and ensured uninterrupted customer support.

Since the onset of the pandemic, our businesses have responded quickly and proactively to help alleviate the 
impact on our communities, while ensuring the safety of our people. I am immensely proud of the wide-ranging 
initiatives undertaken including financial support, provision of medical supplies, free protection cover, access 
to health resources, streamlined services and expedited claim payments. We always look for every reason to 
pay a claim and, over the year, we paid more than US$16 billion in benefits and claims, providing vital financial 
protection for our customers.

While value of new business (VONB) was affected by COVID-19 containment measures, reducing to US$2,765 
million, we delivered positive sales momentum as movement restrictions eased and made a very strong start 
to 2021 with 15 per cent year-on-year VONB growth in the first two months. Our large and growing in-force 
portfolio with high-quality, recurring sources of earnings delivered a 5 per cent increase in operating profit after 
tax (OPAT) in 2020 and a 7 per cent increase in underlying free surplus generation (UFSG). EV Equity reached 
a  new  high  of  US$67.2  billion  and  the  Group  LCSM  cover  ratio  was  374  per  cent  as  at  31  December  2020, 
demonstrating our robust capital position and disciplined financial management.

The  board  of  Directors  (Board)  has  recommended  a  7.5  per  cent  increase  in  the  final  dividend  for  2020  to  
100.30 Hong Kong cents per share. This follows AIA’s established prudent, sustainable and progressive dividend 
policy, allowing for future growth opportunities and the financial flexibility of the Group.

AIA  has  many  significant  advantages  that  differentiate  us  from  our  competitors.  We  have  an  unparalleled 
platform in Asia built up over many decades and hold leading positions in the majority of our markets. Our 100 
per cent focus on Asia will not change and enables us to capture the full growth opportunities available in the 
world’s  most  attractive  region  for  life  insurance.  This  focus,  combined  with  the  extensive  experience  of  our 
leadership team in Asia and the quality of our people, has been an important driver of our success.

Our unrivalled distribution provides direct access to customers, delivering high-quality professional advice to 
help address the significant and growing long-term protection and savings needs of consumers in Asia. Now 
more than ever, people expect companies to respond in a way that is aligned with long-term sustainability. AIA 
has a market-leading brand that is underpinned by our Purpose of helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better 
Lives.

Our aim is to position AIA as a global leader in the use of technology, embracing greater connectivity, scale 
and efficiency. Deeper insights from data analytics enable distinctive and personalised customer experiences. 
Products  and  services  that  are  relevant  and  reflect  an  individual’s  needs  and  lifestyle  change  the  way  life 
insurance is perceived and provide a strong basis for developing long-term relationships with our customers.

While  2020  was  an  unprecedented  year,  it  has  made  me  more  optimistic  than  ever  about  the  prospects  for 
the life insurance industry in Asia and the future of AIA. We continue to challenge ourselves and develop our 
priorities to ensure that we remain highly relevant to our customers as their expectations and financial needs 
evolve. Our new corporate strategy builds on AIA’s existing strengths and enables the transformation that we 
will make to best serve our customers well into the future.

011

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND PRESIDENT’S REPORT

2020 PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

AIA China became the largest contributor to the Group’s VONB in 2020 and delivered a successful start to 2021 
with very strong VONB growth in the first two months of the year compared with the same period in 2020. While 
VONB of US$968 million for 2020 was 17 per cent lower than 2019, this was mostly due to limited new sales 
during the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in the first quarter. OPAT increased by 14 per cent for the year, primarily 
driven by growth in our in-force portfolio and favourable claims experience.

In 2020, we successfully obtained regulatory approval and completed the conversion of our Shanghai branch 
to  become  the  first  wholly  foreign  owned  life  insurance  subsidiary  in  Mainland  China.  In  March  2021,  we 
received approval from the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) to begin operations 
in Sichuan. Sichuan is the sixth largest province by GDP in Mainland China and the fourth largest by population, 
representing a significant long-term growth opportunity for AIA.

In Hong Kong, the introduction of travel restrictions from early February 2020 effectively stopped new business 
sales from Mainland Chinese visitors, leading to a significant fall in VONB. Our agency distribution delivered 
double-digit  sales  growth  from  our  domestic  customers  in  the  second  half  compared  with  the  first  half  and 
remained  the  clear  market  leader.  VONB  for  our  partnership  distribution  channels  was  significantly  lower 
than 2019 due to a higher historical mix of sales to Mainland Chinese visitors through the retail independent 
financial adviser (IFA) channel. OPAT increased by 10 per cent from strong growth in renewal premiums and 
favourable claims experience.

AIA Thailand delivered a very strong performance in the second half. While VONB declined by 4 per cent for  
the full year, we saw positive month-on-month momentum as movement restrictions eased and achieved 33 per 
cent growth in VONB in the second half compared with the first half of the year.

Our  business  in Singapore  also  achieved  an  excellent  recovery  in  the  second  half,  with  VONB  up  by  56  per 
cent compared with the first half and a 12 per cent increase year-on-year. VONB reduced by 5 per cent for the 
full year as growth from our agency channel was offset by the impact of strict border controls on our offshore 
partnership business. OPAT increased by 8 per cent.

In Malaysia, VONB for the full year was down by 13 per cent, reflecting strict movement restrictions implemented 
in the first half in particular. VONB in the second half recovered with 72 per cent growth compared with the 
first half.

VONB from Other Markets increased by 10 per cent in the second half compared with the first half, with positive 
recoveries seen in South Korea and Indonesia. Overall, VONB for the full year was lower by 4 per cent mainly 
due to declines in New Zealand, the Philippines and Indonesia. The rest of the markets delivered positive VONB 
growth, with Vietnam, Taiwan (China) and India reporting double-digit increases in 2020 compared with 2019.

In our Agency channel, we delivered double-digit growth in both new recruits and agency leaders, supported by 
a shift to online recruitment, onboarding and training. Although VONB declined by 28 per cent as the pandemic 
limited  face-to-face  meetings,  we  saw  a  strong  recovery  in  the  second  half  as  restrictions  eased  and  our 
businesses adopted new digital tools. Positive momentum has continued into 2021 and agency has delivered 
very strong growth in VONB for the first two months compared with the same period in 2020.

The impact of travel restrictions on Mainland Chinese visitors to Hong Kong affected our retail IFA business, 
leading to a decline of 41 per cent in VONB from our Partnership Business in 2020. We delivered more resilient 
results  from  bancassurance,  which  contributed  the  majority  of  VONB  for  this  channel.  Our  bancassurance 
partnerships  with  Bank  Central  Asia  (BCA)  in  Indonesia,  Bangkok  Bank  Public  Company  Limited  (Bangkok 
Bank) in Thailand and Public Bank Berhad in Malaysia delivered positive VONB growth in 2020.

012

OVERVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDENGAGEMENT WITH PEOPLE

AIA’s 23,000 people are a key competitive advantage for the Group and integral to our sustained success. We 
promote an inclusive and collaborative learning culture that provides a platform for meaningful and rewarding 
careers with AIA. In response to social distancing measures and restrictions on travel, we moved our learning 
content online to the AIA Learning Hub. Our world-class facility in Bangkok, the AIA Leadership Centre (ALC), 
redesigned and delivered the Group’s flagship leadership programmes through over 100 fully virtual learning 
modules. Participants’ feedback for these virtual learning programmes has been very positive and in line with 
their face-to-face predecessors.

Our annual employee engagement survey is a key indicator of the collective efforts across our markets to better 
understand and support our people. 97 per cent of our people responded to the survey in 2020 and the Group’s 
employee engagement scores increased to our highest ever, placing us in the 88th percentile of Gallup’s global 
financial  services  and  insurance  industry  benchmark.  AIA  was  also  recognised  in  the  Forbes  ‘World’s  Best 
Employers 2020’ list.

In October 2020, as part of the 10th anniversary celebrations of our listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, 
we established the AIA Scholarships, pledging US$100 million to support 100 undergraduates a year to attend 
Hong Kong’s universities over the next several decades and develop the next generation of business leaders.

The  core  components  of  our  Organisation  of  the  Future  strategy  are  stronger  and  simpler  organisational 
structures, the introduction of agile ways of working and enhanced capabilities frameworks. These strategic 
priorities will support our people as they develop their careers, further elevating AIA’s status as an employer of 
choice.

We started our journey to shape a transformed organisation in the second half of 2020 with two pilot business 
units: AIA Singapore and AIA Vietnam. Early results have achieved simplified, more customer-centric operating 
models  and  we  have  launched  agile  working  practices  with  multiple  cross-functional  specialist  teams.  Our 
plan is to test and learn within these pilot businesses before scaling the Organisation of the Future programme 
across our other businesses.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG)

For more than a century, AIA has made a positive, lasting impression on the lives of our customers in Asia. The 
complexity of ESG issues prevalent in our communities, including climate change, pollution and lifestyle-related  
diseases, has been heightened by the ongoing pandemic. As a lifelong partner to our customers and communities, 
we are committed to playing our part in the transition to a better, more sustainable future.

AIA  participates  in  the  Task  Force  on  Climate-related  Financial  Disclosures  (TCFD),  a  global  initiative  that 
seeks to develop voluntary and consistent disclosure of climate change impacts. We continued to reaffirm our 
commitment  to  the  recommendations  by  engaging  with  more  than  1,400  companies  across  our  investment 
portfolio in 2020, as well as over 30 external investment managers, in seeking to influence how they manage 
climate change risks and address their climate impacts.

For  the  second  consecutive  year,  the  rating  agency,  Sustainalytics  has  ranked  AIA  second  in  the  insurance 
industry  for  our  management  of  ESG  risks  and,  also  in  2020,  MSCI  upgraded  AIA’s  ESG  rating  to  A,  driven 
primarily by our integration of ESG considerations into our investment function.

013

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND PRESIDENT’S REPORT

We recognise that there is much more we can do in this important area and we have recently completed a review 
of our ESG strategy. I am confident that our five strategic focus areas of improving health and wellness, green 
operations, sustainable investment, people and culture, and effective governance will achieve our ambition to 
be a global industry leader in ESG.

OUTLOOK

The  COVID-19  pandemic  in  2020  was  undoubtedly  the  largest  public  health  emergency  in  living  memory. 
Unprecedented fiscal and monetary support to businesses and households affected by the crisis helped reduce 
some of the extreme financial consequences of the pandemic shock and accelerate recovery, particularly in 
countries with robust health policies and infrastructure. However, there were considerable differences between 
countries  with  the  Asia  ex-Japan  region  delivering  the  strongest  relative  GDP  performance  globally  in  this 
difficult environment. The global economy is only now starting to emerge from a very deep recession and enter 
the very early stages of an upturn.

While the effects of the pandemic are far from over, we remain cautiously optimistic as 2021 becomes a year 
of transition. The hope is that the roll-out of vaccination programmes and new therapeutics reduce both the 
frequency and severity of the disease so that health systems are better able to cope and mortality rates improve. 
While we do not envisage a return to pre-pandemic levels of mobility or behaviour in the near term, as consumer 
confidence  returns,  we  expect  the  recovery  to  extend  from  manufacturing-led  sectors  to  consumption  and 
services over time, particularly in countries with younger populations.

I  have  great  confidence  in  the  long-term  future  for  AIA.  Despite  near-term  uncertainty,  the  strong  domestic 
drivers of demand and major demographic trends in Asia provide positive structural support for the long-term 
prospects  of  AIA’s  businesses.  With  rising  incomes,  low  levels  of  private  insurance  penetration  and  limited 
social  welfare  coverage,  the  need  for  AIA’s  insurance  products  will  continue  to  grow.  We  will  build  on  our 
substantial competitive advantages and strong track record of growth to shape a more sustainable future for 
our communities and create shared value for all our stakeholders.

Lee Yuan Siong
Group Chief Executive and President
12 March 2021

Growth rates are shown on constant exchange rates as management believes this provides a clearer 
picture of the year-on-year performance of the underlying business.

014

OVERVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW

016  Group Chief Financial Officer’s Review

040  Business Review

056  Risk Management

062  Regulatory and International Developments

064  Our People

015

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW

GROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW

AIA delivered a strong set of financial results in 2020 despite 
unprecedented business and macroeconomic conditions.  
While VONB was affected by movement restrictions due to  
the global pandemic, we achieved solid growth in OPAT, UFSG  
and EV equity. Our financial position remains very strong,  
enabling us to continue to invest in the many growth  
opportunities available to us.

Growth rates and commentaries are provided on a constant exchange rate basis.

SUMMARY AND KEY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

In 2020 AIA delivered a strong financial performance through the unprecedented business and macroeconomic 
conditions resulting from the global pandemic. While movement restrictions caused a reduction in value of new 
business  (VONB)  in  2020,  we  saw  a  recovery  in  sales  momentum  as  our  businesses  adapted  and  restrictions 
were eased. This momentum has continued into 2021 with 15 per cent growth in VONB for the first two months 
compared  to  the  same  period  in  2020.  Our  financial  discipline  and  consistent  strategic  focus  on  high-quality 
business over many years is reflected in continued growth in operating profit after tax (OPAT) and underlying free 
surplus generation (UFSG), our robust and resilient capital position and a further increase in dividend per share.

Mr. Garth Jones
Group Chief Financial Officer

016

AIA GROUP LIMITEDThe  main  effect  of  the  pandemic  on  our  financial  performance  in  2020  was  on  new  business  sales,  as 
containment measures in many of our markets limited in-person sales activity, particularly in the first half of 
2020. While VONB of US$2,765 million in 2020 was lower by 33 per cent compared to 2019, our rapid adoption 
of new digital tools and the general easing of movement restrictions supported a recovery in sales momentum. 
AIA  China  became  the  largest  contributor  to  the  Group’s  VONB  in  2020  and  was  the  first  of  our  reportable 
segments to show a recovery in sales momentum as the country emerged from the strict lockdowns in March 
2020. VONB for the rest of the Group, excluding sales to Mainland Chinese visitors which remained minimal, 
recovered strongly in the second half with an increase of 23 per cent compared to the first half of the year. The 
Group’s new business momentum has continued strongly into 2021 with VONB for the first two months 15 per 
cent higher than for the same period in 2020.

Embedded  value  (EV)  equity  reached  a  new  high  of  US$67,185  million  at  31  December  2020,  increasing 
by US$5,277 million before payment of shareholder dividends of US$1,997 million as EV operating profit of 
US$7,243 million more than offset the effect of lower government bond yields. EV operating profit included 
US$549  million  from  positive  operating  variances  as  our  overall  experience  has  continued  to  be  favourable 
compared with our EV assumptions.

Our high-quality, recurring sources of earnings and the proactive management of our in-force portfolio drove 
an increase in OPAT of 5 per cent to US$5,942 million and a stable operating margin of 16.9 per cent. Renewal 
premiums received increased by 10 per cent, and total recurring premiums accounted for over 90 per cent of 
premiums received in 2020. OPAT growth was supported by significant positive claims experience throughout 
the year, which offset the effect of lower yields on new fixed income investments and lower assumed long-term 
returns on equity investments. As anticipated, the exceptional positive medical claims experience highlighted 
in the first half was not repeated in the second half, however we continued to see a positive contribution to 
OPAT growth from this source. Persistency improved in the second half, supported by a normalisation of lapse 
experience for AIA Thailand, and has remained at 95 per cent for the Group.

UFSG of US$5,843 million increased by 7 per cent, driven by the continued growth and active management 
of  our  in-force  portfolio,  which  more  than  offset  the  effect  of  lower  expected  investment  returns. The  Group 
remained financially very strong at 31 December 2020 with free surplus of US$13,473 million, after the payment 
of US$1,997 million of shareholder dividends.

The solvency ratio of our principal operating entity, AIA Company Limited (AIA Co.), remained very strong at 489 
per cent at 31 December 2020. The Group Local Capital Summation Method (LCSM) cover ratio, under the new 
Group-wide Supervision (GWS) framework, was 374 per cent at 31 December 2020. In future, we will disclose 
the Group LCSM cover ratio as the principal measure of the Group’s regulatory solvency.

The board of directors (Board) has recommended a 7.5 per cent increase in the final dividend to 100.30 Hong 
Kong cents per share, subject to shareholders’ approval at the Company’s forthcoming AGM. This brings the 
total dividend for 2020 to 135.30 Hong Kong cents per share, an increase of 6.9 per cent compared with the 
total  dividend  for  2019. This  follows  AIA’s  established  prudent,  sustainable  and  progressive  dividend  policy, 
allowing for future growth opportunities and the financial flexibility of the Group.

We remain confident of the opportunities for AIA’s businesses across Asia. We will continue to focus on investing 
capital to deliver profitable new business growth and leverage our competitive advantages, while maintaining 
our financial discipline and delivering long-term shareholder value.

017

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONNEW BUSINESS PERFORMANCE

VONB, ANP and Margin by Segment

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Subtotal

Adjustment to reflect 
  consolidated reserving and 
  capital requirements

After-tax value of unallocated 
  Group Office expenses

Total before 
  non-controlling interests

2020

VONB 
Margin

44.7%

71.0%

63.4%

59.9%

80.9%

38.4%

550

469

330

222

968

514

3,053

57.7%

2019

VONB 
Margin

VONB Change

YoY 
CER

YoY 
AER

ANP

ANP

VONB

1,138

1,621

66.1%

2,393

(66)%

(66)%

661

520

369

1,197

1,334

5,219

494

352

258

67.7%

65.5%

63.1%

729

538

406

(4)%

(5)%

(5)%

(6)%

(13)%

(14)%

1,167

93.5%

1,248

(17)%

(17)%

535

41.9%

1,271

(4)%

(4)%

4,427

66.6%

6,585

(31)%

(31)%

(103)

n/m

n/m

(87)

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

(161)

n/m

n/m

(154)

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

2,789

52.6%

5,219

4,186

62.9%

6,585

(33)%

(33)%

Non-controlling interests

(24)

n/m

n/m

(32)

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

Total

2,765

52.6%

5,219

4,154

62.9%

6,585

(33)%

(33)%

While VONB of US$2,765 million in 2020 was lower by 33 per cent compared to 2019, our rapid adoption of 
new digital tools and the general easing of movement restrictions supported a recovery in sales momentum. 
AIA  China  became  the  largest  contributor  to  the  Group’s  VONB  in  2020  and  was  the  first  of  our  reportable 
segments to show a recovery in sales momentum as the country emerged from the strict lockdowns in March 
2020. VONB for the rest of the Group, excluding sales to Mainland Chinese visitors which remained minimal, 
recovered strongly in the second half with an increase of 23 per cent compared to the first half of the year. The 
Group’s new business momentum has continued strongly into 2021 with VONB for the first two months 15 per 
cent higher than for the same period in 2020.

AIA  China  has  delivered  a  successful  start  to  2021,  with  very  strong  VONB  growth  in  the  first  two  months 
compared with the same period in 2020. While VONB of US$968 million for 2020 was 17 per cent lower than 
2019, this was mostly driven by limited sales volumes during the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in the first quarter. 
As  movement  controls  eased,  new  business  momentum  swiftly  improved  and  resumed  our  usual  seasonal 
pattern with VONB weighted towards the first half of the year. AIA China became the largest contributor to the 
Group’s VONB in 2020.

AIA  Hong  Kong’s  VONB  significantly  declined  as  new  business  sales  to  Mainland  Chinese  visitors  have 
effectively been on hold from early February 2020 following the introduction of travel restrictions. VONB margin 
reduced for the year, reflecting acquisition expense overruns following the fall in new business volumes, a shift 
in product mix and the impact of lower interest rates. Macau resumed its Individual Visit Scheme with Mainland 
China  from  late  September  2020,  which  has  supported  a  return  of  sales  to  Mainland  Chinese  visitors,  that 
contributed over one-third of AIA Macau’s total ANP in the fourth quarter.

018

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWAIA Thailand delivered an excellent performance in the second half, with 33 per cent growth in VONB compared 
with the first half of the year. While VONB decreased by 4 per cent for the full year, we saw positive month-on-
month VONB growth as movement restrictions eased in the second half.

AIA Singapore achieved an excellent recovery in the second half, with VONB up by 56 per cent compared with 
the first half and a 12 per cent increase year-on-year. VONB reduced by 5 per cent for the full year, with growth 
in our agency channel offset by lower new business from our partnership distribution, as sales to the offshore 
customer segment were particularly affected by border controls. VONB margin recovered significantly in the 
second  half  due  to  an  improvement  in  product  mix  and  a  reduction  in  acquisition  expense  overruns  as  new 
business volumes increased.

AIA  Malaysia  reported  VONB  growth  in  the  second  half  of  72  per  cent  compared  with  the  first  half  and  we 
achieved double-digit VONB growth compared with the second half of 2019. VONB for the full year was down 
by 13 per cent, reflecting strict COVID-19 related movement restrictions imposed in the first half. A positive 
product mix shift and reduction in acquisition expense overruns led to a 16.6 pps recovery in VONB margin in 
the second half and an overall margin of 59.9 per cent for 2020.

In Other Markets, VONB increased by 10 per cent in the second half compared with the first half of the year, 
with good recoveries seen in South Korea and Indonesia. Overall, VONB for the full year was lower by 4 per cent 
following declines in New Zealand, the Philippines and Indonesia. Our remaining markets all delivered positive 
VONB growth with Vietnam, Taiwan (China) and India reporting double-digit increases in 2020 compared with 
2019.

019

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONEV EQUITY

EV OPERATING PROFIT
EV  operating  profit  was  US$7,243  million  in  2020,  a  reduction  of  17  per  cent  compared  with  2019,  mainly 
driven by VONB, producing an operating return on EV (operating ROEV) of 11.7 per cent. Operating variances 
contributed US$549 million as our overall experience has continued to be favourable compared with our EV 
assumptions. Since our initial public offering (IPO) in 2010, operating variances have cumulatively added more 
than US$3.2 billion to EV Equity.

EV Operating Earnings Per Share – Basic

EV operating profit (US$ millions)

Weighted average number 
  of ordinary shares (millions)

Basic EV operating earnings per share (US cents)

EV Operating Earnings Per Share – Diluted

EV operating profit (US$ millions)

Weighted average number 
  of ordinary shares(1) (millions)

Diluted EV operating earnings per share(1) (US cents)

2020

7,243

12,060

60.06

2020

7,243

12,080

59.96

2019

8,685

12,042

72.12

2019

8,685

12,071

71.95

YoY 
CER

YoY 
AER

(17)%

(17)%

n/a

(17)%

n/a

(17)%

YoY 
CER

YoY 
AER

(17)%

(17)%

n/a

(17)%

n/a

(17)%

Note:
(1)  Diluted EV operating earnings per share including the dilutive effects, if any, of the awards of share options, restricted share units, restricted stock purchase 
units  (RSPUs)  and  restricted  stock  subscription  units  (RSSUs)  granted  to  eligible  directors,  officers,  employees  and  agents  under  the  share-based 
compensation plans as described in note 40 to the consolidated financial statements.

EV MOVEMENT
EV grew by US$3,262 million, after the payment of shareholder dividends of US$1,997 million, to US$65,247 
million at 31 December 2020. The increase in EV was mainly driven by EV operating profit of US$7,243 million 
and  positive  exchange  rate  movements  of  US$1,164  million,  which  more  than  offset  negative  investment 
return variances of US$1,868 million and the impact of reduced long-term economic assumptions of US$1,013 
million, both reflecting the sharp reduction in government bond yields, most notably in the United States and 
Thailand. Other non-operating variances reduced the EV by US$330 million and comprised negative impacts 
from the application of withholding tax following the subsidiarisation of AIA China and provisions for uncertain 
tax positions, partially offset by positive impacts from the subsidiarisation of New Zealand, the implementation 
of Risk-Based Capital 2 in Singapore, and adjustments to capital requirements on consolidation.

020

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWAn analysis of the movement in EV is shown as follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening EV

Purchase price

Acquired EV

Effect of acquisition

Value of new business

Expected return on EV

Operating experience variances

Operating assumption changes

Finance costs

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

Purchase price

Acquired EV(1)

Effect of acquisition

Value of new business

Expected return on EV

Operating experience variances

Operating assumption changes

Finance costs

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

ANW

28,241

(18)

–

(18)

(726)

5,591

538

(31)

(247)

5,125

(3,446)

35

160

1,874

(1,997)

81

322

28,503

ANW

24,637

(1,454)

790

(664)

(702)

5,072

394

(18)

(208)

4,538

(942)

65

2,491

6,152

(1,961)

136

(59)

28,241

2020

VIF

EV

33,744

61,985

–

–

–

3,491

(1,415)

(5)

47

–

2,118

1,578

(1,048)

(490)

2,158

–

–

842

36,744

2019

VIF

29,880

–

417

417

4,856

(967)

206

52

–

4,147

1,459

(319)

(2,569)

2,718

–

–

729

33,744

(18)

–

(18)

2,765

4,176

533

16

(247)

7,243

(1,868)

(1,013)

(330)

4,032

(1,997)

81

1,164

65,247

EV

54,517

(1,454)

1,207

(247)

4,154

4,105

600

34

(208)

8,685

517

(254)

(78)

8,870

(1,961)

136

670

61,985

Note:
(1)  The acquired EV for The Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited (CMLA) was calculated as at 1 November 2019 net of the related reinsurance 

agreement.

021

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONEV Equity

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

EV

Goodwill and other intangible assets(1)

EV Equity

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

65,247

1,938

67,185

61,985

1,920

63,905

Note:
(1)  Based on the consolidated financial statements, net of tax, amounts attributable to participating funds and non-controlling interests.

EV AND VONB SENSITIVITIES
Sensitivities to EV and VONB arising from changes to central assumptions from equity price and interest rate 
movements, and including the impacts of management actions, are shown below. The interest rate sensitivities 
apply  a  50  basis  points  movement  in  current  government  bond  yields,  our  long-term  investment  return 
assumptions and risk discount rates.

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Central value

Impact of equity price changes

10 per cent increase in equity prices

10 per cent decrease in equity prices

Impact of interest rate changes

50 basis points increase in interest rates

50 basis points decrease in interest rates

EV as at 
31 December 
2020

65,247

1,099

(1,095)

652

(1,294)

VONB 
2020

2,765

EV as at 
31 December 
2019

61,985

n/a

n/a

193

(298)

968

(967)

719

(797)

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

IFRS PROFIT

OPAT(1) by Segment

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Hong Kong(2)

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets(3)

Group Corporate Centre(3)

Total

2020

2,059

987

621

326

1,220

687

42

5,942

2019

1,879

1,064

583

333

1,061

772

(3)

5,689

YoY 
CER

10%

(7)%

8%

(2)%

14%

(11)%

n/m

5%

VONB 
2019

4,154

n/a

n/a

151

(207)

YoY 
AER

10%

(7)%

7%

(2)%

15%

(11)%

n/m

4%

Notes:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of the Company only excluding non-controlling interests.

(2)  After the change in accounting policy for Hong Kong participating business. The comparative information has been adjusted to conform to current period 

presentation. Please refer to note 48 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

(3)  Prior to 2020, the Group reflected the withholding tax charge under Group Corporate Centre. Starting from 2020, the Group has enhanced the segment 
information to present the withholding tax charge in the operating segment where the withholding tax arises. The comparative information has been 
adjusted to conform to current period presentation.

022

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWOur high-quality, recurring sources of earnings and the proactive management of our in-force portfolio drove 
an increase in OPAT of 5 per cent to US$5,942 million and a stable operating margin of 16.9 per cent. Renewal 
premiums received increased by 10 per cent, and total recurring premiums accounted for over 90 per cent of 
premiums received in 2020. OPAT growth was supported by significant positive claims experience throughout 
the year, which offset the effect of lower yields on new fixed income investments and lower assumed long-term 
returns on equity investments. As anticipated, the exceptional positive medical claims experience highlighted 
in the first half was not repeated in the second half, however we continued to see a positive contribution to 
OPAT growth from this source. Persistency improved in the second half, supported by a normalisation of lapse 
experience for AIA Thailand, and has remained at 95 per cent for the Group.

Mainland China delivered strong growth with a 14 per cent increase in OPAT for the full year, primarily from 
our growing in-force portfolio and favourable claims experience. Overall claims experience remained positive 
throughout the year even as significant positive experience in the first half normalised in the second half.

Hong Kong’s OPAT increased by 10 per cent, as underlying business growth and favourable claims experience 
more than offset reduced investment income from lower bond yields and the negative impact from the reduction 
in long-term investment return assumptions since the end of 2019.

Thailand  reported  a  7  per  cent  reduction  in  OPAT  for  the  full  year.  Although  lapse  experience  significantly 
improved  in  the  second  half,  a  falling  Thai  equity  market  combined  with  reduced  long-term  equity  return 
assumptions more than offset positive operating experience and underlying business growth.

OPAT in Singapore increased by 8 per cent, driven by the combination of the growth in our in-force portfolio and 
improved operating experience across persistency, expenses and claims.

Malaysia’s OPAT remained broadly stable as underlying growth and positive claims experience were offset by a 
one-off provision ahead of an industry-wide initiative to identify and pay accumulated unreported death claims 
as previously highlighted. Excluding this provision, Malaysia’s OPAT grew by 8 per cent.

OPAT in Other Markets declined by 11 per cent, with Australia’s OPAT US$68 million below the level in 2019 
primarily due to lower profitability from disability insurance policies. Growth in Taiwan (China) and Vietnam 
broadly offset reduced OPAT from Indonesia, the Philippines and South Korea.

Average  shareholders’  allocated  equity  grew  by  11  per  cent  to  US$45.7  billion,  while  operating  return  on 
shareholders’ allocated equity (operating ROE) was 13.0 per cent.

023

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONTWPI by Segment

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Total

2020

13,042

4,462

3,088

2,216

5,622

6,978

2019

13,107

4,352

2,916

2,142

4,804

6,681

35,408

34,002

YoY 
CER

–

3%

7%

5%

17%

5%

4%

YoY 
AER

–

3%

6%

3%

17%

4%

4%

TWPI increased by 4 per cent to US$35,408 million compared with 2019. Renewal premiums received increased 
by 10 per cent, and total recurring premiums accounted for over 90 per cent of premiums received in 2020.

IFRS Operating Profit Investment Return

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Interest income

Expected long-term investment return 

for equities and real estate

Total

2020

7,051

2,347

9,398

2019

6,624

2,275

8,899

YoY 
CER

7%

4%

6%

YoY 
AER

6%

3%

6%

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) operating profit investment return increased by 6 per cent 
to US$9,398 million compared with 2019. The growth was primarily driven by the increase in the size of our 
investment portfolio, partly offset by reduced yields on new fixed income investments and lower expected long-
term equity returns.

Operating Expenses

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Operating expenses

2020

2,695

2019

2,468

YoY 
CER

9%

YoY 
AER

9%

The  expense  ratio  was  7.6  per  cent  compared  with  7.3  per  cent  in  2019  as  a  result  of  lower  new  business 
volumes and the inclusion of the business acquired in Australia in the second half of 2019.

024

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW 
Net Profit(1)(3)

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

OPAT(3)

2020

5,942

2019

5,689

Short-term fluctuations in investment return related 

to equities and real estate, net of tax(2)(3)

(406)

305

Reclassification of revaluation losses/(gains) for 
  property held for own use, net of tax(2)(3)

Corporate transaction related costs, net of tax

Implementation costs of new accounting standards, 
  net of tax

Other non-operating investment return 
  and other items, net of tax(3)

Total

52

(56)

(30)

277

5,779

(153)

(85)

(39)

262

5,979

YoY 
CER

5%

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

(3)%

YoY 
AER

4%

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

(3)%

Notes:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of the Company only excluding non-controlling interests.

(2)  Short-term fluctuations in investment return include the revaluation gains and losses for property held for own use. This amount is then reclassified out of 

net profit to conform to IFRS measurement and presentation.

(3)  After the change in accounting policy for Hong Kong participating business. The comparative information has been adjusted to conform to current period 

presentation. Please refer to note 48 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

IFRS NON-OPERATING MOVEMENT
IFRS  net  profit  was  US$5,779  million  in  2020,  compared  with  US$5,979  million  in  2019.  AIA’s  net  profit 
definition includes mark-to-market movements from our equity and investment property portfolios. The result 
in 2020 included negative short-term fluctuations from our long-term assumptions for equities and real estate 
of US$406 million, compared with positive movements of US$305 million in 2019. Since our IPO in 2010, short-
term fluctuations in investment return have accumulated to a small negative of US$0.3 billion out of a cumulative 
net profit of US$39.4 billion. Other non-operating items in 2020 included corporate transaction related costs of 
US$56 million, implementation costs of new accounting standards of US$30 million and other non-operating 
items of US$277 million, mainly driven by realised gains from our available for sale debt securities, offset by a 
change in provisions for uncertain tax positions.

025

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Movement in Shareholders’ Allocated Equity(1)

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening shareholders’ allocated equity

Retrospective adjustments for change in accounting policies

Opening shareholders’ allocated equity, as adjusted

Net profit

Purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts

Dividends

Revaluation (losses)/gains on property held for own use

Foreign currency translation adjustments

Other capital movements

Total movement in shareholders’ allocated equity

Closing shareholders’ allocated equity

Average shareholders’ allocated equity

2020

42,845

433

43,278

5,779

(16)

(1,997)

(46)

931

101

4,752

48,030

45,654

2019

37,277

1,130

38,407

5,979

(21)

(1,961)

154

603

117

4,871

43,278

40,638

Note:
(1)  After the change in accounting policy for Hong Kong participating business. The comparative information has been adjusted to conform to current period 

presentation. Please refer to note 48 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

The movement in shareholders’ allocated equity is shown before fair value reserve movements. We believe this 
provides a clearer reflection of the underlying movement in shareholders’ equity over the year, before the IFRS 
accounting treatment of market value movements in available for sale bonds.

Shareholders’ allocated equity increased by 9 per cent to US$48,030 million as a result of net profit of US$5,779 
million and the impact of appreciation of local currencies against our US dollar reporting currency of US$931 
million, partly offset by the payment of shareholder dividends of US$1,997 million.

Average shareholders’ allocated equity grew by 11 per cent compared with last year.

Sensitivities to foreign exchange rate, interest rate and equity price movements are included in note 38 to the 
consolidated financial statements.

026

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWIFRS EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)

Basic EPS based on OPAT attributable to shareholders increased by 4 per cent to 49.27 US cents in 2020.

Basic EPS based on IFRS net profit attributable to shareholders, including mark-to-market movements from our 
equity and investment property portfolios, decreased by 3 per cent to 47.92 US cents in 2020.

IFRS EPS – Basic

Profit (US$ millions)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares 

(millions)

Basic earnings per share (US cents)

IFRS EPS – Diluted

Profit (US$ millions)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares(2) 

(millions)

Diluted earnings per share(2) (US cents)

Net Profit(1)(3)

OPAT(1)(3)

2020

5,779

12,060

47.92

2019

5,979

12,042

49.65

2020

5,942

12,060

49.27

Net Profit(1)(3)

OPAT(1)(3)

2020

5,779

12,080

47.84

2019

5,979

12,071

49.53

2020

5,942

12,080

49.19

2019

5,689

12,042

47.24

2019

5,689

12,071

47.13

Notes:
(1)  Attributable to shareholders of the Company only excluding non-controlling interests.

(2)  Diluted earnings per share including the dilutive effects, if any, of the awards of share options, restricted share units, RSPUs and RSSUs granted to eligible 
directors, officers, employees and agents under the share-based compensation plans as described in note 40 to the consolidated financial statements.

(3)  After the change in accounting policy for Hong Kong participating business. The comparative information has been adjusted to conform to current period 

presentation. Please refer to note 48 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

027

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
CAPITAL

FREE SURPLUS GENERATION
The  Group’s  free  surplus  is  the  excess  of  adjusted  net  worth  over  required  capital  including  consolidated 
reserving and capital requirements. The Group holds free surplus to enable it to invest in new business, take 
advantage of inorganic opportunities, and absorb the effects of capital market stress conditions.

UFSG  is  an  operating  metric  that  measures  the  expected  amount  of  free  surplus  generated  from  in-force 
business over the period before investment in new business, unallocated Group Office expenses, finance costs, 
investment return variances and other non-operating items.

UFSG of US$5,843 million increased by 7 per cent, driven by the continued growth and active management 
of our in-force portfolio, which more than offset the effect of lower expected investment returns. UFSG in the 
second half also reflected the mid-year reduction in long-term economic assumptions.

Free surplus invested in writing new business was US$1,428 million, 2 per cent less than the previous year, as 
reduced new business volumes were offset by associated acquisition expense overruns and a product mix shift 
away from participating products in Hong Kong.

The Group remained financially very strong at 31 December 2020 with free surplus of US$13,473 million, after 
the payment of US$1,997 million of shareholder dividends. Negative investment variances in 2020 reflected the 
effect on regulatory reserves of a sharp reduction in government bond yields, most notably in the United States 
and Thailand, and the significant decline of equity markets in Thailand.

The following table summarises the change in free surplus:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening free surplus

Effect of acquisition(1)

Underlying free surplus generation

Free surplus used to fund new business

Unallocated Group Office expenses

Finance costs and other capital movements

Free surplus before investment variances and dividends

Investment return variances and other items

Free surplus before dividends

Dividends

Closing free surplus

Note:
(1)  The effect of acquisition for CMLA in 2019 was calculated after taking into account the effect of reinsurance.

2020

14,917

(18)

5,843

(1,428)

(173)

(166)

18,975

(3,505)

15,470

(1,997)

13,473

2019

14,751

(1,045)

5,501

(1,477)

(192)

(72)

17,466

(588)

16,878

(1,961)

14,917

028

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWWORKING CAPITAL AND NET REMITTANCES TO GROUP CORPORATE CENTRE
Working capital increased by US$3,698 million to US$17,169 million at 31 December 2020 after the payment 
of shareholder dividends of US$1,997 million.

Remittances from business units to the Group Corporate Centre are planned each year based on local earnings, 
new  business  growth  and  local  solvency  requirements.  Actual  net  remittances  are  determined  taking  into 
consideration the liquidity held at the holding companies, and cashflow requirements including Group Office 
expenses, interest payments on borrowings and shareholder dividends.

Our local businesses remitted US$2,676 million to the Group Corporate Centre in 2020, compared with US$3,730 
million  in  2019.  Positive  remittances  from  Other  Markets  were  offset  by  capital  contributions  to  Australia 
that  resulted  from  the  industry-wide  impact  of  the  COVID-19  pandemic  on  disability  claims  and  increased 
local regulatory capital requirements. As previously highlighted, net remittances of US$3,730 million in 2019 
included a remittance from Thailand deferred from 2018 due to the timing of required regulatory approvals.

We  raised  US$2,792  million  from  issuances  under  our  Global  Medium-term  Note  (GMTN)  and  Securities 
Programme and we made payments of US$839 million for the acquisition of CMLA.

The movements in working capital are summarised as follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening working capital

Group Corporate Centre operating results(1)

Net remittances from business units

  Hong Kong

  Thailand

  Singapore

  Malaysia

  Mainland China

  Other Markets

Net remittances to Group Corporate Centre

Payment for acquisition of CMLA

Increase in borrowings

Purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts

Payment of dividends

Mark-to-market movements in debt securities and others(1)

Closing working capital

2020

13,471

42

643

394

332

97

1,139

71

2,676

(839)

2,792

(16)

(1,997)

1,040

17,169

2019

10,296

(3)

986

1,037

295

176

1,022

214

3,730

(344)

797

(21)

(1,961)

977

13,471

Note:
(1)  Prior to 2020, the Group reflected the withholding tax charge under Group Corporate Centre. Starting from 2020, the Group has enhanced the segment 
information to present the withholding tax charge in the operating segment where the withholding tax arises. The comparative information has been 
adjusted to conform to current period presentation.

029

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONHOLDING COMPANY FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Holding company financial resources is a new disclosure that will replace working capital from the financial 
year beginning 1 January 2021 to provide better insight into the financial resources that are directly available 
for paying shareholder dividends, servicing the interest on our borrowings, and providing both financial support 
and investment into our businesses.

These financial resources represent the debt and equity securities, deposits, cash and cash equivalents, and 
dividends paid but not settled by subsidiaries, net of obligations under repurchase agreements, at the Group’s 
listed holding company, AIA Group Limited (the Company).

Holding company financial resources is a subset of working capital held at the Group Corporate Centre. The 
holding company forms part of Group Corporate Centre as represented graphically below:

Simplified AIA Corporate Structure(1)

Group Corporate Centre (GCC)

AIA Group Limited

Holding Company

Other GCC 
entities

Local Business Units

AIA Company Limited

Mainland China, Thailand, 
Singapore, Malaysia, Others(2)

AIA International Limited

Hong Kong, Others(3)

(1)  The chart is for illustration purpose only and is not intended to depict all individual entities within the Group
(2)  Australia, Brunei, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri Lanka
(3)  Cambodia, Indonesia, India, South Korea, Macau, New Zealand, Taiwan (China), Vietnam

At 31 December 2020, holding company financial resources were US$12,388 million compared with US$8,630 
million  at  31  December  2019.  The  increase  of  US$3,758  million  was  mainly  driven  by  capital  flows  to  the 
holding  company  from  subsidiaries  of  US$2,354  million  and  net  proceeds  of  the  issuances  of  borrowings 
totalling US$2,792 million during the year, offset by the payment of shareholder dividends of US$1,997 million. 
The majority of the capital flows from subsidiaries for 2020 and 2019 were contributed by AIA Co., our principal 
operating company.

030

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWThe movements in holding company financial resources are summarised as follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening holding company financial resources

Capital flows from subsidiaries

Corporate activity including acquisitions

Net capital flows to holding company

Increase in borrowings(1)

Interest payments on borrowings(1)

Investment income, mark-to-market movements in debt securities and others

Closing holding company financial resources before dividends

Dividends paid

Closing holding company financial resources

Assets recoverable and liabilities repayable within 12 months as follows:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Loans to/amounts due from subsidiaries(2)

Medium-term notes and securities(3)

Net other assets and other liabilities

2020

8,630

2,354

–

2,354

2,792

(245)

854

14,385

(1,997)

12,388

2019

8,339

2,603

(1,450)

1,153

797

(228)

530

10,591

(1,961)

8,630

As at 
31 December
2020

As at 
31 December
2019

90

(1,002)

(14)

84

–

(3)

Notes:
(1)  Borrowings principally include medium-term notes and securities, other intercompany loans, and outstandings, if any, from the Company’s US$2,290 

million unsecured committed credit facilities.

(2)  As at 31 December 2020, loans to/amounts due from subsidiaries was US$1,904 million (2019: US$1,918 million). US$90 million was recoverable within 

the 12 months after the year ended 31 December 2020 (2019: US$84 million).

(3)  As at 31 December 2020, medium-term notes and securities placed to the market was US$8,559 million (2019: US$5,757 million). US$1,002 million was 
repayable within the 12 months after the year ended 31 December 2020 (2019: nil). Details of the medium-term notes and securities placed to the market 
are included in note 30 to the consolidated financial statements.

Reconciliation between Working Capital and Holding Company Financial Resources

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Working capital at 31 December

AIA Co. working capital excluding branch assets

AIA International working capital excluding branch assets

Other Group Corporate Centre entities

Holding company financial resources at 31 December

2020

17,169

(1,897)

(1,935)

(949)

12,388

2019

13,471

(2,741)

(1,428)

(672)

8,630

031

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONIFRS BALANCE SHEET

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position(1)

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Assets

  Financial investments

Investment property

  Cash and cash equivalents

  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

Shareholders’ allocated equity

Movement in Shareholders’ Equity(1)

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Opening shareholders’ equity

Retrospective adjustment for change in accounting policies

Opening shareholders’ equity, as adjusted

Net profit

Fair value gains on assets

Purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts

Dividends

Revaluation (losses)/gains on property held for own use

Foreign currency translation adjustments

Other capital movements

Total movement in shareholders’ equity

Closing shareholders’ equity

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

Change 
AER

271,467

233,363

4,639

5,619

27,915

16,481

4,834

3,941

26,328

15,666

326,121

284,132

235,952

204,454

8,559

17,942

5,757

18,526

262,453

228,737

63,668

468

63,200

48,030

55,395

448

54,947

43,278

2020

57,508

(2,561)

54,947

5,779

3,501

(16)

(1,997)

(46)

931

101

8,253

63,200

16%

(4)%

43%

6%

5%

15%

15%

49%

(3)%

15%

15%

4%

15%

11%

2019

39,488

1,377

40,865

5,979

9,211

(21)

(1,961)

154

603

117

14,082

54,947

Note:
(1)  After the change in accounting policy for Hong Kong participating business. The comparative information has been adjusted to conform to current period 

presentation. Please refer to note 48 to the consolidated financial statements for additional information.

032

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW 
 
Total Investments

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

As at 
31 December 
2020

Percentage 
of total

As at 
31 December 
2019

Percentage 
of total

Total policyholder and shareholder

247,408

87%

212,742

87%

Total unit-linked contracts and consolidated 

investment funds

Total investments

36,302

283,710

13%

100%

31,456

244,198

13%

100%

The investment mix remained stable during the year as set out below:

Unit-Linked Contracts and Consolidated Investment Funds

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Unit-linked contracts and consolidated 

investment funds

  Debt securities

  Loans and deposits

  Equities

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivatives

As at 
31 December 
2020

Percentage 
of total

As at 
31 December 
2019

Percentage 
of total

6,403

395

28,232

1,219

53

18%

1%

78%

3%

–

5,866

703

24,101

752

34

19%

2%

77%

2%

–

Total unit-linked contracts and consolidated 

investment funds

36,302

100%

31,456

100%

033

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
Policyholder and Shareholder Investments

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Participating funds and Other participating 
  business with distinct portfolios

  Government bonds

  Other government and government agency bonds

  Corporate bonds and structured securities

  Loans and deposits

  Subtotal – Fixed income investments

  Equities

Investment property and property held for own use

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivatives

As at 
31 December 
2020

Percentage 
of total

As at 
31 December 
2019

Percentage 
of total

9,324

11,701

54,947

2,519

78,491

23,892

1,054

565

335

4%

5%

22%

1%

32%

10%

–

–

–

7,751

9,974

40,842

2,523

61,090

18,739

1,065

481

231

Subtotal Participating funds and Other 
  participating business with distinct portfolios

104,337

42%

81,606

Other policyholder and shareholder

  Government bonds

  Other government and government agency bonds

  Corporate bonds and structured securities

  Loans and deposits

  Subtotal – Fixed income investments

  Equities

Investment property and property held for own use

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivatives

Subtotal other policyholder and shareholder

Total policyholder and shareholder

46,939

18,918

53,649

6,421

125,927

7,058

5,570

3,835

681

143,071

247,408

19%

7%

22%

3%

51%

3%

2%

2%

–

58%

100%

43,345

16,727

47,479

6,860

114,411

7,482

5,829

2,708

706

131,136

212,742

4%

5%

19%

1%

29%

8%

1%

–

–

38%

21%

8%

22%

3%

54%

4%

3%

1%

–

62%

100%

ASSETS
Participating  business  is  written  in  a  segregated  statutory  fund,  with  regulations  governing  the  division  of 
surplus  between  policyholders  and  shareholders.  “Other  participating  business  with  distinct  portfolios”, 
which represents the Hong Kong participating business as previously highlighted, is supported by segregated 
investment assets, and explicit provisions for future surplus distribution though the division of surplus between 
policyholders and shareholders is not defined in regulations.

Total  assets  increased  by  US$41,989  million  to  US$326,121  million  at  31  December  2020,  compared  with 
US$284,132 million at 31 December 2019 due to positive net revenues and mark-to-market gains on our debt 
securities.

Total investments including financial investments, investment property, property held for own use, and cash 
and cash equivalents increased by US$39,512 million to US$283,710 million at 31 December 2020, compared 
with US$244,198 million at 31 December 2019.

Of the total US$283,710 million investments at 31 December 2020, US$247,408 million were held in respect of 
policyholders and shareholders and the remaining US$36,302 million were backing unit-linked contracts and 
consolidated investment funds.

034

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW 
 
Fixed income investments, including debt securities, loans and term deposits held in respect of policyholders 
and shareholders, totalled US$204,418 million at 31 December 2020 compared with US$175,501 million at 31 
December 2019.

Government  bonds  and  other  government  and  government  agency  bonds  represented  43  per  cent  of  fixed 
income  investments  at  31  December  2020,  compared  with  44  per  cent  at  31  December  2019.  Corporate 
bonds and structured securities accounted for 53 per cent of fixed income investments at 31 December 2020, 
compared  with  50  per  cent  at  31  December  2019.  The  average  credit  rating  of  our  fixed  income  portfolio 
excluding  government  bonds  remained  stable  at  A-  compared  to  the  position  at  31  December  2019.  Our 
corporate  bond  portfolio  is  well  diversified  with  over  1,500  issuers  with  an  average  holding  size  of  US$67 
million.  At  31  December  2020,  we  held  US$3.7  billion  of  bonds  rated  below  investment  grade  or  not  rated, 
representing 2 per cent of our total bond portfolio. Less than US$600 million of our bonds, representing 0.3 per 
cent of our total bond portfolio, were downgraded to below investment grade and we did not experience any 
impairments in 2020, reflecting the overall quality of our investment portfolio.

Equity securities held in respect of policyholders and shareholders totalled US$30,950 million at 31 December 
2020, compared with US$26,221 million at 31 December 2019. The US$4,729 million increase in carrying value was 
mainly attributable to new purchases driven by underlying business growth. Within this figure, equity securities of 
US$23,892 million were held in participating funds and other participating business with distinct portfolios.

Cash and cash equivalents increased by US$1,678 million to US$5,619 million at 31 December 2020 compared 
to US$3,941 million at 31 December 2019. The increase largely reflected portfolio rebalancing and optimising 
term deposits into more liquid investments.

Investment  property  and  property  held  for  own  use  in  respect  of  policyholders  and  shareholders  totalled 
US$6,624 million at 31 December 2020 compared with US$6,894 million at 31 December 2019.

Deferred  acquisition  and  origination  costs  increased  to  US$27,915  million  at  31  December  2020  compared 
with US$26,328 million at 31 December 2019, the increase being largely due to new sales.

Other assets increased to US$16,481 million at 31 December 2020 compared with US$15,666 million at 31 
December 2019, mainly reflecting an increase in reinsurance recoveries.

LIABILITIES
Total liabilities increased to US$262,453 million at 31 December 2020 from US$228,737 million at 31 December 
2019.

Insurance  and  investment  contract  liabilities  grew  to  US$235,952  million  at  31  December  2020  compared 
with US$204,454 million at 31 December 2019, reflecting the underlying growth of the in-force portfolio and 
positive foreign exchange translation.

Borrowings increased to US$8,559 million at 31 December 2020, due to the net proceeds from the issuances 
of medium-term notes and securities totalling US$2,792 million during the year. The leverage ratio, which is 
defined as borrowings expressed as a percentage of total borrowings and equity, was 11.9 per cent, compared 
with 9.4 per cent at 31 December 2019.

Other  liabilities  were  US$17,942  million  at  31  December  2020,  compared  with  US$18,526  million  at  31 
December 2019, reflecting the partial settlement of the acquisition of CMLA of US$839 million, offset by an 
increase in deferred tax liabilities.

Details of commitments and contingencies are included in note 43 to the consolidated financial statements.

035

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONREGULATORY CAPITAL

Our  Group  supervisor  is  the  HKIA.  The  Group  is  in  compliance  with  the  solvency  and  capital  adequacy 
requirements applied by the HKIA. The Group’s principal operating company is AIA Co., a Hong Kong-domiciled 
insurer, which is required by the HKIA to meet the solvency margin requirements of the HKIO.

In addition to the local HKIO requirements for AIA Co., the HKIA is introducing a GWS framework which includes 
an assessment of the capital position of the Group, referred to as the LCSM. Legislation setting out the GWS 
framework was enacted on 17 July 2020. On 31 December 2020, the Government gazetted the commencement 
date of the legislation to be on 29 March 2021. In addition, the Insurance (Group Capital) Rules (Group Capital 
Rules) were tabled before the Legislative Council on 6 January 2021 and will come into operation on 29 March 
2021.

Although the Group Capital Rules will commence from 29 March 2021, the exact application of these rules is 
still under discussion with the HKIA and will only become finalised when the Group is formally designated as 
being subject to them. As a consequence, the Group has opted to retain the same basis of disclosure in our 
Annual Report 2020 as for our Interim Report 2020, which reflects our current understanding of how the Group 
Capital Rules will apply to the Group.

Once  formally  designated,  the  Group  will  disclose  the  regulatory  capital  position  according  to  the  GWS 
regulations as applied to the Group by the HKIA and will discontinue disclosure of the solvency ratio for AIA Co. 
in the Group’s results announcement. AIA Co. will continue to report its solvency ratio in its financial statements, 
and will submit annual filings to the HKIA of its solvency margin position based on its annual audited financial 
statements.

The capital positions for AIA Co. and the Group are as follows:

AIA CO. SOLVENCY POSITION
As at 31 December 2020, the total available capital for AIA Co. increased to US$9,780 million and the solvency 
ratio remained very strong at 489 per cent as measured under the HKIO basis. The increase in solvency ratio of 
127 pps compared to 31 December 2019 is mainly driven by the subsidiarisation of AIA China, as the solvency 
position  of  AIA  Co.  no  longer  includes  the  available  or  required  capital  for  our  business  in  Mainland  China, 
partially offset by the effect of lower government bond yields.

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

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Total available capital

Regulatory minimum capital (100%)

AIA Co. Solvency ratio (%)

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

9,780

2,000

489%

11,856

3,272

362%

036

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWGROUP LCSM SOLVENCY POSITION
As  per  our  Interim  Report  2020,  AIA’s  published  group-level  total  available  capital  and  minimum  capital 
requirement  are  calculated  as  the  sum  of  the  available  and  required  capital  according  to  the  regulatory 
requirements  for  each  relevant  regulated  entity  within  the  Group. The  Group  LCSM  surplus  is  the  difference 
between the Group available capital and the Group minimum capital requirement. The Group LCSM cover ratio 
is the ratio of the Group available capital to the Group minimum capital requirement.

On  this  basis,  at  31  December  2020  the  Group  LCSM  surplus  was  US$43,817  million,  with  a  Group  LCSM 
cover ratio of 374 per cent. The Group LCSM surplus, as calculated, includes US$1,735 million of subordinated 
securities issued in September  2020  under  the GMTN  and  Securities  Programme that we expect to become 
eligible Tier 2 debt capital.

The following table summarises the position based on our current understanding of the application of the GWS 
framework to the Group:

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Group available capital

Group minimum capital requirement

Group LCSM surplus

Group LCSM cover ratio

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

59,830

16,013

43,817

374%

51,751

14,139

37,612

366%

GROUP LCSM SURPLUS SENSITIVITIES
Sensitivities to the Group LCSM surplus arising from changes to the central assumptions from equity price and 
interest rate movements are shown below. The interest rate sensitivities apply a 50 basis points movement in 
current government bond yields and the corresponding impact on the liability discount rates.

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Central value

Impact of equity price changes

10 per cent increase in equity prices

10 per cent decrease in equity prices

Impact of interest rate changes

50 basis points increase in interest rates

50 basis points decrease in interest rates

Group LCSM 
cover ratio as at 
31 December 2020

374%

1 pps

(2) pps

13 pps

(18) pps

037

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRECONCILIATION BETWEEN GROUP LCSM SURPLUS AND FREE SURPLUS
We  believe  that  the  free  surplus  on  a  consolidated  basis  provides  a  more  representative  view  of  the  capital 
position  from  a  shareholder  perspective.  The  table  below  shows  a  reconciliation  between  the  Group  LCSM 
surplus and free surplus.

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

Group LCSM surplus

Adjustments for:

  Eligible Tier 2 debt capital

  Different capital requirements under EV for AIA China(1)

  Reflecting shareholders’ view of capital(2)

Free surplus on business unit basis

Adjustment to reflect consolidated reserving and capital requirements

Free surplus on consolidated basis

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

43,817

37,612

(1,735)

(7,675)

(10,314)

24,093

(10,620)

13,473

–

(5,928)

(7,161)

24,523

(9,606)

14,917

Notes:
(1)  Adjustment from C-ROSS solvency basis to China Association of Actuaries (CAA) EV basis in line with local requirements.

(2)  Reflects change from Group minimum capital requirement to EV required capital and the removal of participating fund surplus.

LOCAL SOLVENCY REQUIREMENTS
The  Group’s  individual  branches  and  subsidiaries  are  also  subject  to  supervision,  including  relevant  capital 
requirements,  in  the  jurisdictions  in  which  they  and  their  parent  entity  operate.  The  local  operating  units 
were in compliance with the capital requirements of their respective entity and local regulators in each of our 
geographical markets at 31 December 2020.

ACCOUNTING STANDARDS DEVELOPMENTS

On 25 June 2020, the effective date of IFRS 17 was deferred to 1 January 2023 and the temporary exemption 
applying IFRS 9 for insurers using IFRS standards was extended to 1 January 2023.

GLOBAL MEDIUM-TERM NOTE AND SECURITIES PROGRAMME

In August 2020, we increased our GMTN and Securities Programme from US$8 billion to US$10 billion.

Under the programme, on 7 April 2020, the Company issued US dollar-denominated fixed rate medium-term 
notes that are listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The offering comprised US$1,000 million 
of 10-year notes at an annual rate of 3.375 per cent. On 24 June 2020, the Company issued unlisted Australian 
dollar-denominated fixed rate medium-term notes, which consisted of AUD90 million of 10-year notes at an 
annual rate of 2.95 per cent. The US dollar equivalent issued is approximately US$62 million. On 16 September 
2020, the Company issued US dollar-denominated fixed rate subordinated dated securities that are listed on 
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The offering comprised US$1,750 million of 20-year subordinated 
dated securities at an annual rate of 3.2 per cent.

At 31 December 2020, the aggregate carrying amount of the debt issued to the market under the GMTN and 
Securities Programme was US$8,559 million.

038

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGROUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEWCREDIT RATINGS

At 31 December 2020, AIA Co. had financial strength ratings of Aa2 (Very Low Credit Risk) with a stable outlook 
from Moody’s; AA (Very Strong) with a stable outlook from Fitch; and AA- (Very Strong) with a stable outlook 
from Standard & Poor’s.

At 31 December 2020, AIA Group Limited had issuer credit ratings of A2 (Low Credit Risk) with a stable outlook 
from Moody’s; AA- (Very High Credit Quality) with a stable outlook from Fitch; and A (Strong) with a positive 
outlook from Standard & Poor’s.

DIVIDENDS

The Board has recommended a 7.5 per cent increase in the final dividend to 100.30 Hong Kong cents per share, 
subject to shareholders’ approval at the Company’s forthcoming AGM. This brings the total dividend for 2020 
to 135.30 Hong Kong cents per share, an increase of 6.9 per cent compared with the total dividend for 2019. 
This follows AIA’s established prudent, sustainable and progressive dividend policy, allowing for future growth 
opportunities and the financial flexibility of the Group.

039

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

SUMMARY AND KEY BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

In  2020,  we  successfully  navigated  our  businesses  through  the  challenges  presented  by  the  COVID-19 
pandemic. Our immediate priority was to ensure the safety of our staff while providing uninterrupted service to 
our customers, agents and partners. We have seen good momentum return to our businesses and we achieved 
15 per cent VONB growth for the Group in the first two months of 2021 against the same period in 2020. As a 
result of containment measures limiting face-to-face sales, we accelerated the development and adoption of 
online and remote sales capabilities. We now have the capability to sell our products remotely in all our agency 
and bancassurance businesses. These tools supported the recovery in sales momentum across our markets as 
movement restrictions eased.

DISTRIBUTION
In our agency channel, we continued to grow the capacity of our Premier Agency and delivered double-digit 
growth in both new recruits and agency leaders, supported by a shift to online recruitment, onboarding and 
training.  VONB  declined  by  28  per  cent  in  2020  as  the  pandemic  restricted  in-person  meetings.  We  saw 
sales momentum recover as restrictions eased and our businesses adopted new digital tools. Momentum has 
continued into 2021 with very strong year-on-year VONB growth in the first two months.

Our partnership channels saw a 41 per cent decline in VONB in 2020, reflecting the impact of travel restrictions 
that effectively put on hold sales to Mainland Chinese visitors in Hong Kong from February 2020. Excluding 
sales to Mainland Chinese visitors, VONB from our partnerships grew by 5 per cent half-on-half in the second 
half. We achieved robust results from our bancassurance partnerships, including year-on-year VONB growth 
in 2020 from Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (Bangkok Bank) in Thailand, Bank Central Asia (BCA) in 
Indonesia and Public Bank Berhad in Malaysia.

GEOGRAPHICAL MARKETS
AIA  China  has  delivered  a  successful  start  to  2021,  with  very  strong  VONB  growth  in  the  first  two  months 
compared with the same period in 2020. While VONB of US$968 million for 2020 was 17 per cent lower than 
2019, this was mostly driven by limited sales volumes during the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in the first quarter. 
As  movement  controls  eased,  new  business  momentum  swiftly  improved  and  resumed  our  usual  seasonal 
pattern with VONB weighted towards the first half of the year. AIA China became the largest contributor to the 
Group’s VONB in 2020.

AIA  Hong  Kong’s  VONB  significantly  declined  as  new  business  sales  to  Mainland  Chinese  visitors  have 
effectively  been  on  hold  from  early  February  2020  following  the  introduction  of  travel  restrictions.  VONB 
margin reduced for the year, reflecting acquisition expense overruns following the fall in new business volumes, 
a shift in product mix and the impact of lower interest rates. OPAT increased by 10 per cent. Macau resumed its 
Individual Visit Scheme with Mainland China from late September 2020, which has supported a return of sales 
to Mainland Chinese visitors that contributed over one-third of AIA Macau’s total ANP in the fourth quarter.

AIA Thailand delivered an excellent performance in the second half, with 33 per cent growth in VONB compared 
with the first half of the year. While VONB decreased by 4 per cent for the full year, we saw positive month-on-
month VONB growth as movement restrictions eased in the second half.

040

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDAIA Singapore achieved an excellent recovery in the second half, with VONB up by 56 per cent compared with 
the first half and a 12 per cent increase year-on-year. VONB reduced by 5 per cent for the full year, with growth 
in our agency channel offset by lower new business from our partnership distribution, as sales to the offshore 
customer segment were particularly affected by border controls. VONB margin recovered significantly in the 
second  half  due  to  an  improvement  in  product  mix  and  a  reduction  in  acquisition  expense  overruns  as  new 
business volumes increased.

AIA  Malaysia  reported  VONB  growth  in  the  second  half  of  72  per  cent  compared  with  the  first  half,  and  we 
achieved double-digit VONB growth compared with the second half of 2019. VONB for the full year was down 
by 13 per cent, reflecting strict COVID-19 related movement restrictions imposed in the first half. A positive 
product mix shift and reduction in acquisition expense overruns led to a 16.6 pps recovery in VONB margin in 
the second half and an overall margin of 59.9 per cent for 2020.

In Other Markets, VONB increased by 10 per cent in the second half compared with the first half of the year, 
with good recoveries seen in South Korea and Indonesia. Overall, VONB for the full year was lower by 4 per cent 
following declines in New Zealand, the Philippines and Indonesia. Our remaining markets all delivered positive 
VONB growth with Vietnam, Taiwan (China) and India reporting double-digit increases in 2020 compared with 
2019.

041

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

CORPORATE STRATEGY

AIA  has  an  unparalleled  platform  in  Asia  built  up  over  our  long  history  in  the  region  and  we  hold  leading 
positions in the majority of our markets. Our focus on Asia and our corporate structure allow us to capture the 
full economics of growth for our shareholders in the world’s most attractive region for life insurance. In 2020, 
we  launched  our  new  corporate  strategy  founded  on AIA’s  Purpose  of  helping  people  live  Healthier,  Longer, 
Better Lives, as represented graphically below.

Our Purpose: Helping People Live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives 

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

Leading Customer Experience

Unrivalled Distribution

Compelling Propositions

Seamless omnichannel  
customer experience with  
best-in-class engagement

Scale capacity and  
productivity through digitalisation and 
advice-centric models

Be the leading provider of 
personalised advice and  
innovative solutions

Step Change in Technology, Digital and Analytics

World-class technology

Customised and  
digitally-enabled journeys

Data and analytics powering  
everything we do

Organisation of the Future
Simpler, faster, more connected

Financial Discipline
Sustainable long-term shareholder value driven by clear KPIs

STRUCTURAL GROWTH DRIVERS IN ASIA

Unprecedented 
wealth creation

Significant need for 
private protection

Rapidly shifting  
consumer mindset

Pervasiveness of  
new technologies

Embracing purpose, 
sustainability and resilience

STRUCTURAL GROWTH DRIVERS
Our updated strategic priorities are built on five long-term structural drivers of growth in Asia:

Asia’s unprecedented wealth creation
Compounding  wealth  creation  will  support  a  near-doubling  of  Asia’s  middle-class  population  by  2030,  an 
increase of 1.4 billion at a rate faster than the rest of the world combined.

Significant need for private protection
There  is  an  enormous  shortfall  between  Asia’s  need  for  financial  protection  and  current  provision,  driving 
increased demand for life and health insurance and long-term savings. These protection gaps continue to grow, 
accelerated by the increasing prevalence of avoidable lifestyle-related diseases, ageing populations, increasing 
longevity and rapid inflation in healthcare costs.

Rapidly shifting consumer mindset
Wellness,  healthcare  and  higher  expectations  of  quality  of  life  into  old  age  are  increasingly  front  of  mind 
for  consumers.  With  so  many  product  options  and  uncertainty  over  how  much  cover  is  needed,  consumers 
increasingly  rely  on  personal  recommendations  and  choose  companies  that  provide  trusted  advice  with 
relevant, timely and personalised services.

042

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDPervasiveness of new technologies
Advances in technology and digital capabilities have opened up increasing opportunities for greater connectivity, 
scale and efficiency, driven by deeper customer insights and analytics.

Embracing purpose, sustainability and resilience
Resilience is paramount in a world of increasingly frequent, but hard-to-predict shocks. All stakeholders expect 
companies to respond in the right way to all eventualities with purpose, and in a way that is aligned with long-
term sustainability.

By  identifying  and  addressing  these  opportunities,  we  are  confident  that  AIA  will  continue  to  build  on  our 
substantial competitive advantages and strong track record of growth to shape a more sustainable future for 
our communities and create long-term value for all of our stakeholders.

043

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

TECHNOLOGY, DIGITAL AND ANALYTICS

A  step  change  in  technology,  digital  and  analytics  is  at  the  heart  of  our  strategy.  The  foundation  of  our 
transformation  is  upgrading  our  technology  to  world-class  modern  architecture  and  systems  to  support  the 
efficient and rapid scaling of our strategic initiatives, achieving greater growth and efficiency.

Our targeted investments across these three areas will transform the experience of our customers, distributors, 
partners  and  employees  and  enable  our  businesses  to  meet  the  increasing  expectations  for  efficient  and 
seamless experiences anytime and anywhere.

Embedding  data  analytics  into  our  business  processes  will  deliver  superior  personalised  experiences  and 
greater engagement, as well as ensuring the privacy and security of customer data. We will also benefit from 
increased operational efficiency, enhanced risk assessment, and faster and more comprehensive management 
information. Our goal is to position AIA as industry-leading in the use of technology globally.

WORLD-CLASS TECHNOLOGY
We accelerated the adoption of cloud technology with more than 35 per cent of our servers public cloud-based 
by December 2020, close to doubling the utilisation level in the first quarter of 2020. As we progress towards 
our ambitious goal of 90 per cent cloud adoption, we are already far ahead of the global financial services and 
insurance  industry  average  of  16  per  cent.  Our  objective  is  to  drive  significant  improvements  in  scalability, 
stability and security while reducing operating costs. For example, AIA China’s high level of adoption of cloud-
based solutions across its operations supports our rapid business expansion and has delivered cost savings of 
30 per cent compared with our traditional physical infrastructure.

We  have  increased  end-to-end  straight-through  processing  of  our  buy,  service  and  claim  journeys  through 
greater  digitalisation,  process  simplification,  automation  and  adoption  of  artificial  intelligence  (AI).  As  at 
December 2020, 47 per cent of all buy, service and claim operations for the Group were automated fully end-to-
end, close to a 50 per cent increase from 2019. Some of our local businesses have achieved impressive levels 
of automation. For example, 75 per cent of new business in the Philippines, 50 per cent of claims in Malaysia 
and more than 80 per cent of service operations for AIA China are fully processed with no human involvement.

DIGITAL ENABLEMENT
During  the  early  stages  of  the  pandemic,  we  rapidly  developed  and  deployed  new  agency  digital  tools  to 
conduct  sales  remotely  and  securely  for  all  of  our  markets. These  capabilities  have  been  widely  adopted  by 
our  agents.  For  example,  in  Singapore  we  were  the  first  insurer  to  provide  customers  with  enhanced  user 
verification capabilities using “Sign with SingPass”, part of Singapore’s Smart Nation project. We also put in 
place digital tools for online agent recruitment, management and training, enabling the continuation of these 
activities during social distancing and movement restrictions.

In our bancassurance partnerships, our move to a digitally-led approach enables better targeting of in-branch 
customers  and  provides  broader  access  to  previously  untapped  online  banking  and  credit  card  customers. 
For  example,  we  introduced  new  online  sales  capabilities  in  Hong  Kong  and  Singapore  and  enhanced  leads 
management capabilities in the Philippines and Indonesia. We have new tools for online sales such as product 
configurators, data driven underwriting and personalised offer engines ready for deployment with our partners 
in 2021.

044

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDWe adopt a digitally-enabled approach to working with our non-traditional platform partners, allowing us to 
access millions of potential customers in new ways. For example, our partnership with ZA Tech Global Limited 
(ZA Tech) will help AIA seamlessly connect with new and existing digital partners in all of AIA’s markets outside 
Mainland China, supporting our ambition to engage new customer segments with innovative and personalised 
products. We launched our first such collaborative product in Malaysia through Shopee using ZA Tech’s proven 
software and its expertise in offer design. In 2021, we will launch in other markets with both our existing and 
new digital partners.

Our  progress  in  digital  enablement  has  supported  a  significant  increase  in  digital  submissions  from  our 
customers and distributors and this, in turn, helps drive increased end-to-end automation of our operations. In 
2020, 72 per cent of all buy, service and claim operations across the Group were submitted digitally, with new 
business submissions reaching 95 per cent. We have enhanced communications with our customers, with over 
90 per cent of outbound notifications and responses to customers now provided digitally.

ANALYTICS POWERING EVERYTHING WE DO
Our use of analytics delivers greater personalisation, improved customer experience, better decision-making 
and increased operational efficiency. We do this by identifying and testing high-impact use cases in one of our 
markets and then industrialising across the Group to quickly replicate success.

In  the  Philippines,  we  implemented  an  AI-based  underwriting  solution  which  has  delivered  99.9  per  cent 
underwriting  accuracy  and  supported  end-to-end  customer  onboarding  in  just  20  minutes.  We  have  also 
implemented an AI-based claims solution in Thailand which has delivered a straight-through processing rate of 
more than 70 per cent for outpatient medical claims.

In Mainland China, we have developed our first AI-enabled outbound call robot, Xiao Bang, which covers a variety 
of  service  needs  including  renewal  premium  collection.  Xiao  Bang  is  part  of  our  award-winning  integrated 
service platform. It can handle over 600 different customer interaction scenarios and has made nearly half a 
million outbound calls to customers since its launch. As AIA China has continued to grow rapidly, this platform 
has supported enhanced customer experiences and improved financial performance with no additional service 
headcount in 2020.

045

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

UNRIVALLED DISTRIBUTION

AGENCY

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

2020

2,333

67.5%

3,455

2019

3,242

75.3%

4,306

YoY CER

YoY AER

(28)%

(28)%

(7.8) pps

(7.8) pps

(19)%

(20)%

Our  unparalleled,  proprietary  Premier  Agency  platform  with  market-leading  positions  across  Asia  is  an 
important competitive advantage for AIA. Our Premier Agency provides high-quality new recruits with best-in-
class training to help them develop a full-time professional and productive career with AIA. We offer clear career 
progression for our agents and next-generation leaders, supported by new technology and digital tools. AIA has 
been the number one Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) company globally for the last six years, demonstrating 
the effectiveness of our Premier Agency strategy.

In 2020, our agency businesses saw a 28 per cent decline in VONB as movement controls restricted in-person 
meetings. We saw a strong recovery as restrictions eased and our businesses adopted new digital tools. This 
momentum  has  continued  into  2021  with  very  strong  year-on-year  VONB  growth  for  the  first  two  months. 
VONB margin remained strong at 67.5 per cent despite a year-on-year decline from a shift in product mix and 
acquisition expense overruns. Overall, agency accounted for 78 per cent of the Group’s total VONB in 2020.

We  continue  to  invest  in  digital  tools  that  enable  our  agency  force  to  provide  a  best-in-class  customer 
experience. In the first half, we rapidly developed and deployed new technology across the Group, enabling the 
sales process to be completed remotely without an in-person meeting. Even as social distancing restrictions 
were relaxed in most of our markets, our agents have embedded many of our new tools in their daily activities, 
supporting improved productivity in the second half of the year as the number of new cases per active agent 
recovered to pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019.

Our next-generation agency leaders are critical in ensuring the sustained success of our agency businesses 
and we grew our number of new leaders by close to 30 per cent in 2020. We provide our leaders with powerful 
digital tools to enhance their effectiveness and we upgraded real-time agency performance tracking in Mainland 
China, India and Malaysia in 2020, enabling timely intervention, coaching and feedback for our agents. With our 
new online capabilities for agent recruitment and training, we held over 20,000 online recruitment seminars, 
which  supported  excellent  growth  in  new  agent  recruits  and  increased  agency  capacity  at  the  end  of  2020 
compared with 2019.

PARTNERSHIPS

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

2020

676

38.4%

1,764

2019

1,143

50.1%

2,279

YoY CER

YoY AER

(41)%

(41)%

(11.9) pps

(11.8) pps

(22)%

(23)%

Our long-term distribution partnerships with market-leading financial institutions and other corporate partners 
provide AIA with the opportunity to engage with and meet the protection and long-term savings needs of over 
100 million potential customers in Asia.

046

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDOur bancassurance strategy uses a digitally-led approach that targets in-branch customers with customised 
solutions and provides broader access to previously untapped online banking and credit card customers. For 
non-traditional  and  digital  platform  partners,  we  adopt  an  agile  approach  as  we  test  and  learn  how  best  to 
attract new customers to AIA. These offer a new way of accessing millions of people typically outside the reach 
of  our  other  distribution  channels  and  usual  demographics.  Our  omnichannel  sales  model  is  a  competitive 
advantage for AIA and increases conversion rates as we provide customers with the choice of how to purchase: 
from fully online through to face-to-face advice.

Travel restrictions, which were imposed in the first half of 2020 and remain largely in place, effectively put on 
hold industry sales to Mainland Chinese visitors in Hong Kong and drove a 41 per cent decline in partnership 
distribution VONB. Excluding sales to Mainland Chinese visitors, VONB from our partnerships grew by 5 per 
cent  in  the  second  half  compared  with  the  first  half,  as  movement  restrictions  eased.  The  decline  in  VONB 
margin  to  38.4  per  cent  in  2020  primarily  reflected  a  geographical  mix  shift  with  lower  sales  in  Hong  Kong 
along with acquisition expense overruns.

Bancassurance
Our long-term exclusive and strategic partnerships with banks, which are a key competitive advantage for AIA, 
delivered a robust performance in 2020 with a low double-digit decline in VONB. In particular, Bangkok Bank, 
BCA and Public Bank Berhad all delivered VONB growth for the year. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) 
also generated a significant one-off contribution to VONB in February 2020 with their purchase of mortality 
cover on behalf of their existing home loan customers. In the second half, our bancassurance channel delivered 
5 per cent half-on-half growth in VONB.

During  2020,  we  continued  to  transform  our  business  model  through  deeper  systems  integration  with  our 
partners. We also worked closely with our partners across the region to strengthen our digital capabilities as 
mobility and travel restrictions impacted our ability to conduct face-to-face sales in a number of our markets, 
particularly in the first half. We launched an online live chat for insurance sales with Citibank, N.A. in Hong 
Kong during the year as an alternative platform for the bank’s relationship managers to engage with customers. 
These initiatives to transform and digitalise our partnership business models continue to position us well for 
future delivery of sustainable growth.

Digital Platforms
We adopt a digitally-led and agile approach to working with our strategic non-traditional partners, enabling 
faster  iteration  cycles  when  building  and  delivering  compelling  solutions.  For  example,  we  launched  an 
omnichannel  distribution  model  in  South  Korea  with  SK  Telecom,  SK  holdings  C&C  and  Samsung  Card  in 
November.  In  December,  we  announced  the  formation  of  a  new  regional  digital  technology  partnership  with 
ZA Tech,  with  the  first  initiative  launched  in  Malaysia  through  Shopee.  We  aim  to  attract  customers  with  an 
online  purchase  of  a  simple AIA  product,  then  use  analytics  to  identify  suitable  customers  to  refer  for  more 
comprehensive propositions and advice through our agency.

047

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

COMPELLING PROPOSITIONS

In  2020,  we  decided  to  connect  AIA’s  Purpose  and  our  longstanding  brand  promise  of  “helping  people  live 
Healthier, Longer, Better Lives”. We now have one statement that demonstrates how AIA wants to be perceived 
by all our stakeholders and underpins everything that we do.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS ECOSYSTEM
Our strategy is to focus on next-generation life and health protection products, fully integrated with AIA’s Health 
and Wellness Ecosystem to address the growing protection gap in Asia.

AIA’s  Health  and  Wellness  Ecosystem  has  four  components:  i)  AIA  Vitality  and  our  wellness  programme  in 
Mainland China; ii) our network of telemedicine and healthcare providers; iii) the AIA Regional Health Passport; 
and iv) expert personal medical case management. Through these pillars our goal is to deliver improved health 
outcomes for our customers from prediction and prevention through to diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

AIA  Vitality  extends  our  leadership  position  in  health  and  wellness  through  an  integrated  shared-value 
proposition that promotes improved health outcomes for our customers, while also benefiting customers through 
lower costs of insurance. AIA Vitality is actively helping our customers counter the increasing prevalence of 
non-communicable  diseases  across  Asia  and  we  made  significant  enhancements  to  the  platform  in  2020 
to  improve  services,  customer  reach  and  engagement.  For  example,  our  exclusive  regional  partnership  with 
Holmusk, a global data science and healthcare technology company, supports the development of AI-enabled 
nutrition coaching services within AIA Vitality’s nutrition programme. Mental health has also been a top priority, 
particularly as a result of the pandemic. We increased our support for mental well-being with new features in 
AIA Vitality and saw nearly one million new assessments completed in 2020.

The  pandemic  has  driven  a  surge  in  telemedicine  usage,  providing  medical  support  in  the  face  of  social 
distancing  and  supplementing  the  capacity  of  traditional  medical  providers.  AIA  Telemedicine  services  are 
already operational in six of our markets and their use increased significantly during the year. We also launched 
new services in Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong and Macau in 2020 with plans for six additional markets in 2021.

The AIA Regional Health Passport leverages our pan-Asian presence to offer customers access to our network 
of  leading  international  hospitals,  providing  the  convenience  of  a  region-wide  referral  and  appointment 
service, as well as cross-border cashless payments regardless of where the policy was issued. The passport is 
operational in five of our markets: Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia, and we plan to extend 
it to another seven markets in 2021. Our customers can also access a network of hospitals in the United States 
and several European countries.

We  offer  Personal  Medical  Case  Management  in  eight  markets.  A  core  component  of  this  capability  is  our 
exclusive regional partnership with Medix, ensuring AIA customers receive the best diagnostic and treatment 
consultation in the event of a serious or complex diagnosis. This year we extended Medix services to Australia, 
India and Vietnam and the benefits for our customers are clear. In 2020, 23 per cent of our customers using 
Medix received a refined diagnosis and 62 per cent of initial treatment plans were amended based on the global 
best clinical advice provided. 27 per cent of customers avoided treatment altogether and customer satisfaction 
reached 93 per cent.

048

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDNext-generation products integrated with the Health and Wellness Ecosystem include AIA One Absolute – Full 
Protection in Hong Kong and You Ru Yi in Mainland China. The Hong Kong proposition is the first in the market 
to make claim payments for all conditions based on the severity of a customer’s medical condition. You Ru Yi is 
an innovative first in market critical illness product with modular coverage options, providing tailored coverage.

REGIONAL FUNDS PLATFORM
In addition to a growing need for protection, Asia has the world’s fastest-growing retirement population and 
our objective is to help people save more effectively through our long-term savings propositions. Our Regional 
Funds  Platform  leverages  our  scale  and  distribution  power  to  build  relationships  with  leading  external  fund 
managers  across  the  world,  providing  our  customers  with  tailored  investment  strategies  exclusive  to  AIA 
that  are  integrated  into  our  innovative  savings  products.  AIA’s  experienced  team  provides  peace  of  mind  to 
customers  through  its  professional  stewardship,  which  encompasses  our  proven  manager  selection  process 
and ongoing performance monitoring.

We aim to deliver long-term outperformance for our customers as we address their long-term savings needs. 
We have achieved top-quartile performance in the AIA Elite fund series on the platform. In 2020, we broadened 
our  range  of  propositions  using  these  funds  across  several  of  our  markets.  In  Singapore,  we  added  a  new 
retirement-focused product, and we also launched our first propositions in Thailand and Malaysia.

049

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

LEADING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Our ambition is for AIA’s customers to have a best-in-class experience delivered through the three key principles 
of simplicity, timeliness and reliability. To achieve this, a number of fundamental shifts are necessary including 
reorienting the organisation around customer journeys rather than functions, and embedding data and analytics 
in everything we do.

The step change in technology, digital and analytics across AIA is central to delivering best-in-class experience 
across  the  learn,  buy,  service  and  claim  customer  journeys.  We  have  made  significant  progress  in  2020  in 
automation and straight-through processing and this will accelerate in 2021 as we increase the use of analytics 
across many of our operations.

During  2020  we  undertook  an  extensive  assessment  of  our  customer  and  distributor  end-to-end  journeys, 
identifying focus areas for enhancing user experience and improving customer satisfaction.

Our  new  customer  experience  design  principles  are  founded  on  digitalisation  and  personalisation  and  are 
benchmarked to global best practices. Our experience shows that enhanced customer experience can support 
significant  improvements  in  customer  satisfaction  and  retention,  increased  sales  leads,  cross-sales  and 
conversion, as well as productivity gains.

We  have  developed  an  enhanced  measurement  framework  building  on  our  existing  periodic  customer 
surveys. Real-time feedback, linked to the operational performance of our service delivery, provides a holistic 
understanding of the customer experience and how demands are changing. We have adopted this approach in 
Mainland China, Malaysia, India, Australia and New Zealand and we plan to embed it in all our markets.

For example, Tata AIA Life in India captures real-time experience feedback across 13 touchpoints along the buy, 
service and claim customer journeys. This has helped guide our digital transformation process, which includes 
service automation, adoption of WhatsApp Enterprise Solution for customer communications, and AI-enabled 
chatbots.  Over  the  year,  we  have  seen  an  industry-leading  self-service  ratio  of  86  per  cent  and  a  14-point 
improvement in Net Promoter Score for Tata AIA Life.

ORGANISATION OF THE FUTURE

Our people strategy is designed to leverage AIA’s distinct culture of local empowerment with accountability to 
support the delivery of our strategic ambitions. The core components of Organisation of the Future are simpler 
organisational  structures,  the  introduction  of  agile  ways  of  working  and  enhanced  people  and  capabilities 
frameworks.

We started our journey to shape a transformed organisation in the second half of 2020 with two pilot business 
units: AIA Singapore and AIA Vietnam. Our plan is to test and learn within these pilot businesses before scaling 
the Organisation of the Future programme across our other businesses.

Early results from our pilot markets have achieved simplified, more customer-centric operating models and we 
have launched agile working practices with multiple cross-functional specialist teams. These teams have the 
autonomy to work independently on crucial business challenges to accelerate results and improve outcomes.

We have designed new capability building programmes for our pilot markets to further equip our people for 
organisational change. In 2020, we launched modules on organisation transformation, execution excellence, 
and agile ways of working, and plan to launch programmes on technology, digital and analytics.

050

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDGEOGRAPHICAL MARKET HIGHLIGHTS

MAINLAND CHINA

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

TWPI

OPAT

2020

968

80.9%

1,197

5,622

1,220

2019

1,167

93.5%

1,248

4,804

1,061

YoY CER

YoY AER

(17)%

(17)%

(12.7) pps

(12.6) pps

(4)%

17%

14%

(4)%

17%

15%

AIA China became the largest contributor to the Group’s VONB in 2020, and our differentiated Premier Agency 
achieved  double-digit  growth  in  agency  leaders  and  new  recruits,  while  maintaining  our  stringent  selection 
standards. This supported very strong VONB growth in the first two months of 2021 compared with the same 
period in 2020.

VONB of US$968 million for  2020  was  17  per  cent lower than 2019, primarily due to limited sales volumes 
during  the  initial  outbreak  of  COVID-19  in  the  first  quarter.  As  movement  controls  began  to  ease  in  March, 
new  business  momentum  swiftly  improved  and  our  usual  seasonal  pattern  resumed  with  VONB  weighted 
towards the first half of the year. A decline in VONB margin was driven by a product mix shift towards long-term 
participating savings products as a result of successful cross-sales to existing customers and the application of 
5 per cent withholding tax from July 2020, as previously disclosed. 

OPAT increased by 14 per cent for the year, primarily driven by growth in our in-force portfolio and favourable 
claims experience.

In 2020, AIA China successfully obtained regulatory approval and completed the conversion of our Shanghai 
branch to become the first wholly foreign-owned life insurance subsidiary in Mainland China. In March 2021, we 
received regulatory approval to begin operations in Sichuan. Sichuan is Mainland China’s sixth largest province 
by GDP and fourth largest by population, representing a significant long-term growth opportunity for AIA China.

051

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

HONG KONG

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

TWPI

OPAT

2020

550

44.7%

1,138

13,042

2,059

2019

1,621

66.1%

2,393

13,107

1,879

YoY CER

YoY AER

(66)%

(66)%

(21.4) pps

(21.4) pps

(52)%

0%

10%

(52)%

0%

10%

VONB declined by 66 per cent as sales to Mainland Chinese visitors have effectively been on hold from early 
February  2020  following  the  introduction  of  mandatory  quarantine  requirements  and  the  suspension  of  the 
Individual Visit Scheme. While these restrictions remained in force for Hong Kong throughout the year, Macau 
resumed its Individual Visit Scheme with Mainland China in late September 2020. This supported a return of 
sales to Mainland Chinese visitors for our Macau branch, which contributed to over one-third of its total ANP in 
the fourth quarter.

Our  Premier  Agency  remained  the  clear  market  leader  in  agency  distribution  in  Hong  Kong  and  delivered 
double-digit ANP growth for the domestic customer segment in the second half compared with the first half, 
despite disruptions from tightening social distancing measures as COVID-19 infections increased. We delivered 
a double-digit half-on-half increase in new recruits and improved agent case productivity in the second half. 
VONB for our partnership distribution channels was significantly lower than 2019 due to a higher historical mix 
of sales to Mainland Chinese visitors by retail IFAs. VONB margin declined by 21.4 pps, reflecting acquisition 
expense overruns following the fall in new business volumes, a shift in product mix and the impact of lower 
interest rates.

OPAT increased by 10 per cent, driven by underlying growth in our high-quality in-force portfolio with renewal 
premiums up 11 per cent. This was supported by favourable claims experience that more than offset reduced 
investment income from lower bond yields and the negative impact from the reduction in long-term investment 
return assumptions since the end of 2019.

THAILAND

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

TWPI

OPAT

2020

469

71.0%

661

4,462

987

2019

494

67.7%

729

4,352

1,064

YoY CER

YoY AER

(4)%

3.2 pps

(9)%

3%

(7)%

(5)%

3.3 pps

(9)%

3%

(7)%

AIA Thailand delivered an excellent performance in the second half with 33 per cent growth in VONB compared 
with the first half of the year. Although VONB decreased by 4 per cent for the full year, we saw positive month-
on-month  VONB  growth  as  movement  restrictions  eased  and  business  activities  began  to  normalise  in  the 
second half.

In our agency business, we more than doubled the number of new recruits in the second half compared with the 
first half, supported by our continued focus on the execution of our differentiated Financial Adviser programme. 
Our strategic bancassurance partner, Bangkok Bank, delivered positive VONB growth for the year.

VONB margin increased to 71.0 per cent, driven by a substantial shift in product mix towards long-term protection 
products and medical riders as a result of greater customer awareness of individual protection needs due to the 
pandemic. OPAT reduced by 7 per cent as in-force growth for the year and positive operating experience in the 
second half were more than offset by lower equity market returns, as previously disclosed.

052

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDSINGAPORE

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

TWPI

OPAT

2020

330

63.4%

520

3,088

621

2019

352

65.5%

538

2,916

583

YoY CER

YoY AER

(5)%

(6)%

(2.2) pps

(2.1) pps

(2)%

7%

8%

(3)%

6%

7%

AIA Singapore achieved an excellent recovery in the second half with VONB up by 56 per cent compared with 
the first half and a 12 per cent increase year-on-year. VONB declined by 5 per cent for the year overall, with 
growth  in  our  agency  business  offset  by  a  reduction  in  our  partnership  distribution  channel,  as  sales  to  the 
offshore customer segment were particularly affected by COVID-19 related border controls.

Agency productivity increased in 2020, supported by widespread adoption of our new digital sales capabilities 
that enabled our agents to sell remotely even during the strictest lockdown. As containment measures eased, a 
significant proportion of sales continued to be completed without an in-person meeting.

VONB margin reduced by 2.2 pps for the year as the reduction in the first half was mostly offset by a 7.0 pps 
half-on-half increase in the second half, reflecting a shift in product mix and a reduction in acquisition expense 
overruns as new business volumes increased. OPAT increased by 8 per cent, driven by growth in our in-force 
portfolio and supported by positive operating experience.

MALAYSIA

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

TWPI

OPAT

2020

222

59.9%

369

2,216

326

2019

258

63.1%

406

2,142

333

YoY CER

YoY AER

(13)%

(14)%

(3.1) pps

(3.2) pps

(8)%

5%

(2)%

(9)%

3%

(2)%

AIA Malaysia delivered an excellent recovery from the early impact of COVID-19 movement restrictions with 
double-digit year-on-year VONB growth in the second half, although VONB for the full year was 13 per cent 
lower than 2019.

In  agency,  our  continued  focus  on  quality  recruitment  helped  deliver  double-digit  growth  in  the  number  of 
new  recruits.  In  the  second  half,  the  number  of  active  agents  and  case  productivity  exceeded  2019  levels 
and the widespread adoption of our new mobile-enabled digital tools, introduced in the first half, supported 
performance.  In  partnership  distribution,  we  worked  with  our  exclusive  bancassurance  partner,  Public  Bank 
Berhad, to enhance and streamline the in-branch activity management process, which helped to nearly double 
the VONB in the second half compared with the first half of the year.

A positive product mix shift and a reduction in acquisition expense overruns supported a 16.6 pps recovery in 
VONB margin in the second half and an overall margin of 59.9 per cent for 2020. OPAT declined by 2 per cent, 
mostly due to a one-off provision for an industry-wide initiative to identify and pay accumulated unreported 
death claims, as previously highlighted. Excluding this provision, OPAT increased by 8 per cent.

053

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS REVIEW

OTHER MARKETS

US$ millions, unless otherwise stated

VONB

VONB margin

ANP

TWPI

OPAT

2020

514

38.4%

1,334

6,978

687

2019

535

41.9%

1,271

6,681

772

YoY CER

YoY AER

(4)%

(4)%

(3.7) pps

(3.5) pps

5%

5%

5%

4%

(11)%

(11)%

AIA’s  Other  Markets  are  Australia  (including  New  Zealand),  Cambodia,  India,  Indonesia,  Myanmar,  the 
Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China) and Vietnam. The VONB and ANP results for 2020 and 2019 
include our 49 per cent shareholding of Tata AIA Life. IFRS results for Tata AIA Life continue to be accounted 
for using the equity method.

Overview
VONB increased by 10 per cent in the second half compared with the first half of the year, with good recoveries 
seen in South Korea and Indonesia. Overall, VONB for the full year was lower by 4 per cent following declines 
in  New  Zealand,  the  Philippines  and  Indonesia.  Our  remaining  markets  all  delivered  positive  year-on-year 
growth in VONB with Vietnam, Taiwan (China) and India reporting double-digit increases in 2020 compared 
with 2019. OPAT declined by 11 per cent, as AIA Australia’s OPAT reduced by US$68 million from the level in 
2019, primarily due to lower profitability from disability insurance policies, while growth in Taiwan (China) and 
Vietnam broadly offset lower OPAT from Indonesia, the Philippines and South Korea.

Geographical Market Highlights
Australia & New Zealand: Our Australia and New Zealand business delivered positive growth in ANP for the 
year. VONB margin remained low in the second half due to a higher mix of group insurance business, with the 
onboarding  of  a  new  large  group  insurance  scheme  as  well  as  several  successful  renewals.  Our  long-term 
bancassurance partnerships with CBA and ASB Bank Limited (ASB) generated a significant one-off contribution 
to VONB as both CBA and ASB purchased mortality cover on behalf of their existing home loan customers in 
the first half of 2020.

Cambodia: AIA Cambodia continued to expand its distribution reach through geographical expansion outside of 
Phnom Penh, opening multiple new agency offices and adding new branches with our strategic partners. Sales 
momentum recovered in the second half with excellent ANP growth compared with the first half.

India: Tata AlA Life delivered strong VONB growth through its differentiated multi-channel distribution platform 
and  protection  focus.  Our  highly-digitalised  model  was  crucial  in  enabling  business  continuity  and  driving 
growth through the pandemic. Tata AIA Life maintained its leading position in the pure retail protection market 
and our high-quality Premier Agency continued to be a leader in the industry in terms of agent productivity. We 
renewed our distribution agreement with Indusind Bank Ltd. and announced a long-term strategic partnership 
with Practo Pte. Ltd. (Practo). Through this partnership, Tata AIA Life will become the exclusive provider of life 
insurance solutions to Practo’s digital healthcare platform, which has 175 million unique users. Tata AIA Life’s 
customers will gain preferred access to Practo’s leading digital healthcare platform.

Indonesia: Our bancassurance business in Indonesia delivered double-digit VONB growth in 2020, driven by 
our strategic partnership with BCA. This was more than offset by decline in agency VONB for the year, despite 
an improvement in the second half that was supported by higher activity and productivity of new agents.

054

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDMyanmar: Following the official launch of our Myanmar business at the end of November 2019, our focus in 
2020 was on building a solid foundation for our multi-channel distribution platforms and awareness of the AIA 
brand. In addition, AIA Myanmar launched its first long-term bancassurance partnership.

Philippines: Our operations in the Philippines reported a double-digit decline in VONB, following the nationwide 
lockdown  implemented  since  mid-March  2020.  Community  quarantine  restrictions  of  varying  levels  remain 
in force across  the country, which  has  created  sustained headwinds to both our agency and bancassurance 
businesses.

South  Korea:  AIA  Korea  delivered  VONB  growth  in  2020,  supported  by  an  excellent  performance  in  direct 
marketing. We launched our omnichannel distribution model in November with SK Telecom, SK holdings C&C, 
and our new strategic distribution partner, Samsung Card. Under this model, we use data analytics and digital 
marketing  to  embed  our  shared-value  protection  propositions  into  the  customer  journeys  of  the  online  and 
mobile ecosystems of our partners.

Sri Lanka: AIA Sri Lanka delivered excellent VONB growth in 2020 as we implemented several new digital tools 
to support remote agency recruitment and training, as well as enhanced the buy, service and claim customer 
journeys.  This  supported  a  recovery  in  the  second  half  of  the  year,  with  increased  agency  recruitment  and 
growth in the number of active agents.

Taiwan  (China):  AIA  Taiwan  delivered  strong  VONB  growth  in  2020,  primarily  driven  by  excellent  sales 
momentum in our broker channel. We continue to focus on delivering insurance solutions that meet targeted 
customer needs for retirement and legacy planning and strengthening our relationships with key bancassurance 
and IFA partners.

Vietnam: AIA Vietnam delivered strong double-digit VONB growth in 2020 with both agency and partnership 
channels  supporting  the  result.  Agency  remained  the  primary  distribution  channel  for  AIA  Vietnam,  and  an 
increase in the number of active agents and good recruitment momentum drove the continued expansion of 
our Premier Agency. VONB growth was supported by an increase in VONB margin as we introduced a series 
of first-in-market features to our health and critical illness products that drove a shift towards higher margin 
protection products.

Notes:
(1)  Throughout  the  Unrivalled  Distribution  section,  VONB  and  VONB  margin  by  distribution  channel  are  based  on  local  statutory  reserving  and  capital 

requirements and exclude pension business.

(2)  Following the completion of the conversion process of AIA Co.’s Shanghai branch to a wholly-owned subsidiary, future remittances to the Group from this 
subsidiary will be subject to withholding tax at the applicable tax rate in Mainland China (currently 5 per cent). OPAT and net profit from AIA China include 
the 5 per cent withholding tax from October 2020. EV and VONB from AIA China include the 5 per cent withholding tax from July 2020.

(3)  The OPAT reported in Hong Kong is after the change in accounting policy for Hong Kong participating business. The comparative information has been 

adjusted to conform to current period presentation.

(4)  Prior to 2020, the Group reflected the withholding tax charge under Group Corporate Centre. Starting from 2020, the Group has enhanced the segment 
information to present the withholding tax charge in the operating segment where the withholding tax arises. The comparative information has been 
adjusted to conform to current period presentation.

(5)  Growth rates and commentaries are provided on a  constant exchange rate basis.

055

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRISK MANAGEMENT

OVERVIEW

The  Group  recognises  the  importance  of  sound  risk  management  in  every  aspect  of  our  business  and  for  all 
stakeholders. For our policyholders, it provides the security of knowing that we will always be there for them. For 
investors,  it  is  key  to  protecting  and  enhancing  the  long-term  value  of  their  investment.  Finally,  for  regulators, 
sound risk management supports industry growth and enhances the public’s trust in the industry.

While effective risk management is vital to any organisation, it goes to the core of a life insurance business where 
it is a fundamental driver of value. The Group’s Risk Management Framework (RMF) does not seek to eliminate all 
risks but rather to identify, understand and manage them within acceptable limits in order to support the creation 
of long-term value.

The Group’s RMF is built around developing an appropriate and mindful risk culture at every level of the organisation 
in  support  of  our  strategic  objectives. The  RMF  provides  business  units  with  appropriate  tools,  processes  and 
capabilities for the identification, assessment and, where required, upward referral of identified material risks for 
further evaluation.

The Group’s RMF consists of the following key components:

•  Risk Governance;
•  Risk Culture;
•  Risk Strategy; 
•  Risk Underwriting; 
•  Risk Control; and 
•  Risk Disclosure. 

RISK GOVERNANCE

THREE LINES OF DEFENCE
The  Group’s  Risk  Governance  framework  is  built  on  the  “Three  Lines  of  Defence”  model.  With  regard  to  risk 
management,  the  objective  is  to  ensure  that  an  appropriate  framework  is  in  place,  including  an  independent 
system of checks and balances, to provide assurance that risks are identified, assessed, managed and governed 
properly. The framework clearly defines roles and responsibilities for the management of risk between Executive 
Management (First Line), Risk & Compliance (Second Line) and Internal Audit (Third Line) functions. While each 
line of defence is independent from the others, they work closely to ensure effective oversight.

The First Line is made up of the business decision-takers who are the Risk Owners and are responsible for ensuring 
that effective and appropriate processes are in place at all times to effectively identify, assess and manage risk 
in  a  manner  consistent  with  the  RMF.  In  particular,  the  amount  of  risk  taken  at  each  level  of  the  organisation 
must be consistent with both the Risk Appetite of the Group and the relevant business unit. The First Line is also 
responsible for operating an effective control environment, including mitigation of risks through implementation 
of controls.

Initial identification, assessment and management of risk is the responsibility of executives operating in the 
First  Line.  Decisions  regarding  activities  deemed  to  have  significant  risks  attached  or  that  are  outside  the 
limits delegated to a given level of management are referred to a senior Group executive or, where appropriate, 
through the Group Chief Executive and President to the Risk Committee of the Board and, where appropriate, 
to the full Board.

056

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDThe Second Line consists of the Group Chief Risk Officer (CRO), business unit CROs, and the Risk & Compliance 
function. This group ensures that the RMF remains appropriate and effective with respect to the risk profile and 
operations of the Group. This group is independent of, but works closely with, the First Line to ensure that risks 
are being managed appropriately within the Risk Appetite of the Group and the relevant business unit. Whilst the 
First Line is empowered with decision-making authority, the Second Line is responsible for overseeing First Line 
activities and ensuring that decisions are subject to an appropriate level of governance, as well as ensuring that 
the Group adheres to its own high standards.

The  Third  Line  of  Defence  (Third  Line)  is  the  Group  Internal  Audit  (GIA)  function,  which  reports  to  the  Audit 
Committee  of  the  Board.  GIA  is  responsible  for  providing  independent  assurance  over  the  effectiveness  of  the 
RMF, including key internal controls, and makes recommendations based on the audit findings.

The Three Lines of Defence converge at the Board, which retains overall responsibility for the Group’s RMF.

RISK COMMITTEE STRUCTURE
The Group’s Risk Committee structure is designed to:

•  ensure consistent application of the RMF across the Group;
•  provide streamlined processes for the timely identification, assessment and escalation of risk issues;
•  provide objective analysis of risk issues enabling informed decision-making; and
•  ensure discussion and challenge in relation to risk issues in suitable forums leading to optimal outcomes.

AIA Group Limited Board

Audit 
Committee

Risk 
Committee

Remuneration
Committee

Nomination 
Committee

Operational Risk 
Committee

Financial Risk  
Committee

The Board
The Board retains overall responsibility for oversight of the Group’s risk management activities. In this regard the 
Board sets the Group’s Risk Appetite, approves the RMF (including amendments or refinements from time to time) 
and monitors material Group-wide risks. In fulfilling these responsibilities, the Board is supported and advised by 
the Risk Committee.

Risk Committee
The  Risk  Committee  oversees  risk  management  across  the  Group  and  advises  the  Board  on  all  risk-related 
issues requiring Board attention. The members of the Risk Committee are all Board directors, with the majority of 
members, including the Committee Chairman, being Independent Non-executive Directors. The Risk Committee 
meets at least four times a year.

057

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOperational Risk (ORC) and Financial Risk (FRC) Committees
The Risk Committee is supported by two Executive Risk Committees which, between them, oversee the management 
of all risks. The ORC is chaired by the Group CRO and oversees risks associated with failure in internal processes, 
personnel and systems or from external events. The FRC is chaired by the Group Chief Executive and President 
and oversees risks associated with Financial, Insurance and Investment activities. The FRC and ORC each meet at 
least four times a year.

The above committee structures are replicated at the business unit level where applicable.

RISK CULTURE

The RMF recognises the importance of risk culture in the effective management of risks. Risk Culture defines the 
Group’s attitude to risks and ensures its remuneration structure promotes the right behaviour.

ACCOUNTABILITY
A  key  component  of  the  Group’s  risk  culture  is  accountability. The  First  Line  of  Defence  (First  Line)  generally 
consists of business unit management and is responsible for managing risks associated with their businesses. The 
Risk & Compliance function makes up our Second Line of Defence (Second Line) and is headed by the Group CRO 
who has overall accountability for the Risk & Compliance function across the Group. Within each business unit, the 
business unit CRO is a senior position with a primary reporting line into the Group CRO and a secondary reporting 
line  to  the  local  Chief  Executive  Officer  (CEO). This  structure  ensures  independence  of  the  Second  Line  while 
ensuring that business unit CROs have full access to local business discussions so as to provide risk management 
perspectives and insights. The Group CRO is a member of the Group Executive Committee while business unit 
CROs are, in most cases, also members of their respective local Executive Committees.

REMUNERATION
The Company’s executive remuneration structure ensures appropriate consideration of the RMF within a strong 
performance-oriented  culture.  This  is  supported  by  a  performance  management  system  where  all  staff  are 
measured on ‘how’ as well as ‘what’ they deliver. This structure places significant emphasis on conduct as well as 
achievement, and is consistent with our fundamental Operating Philosophy of “Doing the Right Thing, in the Right 
Way, with the Right People... the Right Results will come”.

RISK STRATEGY 

Risk Strategy describes the types of risks, and how and to what extent they are taken in order to pursue the Group’s 
strategic objectives. The Group Risk Appetite Framework (RAF) establishes the quantum and nature of risks the 
Group is prepared to take to achieve its strategic objectives.

1.  The Risk Appetite Statement (RAS) is an overarching statement on the enterprise’s attitude to risk;

2.  Risk  Principles  and  Risk  Tolerances  are  qualitative  statements  and  quantitative  metrics  that  expand  and 

validate the RAS; and

3.  Risk Controls and Risk Limits are used to manage specific risks.

RISK APPETITE STATEMENT
The Group has adopted the following RAS:

“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-Pacific ex-Japan-focused life insurance company.”

058

RISK MANAGEMENTFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
RISK PRINCIPLES AND RISK TOLERANCES
The RAS is supported by five Risk Principles:

Risk Principles

Regulatory Capital 

Financial Strength 

“AIA has 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.”

“AIA 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.”

Liquidity

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

Earnings Volatility

Business Practice

“AIA 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.”

“AIA will uphold high ethical standards and will implement sound internal controls to 
minimise the downside risk from the impact of any operational failures within reasonable 
tolerances.”

Further granular measures, indicators and tolerances are used to monitor and control specific risk types.

RISK LANDSCAPE
The Group maintains a detailed risk taxonomy to ensure all risks are identified and systematically managed. These 
risks are categorised in accordance with the risk landscape shown below. 

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Operating Risks

Financial Risks

Liability Risks

Operational Risk

Business Risk

Structural Risk

Investment Risk

Insurance Risk

Conduct Risk

Strategic Risk

Property Risk*

Mortality Risk

Execution, Delivery &
Process Management Risk

Business Environment

Equity Risk*

External Event Risk

Lapse Risk

Credit Default Risk*

Financial Crime Risk

Expense Risk

Credit Spread Risk*

Disability / Morbidity
Risk

Pandemic &
Catastrophe Risk

Reinsurance
Counterparty Risk

Fraud Risk

People Risk

Information Risk

Technology Risk

Legal &
Compliance Risk

FX Risk

Investment
Counterparty Risk

Interest Rate Risk

Liquidity Risk

* Risks may be structural, if the assets are used 
to back policyholder liabilities, or investment, 
if related to shareholder positions.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
Principal Risk

Definition

Operational Risk

Business Risk

Structural Risk

The risk arising from internal processes, personnel and systems or from external events 
which may result in a direct or indirect business impact. This includes potential legal or 
regulatory sanctions, financial loss, or loss of reputation the Group may suffer as a  
result of a failure (or perceived failure) to comply with applicable laws, regulations or 
industry standards.

The risk of loss, lower than anticipated or forgone business profits arising from greater-
than-expected business expenses or a reduced revenue base. This may arise due to 
internal factors such as the business strategy, or from implications of the wider business 
environment over the planning horizon.

The risk arising from changes in price, or volatility, of assets relative to the value of the 
liabilities. This includes the sensitivity of the balance sheet to market movements, such 
as foreign exchange and interest rates, as well as the ability to meet financial obligations, 
such as claims, debt servicing and dividends, when due.

Investment Risk

The risk of adverse market movements in assets, as well as indirect exposure through 
default of a counterparty, leading to a reduction in surplus.

Insurance Risk

The risk of adverse movements in the value or trend of insurance liabilities arising from 
the biometric risks underwritten by the Group. The risk may manifest gradually over time 
or more suddenly from shocks or extreme events. Insurance risk includes changes to 
actuarial assumptions regarding future experience for these risks.

RISK UNDERWRITING

The Group has a robust process that provides sufficient information, capability and tools to manage its key risks. 
Risks which the Group proactively accepts are identified, quantified and managed to support the creation of long-
term value.

IDENTIFICATION
Timely and complete identification of risks is an essential first step to the risk management process. The Risk & 
Compliance function has developed a systematic process to identify existing and emerging risks in the business 
units.  The  risk  landscape  enables  a  consistent  identification  and  classification  of  existing  and  emerging  risks 
inherent in business activities.

QUANTIFICATION
Quantification  of  risk  is  important  in  establishing  the  level  of  exposure  and  in  determining  the  appropriate 
management  actions  within  the  Group’s  Risk  Appetite.  Specific  approaches  to  quantifying  risk  are  applied 
depending upon the nature of the risk, including regular capital assessments, and stress and scenario testing.

UNDERWRITING DECISIONS
Risks are evaluated against approved risk tolerances to ensure implications on risk profile are understood and 
appropriately considered in decision-making. 

REVIEW AND MANAGEMENT
Executives  working  in  the  First  Line  are  responsible  for  the  execution  of  appropriate  actions  and  other  risk 
mitigation  strategies  to  transfer,  mitigate  or  eliminate  risks  considered  outside  of  risk  tolerance. They  are  also 
responsible for the timely escalation of material risk developments.

060

RISK MANAGEMENTFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITED 
RISK CONTROL

Risks which the Group seeks to mitigate are managed through an effective internal controls system to maintain 
exposures  within  an  acceptable  residual  level. The  Operational  Risk  and  Control  Framework  (ORCF)  has  been 
designed  to  ensure  that  the  Group  operates  in  accordance  with  the  expectations  of  stakeholders.  A  primary 
component of the ORCF is the Risk and Control Assessment (RCA), which is a regular evaluation of the business’ 
operational risks and control effectiveness to ensure that information and perspectives on the internal control 
environment are appropriately considered.

RISK DISCLOSURE

The Second Line is responsible for monitoring First Line activities and reporting to the appropriate Risk Committees 
the  performance  of  the  First  Line  against  risk  metrics  and  limits  defined  in  the  Risk  Appetite.  Information  is 
gathered from underlying systems and provided to the Board, respective Risk Committees and other executive 
management to inform key decision-making.

Ongoing  monitoring  of  the  RMF  is  undertaken  to  support  an  ongoing  evaluation  of  the  Group’s  risk  profile, 
compliance status and overall effectiveness of the RMF. The overall RMF is reviewed by the Board on an annual 
basis to confirm its continued appropriateness. In addition, to ensure the effectiveness of the Risk Management 
Process, an Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) is reported to the Risk Committees for annual review.

EXECUTION OF THE RMF

The  Group  has  embedded  its  RMF  into  key  business  processes  and  decision-making,  with  the  following 
priority areas:

1.  Product  lifecycle  and  approval:  in  evaluating  the  launch,  revision  and  ongoing  management  of  insurance 

products, the Group considers the potential financial and operational risks involved;

2.  Strategic  planning:  the  Group  undertakes  an  annual  planning  process  to  develop  and  set  its  strategy  and 
corporate  objectives.  The  Risk  &  Compliance  function  assesses  the  impact  of  potential  strategies  on  the 
Group’s risk profile and ensures that the strategies selected are in line with its Risk Appetite;

3.  Investment management: whilst the Group seeks to realise positive returns, we carefully manage risks arising 
from our asset portfolio to ensure AIA maintains the financial flexibility needed to fund new business growth 
opportunities, support its planned dividend policy, pay claims and withstand capital market (or other) stress 
conditions;

4.  Structural management: the timing and value of assets are matched with corresponding liabilities to ensure 
sufficient resources are available to meet liabilities as they fall due. Our asset allocation strategy is driven by 
the liability matching approach, which seeks to ensure that structural risks are managed carefully; and

5.  Internal  Control:  to  ensure  potential  operational  and  compliance  risk  exposures  arising  from  day-to-day 
business activities are subject to appropriate control and management within our Risk Appetite, the Group has 
embedded a robust approach to internal control as part of its ORCF.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
REGULATORY AND INTERNATIONAL 
DEVELOPMENTS

The  International  Association  of  Insurance  Supervisors  (IAIS),  a  standard-setting  body  for  insurers,  adopted 
ComFrame,  the  Common  Framework  for  the  Supervision  of  Internationally  Active  Insurance  Groups  (IAIGs) 
at  its  annual  general  meeting  on  14  November  2019.  Many  of  the  regulators  of  the  Group’s  business  units, 
including the HKIA, are members of the IAIS. IAIGs are identified under ComFrame as insurance groups which 
meet certain minimum requirements in the jurisdictions in which they operate throughout the world and with 
regards to the size of their business. The Group has been designated an IAIG in accordance with these criteria.

In  addition,  as  part  of  ComFrame,  in  2020  the  IAIS  began  the  first  of  two  phases  in  the  development  and 
implementation  of  the  Insurance  Capital  Standard  (ICS).  Under  the  first  phase,  a  “Reference  ICS”  is  being 
assessed during a five-year Monitoring Period for reporting privately to group-wide supervisors. It is proposed 
that the second phase, beginning in 2025, will include implementation of the ICS as part of prescribed group 
capital requirements.

Further to our prior disclosures, the HKIA has been developing a GWS framework to align with international 
standards to supervise Hong Kong domiciled IAIGs. Legislation setting out the GWS framework was enacted 
on 17 July 2020.

On 31 December 2020, the Hong Kong SAR Government gazetted the commencement date of the legislation 
to be on 29 March 2021. In addition, the Group Capital Rules were tabled before the Legislative Council on 6 
January 2021 and will also  come into operation on 29  March 2021. The GWS framework is reflective of the 
requirements of ComFrame.

Under the GWS framework, the HKIA will have direct regulatory powers over Hong Kong incorporated holding 
companies of insurance groups that are designated under the legislation. In respect of insurers which carry on 
insurance business in or from Hong Kong, the HKIA has various regulatory powers including powers to approve 
the appointment of a controller, a director and a key person, and powers to intervene, inspect and investigate. 
These powers may also be directly applied to Hong Kong incorporated holding companies of insurance groups 
pursuant to the GWS framework.

The Group Capital Rules will set out the capital requirements of the Group under the GWS framework and will 
be  based  on  a  “Summation  Approach”.  The  Group’s  published  total  available  and  minimum  required  capital 
will  be  calculated  based  on  a  summing  up  of  the  available  and  required  capital  according  to  the  regulatory 
requirements for each relevant regulated entity within the Group, also known as the LCSM. The Group Capital 
Rules provide for conforming subordinated debt.

062

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDIn addition to the above, AIA is an active participant in the industry dialogue on prudential, market conduct and 
other related matters including:

•  Hong Kong Risk-based Capital regime: AIA continues to be closely and constructively engaged with the 
HKIA on the multi-year consultation process toward a risk-based capital regime in Hong Kong applicable 
to Hong Kong licensed insurance companies (distinct from the GWS framework applicable at the group 
level).  This  risk-based  capital  regime  will  replace  the  current  Solvency  1  regime.  Based  on  the  most 
recently available information, our expectation is that the regime will become effective from 1 January 
2024.

•  Relaxation  of  Foreign  Ownership  Limits  for  Life  Insurers  in  Mainland  China:  Further  to  its  initial 
announcement in 2017 to relax the foreign ownership limits in the financial services sector, the Mainland 
Chinese Government has, as of 6 December 2019, officially lifted these ownership restrictions effective  
1  January  2020  to  allow  for  100  per  cent  foreign  ownership  of  licensed  life  insurance  companies  in 
Mainland  China.  On  19  June  2020,  AIA  Co.  received  approval  from  the  CBIRC  to  convert  its  existing 
Shanghai  branch  to  a  wholly-owned  subsidiary,  through  which  it  intends  to  manage  and  operate  its 
existing  and  future  business  in  Mainland  China.  In  March  2021,  AIA  China  received  approval  from  the 
CBIRC to begin operations in Sichuan.

•  The  Organisation  for  Economic  Co-operation  and  Development  (OECD)  is  undertaking  a  new  phase  of 
work on tax policy, commonly referred to as “Base erosion and profit shifting 2.0” (BEPS 2.0), which has 
two  pillars.  The  first  pillar  focuses  on  changes  to  the  international  tax  system  in  respect  of  consumer 
businesses  and  automated  digital  services.  It  aims  to  allocate  more  taxing  rights  to  sales  and  market 
jurisdictions  and  to  ensure  a  taxable  presence  in  jurisdictions  where  enterprises  have  no  physical 
presence but still have a significant economic presence. The second pillar focuses on the development 
of rules that seek to apply a global minimum tax rate to multinational enterprises and their cross-border 
transactions. A carve-out from Pillar One has been proposed for the financial services industry. However, 
based on the blueprint covering the potential design of Pillar Two, the rules that the OECD is proposing 
may increase AIA’s effective tax rate. At this stage the proposed rules are still subject to agreement by  
the jurisdictions that are members of the “Inclusive Framework” on BEPS 2.0.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOUR PEOPLE

At AIA, our people span across multiple cultures and communities. We focus on developing, engaging, and helping 
them grow professionally and personally during their time at AIA. We believe that by enabling our employees’ 
success, they are better able to serve and support our customers and communities.

As at 31 December 2020, AIA had a total of 23,397 employees, which included full-time and part-time, as well as 
contract employees1.

In 2020, our continued focus on our people has received several local, regional and global accolades and awards.

•  For the second year in a row, AIA Group was recognised in the Forbes “World’s Best Employers” list. 
•  AIA China was awarded the “Top Employer in China 2020” by Top Employers Institute. 
•  AIA Vietnam received the “Great Place To Work” award by Great Place to Work and “Best Companies to Work 

for in Asia” award by HR Asia. 

•  AIA Malaysia was recognised as the “Most Attractive Graduate Employers to Work For” by Graduates Choice Award. 
•  AIA Singapore was the insurance and risk management sector winner in “Singapore’s 100 Leading Graduate 

Employers” by GTI Media.

•  AIA Indonesia received “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” and “Most Caring Companies” award by HR Asia.
•  AIA Taiwan received “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” award by HR Asia.
•  AIA Philam Life was recognised as “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” by HR Asia.
•  AIA New Zealand received the YWCA GenderTick™ and multiple awards in 2020:

–  “Top Insurance Workplaces 2020” from Insurance Business Magazine;
–  “Employer of Choice” award by HRD Magazine; and
–  “Insurance Employer of the Year” from Insurance Business Magazine’s Women in Insurance awards. 

TRANSFORMING OUR ORGANISATION 

MODERNISING THE WAY WE WORK
In 2020, we launched new experiences for all our managers and employees across all our business units, delivered 
through a new global human resources information system, operating on a global service delivery model. 

As well as improving operational efficiencies, this initiative has empowered our managers with greater insights 
about their team and allowed managers and employees to take control of their needs with “anytime anywhere” 
self-service  transactions.  Employees  have  embraced  new  ways  of  working,  such  as  providing  more  regular 
feedback and recognition to promote better performance and engagement. Learners can explore and complete 
more self-paced online courses when it is appropriate for them.

We prioritise listening to our employees. With new mechanisms in place to listen to, measure and act on experience 
feedback in a timely manner, we have achieved higher satisfaction levels and positive feedback from managers 
and employees.

CULTURE AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT 

Trust is integral to the products and services that AIA offers to our customers throughout Asia-Pacific and it is the 
foundation of all our interactions in the workplace, with our customers and with all other external stakeholders. 
We hold ourselves to the highest professional standards as defined in AIA’s Code of Conduct, which outlines how 
we maintain this trust and reflects our Operating Philosophy of “Doing the Right Thing, in the Right Way, with the 
Right People... the Right Results will come”. 

Note:
(1)  Includes employees on contracts, but excludes interns, agents of the Group and employees of joint venture Tata AIA Life.

064

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
The Code of Conduct also provides clear guidance on how to conduct business at all times, by embedding ethics 
and strong risk management in all the decisions that AIA employees make. All new employees are required to 
undergo an orientation and complete a set of e-learning modules centred on our Code of Conduct. An enterprise-
wide learning and development framework is in place across our business units to maintain consistency in our 
approach to talent development and help shape and foster our culture across the region.

AIA is committed to creating and maintaining a positive work environment free from bullying, discrimination and 
harassment. We encourage employees to resolve issues by talking to and working with their management and 
human resources teams. In addition, employees are encouraged to speak up and ask questions, raise concerns or 
report instances of misconduct by contacting local or Group Compliance, or the Group’s Ethics Hotline.

ENGAGING OUR PEOPLE
Ensuring  that  we  offer  a  collaborative  and  inclusive  workplace  that  prioritises  employee  engagement  is  a  top 
priority for AIA. To help us monitor levels of engagement across our business units and functions, we conduct the 
Gallup Q12 employee engagement survey every year. It provides meaningful input to allow for the development of 
strategies to address areas requiring improvement, with the goal of building on our strong levels of engagement.

In 2020, 97 per cent of our people responded to the survey and the Group’s employee engagement scores increased 
by 12 percentile points, keeping us in the top quartile of Gallup’s global financial services and insurance industry 
benchmark for the fourth consecutive year.

The Asia region provides many career opportunities with increasing demand and competition for skilled talent. 
We actively monitor our turnover levels against industry benchmarks to help us understand levels of employee 
engagement,  thereby  ensuring  that  the  programmes  and  opportunities  we  provide  to  our  people  create  an 
environment in which employees perform their best and grow with AIA.

Across  the  Group,  employee  turnover2  was  9.5  per  cent  in  2020  compared  to  13.5%  in  2019.  We  believe  the 
pandemic has impacted this decrease.

DEVELOPING OUR PEOPLE

Developing our people so they can achieve their potential is a key strategic priority for AIA. 

Our learning culture actively supports the development of key capabilities, to help our people succeed in their 
current  roles  while  providing  a  platform  for  growth  and  meaningful  careers  with  AIA.  Our  holistic  approach 
to  learning  and  development  includes  a  combination  of  knowledge  and  skills  accumulated  from  on-the-job 
experiences, collaborative projects and digital learning, all supported by activities such as mentoring and coaching.

In  2020,  we  revamped  learning  framework  to  support  our  new  strategy.  We  continued  to  invest  in  leadership 
development, revamping our three signature leadership programmes to develop our most senior leaders across 
the organisation. 

To ensure our learning interventions continue to develop talents for the future, we continually research the skills 
and knowledge needs of our industry, review feedback from our employees, and design programmes to address 
these needs. With a blended learning approach, our people development solutions are more targeted and effective 
in supporting our strategic priorities. In addition, our people are required to regularly complete mandatory training 
on key areas of our business. 

Note:
(2)  Excludes Group employees on fixed-term contracts, involuntary turnover and employees of joint venture Tata AIA Life.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
OUR PEOPLE

The  digitalisation  of  learning  content  and  delivery  methods  will  continue  to  play  an  important  role  in  the 
development of our people. In 2020, we rolled out the AIA Learning Hub on our online platform, which provides 
access to thousands of digital learning courses and enables our people to create, curate and share content with 
one another. 

We continue to provide best-in-class talent development programmes at the AIA Leadership Centre (ALC), our 
world-class  learning  facility  in  Bangkok, Thailand.  Now  in  its  fifth  year  of  operation,  the ALC  delivers  bespoke 
programmes  to  our  senior  leaders,  top  agency  leaders  and  key  partner  executives  with  a  clear  focus  on  AIA’s 
strategic and governance priorities. 

SUCCESSION AND ORGANISATION PLANNING
AIA is committed to developing strong talent pipeline to sustain our business growth. Our comprehensive annual 
Group-wide Organisation and People Review process identifies different talent segments to enable leaders to plan 
for the succession of key roles. The success of our approach to talent development and our Group-wide succession 
planning is evidenced by many examples of internal promotions into key leadership roles throughout the Group in 
2020, including at the most senior levels of the organisation.

EMPLOYEE COACHING AND INTERNSHIPS
We encourage our employees to expand their networks, benefit from guidance and foster communication across 
different  departments  and  seniorities.  Currently  coaching  are  supported  in  many  of  our  business  units  and  at 
Group Office.

Across  our  business  units,  we  also  offer  development  opportunities  for  hundreds  of  interns.  Our  programmes 
provide interns with first-hand experience of what a career at AIA is like and an opportunity to learn crucial skills 
in a fast-moving and customer-focused environment. They also provide us with a great opportunity to identify 
future talents for our business. 

RECOGNISING AND REWARDING OUR PEOPLE

Our total rewards programmes use a combination of market competitive financial and non-financial rewards to 
attract, engage and retain employees and motivate them to help AIA execute its business goals.

Robust  dialogues  on  individual  progress  are  part  of  our  ongoing  performance  development  process.  In-depth 
performance  discussions  are  conducted  among  our  employees  at  least  twice  annually  –  during  mid-year  and 
year-end.  The  performance  development  dialogue  programme  is  designed  to  enable  managers  to  continually 
assess performance and behaviours of their team and recommend development activities to help meet defined 
career objectives. The performance development dialogue focuses on what employees have accomplished and, 
just as importantly, how they achieve their goals.

We  are  also  proud  to  provide  our  employees  with  the  opportunity  to  become  AIA  shareholders  through  our 
Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP) where employees can participate and receive ‘matching shares’ over time 
during their employment with us. 

WORKFORCE WELLBEING
Our benefits and workforce well-being programmes help our employees and their families live Healthier, Longer, 
Better Lives. We continue to provide flexible benefits tailored to local circumstances and employees’ needs. At 
Group Office, our workforce well-being programme focuses on physical and mental health. We also support our 
employees through programmes such as AIA Vitality memberships, team challenges and health check-ups.

066

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWAIA GROUP LIMITEDWe encourage employees to stay active, understand their health profile and take steps to safeguard their well-
being. Our business units offer a range of benefits suited to local needs, which include flexible working, on-site 
gyms, discounted gym memberships, other sporting and recreational facilities, and mothers’ rooms. 

In 2020, additional measures were taken to ensure a safe and secure environment for our employees during the 
pandemic. Many of our business units moved to remote or flexible working arrangements to protect our employees 
and their families, and our communities. Virtual learning, resources and programmes were launched through a 
centralised hub to equip our employees to cope with the pandemic and impact of working from home.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

We believe in the power of diverse, talented people to create value and deliver on our customer and shareholder 
expectations.  As  a  company  with  operations  in  18  markets,  we  draw  on  diverse  perspectives  and  create  an 
inclusive environment that promotes innovation, better decision making, adaptability and problem solving.

At AIA there is zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment in any form, across all aspects of diversity, including 
race, colour, religion, sex, nationality, age, disability, military service, marital status and sexual orientation. 

During  our  recruitment  processes  we  assess  candidates’  competencies  and  experience.  We  operate  fair  and 
equitable  processes  for  employment,  remuneration,  promotion  and  termination,  with  decisions  based  only  on 
performance.

All employees are required to complete mandatory training on the Code of Conduct, which includes our approach 
to  inclusion  and  non-discrimination,  as  part  of  their  orientation  when  they  join  AIA.  In  addition,  we  have  an 
anti-harassment  policy  and  e-learning  module  for  all  employees,  outlining  expected  workplace  conduct  and 
professionalism, including channels for escalation.

Women represent 59 per cent of employees3 across the Group as at 31 December 2020. We strive to provide an 
inclusive workplace and are proud to be an employer of choice for women across the region where 39 percent of 
our senior leaders are represented by women. . 

We  recognise  the  importance  of  understanding  different  generational  needs  when  shaping  our  policies  and 
practices, and we strive to ensure that we create an inclusive workplace for all age groups. As at 31 December 
2020, 62 per cent of our employees are Gen Y and Gen Z4.

AIA  also  values  diverse  perspectives  for  effective  governance  and  decision  making  and  the  Company’s  Board 
represents different nationalities and ethnicities, in addition to diversity in education, age and experience. 

Note:
(3)  Refers to Group employees on permanent and fixed-term contracts, excluding joint venture TATA AIA Life employees.

(4)  Gen Y is defined as the generation born between 1980 and 1996 and Gen Z is defined as the generation born from 1997 onwards.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCE

069  Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities

070  Board of Directors

078  Executive Committee

083  Report of the Directors

096  Corporate Governance Report

110  Remuneration Report

068

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCE

STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

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

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;

•  state  whether  the  consolidated  financial  statements  have  been  prepared  in  accordance  with  Hong  Kong 

Financial Reporting Standards (HKFRS) and IFRS; and

•  prepare the consolidated financial statements on a going concern basis, unless it is inappropriate to presume 

that the Group will continue in business.

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.

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 as set out on pages 83 to 109 of this Annual Report.

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

1.  the consolidated financial statements of the Company, prepared in accordance with HKFRS and IFRS, 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 its undertakings 
included in the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal 
risks and uncertainties that the Group faces.

069

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mr. John  
Barrie HARRISON

Dr. Narongchai  
AKRASANEE

Mr. Jack  
Chak-Kwong SO

Mr. Edmund  
Sze-Wing TSE

Mr. LEE  
Yuan Siong

070

AIA GROUP LIMITED

CORPORATE GOVERNANCEMr. Chung-Kong  
CHOW

Ms. Swee-Lian  
TEO

Professor Lawrence 
Juen-Yee LAU

Mr. Cesar Velasquez  
PURISIMA

Mr. George  
Yong-Boon YEO

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

071

INDEPENDENT NON-EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN AND INDEPENDENT NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE
Aged  83,  is  the  Independent  Non-executive  Chairman  and  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director  of  the 
Company. He was appointed Non-executive Director of the Company on 27 September 2010 and elected Non-
executive  Chairman  on  1  January  2011.  He  was  re-designated  as  the  Independent  Non-executive  Chairman 
and  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director  of  the  Company  on  23  March  2017.  Mr. Tse  is  also  the  Chairman 
of  the  Nomination  Committee  and  a  member  of  the  Remuneration  Committee  and  the  Risk  Committee  of  the 
Company. He is a director of AIA Foundation. Mr. Tse’s appointments during almost 59 years with the Group and 
its predecessor, AIG Group, include serving as Honorary Chairman of AIA Co. from July 2009 to December 2010, 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from 2000 to June 2009 and President and Chief Executive Officer from 
1983 to 2000. He also served as Chairman of The Philippine American Life and General Insurance (PHILAM LIFE) 
Company  from  2005  to  2015.  Mr.  Tse  is  a  non-executive  director  of  PCCW  Limited  (listed  on  the  Hong  Kong 
Stock  Exchange),  a  director  of  Bridge  Holdings  Company  Limited  (formerly  known  as  PineBridge  Investments 
Limited) and the non-executive Chairman of PineBridge Investments Asia Limited. Mr. Tse is also a member of 
the membership committee and a fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Finance. He served as a non-executive 
director of PICC Property and Casualty Company Limited (listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange) from 2004 to 
July 2014. 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  Hong  Kong  SAR  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.  He  also  received  an  honorary  degree  of  Doctor  of  Business  Administration  from 
Lingnan University in 2018. In 2003, he was elected to the prestigious Insurance Hall of Fame and in 2017, Mr. Tse 
was awarded the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pacific Insurance Conference in recognition of his 
outstanding contribution to the insurance industry.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND PRESIDENT

Mr. LEE Yuan Siong
Aged  55,  is  an  Executive  Director  and  the  Group  Chief  Executive  and  President  of  the  Company,  having  been 
appointed on 1 June 2020. Mr. Lee is also a member of the Risk Committee of the Company. He joined the Group in 
March 2020 and has more than 30 years experience in the insurance sector. He is a director of various companies 
within the Group, including acting as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AIA Co. Prior to his current role, Mr. 
Lee was an executive director of Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. from June 2013 and served 
as the company’s co-CEO and Chief Insurance Business Officer. Before joining Ping An, Mr. Lee held a number of 
senior leadership positions with Prudential plc of the United Kingdom, including President of CITIC-Prudential Life 
Insurance Company Limited, a life insurance joint venture in Mainland China. He also has significant experience 
across  a  number  of  Asian  markets,  including  Hong  Kong  SAR,  India,  Indonesia,  Taiwan  (China),  Thailand  and 
Vietnam.  Mr.  Lee  began  his  career  at  the  Monetary  Authority  of  Singapore  (MAS).  He  has  been  a  member  of 
the  Hong  Kong  Academy  of  Finance  since  2020.  He  holds  a  Master  of  Philosophy  (Finance)  degree  from  the 
University of Cambridge and is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (US).

072

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEBOARD OF DIRECTORSINDEPENDENT NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO
Aged 76, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company. He was appointed 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. He is also the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee and a member of the 
Audit Committee and the Nomination Committee of the Company. From August 2007 to September 2010, Mr. So 
served as an independent non-executive director of AIA Co. He is currently an independent non-executive director 
of  China  Resources  Power  Holdings  Co.  Ltd.  (listed  on  the  Hong  Kong  Stock  Exchange)  and  the  Chairman  of 
Airport Authority Hong Kong. He is also an independent senior advisor to Credit Suisse, Greater China and a non-
official member of the Chief Executive’s Council of Advisers on Innovation and Strategic Development. Mr. So was 
Chairman of the Consultative Committee on Economic and Trade Co-operation between Hong Kong and Mainland 
China from October 2013 to December 2015. Mr. So was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star and the Grand Bauhinia 
Medal by the Hong Kong SAR Government in 2011 and 2017, respectively. Mr. So served as an executive director 
of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council from 1985 to 1992 and served as its Chairman from 2007 to 2015. 
He was an independent non-executive director of Cathay Pacific Airways Limited (listed on the Hong Kong Stock 
Exchange)  from  2002  to  2015,  a  non-executive  director  of The  Hongkong  and  Shanghai  Banking  Corporation 
Limited from 2000 to 2007, the Chairman of the Hong Kong Film Development Council from 2007 to 2013 and a 
member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference from 2008 to 2018.

Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW
Aged  70,  is  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director  of  the  Company,  having  been  appointed  on  28  September 
2010. He is also the Chairman of the Risk Committee and a member of the Nomination Committee of the Company. 
Mr. Chow was appointed a non-official member of the Executive Council of the Hong Kong SAR on 1 July 2012 and 
was further appointed for a new term of office from 1 July 2017. Mr. Chow was also appointed as the Chairman of 
the Advisory Committee on Admission of Quality Migrants and Professionals of the Hong Kong SAR from 1 July 
2016, a director of the Community Chest of Hong Kong from 19 June 2017, a member of the Financial Leaders 
Forum set up by the Hong Kong SAR Government from 18 August 2017, a non-official member of the Human 
Resources Planning Commission of the Hong Kong SAR Government from 1 April 2018, a member of the InnoHK 
Steering Committee from 4 February 2019 and the Chairman of the Urban Renewal Authority Board from 1 May 
2019. Mr. Chow was knighted in the United Kingdom for his contribution to industry in 2000 and was awarded the 
Gold Bauhinia Star by the Hong Kong SAR Government in 2015. Mr. Chow was a Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey 
Club from 2011 to 2020, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Corruption of the Independent Commission 
Against Corruption from 2013 to 2018, the Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (listed on the 
Hong Kong Stock Exchange) from 2012 to 2018, Chief Executive Officer of MTR Corporation Limited (listed on 
the Hong Kong Stock Exchange) from 2003 to 2011, Chief Executive Officer of Brambles Industries plc, a global 
support services company, from 2001 to 2003, and Chief Executive of GKN plc, a leading industrial company based 
in the United Kingdom, from 1997 to 2001. He was an independent non-executive director of Anglo American plc 
from 2008 to 2014, independent non-executive director of Standard Chartered plc from 1997 to 2008 and the 
Chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce from 2012 to June 2014.

073

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMr. John Barrie HARRISON
Aged 64, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company, having been appointed on 1 July 2011. He is 
also the Chairman of the Audit Committee and a member of the Nomination Committee and the Risk Committee 
of the Company. Mr. Harrison is an independent non-executive director of Cathay Pacific Airways Limited (listed 
on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange). He is also an independent non-executive director of Grosvenor Asia Pacific 
Limited since 1 December 2017. He was appointed an Honorary Court Member of The Hong Kong University of 
Science and Technology with effect from 20 September 2016. Mr. Harrison was an independent non-executive 
director of BW Group Limited from 2010 to 2020 and the Vice Chairman of BW LPG Limited from 2013 to 2020. 
He was an independent non-executive director of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (listed on the Hong 
Kong Stock Exchange) from 20 April 2011 to 26 April 2017, The London Metal Exchange Limited from 6 December 
2012 to 26 April 2017 and LME Clear Limited from 16 December 2013 to 26 April 2017. From 2012 to May 2015, 
he  was  also  a  member  of  the  Asian  Advisory  Committee  of  AustralianSuper  Pty  Ltd.  From  2008  to  2010,  Mr. 
Harrison was Deputy Chairman of KPMG International. In 2003, he 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, becoming a partner of KPMG Hong Kong in 1987. Mr. Harrison received an honorary 
fellowship from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in 2017. 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. George Yong-Boon YEO
Aged 66, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company, having been appointed on 2 November 2012. 
He is also a member of the Audit Committee, the Nomination Committee and the Remuneration Committee of the 
Company. Mr. Yeo is a senior advisor of Kerry Group Limited and Kerry Logistics Network Limited. Mr. Yeo is an 
independent director of Pinduoduo Inc. (listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market) and New Yangon Development 
Company Limited. He has been a member of the International Advisory Committee of Mitsubishi Corporation since 
June 2014 and a member of Global Advisory Board of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. since July 2019. He is a 
member of the International Advisory Board of the Berggruen Institute on Governance. In March 2018, he became 
a senior advisor to Brunswick Group LLP for its Geopolitical Initiative. 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.  He  was  a  member  of  the  Vatican  Council  for  the  Economy  from 
2014 to 2020. Mr. Yeo was the Chairman and an executive director of Kerry Logistics Network Limited (listed on 
the Hong Kong Stock Exchange) from 2012 to 2019 and from 2013 to 2019 respectively. He was also a director 
of  Kerry  Holdings  Limited  from  2016  to  2019.  During  2013  to  2014,  Mr.  Yeo  was  a  member  of  the  Pontifical 
Commission for Reference on the Economic-Administrative Structure of the Holy See. During 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. During 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.

074

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEBOARD OF DIRECTORSProfessor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU
Aged  76,  is  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director  of  the  Company,  having  been  appointed  on  18  September 
2014. He is also a member of the Nomination Committee and the Risk Committee of the Company. Professor Lau 
currently  serves  as  an  independent  non-executive  director  of  CNOOC  Limited  (listed  on  the  Hong  Kong  Stock 
Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange) and Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (listed 
on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the Shanghai Stock Exchange). He is also an independent non-executive 
director of Far EasTone Telecommunications Company Limited (listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange). He has been 
serving as the Ralph and Claire Landau Professor of Economics at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) 
since 2007 and the Chairman of the Council of Shenzhen Finance Institute of CUHK, Shenzhen since 12 January 
2017. He currently serves as a member of the Currency Board Sub-committee of the Exchange Fund Advisory 
Committee of the Hong Kong SAR. He was formerly a member of the Exchange Fund Advisory Committee of the 
Hong  Kong  SAR,  Chairman  of  its  Governance  Sub-committee  and  a  member  of  its  Investment  Sub-committee 
until 2019. In addition, he serves as a member and Chairman of the Prize Recommendation Committee for the 
LUI Che Woo Prize Limited; Vice-Chairman of the Our Hong Kong Foundation; Vice-Chairman of China Center for 
International Economic Exchanges, Beijing; a member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council Belt and Road 
& Greater Bay Area Committee; a Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Finance; a Director of the Chiang Ching-
Kuo Foundation for International Scholarly Exchange, Taipei; as well as the C.V. Starr Distinguished Fellow of China 
Development Research Foundation, Beijing, from 2019 to 2021. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace by the 
Hong Kong SAR Government in 2007 and awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star by the Hong Kong SAR Government 
in 2011. From 2004 to 2010, Professor Lau served as Vice-Chancellor (President) of CUHK. From 2009 to 2012, 
he served as a Non-official Member of the Executive Council of the Hong Kong SAR. He was appointed Chairman 
of  CIC  International  (Hong  Kong)  Co.,  Limited,  a  wholly-owned  subsidiary  of  China  Investment  Corporation,  in 
November 2010 and retired from the position in September 2014. He was a member of the 11th and 12th National 
Committees of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference from 2008 to 2012 and from 2013 to 2018 
respectively,  a  Vice-Chairman  of  the  Sub-committee  of  Population,  Resources  and  Environment  from  2010  to 
2013, and a Vice-Chairman of the Sub-committee of Economics from 2013 to 2018. From 2014 to 2020, he was 
an independent non-executive director of Hysan Development Company Limited (listed on the Hong Kong Stock 
Exchange). He received his B.S. degree (with Great Distinction) in Physics from Stanford University in 1964 and his 
M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Economics from the University of California at Berkeley in 1966 and 1969, respectively. 
He joined the faculty of the Department of Economics at Stanford University in 1966, becoming its Professor of 
Economics in 1976 and the first Kwoh-Ting Li Professor in Economic Development in 1992. From 1992 to 1996, 
he served as a Co-Director of the Asia-Pacific Research Center at Stanford University, and from 1997 to 1999 
as the Director of the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research. He became its Kwoh-Ting Li Professor in 
Economic Development, Emeritus, upon his retirement from Stanford University in 2006.

075

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMs. Swee-Lian TEO
Aged 61, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company, having been appointed on 14 August 2015. 
She is also a member of the Nomination Committee and the Risk Committee of the Company. Ms. Teo currently 
serves as a non-executive and independent director and a member of the corporate governance and nominations 
committee  and  executive  resource  and  compensation  committee  and  chairs  the  risk  committee  of  Singapore 
Telecommunications Limited (listed on the Singapore Exchange). She is also the Chairman of the board and non-
executive independent director of CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust Management Limited (listed on the 
Singapore Exchange) and a non-executive director and chairs the audit and risk committee of Avanda Investment 
Management  Pte  Ltd.,  a  Singapore-based  fund  management  company.  Ms.  Teo  is  a  member  of  the  board  of 
directors of the Dubai Financial Services Authority and a director of Clifford Capital Pte. Ltd. and Clifford Capital 
Holdings Pte. Ltd. Ms. Teo has over 27 years of experience with the MAS. During her time at the MAS, she worked 
in foreign reserves management, financial sector development, strategic planning and financial supervision. She 
was the Deputy Managing Director in charge of Financial Supervision, overseeing the regulation and supervision 
of the banking, insurance and capital markets industries and macroeconomic surveillance, and also represented 
the  MAS  on  various  international  fora,  including  the  Basel  Committee  on  Banking  Supervision,  and  on  various 
committees  and  working  groups  of  the  Financial  Stability  Board.  She  retired  from  the  MAS  as  Special Advisor 
in the Managing Director’s office in June 2015. In addition to the MAS, Ms. Teo also served on the board of the 
Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore from 2002 to 2010. Ms. Teo received her B.Sc. (First) in Mathematics from 
the Imperial College of Science and Technology, University of London in 1981 and her M.Sc. in Applied Statistics 
from the University of Oxford in 1982. She was also awarded the Public Administration Medal (Gold) (Bar) at the 
Singapore National Day Awards in 2012.

Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE
Aged 75, is an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company, having been appointed on 15 January 2016. 
He is also a member of the Audit Committee and the Nomination Committee of the Company and the Chairman 
of  advisory  board  of  AIA  Thailand.  Dr.  Narongchai  was  previously  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director  of 
the Company from 21 November 2012 to 31 August 2014. He is the former Minister of Energy and Minister of 
Commerce for the Kingdom of Thailand, and served as a Senator. Dr. Narongchai served as Chairman of the Export-
Import Bank of Thailand from December 2005 to June 2010, a Director of the Office of the Insurance Commission 
of Thailand  from  October  2007  to  August  2012,  a  Director  of  the  National  Economic  and  Social  Development 
Board from July 2009 to July 2013 and a member of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Thailand from 
November 2011 to September 2014. He is currently the Chairman of the Steering Committee and Vice-Chairman 
of the Council of Mekong Institute, the Chairman of the Thailand National Committee for the Pacific Economic 
Cooperation  Council  and  the  Chairman  of  the  Khon  Kaen  University  Council  in  Thailand.  Dr.  Narongchai  also  
acts  as  the  Chairman  and  an  independent  director  of  three  entities  listed  on  the  Stock  Exchange  of Thailand, 
namely  MFC  Asset  Management  Public  Company  Limited,  Ananda  Development  Public  Company  Limited  and  
Thai-German Products Public Company Limited. He is the 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 is also the Chairman of the Seranee Group of companies. He previously served as an 
independent director of each of Malee Sampran Public Company Limited and ABICO Holdings Public Company 
Limited  and  as  the  Vice-Chairman  and  an  independent  director  of  Thai-German  Products  Public  Company 
Limited, all of which are listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Dr. Narongchai received his Bachelor’s degree 
in  Economics  with  Honours  from  the  University  of  Western Australia  and  a  M.A.  and  Ph.D.  in  Economics  from 
Johns Hopkins University.

076

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEBOARD OF DIRECTORSMr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA
Aged  60,  is  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director  of  the  Company,  having  been  appointed  on  1  September 
2017. He is also a member of the Audit Committee and the Nomination Committee of the Company. Mr. Purisima 
currently serves as an independent director of Ayala Land, Inc., Universal Robina Corporation and Jollibee Foods 
Corporation,  all  of  which  are  listed  on The  Philippine  Stock  Exchange.  He  is  also  a  founding  partner  of  Ikhlas 
Capital Singapore Pte. Ltd., a member of the Global Advisory Council of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and 
a member of Singapore Management University’s International Advisory Council in the Republic of the Philippines 
(the Philippines). He is also a member of the board of trustees of the World Wildlife Fund - Philippines, De La 
Salle  University,  and  the  International  School  of  Manila.  He  is  an  Asia  Fellow  at  the  Milken  Institute,  a  global, 
non-profit,  non-partisan  think  tank.  Mr.  Purisima  served  in  the  government  of  the  Philippines  as  Secretary  of 
Finance from July 2010 to June 2016 and as Secretary of Trade and Industry from January 2004 to February 2005. 
He also previously served on the boards of a number of government institutions, including as a member of the 
Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines), Governor of the World Bank 
Group for the Philippines, Governor of the Asian Development Bank for the Philippines, Alternate Governor of the 
International Monetary Fund for the Philippines and Chairman of Land Bank of the Philippines. He was conferred 
the Chevalier dans l’Ordre national de la Légion d’Honneur (Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour) 
by the President of the French Republic in 2017, the Order of Lakandula, Rank of Grand Cross (Bayani) by the 
President of the Philippines in 2016 and the Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite (Knight of the National Order 
of Merit) by the President of the French Republic in 2001. Mr. Purisima is a certified public accountant. He has 
extensive experience in public accounting both in the Philippines and abroad. He was Chairman and Managing 
Partner  of  SyCip,  Gorres,  Velayo  &  Co.  (a  member  firm  of  Andersen  Worldwide  until  2002  when  it  became  a 
member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited) from 1999 until 2004. During the period, Mr. Purisima was also 
the Asia-Pacific Area Managing Partner for Assurance and Business Advisory Services of Andersen Worldwide 
from 2001 to 2002 and Regional Managing Partner for the ASEAN Practice of Andersen Worldwide from 2000 
to 2001. Mr. Purisima obtained his Bachelor of Science in Commerce (Majors in Accounting & Management of 
Financial Institutions) degree from De La Salle University (Manila) in 1979, Master of Management degree from  
J. L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern University in 1983 and Doctor of Humanities honoris 
causa degree from Angeles University Foundation (the Philippines) in 2012.

077

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCE

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Mr. Biswa Prakash 
MISRA

Ms. Pek-San 
ANG

Mr. Stuart Anthony 
SPENCER

Dr. Mark 
KONYN

Mr. Wing-Shing  
CHAN

Mr. William 
LISLE

078

AIA GROUP LIMITED

Mr. LEE 
Yuan Siong

Mr. Garth Brian 
JONES

Mr. Hak-Leh 
TAN

Mr. Mitchell David 
NEW

Mr. Mark Vincent  
Thomas SAUNDERS

Ms. Jayne Lynn 
PLUNKETT

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

079

Mr. LEE Yuan Siong
Mr. Lee’s biography is set out above.

Mr. Garth Brian JONES
Aged  58,  is  the  Group  Chief  Financial  Officer  responsible  for  leading  the  Group  in  all  aspects  of  capital  and 
financial management, as well as managing relationships with key external stakeholders, including independent 
auditors and actuaries, rating agencies and international accounting and regulatory bodies. He is a director of 
various companies within the Group, including AIA Co. and AIA International Limited (AIA International). He joined 
the Group in April 2011. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Jones was the Executive Vice President of China Pacific Life 
Insurance Co., Ltd., the life insurance arm of China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd. 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 Swiss 
Re’s Asia life business. Mr. Jones is a Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. On 1 June 2016, he was 
appointed a member of the industry advisory committee on long term business, which advises the HKIA. Mr. Jones 
is also a member of the IFRS Advisory Council of the IASB.

Mr. William LISLE
Aged  55,  is  the  Regional  Chief  Executive  and  Group  Chief  Distribution  Officer  responsible  for  the  Group’s 
businesses operating in Thailand, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand, India and Sri Lanka as well as the Group’s 
agency  distribution,  partnership  distribution  and  corporate  solutions.  Mr.  Lisle  was  Chief  Executive  Officer  of 
AIA’s operation in Malaysia from December 2012 to May 2015, including leading the large-scale and successful 
integration of ING Malaysia after its acquisition by the Group in 2012. He is a director of various companies within 
the Group, including AIA Co., AIA Australia Limited and AIA New Zealand Limited. He is also a director of Tata 
AIA Life Insurance Company Limited, a joint venture between the Group and Tata Sons Limited in India. Mr. Lisle 
joined the Group in January 2011 as Group Chief Distribution Officer. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Lisle was the 
Managing Director, South Asia for Aviva from May 2009 until 2010. Prior to joining Aviva, Mr. Lisle held a number 
of senior positions at Prudential Corporation Asia Limited, including Chief Executive Officer in Malaysia from 2008 
to 2009, Chief Executive Officer in Korea from 2005 to 2008, Chief Agency Officer for ICICI Prudential from 2002 
to 2004 and Director of Agency Development, South Asia in 2001.

Mr. Wing-Shing CHAN (Jacky)
Aged 57, is the Regional  Chief  Executive responsible  for  the  Group’s businesses operating in Hong Kong SAR, 
Mainland China, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan (China) and Macau SAR. He is a director of various companies 
within the Group, including AIA Co. and AIA International. Mr. Chan has extensive experience having worked at AIA 
for the past 33 years. Prior to becoming a Regional Chief Executive, Mr. Chan was Chief Executive Officer of AIA 
Hong Kong and Macau since 2009. Previously, he held several senior positions including the Country Head of 
AIA China, Executive Vice President – Distribution & Marketing of Nan Shan Life Insurance of Taiwan and Senior 
Vice President & Head of Life Profit Centre of AIA - Asia (ex-Japan & Korea). Mr. Chan holds a Bachelor of Science 
Degree from The University of Hong Kong. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA), a member of American 
Academy of Actuaries (MAAA) and a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA).

080

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEEXECUTIVE COMMITTEEMr. Hak-Leh TAN
Aged  55,  is  the  Regional  Chief  Executive  and  Group  Chief  Life  Operations  Officer  responsible  for  the  Group’s 
businesses  operating  in  Singapore  and  Brunei,  Malaysia,  Cambodia,  Indonesia  and  Myanmar  as  well  as  Group 
Operations and Operations Shared Services in Malaysia. He is a director of various companies within the Group. 
Mr. Tan was Chief Executive Officer of AIA’s operation in Thailand from 2016 to 2019, Group Chief Risk Officer in 
2015 and Chief Executive Officer of AIA’s operation in Singapore from 2011 to 2015. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. 
Tan was Chief Executive Officer of Great Eastern Life, Singapore. Prior to joining Great Eastern Life, Mr. Tan was 
Director of the Insurance Department of the MAS. Mr. Tan has played an active role in the life insurance industry 
since 2005. His appointments include: President of the Life Insurance Association (LIA), Singapore from 2010 
to  2013,  Vice  Chair  of  Singapore  College  of  Insurance  from  2011  to  2013  and  Vice  President  of Thailand  Life 
Assurance Association from 2017 to 2018. He was also a Board member of Financial Industry Disputes Resolution 
Centre Ltd from 2008 to 2015.

Mr. Mitchell David NEW
Aged 57, is the Group General Counsel responsible for the provision of legal services for the Group and providing 
leadership to legal and corporate governance functions within country operations. He has previously also acted 
as Group Chief Risk Officer. He is a director of various companies within the Group including AIA International, AIA 
Singapore and AIA Reinsurance Limited. He joined the Group in April 2011. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. New was 
a member of the law firm Fasken Martineau and occupied various senior roles with Manulife Financial, including 
Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for Asia and Japan, based in Hong Kong and Senior Vice President 
and  General  Counsel  to  Manulife’s  Canadian  division.  He  is  a  qualified  barrister  and  solicitor  and  member  of 
the Law Society of Upper Canada and holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and Master’s Degree in Business 
Administration from McMaster University and a Bachelor of Laws Degree from the University of Western Ontario.

Mr. Mark Vincent Thomas SAUNDERS
Aged 57, is the Group Chief Strategy and Corporate Development Officer responsible for strategy and corporate 
transactions for the Group. He joined the Group in April 2014 and is a director of various companies within the 
Group. He previously served as Group Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer and has also held responsibility for the 
Group’s Health Insurance and Corporate Solutions business. Prior to joining the Group, Mr. Saunders was Managing 
Director of Towers Watson for the Asia-Pacific Insurance Sector, as well as Managing Director for the firm’s Hong 
Kong business and a board member of various entities. Prior to his time at Towers Watson, and working in Hong 
Kong since 1989, he was Asian Regional Leader, Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director and 
Board Member of the Isle of Man-based international life insurance operations of Clerical Medical and its joint 
venture life insurer in Korea (Coryo-CM). He is a Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and Fellow of five 
other professional actuarial bodies.

Dr. Mark KONYN
Aged  59,  is  the  Group  Chief  Investment  Officer  responsible  for  providing  oversight  of  the  management  of  the 
investment  portfolios  of  the  Group  as  well  as  supervising  and  supporting  the  many  investment  professionals 
throughout  the  Group.  He  is  a  director  of  various  companies  within  the  Group  including  Chairman  of  AIA 
Investment Management Private Limited and AIA Investment Management HK Limited. He joined the Group in 
September 2015. Dr. Konyn joined AIA from Cathay Conning Asset Management, where he was Chief Executive 
Officer responsible for the company’s  investment business  and  strategic expansion in the region. He had held 
senior positions at Allianz Global Investors (where he was Asia-Pacific CEO for RCM Global Investors), Fidelity 
Investments  and  Prudential  UK.  He  is  a  Fellow  of  the  Royal  Statistical  Society,  and  holds  a  Diploma  from  the 
London  Business  School  in  Investment  Management,  having  previously  completed  his  Ph.D.  in  Operational 
Research sponsored by the UK Government.

081

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMs. Pek-San ANG (Cara)
Aged 52, is the Group Chief Human Resources Officer responsible for the development of overall human capital 
strategies  and  their  implementation  across  the  Group,  as  well  as  leading  and  providing  support  to  the  human 
resources functions in country market operations. She joined the Group as the Chief Human Resources Officer for 
AIA Singapore in May 2016. Prior to joining AIA, Ms. Ang was the Head of Human Resources of Standard Chartered 
Bank Singapore. During her time with Standard Chartered, she spent more than 10 years in a variety of country, 
regional  and  global  HR  leadership  roles  based  in  Singapore  and Thailand.  Prior  to  joining  Standard  Chartered 
Bank Singapore, Ms. Ang was the Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources for Marsh Asia.

Mr. Biswa Prakash MISRA
Aged 43, is the Group Chief Technology Officer responsible for providing leadership to the Group’s technology, 
digital and analytics areas. He is a director of various companies within the Group. He joined the Group in June 
2013.  Prior  to  joining  the  Group,  Mr.  Misra  served  as  the  Regional  Chief Technology  Officer  for  ING  Insurance 
Asia Pacific. Previously, he spent six years with information technology consulting firm Capgemini, leading the 
company’s  insurance  practice  for  Asia.  Mr.  Misra  holds  a  degree  in  electrical  engineering  from  the  National 
Institute of Technology, Surat, India.

Mr. Stuart Anthony SPENCER
Aged  55,  is  the  Group  Chief  Marketing  Officer  and  oversees  customer  engagement,  propositions,  branding, 
AIA Vitality, communications, sponsorships, events, digital platforms and healthcare. He is a director of various 
companies within the Group. Mr. Spencer re-joined AIA in May 2017 from Zurich Insurance Group, where he was 
most recently interim CEO, Asia Pacific and prior to that, CEO, General Insurance, Asia Pacific from 2013 to 2016. 
Mr. Spencer occupied various leadership roles in the American International Group from 1996 to 2009, during 
which  time  he  held  a  number  of  senior  positions  including  leading  the  Accident  &  Health  General  Insurance 
business in Latin America and acting as President of Accident & Health Worldwide for the AIG Life Companies. 
Mr. Spencer started his career in New York at American Express Travel Related Services in Marketing. He is an 
alumnus of the Harvard Business School, The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and Brandeis University.

Ms. Jayne Lynn PLUNKETT
Aged 51, is the Group Chief Risk Officer responsible for the Group’s risk and compliance functions. She is a director 
of various Group companies, including AIA Singapore and Philam Life. Ms. Plunkett joined AIA in November 2019 
from Swiss Re, where she was most recently Chief Executive Officer Reinsurance Asia, Regional President Asia and 
member of the Group Executive Committee. During her time with Swiss Re, she had held several senior positions, 
including Head of Casualty Underwriting for Asia and Division Head Casualty Reinsurance. Prior to that, she was 
with  GE  Insurance  Solutions.  Ms.  Plunkett  holds  a  Bachelor  of  Science  in  Business Administration  from  Drake 
University. She is a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries.

082

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEEXECUTIVE COMMITTEECORPORATE GOVERNANCE

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 31 December 2020.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES

The Group is a life insurance based financial services provider operating in 18 markets throughout the Asia region. 
The Group’s principal activity is the life insurance business. In that context, the Group, through its various operating 
entities, provides individual life insurance, individual accident and health insurance and savings plans throughout 
Asia. The Group also distributes related investment and other financial services products to its customers and is 
active in the provision of Group insurance and pension schemes in a number of its markets.

Details of the activities and other particulars of the Company’s principal subsidiaries are set out in note 44 to the 
financial statements.

RESULTS

The results of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2020 and the state of the Group’s affairs at that date are 
set out in the financial statements on pages 132 to 264 of this Annual Report.

BUSINESS REVIEW

The  review  of  the  business  of  the  Group  for  the  year  ended  31  December  2020,  including  a  description  of  its 
principal risks and uncertainties and an indication of likely future developments as required by Schedule 5 to the 
Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, is contained in the Group Chief Executive and President’s Report (pages 10 to 
14), Group Chief Financial Officer’s Review (pages 16 to 39), Business Review (pages 40 to 55), Risk Management 
(pages 56 to 61) and Our People (pages 64 to 67) sections under the Financial and Operating Review, and note 43 
and note 45 to the consolidated financial statements. These discussions form part of this report.

AIA takes a proactive approach to understanding the impacts posed to our business by the environment, while 
also mitigating our own environmental footprint. The Group has voiced our support for the Paris Agreement by 
becoming  a  signatory  to  the Task  Force  on  Climate-related  Financial  Disclosures  (TCFD).  We  continue  to  take 
initiatives to understand the risks posed to our insurance and investment operations from climate change, and 
continue to report against the TCFD recommendations in the Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) 
Report 2020.

We  monitor  our  own  operational  impact,  and  in  2020  updated  our  Group  Environmental  Procedures  outlining 
initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint. The Group also established an emissions reduction target, aiming 
to reduce our operational footprint by 25% per employee by 2030, compared to 2017 levels.

AIA  also  continues  to  monitor  environmental  regulation  and  opportunities  in  the  area  of  green  finance,  and 
engages  with  companies  in  our  Group  investment  portfolio  on  ESG  issues.  In  2020  this  included  ongoing 
engagements on climate change and in assessing business resilience and preparedness against the impacts of 
the COVID-19 pandemic.

083

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCustomer privacy and data protection are of paramount importance to the Group. In 2020, AIA continued to maintain 
ISO 27001 certification for our identity access management and cybersecurity security controls, including our data 
security and encryption standards. We continue to upgrade and invest in physical, administrative and technical 
measures  to  protect  personal  and  business  data.  This  includes  programmes  to  educate  and  raise  awareness 
among our people regarding sound and proper cybersecurity and data protection practices. The Company has 
also entered into insurance policies which cover, among others, information security risks.

People  are  at  the  heart  of  our  business,  and  this  means  ensuring  that  we  adhere  to  the  high  standards  of  
quality and customer service expected by our customers. Helping our customers improve their health requires 
that  we  better  understand  their  needs. To  that  end,  we  conduct  research  to  understand  the  needs  of  various 
customer segments and forge strategic partnerships in order to customise our products and services. During the 
COVID-19 pandemic, we responded quickly and prioritised the needs of our customers. We supported them with 
extended coverage, digital health solutions, and expanded virtual healthcare access and solutions that address 
mental well-being.

AIA’s Supplier Code of Conduct outlines how we consider and integrate sustainability issues within our supply 
chain management process. As a Group, we work with suppliers that demonstrate best practice. Dedicated due 
diligence processes form a part of our existing supply chain management and monitoring system. This includes 
requesting information on employment and environmental practices from selected material suppliers through our 
supplier registration process.

To understand more about our progress on ESG initiatives, please refer to our ESG Report 2020, which is published 
on the websites of both the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and the Company.

The Group is licensed to conduct insurance business and subject to extensive local regulatory oversight in each 
of  the  geographical  markets  in  which  its  branches  and  subsidiaries  operate.  While  the  extent  of  regulation 
varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, it typically includes laws and regulations regarding corporate governance, 
solvency/capital  adequacy,  market  conduct,  investment  management,  financial  reporting  and  distribution. The 
Group dedicates substantial resources and appropriate personnel to support compliance with relevant laws and 
regulations. AIA also monitors during the year ended 31 December 2020 the Group’s compliance with all material 
laws  and  regulations  applicable  to  it  including  the  solvency  and  capital  adequacy  requirements  applied  by  its 
regulators, details of which are contained in note 37 to the financial statements.

Please  see  the  Corporate  Governance  Report  for  a  discussion  on  the  Company’s  high  standards  of  corporate 
governance and the Board’s responsibility for compliance with statutory obligations.

Details of significant events affecting the Group that have occurred since 31 December 2020 are set out in note 
45 to the financial statements.

DIVIDENDS

An interim dividend of 35.00 Hong Kong cents per share for the six-month period ended 30 June 2020 (2019: 
33.30 Hong Kong cents per share) was paid on 24 September 2020. The Board has recommended an increase  
of  7.5  per  cent  in  the  payment  of  a  final  dividend  to  100.30  Hong  Kong  cents  per  share  for  the  year  ended  
31  December  2020  (2019:  93.30  Hong  Kong  cents  per  share),  consistent  with  AIA’s  established  prudent, 
sustainable and progressive dividend policy. 

084

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREPORT OF THE DIRECTORSUnder the respective trust deeds of the Company’s Restricted Share Unit Scheme adopted on 28 September 2010 
(2010 RSU Scheme) and Restricted Share Unit Scheme adopted on 1 August 2020 (2020 RSU Scheme), shares 
of the Company are held in trust by the trustee of each of these schemes. 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 24 September 2020 (being the payment date of the interim dividend), the trustee held 25,685,534 shares 
under  the  2010  RSU  Scheme  and  nil  shares  under  the  2020  RSU  Scheme.  The  amount  of  interim  dividend 
payments waived was approximately US$1.2 million. Pursuant to the relevant trust deeds, the trustee will waive 
the right to final dividend payment if it is declared.

Subject  to  shareholders’  approval  at  the  annual  general  meeting  (AGM)  to  be  held  by  the  Company,  the  final 
dividend  will  be  payable  on  Thursday,  10  June  2021  to  shareholders  whose  names  appear  on  the  register  of 
members  of  the  Company  at  the  close  of  business  on  Wednesday,  26  May  2021,  being  the  record  date  for 
determining the entitlement to the final dividend.

DIRECTORS

The Directors of the Company during the year under review and up to the date of this report are as follows:

Independent Non-executive Chairman and Independent Non-executive Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE

Executive Directors

Mr. LEE Yuan Siong (Group Chief Executive and President)(1)

Mr. NG Keng Hooi (Group Chief Executive and President)(2)

Independent Non-executive Directors 

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO 

Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW 

Mr. John Barrie HARRISON

Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO 

Mr. Mohamed Azman YAHYA(3)

Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU 

Ms. Swee-Lian TEO

Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE 

Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA

Notes:
(1)  Mr. Lee Yuan Siong was appointed as Executive Director of the Company on 1 June 2020.

(2)  Mr. Ng Keng Hooi retired as Executive Director of the Company with effect from 31 May 2020.

(3)  Mr. Mohamed Azman Yahya retired as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 29 May 2020.

085

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMr. Lee Yuan Siong was appointed as Executive Director of the Company on 1 June 2020 and will retire from office 
at the forthcoming AGM pursuant to Article 104 of the Company’s Articles of Association and, being eligible, offers 
himself for re-election.

In accordance with Article 100 of the Company’s Articles of Association, Mr. Chung-Kong Chow, Mr. John Barrie 
Harrison, Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee Lau and Mr. Cesar Velasquez Purisima will retire from office by rotation 
and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election at the AGM.

CHANGES IN DIRECTORS’ INFORMATION (changes up to the date of report to be included)

Changes in the Directors’ information which are required to be disclosed pursuant to Rule 13.51B(1) of the Rules 
Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Listing Rules) are set out below:

Name of Director

Change

Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW

• Ceased to be a steward of the Hong Kong Jockey Club with effect from 1 

September 2020

Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA

• Appointed  as  a  member  of  the  Audit  Committee  of  the  Company  with 

effect from 12 March 2021

Save as disclosed above, there is no other information required to be disclosed pursuant to Rule 13.51B(1) of the 
Listing Rules.

DIRECTORS’ SERVICE CONTRACTS

No Director proposed for re-election at the AGM has a service contract with the Company which is not determinable 
by the Company within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation).

DIRECTORS OF SUBSIDIARIES

The names of all directors who have served on the boards of the subsidiaries of the Company during the year under 
review and up to the date of this report are kept at the Company’s registered office and available for inspection by 
the shareholders of the Company during business hours.

PERMITTED INDEMNITY PROVISION

Pursuant  to  the  Company’s  Articles  of  Association,  subject  to  the  relevant  statutes,  every  Director  shall  be 
indemnified out of the assets of the Company against all costs, charges, expenses, losses and liabilities which he/ 
she may sustain or incur in or about the execution of his/her office or which may attach thereto. The Company has 
taken out insurance against the liabilities and costs associated with proceedings which may be brought against 
directors of the Group.

086

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREPORT OF THE DIRECTORSDIRECTORS’ AND THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S INTERESTS AND SHORT POSITIONS IN SHARES AND 
UNDERLYING SHARES 

As  at  31  December  2020,  the  Directors’  and  the  Chief  Executive’s  interests  and  short  positions  in  the  shares, 
underlying shares and debentures of the Company and its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV 
of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (SFO)) as recorded in the register required to be kept under Section 352 
of the SFO, or as otherwise notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Hong Kong 
Stock Exchange) pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers (Model 
Code) set out in Appendix 10 to the Listing Rules, are as follows:

Interests and short positions in the shares and underlying shares of the Company:

Number of 
shares or  
underlying  
shares
Long Position (L)

Percentage  
of the total  
number of  

Class

shares in issue (1)

Capacity 

Name of Directors

Mr. LEE Yuan Siong

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE

3,719,199(L)(2)

Ordinary

3,360,400(L)
200,000(L)

(3)

(3)

Ordinary

Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW

126,000(L)(3)

Ordinary

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO

130,000(L)(3)

Ordinary

Mr. John Barrie HARRISON

80,000(L)(3)

Ordinary

Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO

50,000(L)(3)

Ordinary

Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU

160,000(L)(3)

Ordinary

Notes:
(1)  Based on 12,094,939,139 ordinary shares in issue as at 31 December 2020.

0.03

0.02
<0.01

< 0.01

< 0.01

< 0.01

< 0.01

< 0.01

Beneficial owner

Beneficial owner
Interest of controlled 

corporation(4)

Beneficial owner

Interest of controlled 

corporation(5)

Interests held jointly 
with another person(6)

Beneficial owner

Interest of spouse(7)

(2)  The interests included 316,766 shares of the Company, 1,197,133 share options under the Share Option Scheme adopted by the Company on 28 
September 2010 (2010 SO Scheme), 2,204,701 restricted share units under the 2010 RSU Scheme and 599 matching restricted stock purchase 
units (RSPUs) under the Employee Share Purchase Plan adopted by the Company on 25 July 2011 (2011 ESPP) and the Employee Share Purchase 
Plan adopted by the Company on 1 August 2020 (2020 ESPP).

(3)  The interests were shares of the Company.

(4)  The 200,000 shares were held by Edmund & Peggy Tse Foundation Limited, one-third interest of which is beneficially held by Mr. Edmund Sze-

Wing Tse.

(5)  The 130,000 shares were held by Cyber Project Developments Limited, a company beneficially wholly owned by Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So.

(6)  The 80,000 shares were jointly held by Mr. John Barrie Harrison and his spouse, Ms. Rona Irene Harrison, as beneficial owners.

(7)  The 160,000 shares were held by Ms. Ayesha Abbas Macpherson, the spouse of Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee Lau, as beneficial owner.

Save as disclosed above, as at 31 December 2020, neither the Directors nor the Chief Executive of the Company 
had any interest or short position in the shares, underlying shares or debentures of the Company or its associated 
corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) as recorded in the register required to be kept under 
Section 352 of the SFO, or as otherwise notified to the Company and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange pursuant to 
the Model Code.

087

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONINTERESTS AND SHORT POSITIONS IN SHARES AND UNDERLYING SHARES OF PERSONS OTHER 
THAN THE DIRECTORS OR THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE 

As at 31 December 2020, the following persons, other than the Directors or the Chief Executive of the Company, 
had interests and short positions in the shares and underlying shares of the Company as recorded in the register 
required to be kept under Section 336 of the SFO:

Name of Shareholder

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation

Number of shares  
or underlying shares 
(Note 1) 
Long Position(L)
Short Position(S)
Lending Pool(P)

1,135,845,417(L)
27,279,354(S)
785,748,756(P)

1,096,258,164(L)
301,796,828(S)
769,295,915(P)

Class

Ordinary

Ordinary

The Capital Group Companies, Inc.

970,452,586(L)

Ordinary

BlackRock, Inc.

629,705,868(L)
2,007,714(S)

Ordinary

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

Percentage of  
the total number  
of shares in issue 
(Note 2)

9.39 
 0.22 
 6.49

9.06
2.49
6.36

8.02

5.20 
 0.01

Capacity 

Note 3

Note 4

Interest of 
controlled 
corporations

Interest of 
controlled 
corporations

Long Position

Short Position

Name of 
Shareholder

Physically 
settled  
listed 
derivatives

Cash settled 
listed 
derivatives

Physically  
settled  
unlisted  
derivatives

Cash settled  
unlisted  
derivatives

Physically 
settled  
listed 
derivatives

Cash settled 
listed 
derivatives

Physically  
settled  
unlisted 
derivatives

Cash settled  
unlisted 
derivatives

Convertible 
instruments – 
listed 
derivatives

JPMorgan  

15,783,000 3,314,400 1,197,100 4,316,400 15,209,000

987,000

3,329,347 6,842,742

Chase & Co.

The Bank of 
New York 
Mellon 
Corporation

The Capital 
Group 
Companies, 
Inc.

–

16,088,440

BlackRock, Inc.

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

182,000

–

–

–

(2)  Based on 12,094,939,139 shares in issue as at 31 December 2020.

(3)  JPMorgan Chase & Co. held the interests and short positions in the following capacities:

– 301,796,828

–

–

–

–

818,114

–

–

1

–

–

–

Capacity

Interest of controlled corporations

Investment manager

Person having a security interest in shares

Trustee

Approved lending agent

Number of shares or  
underlying shares
(Long Position)

40,035,905

308,177,427

628,247

1,255,082

785,748,756

Number of shares or  
underlying shares
(Short Position)

27,279,354

–

–

–

–

088

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREPORT OF THE DIRECTORS(4)  The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation held the interests and short positions in the following capacities:

Capacity

Number of shares or  
underlying shares
(Long Position)

Number of shares or  
underlying shares
(Short Position)

Interest of controlled corporations

1,096,258,164

301,796,828

Save as disclosed above, as at 31 December 2020, no person, other than the Directors or the Chief Executive of 
the Company, whose interests are set out in the section entitled “Directors’ and the Chief Executive’s Interests and 
Short Positions in Shares and Underlying Shares”, had any interest or short position in the shares or underlying 
shares of the Company as recorded in the register required to be kept under Section 336 of the SFO.

DIRECTORS’ RIGHTS TO ACQUIRE SHARES OR DEBENTURES

Under their respective service contracts in the role of Executive Director and Group Chief Executive and President, 
both Mr. Lee Yuan Siong and Mr. Ng Keng Hooi were entitled to an annual discretionary earned incentive award, 
which includes payment in the form of shares of the Company. Details of the incentive awards of Mr. Lee Yuan 
Siong and Mr. Ng Keng Hooi are set out in the Remuneration Report.

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN TRANSACTIONS, ARRANGEMENTS OR CONTRACTS

No transactions, arrangements or contracts of significance to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries was 
a party, and in which any Director of the Company or his/her connected entity has a material interest, directly or 
indirectly, subsisted as at 31 December 2020 or at any time during the year under review.

RESERVES

As  at  31  December  2020,  the  aggregate  amount  of  reserves  available  for  distribution  to  shareholders  of  the 
Company, as calculated under the provisions of Part 6 of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, was US$7,360 
million (31 December 2019: US$7,079 million).

CHARITABLE DONATIONS

Charitable donations made by the Group during the year ended 31 December 2020 amounted to US$2 million 
(2019: US$4 million).

MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND SUPPLIERS

During the year ended 31 December 2020, 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.

089

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONSHARES ISSUED

Details  of  the  shares  issued  during  the  year  ended  31  December  2020  are  set  out  in  note  35  to  the  financial 
statements.

DEBENTURES ISSUED

Details of the debentures issued during the year ended 31 December 2020 are set out in notes 30 and 38 to the 
financial statements.

EQUITY-LINKED AGREEMENTS

During  the  year  ended  31  December  2020,  the  Company  did  not  enter  into  any  equity-linked  agreements  and 
there did not subsist any equity-linked agreement entered into by the Company as at 31 December 2020, save for 
the restricted share units, outstanding share options and restricted stock purchase units awarded to employees 
under the 2010 RSU Scheme, the 2010 SO Scheme and the 2011 ESPP and 2020 ESPP, respectively, and the 
restricted  stock  subscription  units  awarded  to  agents  under  the  Agency  Share  Purchase  Plan  adopted  by  the 
Company on 23 February 2012 (2012 ASPP), each described below and in the Remuneration Report and note 40 
to the financial statements.

RESTRICTED SHARE UNIT SCHEME

The 2010 RSU Scheme adopted by the Company on 28 September 2010 with a term of 10 years from the date of 
adoption was terminated with effect from 31 July 2020. The Company adopted the 2020 RSU Scheme on 1 August 
2020 (2020 RSU Adoption Date) in place of and under substantially the same terms as the 2010 RSU Scheme. The 
2020 RSU Scheme is effective for a period of 10 years from the date of adoption. A summary of the principal terms 
of the 2020 RSU Scheme is set out below:

PURPOSES
The purposes of the 2020 RSU Scheme are: (a) to align the participants’ interests with those of the Group through 
ownership of the shares of the Company and/or the increase in value of the shares of the Company; and (b) to 
encourage and retain participants to make contributions to the long-term growth and profits of the Group, in each 
case with a view to achieving the objective of increasing the value of the Group.

DURATION
Subject to the termination of the 2020 RSU Scheme by the Board at any time before its expiry, the 2020 RSU 
Scheme shall be valid and effective for a period of ten (10) years (Scheme Period) from its adoption date and 
thereafter  for  so  long  as  there  are  outstanding  any  RSU  awards  granted  under  the  2020  RSU  Scheme  (RSU 
Awards) and accepted prior to its expiry, in order to give effect to the vesting of such RSU Awards or otherwise as 
may be required in accordance with the provisions of the 2020 RSU Scheme. Upon termination of the 2020 RSU 
Scheme, no further RSU Awards shall be granted thereunder.

090

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREPORT OF THE DIRECTORSPARTICIPANTS
Persons eligible to participate in the 2020 RSU Scheme and receive RSU Awards are existing employees, directors 
(whether executive or non-executive, but excluding independent non-executive) or officers of any member of the 
Group (RSU Eligible Persons).

The  Board  may,  from  time  to  time  at  its  absolute  discretion,  grant  an  RSU  Award  to  any  RSU  Eligible  Person 
(RSU  Selected  Person)  during  the  Scheme  Period. The  RSU  Selected  Person  is  required  to  confirm  his  or  her 
acceptance of the RSU Award, and upon confirmation of the award will become a participant of the 2020 RSU 
Scheme (RSU Participant).

RSU AWARDS
An RSU Award entitles an RSU Participant a conditional right upon the vesting of such RSU Award to obtain either 
shares of the Company (existing shares in issue or new shares to be issued by the Company) or an equivalent 
value in cash with reference to the market value of the shares of the Company on or about the date of vesting of 
the relevant RSU Awards, as determined by the Board in its absolute discretion. An RSU Award may include, if so 
specified by the Board in its entire discretion, cash and non-cash income, dividends or distributions and/or the 
sale proceeds of non-cash and non-scrip distributions in respect of those shares of the Company from the date 
that the RSU Award is granted to the date that it vests.

Where any RSU Award is proposed to be granted to an RSU Selected Person who is a director, chief executive 
or substantial shareholder of the Company, or any of their respective associates, such proposed grant must first 
be approved by all the independent non-executive directors of the Company and shall otherwise be subject to 
compliance with the Listing Rules.

Where any RSU Award is proposed to be granted to an RSU Selected Person who is a director of the Company (or 
other person who, because of their office or employment with a member of the Group, is likely to possess price 
sensitive or inside information in relation to shares of the Company), no RSU Award may be granted on any day 
on which the financial results of the Company are published and during the period of: (a) 60 days immediately 
preceding the publication date of the annual results or, if shorter, the period from the end of the relevant financial 
year up to the publication date of the results; and (b) 30 days immediately preceding the publication date of the 
quarterly results (if any) and half-year results or, if shorter, the period from the end of the relevant quarterly or 
half-year period up to the publication date of the results.

An RSU Participant does not have any contingent interest in any shares of the Company underlying an RSU Award 
unless and until such shares are actually transferred to the RSU Participant. Further, an RSU Participant may not 
exercise voting rights in respect of the shares of the Company underlying his/her RSU Award, nor does he/she 
have any rights to any cash and non-cash income, dividends or distributions and/or the sale proceeds of non-
cash  and  non-scrip  distributions  from  any  shares  of  the  Company  underlying  an  RSU Award  unless  otherwise 
specifically granted by the Board in its sole discretion to the RSU Participant.

The RSU Awards granted pursuant to the 2020 RSU Scheme will be personal to each RSU Participant and are  
not assignable.

091

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOPERATION AND ADMINISTRATION
The Board has the power to administer the 2020 RSU Scheme, including the power to construe and interpret its 
rules and the terms of the RSU Awards granted under it. The Board has delegated the authority to administer the 
2020 RSU Scheme to a committee of the Board, i.e. the Remuneration Committee, which comprises independent 
non-executive directors of the Company only. The Board may also appoint one or more independent third-party 
contractors to assist in the administration of the 2020 RSU Scheme and delegate such powers and/or functions 
relating to the administration of the 2020 RSU Scheme as the Board thinks fit. 

The Board may determine such vesting conditions (including performance target level) and schedule for the RSU 
Awards to vest provided that the period between the date of the acceptance and the date of the vesting of the RSU 
Awards shall not be shorter than six months. 

An independent professional trustee has been appointed to administer the trusts set up for the purpose of the 
2020 RSU Scheme (Scheme Trustee) and to hold shares of the Company underlying the RSU Awards granted to 
RSU Participants pending the vesting of the RSU Awards. The Scheme Trustee may not exercise voting rights in 
respect of such shares of the Company being held by it. The Company or its subsidiaries shall provide funds to 
enable the Scheme Trustee to subscribe for new shares of the Company or to make such on-market purchases of 
shares from time to time necessary in preparation for the vesting of the RSU awards.

SCHEME LIMIT AND GENERAL MANDATE
No RSU Award shall be granted pursuant to the 2020 RSU Scheme if as a result of such grant (assumed accepted), 
the  aggregate  number  of  shares  and  share  equivalents  underlying  all  grants  made  during  the  10-year  period 
commencing on the 2020 RSU Adoption Date pursuant to the 2020 RSU Scheme (excluding RSU Awards that 
have lapsed or been cancelled) and any other restricted share unit scheme of the Company (i.e., the 2010 RSU 
Scheme) will exceed in total 2.5 per cent. of the number of shares of the Company in issue on the reference date 
(that is, 29 May 2020), being 302,264,978 shares (or such number of shares as shall result from a sub-division or 
a consolidation of such 302,264,978 shares from time to time) (2020 RSU Scheme Limit).

The  2020  RSU  Scheme  Limit  may  be  renewed  subject  to  any  applicable  Shareholders’  approval  requirements 
under the Listing Rules, but in any event the total number of shares and share equivalents that may underlie the 
RSU Awards granted following the date of approval of the renewed limit (New Approval Date) under the limit as 
renewed from time to time, must not exceed 2.5 per cent. of the number of shares of the Company in issue as at 
the relevant New Approval Date.

The  RSU  Awards  granted  pursuant  to  the  2020  RSU  Scheme  may  be  satisfied  by  the  Company  allotting  and 
issuing new shares of the Company upon vesting of the RSU Awards. The Company shall rely on any general 
mandate or specific mandate obtained from its shareholders at a general meeting of the Company in accordance 
with the Listing Rules to issue and allot shares underlying any RSU Awards to participants as and when the RSU 
Awards vest.

VESTING AND LAPSE
Under the 2020 RSU Scheme, the vesting of an RSU Award is conditional upon the RSU Participant remaining in 
employment with the Group at the time of vesting of such RSU Award.

Upon vesting of an RSU Award, the Board may decide at its absolute discretion to direct and procure the Scheme 
Trustee  to  transfer  the  number  of  shares  underlying  the  RSU  Award  to  the  RSU  Participant  which  either  the 
Scheme Trustee  has  acquired  by  making  on-market  purchases  of  shares  of  the  Company  or  the  Company  has 
allotted and issued to the Scheme Trustee as fully paid up shares. The Board may pay, or direct and procure the 
Scheme Trustee to pay, to the RSU Participant in cash an amount which is equivalent to the value of the shares of 
the Company.

092

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREPORT OF THE DIRECTORSAn RSU Award will automatically lapse immediately where a RSU Participant’s employment or service terminates 
for any reason, except by reason of (a) death, (b) disability, (c) redundancy, (d) where the company employing the 
RSU Participant ceases to be one of the Company’s subsidiaries, or (e) retirement, or as otherwise determined by 
the Board in its absolute discretion.

TERMINATION 
The Board may terminate the 2020 RSU Scheme at any time before the expiry of the Scheme Period and no further 
RSU  Awards  shall  be  granted  thereafter.  In  the  event  of  termination,  the  Company  or  its  relevant  subsidiaries 
shall notify the Scheme Trustee and all RSU Participants of such termination and of how any property (including 
without limitation, any shares of the Company) held by the Scheme Trustee upon trust for the RSU Participants 
and the outstanding RSU Awards shall be dealt with.

LISTING RULES IMPLICATION
The 2020 RSU Scheme is not a share option scheme and as such, is not subject to the provisions of Chapter 17 of 
the Listing Rules.

An application will be made by the Company to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for the listing of and permission 
to deal in any new shares of the Company (not exceeding the 2020 RSU Scheme Limit) which may be issued 
pursuant to the 2020 RSU Scheme from time to time.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Company awarded 13,451,940 restricted share units under the 
2010 RSU Scheme and no restricted share units under the 2020 RSU Scheme. More details of the schemes are 
set out in the Remuneration Report and note 40 to the financial statements.

SHARE OPTION SCHEME

The  Company  adopted  the  2010  SO  Scheme  on  28  September  2010  for  a  term  of  10  years  from  the  date  of 
adoption. It sought and obtained the approval from its shareholders at its annual general meeting held on 29 May 
2020 (2020 AGM) for the termination of the 2010 SO Scheme and the adoption of a new share option scheme 
(2020 SO Scheme), both effective from 29 May 2020. The 2020 SO Scheme is also effective for a period of 10 
years from the date of adoption.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Company awarded 5,856,668 share options under the 2010 SO 
Scheme, while 4,876,916 share options were exercised and the Company issued 4,876,916 new shares accordingly. 
The proceeds received amounted to approximately US$25.18 million. Following the termination of the 2010 SO 
Scheme and adoption of the 2020 SO Scheme on 29 May 2020, no further share options can be granted under the 
2010 SO Scheme. However, the 2010 SO Scheme remains in full force and effect for all share options granted prior 
to its termination, and the exercise of such share options shall be subject to and in accordance with the terms on 
which they were granted under the provisions of the 2010 SO Scheme and the Listing Rules. Since adoption until 
31 December 2020, no share options were granted under the 2020 SO Scheme. A summary of the terms of the 
2020 SO Scheme is set out in the shareholders’ circular of the 2020 AGM, and further information regarding the 
scheme is set out in the Remuneration Report and note 40 to the financial statements.

093

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONEMPLOYEE SHARE PURCHASE PLAN

In view of the pending expiry of the 2011 ESPP, the Company adopted the 2020 ESPP on 1 August 2020 in place 
of and with substantially the same terms as the 2011 ESPP. The 2020 ESPP is effective for a period of 10 years 
from the date of adoption. The 2011 ESPP was terminated with effect from 31 October 2020. 

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Company awarded 1,274,789 restricted stock purchase units and 
1,101,823 matching restricted stock purchase units vested under the 2011 ESPP. During the same period, the 
Company  awarded  278,101  restricted  stock  purchase  units  and  57  matching  restricted  stock  purchase  units 
vested under the 2020 ESPP. No new shares have been issued pursuant to the 2011 ESPP nor the 2020 ESPP 
since their respective adoption. Details of the plan are set out in the Remuneration Report and note 40 to the 
financial statements.

AGENCY SHARE PURCHASE PLAN

The Company adopted the 2012 ASPP on 23 February 2012 (2012 ASPP Adoption Date). Under the 2012 ASPP, 
certain agents and agency leaders of the Group are selected to participate in the plan. Those agents selected for 
participation may elect to purchase the Company’s shares and, after having been in the plan for a period of three 
years, receive one matching share for each two shares purchased through the award of matching restricted stock 
subscription units (RSSUs). Each eligible agent’s participation level is capped at a maximum purchase in any plan 
year of US$15,000 (or local equivalent). Upon vesting of the matching RSSUs, those agents who remain as agents 
of the Group will receive one matching share for each RSSU which he or she holds. The aggregate number of new 
shares which can be issued by the Company under the 2012 ASPP during the 10-year period shall not exceed 
2.5 per cent of the number of shares in issue on the 2012 ASPP Adoption Date. Since the 2012 ASPP Adoption 
Date and up to 31 December 2020, a cumulative total of 6,618,875 new shares were issued under the 2012 ASPP, 
representing approximately 0.055 per cent of the shares in issue as at the 2012 ASPP Adoption Date.

In view of the upcoming expiry of the 2012 ASPP, the Company adopted a new agency share purchase plan (2021 
ASPP) on 1 February 2021 in place of and with substantially the same terms as the 2012 ASPP. The 2021 ASPP is 
effective for a period of 10 years from the date of adoption.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Company awarded 1,205,680 matching RSSUs, 1,185,442 matching 
RSSUs vested, and the Company issued 1,185,442 new shares (Awarded Shares) for vested RSSUs pursuant to 
the 2012 ASPP. The Awarded Shares were issued at the subscription price of US$1.00 each to Computershare 
Hong Kong Trustees Limited (being the plan trustee) to hold the same on trust for certain eligible agents upon 
vesting  of  their  matching  RSSUs. The  closing  price  of  the  Company’s  shares  on  27 April  2020  was  HK$70.95. 
The proceeds received amounted to approximately US$1.19 million which were used to fund the administration 
expenses of the 2012 ASPP and as general working capital of the Company.

NON-EXEMPT CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Group had not entered into any connected transactions which are 
not exempt from the annual reporting requirement under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.

094

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREPORT OF THE DIRECTORSRELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Details of the related party transactions undertaken by the Group during the year ended 31 December 2020 in the 
ordinary course of business are set out in note 42 to the financial statements. Such related party transactions are 
all exempt connected transactions under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules.

PURCHASE, SALE OR REDEMPTION OF THE COMPANY’S LISTED SECURITIES

Save for the purchase of 1,552,886 shares of the Company under the 2011 ESPP and the 2020 ESPP at a total 
consideration of approximately US$15 million, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries purchased, sold 
or redeemed any of the Company’s listed securities during the year ended 31 December 2020. These purchases 
were made by the trustees of the relevant plan on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. These shares are held on trust 
for participants of the relevant plan and therefore have not been cancelled. Please refer to note 40 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 permitted 
under the Listing Rules as at the date of this report.

AUDITOR

PricewaterhouseCoopers was re-appointed auditor of the Company in 2020.

PricewaterhouseCoopers will retire and, being eligible, offer itself for re-appointment at the AGM. A resolution for 
the re-appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers as auditor of the Company will be proposed at the AGM.

By Order of the Board

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse
Independent Non-executive Chairman 
12 March 2021

095

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT

CORE PRINCIPLES

The Board believes that strong corporate governance is essential both to the delivery of sustainable value and to 
maintaining a culture of business integrity, which in turn supports 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  the  requisite  skills  and  expertise 
and  are  supported  by  a  structure  that  enables  appropriate  delegation  between  the  Board,  its  committees  and 
management, whilst ensuring that the Board retains overall control. To promote effective governance across all 
of our operations, the Board has approved a governance framework, which maps out internal approval processes 
including those matters that may be delegated.

In this Corporate Governance Report, the Board 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.

Throughout  the  year  ended  31  December  2020,  with  the  exception  of  Code  Provision  F.1.3,  the  Company  had 
applied the principles and complied with all applicable code provisions of the Corporate Governance Code set 
out in Appendix 14 to the Listing Rules. 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 of the Company and who in turn reports directly to the Group Chief Executive.

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,  Board  members  have  the  appropriate  skills, 
knowledge and experience to perform their roles effectively.

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

096

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEThe Board discharges the following responsibilities either by itself or through delegation to the Audit Committee, 
the Nomination Committee, the Remuneration Committee and the Risk Committee:

(a) the development and review of the Company’s policies and practices on corporate governance;

(b) the review and monitoring of the training and continuous professional development of Directors and senior 

management;

(c) the review and monitoring of the Company’s policies and practices on compliance with legal and regulatory 

requirements;

(d) the development, review and monitoring of the Code of Conduct applicable to all officers and employees of the 

Group; and

(e) the review of the Company’s compliance with the Corporate Governance Code and disclosure in this Corporate 

Governance Report.

During the year under review, the Board discharged its responsibilities under the Board Charter of the Company, 
which is available on the Company’s website at www.aia.com, and reviewed, amongst other things, the Company’s 
compliance with the Corporate Governance Code, including the necessary disclosures in its reports to shareholders, 
the terms of the Board Charter and other governance documents, and a number of Group-wide policies, including 
the anti-fraud policy, anti-corruption policy, IFRS Accounting Policy and Code of Conduct. The Board also received 
the annual information security update and reviewed the Group’s leadership capability and succession to align 
with the Group’s latest strategic ambitions.

The Company has also adopted its own Directors’ and Chief Executives’ Dealing Policy (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  Dealing  Policy  throughout  the  year  ended  31 
December 2020.

BOARD EVALUATION
The  Board  undertakes  regularly  a  formal  evaluation  of  its  own  performance  and  that  of  its  committees  and 
individual  Directors  to  ensure  the  Board  and  its  committees  continue  to  perform  effectively. The  evaluation  is 
conducted either by way of internal assessment or through independent external consultants. 

The Company engaged an external professional consultant to facilitate the performance evaluation of the Board 
during 2020. The professional consultant selected is an independent professional consultant with no connection 
with the Group or any individual Directors.

The process for the performance evaluation adopted was a tailored and engaging process, taking into account the 
Company’s strategic priorities as well as ongoing feedbacks and recommendations from individual Board members, 
the Company’s investors and other stakeholders. The review was conducted by way of a written questionnaire 
followed  by  interviews  conducted  by  the  professional  consultant  with  each  Board  member.  A  comprehensive 
range  of  topics  was  considered,  including  Board  structure  and  composition,  Board  dynamics  and  interactions, 
Board Committees, and Board processes, with special focus in the areas which could be strengthened to further 
enhance the overall effectiveness of the Board and its committees. 

Led by the Chairman and in conjunction with the professional consultant, findings and practical suggestions were 
reviewed, considered and discussed at a Board meeting held during the year to formulate appropriate follow-up 
actions. Over the past years, the Board evaluation has helped to identify a broader scope of topics to be further 
covered in Board meetings and Directors’ trainings, and facilitated greater interactions among the Board members 
and senior management, as well as further review in Board processes and governance practices. 

097

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBOARD COMPOSITION
As  of  31  December  2020  and  up  to  the  date  of  this  Corporate  Governance  Report,  the  Board  consists  of  ten 
members,  comprising  one  Executive  Director  and  nine  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, financial, government, regulatory and policy experience from a variety of backgrounds. There 
is diversity of nationality, ethnicity, educational background, functional expertise, gender, age and experience.

Biographies of the Directors are set out on pages 72 to 77 of this Annual Report.

BOARD INDEPENDENCE
Ninety per cent (nine out of ten) of the Board are Independent Non-executive Directors. Save as disclosed below 
in respect of Mr. Tse, 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  or  her  independence.  Mr.  Tse,  save  for  being  currently  a  director  of  AIA  Foundation  (a 
subsidiary of the Company) and previously a Non-executive Director of the Company from 27 September 2010 
to 22 March 2017 until his re-designation as an Independent Non-executive Director, has met the independence 
guidelines set out in Rule 3.13 of the Listing Rules. The Company has satisfied itself that Mr. Tse is independent 
pursuant to Rule 3.13 of the Listing Rules on the basis that since his appointment as a Non-executive Director of 
the Company on 27 September 2010, Mr. Tse has not held any executive or management role or function in the 
Company or any of its subsidiaries, and at no time during that period has he been employed by the Company or any 
of its subsidiaries. He has not taken part in the day-to-day management of the Company or its subsidiaries beyond 
his attendance at and participation in board and committee meetings of the Group.

Independent Non-executive Directors are required to inform the Company as soon as practicable if there is any 
change  of  circumstances  which  may  affect  his  or  her  independence.  No  such  notification  has  been  received 
during the year under review.

During the year under review, Directors have disclosed to the Company in a timely manner the changes in their 
other offices held in public companies or organisations and other significant commitments. 

Each  of  the  four  committees  established  by  the  Board,  namely  the  Audit  Committee,  the  Nomination 
Committee, the Remuneration Committee and the Risk Committee, is chaired by Independent Non-executive 
Directors. The Audit Committee, the Nomination Committee, and the Remuneration Committee comprise of 
Independent Non-executive Directors only, while the Risk Committee comprises of a majority of Independent 
Non-executive Directors. 

Save as disclosed herein, none of the Independent Non-executive Directors 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.

Although serving on the Board for more than nine years could be relevant to the determination of a Non-executive 
Director’s independence, the Board recognises that an individual independence cannot be determined arbitrarily 
on the basis of a set period of time. The Board considers that it has benefited greatly from the contribution from 
individuals who have over time gained valuable insight into the Group’s operations and its markets. Nevertheless, 
the  Board  has  an  open  brief  to  search  for  suitably  qualified  individuals  to  join  the  Board  as  an  Independent 
Non-Executive  Director  with  due  regard  to  the  Directors’  Nomination  Policy  and  Board  Diversity  Policy.  Board 
succession planning is an ongoing process for the Company. There are regular Board reviews and discussions on 
succession planning, through meetings, conversations, social interactions, and complemented by an active search 
when required for people presenting the right skill and diversity mix. 

098

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORTNotwithstanding that a number of the Independent Non-executive Directors have served the Board for more than 
or close to nine years, they have continued to bring in fresh perspectives, skills and knowledge gained from their 
other directorships and appointments on an ongoing basis. Their wealth of skills, knowledge and experience have 
enabled them to contribute meaningfully and objectively to the Board as Independent Non-Executive Directors. 
The Board considers that the long serving Independent Non-executive Directors’ independence from management 
has not been diminished by their years of service. 

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 provides regular updates to the Board with respect to the Group’s business 
activities and development of the Group, together with regulatory and policy updates.

Directors are empowered under the relevant terms of reference to request further information from management 
whenever they think fit.

During the year under review, there were six scheduled Board meetings, all of which were convened in accordance 
with the Articles of Association of the Company.

The attendance of individual Directors, either in person or through electronic means of communication, at the 
Board meetings, committees’ meetings and the 2020 AGM held during the year under review are as follows:

Name of Director

Independent Non-executive 
Chairman and Independent 
Non-executive Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE

Executive Director, 
Group Chief Executive and President 

Mr. LEE Yuan Siong(1)

Mr. NG Keng Hooi(2)

Independent Non-executive 
Directors

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO

Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW

Mr. John Barrie HARRISON

Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO

Mr. Mohamed Azman YAHYA(3)

Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU

Ms. Swee-Lian TEO

Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE

Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA(4)

No. of Meetings Attended / No. of Meetings Held

Audit  
Committee

Nomination  
Committee

Remuneration  
Committee

Board

Risk  

Committee 2020 AGM

6/6

4/4

2/2

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

2/2

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

–

–

–

4/4

–

4/4

4/4

–

–

–

4/4

–

1/1

5/5

4/4

1/1

–

–

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

–

–

5/5

–

–

5/5

2/2

–

–

–

–

2/2

2/2

–

4/4

4/4

–

–

4/4

4/4

–

–

–

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

1/1

Notes:
(1)  Mr. Lee Yuan Siong was appointed as Executive Director of the Company on 1 June 2020.

(2)  Mr. Ng Keng Hooi retired as Executive Director of the Company with effect from 31 May 2020.

(3)  Mr. Mohamed Azman Yahya retired as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 29 May 2020.

(4)  Mr. Cesar Velasquez Purisima was appointed as a member of the Audit Committee of the Company on 12 March 2021, therefore he did not attend 

any Audit Committee meeting during the year under review.

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

099

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
CHAIRMAN AND GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse, Independent Non-executive Chairman of the Company, plays a critical role of leading 
the Board in fulfilling 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. Lee Yuan Siong, 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  operations  and  administration.  Mr.  Lee  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. Lee 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 management of the Group.

The segregation ensures a clear distinction between the Chairman’s responsibility to manage the Board and the 
Group Chief Executive and President’s responsibility to manage the Group’s business.

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

APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS
The Company uses a formal and transparent procedure for the appointment of new Directors. The Board receives 
recommendations  for  the  appointment  of  new  Directors  from  the  Nomination  Committee,  which  considers  the 
background  of  the  proposed  new  Directors.  The  Board  then  deliberates  over  such  recommendations  prior  to 
approval. To promote greater transparency in this respect, the Directors’ Nomination Policy was adopted by the 
Board on 14 March 2019. A summary of the Directors’ Nomination Policy is set out in the sub-section headed 
“Nomination Committee” of the “Committees of the Board” section in this report.

All Directors (including Non-executive Directors) are subject to retirement by rotation once every three years and 
are subject to re-election at the general meetings of the Company in accordance with the Articles of Association 
of the Company and the Corporate Governance Code.

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  role  of  the 
Board  and  its  key  committees,  group  structure,  governance  structure  and  the  duties  and  responsibilities  of  a 
director under applicable laws and regulations.

Directors receive 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 
of  financial  services  companies,  the  Group’s  governance  arrangements,  the  principal  basis  of  accounting  for 
the  Group’s  results,  the  internal  audit  and  risk  management  functions,  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.

100

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORTDuring the year under review, the Company organised a Board Strategy Day and provided a number of briefings 
to  the  Directors  to  update  them  on  the  implementation  of  the  Group’s  strategies  to  capture  future  business 
opportunities and the latest developments in the Group’s principal businesses and major products. 

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 year under review is summarised as follows:

Name of Director

Independent Non-executive Chairman and 
Independent Non-executive Director

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE

Executive Director, Group Chief Executive 
and President 

Mr. LEE Yuan Siong(1)

Mr. NG Keng Hooi(2)

Independent Non-executive Directors 

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO

Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW

Mr. John Barrie HARRISON

Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO

Mr. Mohamed Azman YAHYA(3)

Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU

Ms. Swee-Lian TEO

Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE

Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA

Types of Training

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

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

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

Notes:
(1)  Mr. Lee Yuan Siong was appointed as Executive Director of the Company on 1 June 2020.

(2)  Mr. Ng Keng Hooi retired as Executive Director of the Company with effect from 31 May 2020.

(3) 

 Mr. Mohamed Azman Yahya retired as Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 29 May 2020.

COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD

The  Company’s  corporate  governance  is  implemented  through  a  structured  hierarchy,  which  includes  the 
Board and four committees established by the Board, namely the Audit Committee, the Nomination Committee, 
the  Remuneration  Committee  and  the  Risk  Committee. The  memberships  and  terms  of  reference  of  all  Board 
committees  are  available  on  the  websites  of  both  the  Hong  Kong  Exchanges  and  Clearing  Limited  and  the 
Company. In addition to the four Board committees, a number of management committees have been established 
including, among others, an Executive Committee, the Group Operational Risk Committee and the Group Financial 
Risk Committee.

101

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONAUDIT COMMITTEE
The Audit Committee consists of five members, all of whom are Independent Non-executive Directors. They are Mr. 
Harrison, who serves as chairman of the Audit Committee, Mr. So, Mr. Yeo, Dr. Narongchai and Mr. Purisima, who 
became a member of the Audit Committee on 12 March 2021. The Audit Committee is delegated with the authority 
from the Board to oversee the Group’s financial reporting system, the internal control systems and the relationship 
with the external auditor of the Company, and to review the Group’s financial information.

The  duties  performed  by  the  Audit  Committee  during  the  year  under  review  included  overseeing  the  Group’s 
financial reporting system; reviewing risk management and internal control systems; monitoring the integrity of 
the preparation of the Company’s financial information, including quarterly business highlights and interim and 
annual results of the Group; reviewing the Group’s financial and accounting policies and practices as well as its 
whistle-blowing programme; and monitoring the adequacy of resources for and effectiveness of the internal audit 
function. Details of how the reviews of the effectiveness of the risk management and internal control systems had 
been undertaken are set out in the Risk Management and Internal Control section of this report.

The Audit 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.

The Audit Committee held four meetings during the year ended 31 December 2020. The attendance records of the 
Audit Committee members are set out on page 99 of this Annual Report.

NOMINATION COMMITTEE
The Nomination Committee consists of nine members, including the Independent Non-executive Chairman, Mr. 
Tse, who serves as chairman of the Nomination Committee, and the remaining eight Independent Non-executive 
Directors, Mr. So, Mr. Chow, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Yeo, Professor Lau, Ms. Teo, Dr. Narongchai and Mr. Purisima. The 
Nomination  Committee  is  delegated  with  the  authority  from  the  Board  to  review  the  Board’s  composition  and 
diversity, formulate and implement the Directors’ Nomination Policy, make recommendation to the Board on the 
appointment/re-appointment of Directors and members of the Board committees, and assess the independence 
of the Independent Non-executive Directors.

The duties performed by the Nomination Committee during the year under review included reviewing and making 
recommendations to the Board on the structure, size and composition of the Board, with due regard to the skills, 
knowledge, experience and diversity of background and experience of its members; overseeing the identification 
and  assessment  of  potential  candidates  for  directorship;  providing  oversight  and  direction  in  respect  of  the 
succession planning for directors and determining the composition of the Board committees.

To promote greater transparency on the Nomination Committee’s processes and criteria for selecting and making 
recommendations to the Board on the appointment, election or re-election of Directors, the Directors’ Nomination 
Policy was adopted by the Board on 14 March 2019 upon the recommendation of the Nomination Committee.

A summary of the Directors’ Nomination Policy is set out below:

• 

In assessing the suitability of a candidate proposed for appointment, election or re-election as a Director, the 
Nomination Committee shall consider the candidate on the basis of the selection criteria set out in the Directors’ 
Nomination Policy, which includes, amongst other things, whether his/her skills, knowledge, experience and 
background  can  complement  and  enhance  those  of  the  existing  Board  members  with  due  regards  to  the 
benefits of diversity perspectives set out in the Board Diversity Policy; his/her character, reputation, integrity 
and standard of competence; and the ability to devote sufficient time to discharge his/her duties as a Director. 
For  candidates  proposed  for  nomination  as  an  Independent  Non-executive  Director,  the  satisfaction  of  the 
independence requirement under Rule 3.13 of the Listing Rules is also required.

102

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT•  For appointment or election of a new Director, the Nomination Committee shall take the lead in identifying 
candidates suitably qualified to become a Director. It may consider referrals from existing Directors, and use 
open advertising or the services of external advisers to facilitate the search based on the selection criteria set 
out in the Directors’ Nomination Policy. Shareholders may also propose a person for election as a Director of the 
Company at a general meeting, relevant procedures of which are set out on the website of the Company. The 
Nomination Committee shall evaluate the suitability of a candidate through interviews, background checks, 
third party reference checks, and/or any process as it deems necessary and appropriate.

•  For re-election of a retiring Director, the Nomination Committee will review the overall past contributions of the 
retiring Director to the Company, and determine whether he/she continues to meet the selection criteria set 
out in the Directors’ Nomination Policy.

These processes aim to ensure that every Director has the requisite character, experience and integrity, and that 
he/she is able to demonstrate a standard of competence commensurate with his/her position as a Director.

Furthermore,  the  Board  Diversity  Policy,  which  was  first  adopted  by  the  Board  in  2013  and  revised  in  2021, 
describes the Company’s approach to ensuring adequate diversity. A summary of the Board Diversity Policy is set 
out below:

•  The Company understands that a Board composed of appropriately qualified members with a broad range of 
relevant experience, in addition to diversity in thought and background, is essential to the effective governance 
of its business and ensuring long-term sustainable growth;

•  The Company remains committed to non-discrimination in all aspects of its business, including the appointment 
of Board members. Consideration and selection of candidates for appointment to the Board will be based on 
merit which shall include a review of the candidate’s integrity, experience, educational background, industry 
or related experience and more general experience;

•  Within that overriding emphasis on merit, the Nomination Committee shall seek to address Board vacancies 
by  actively  considering  candidates  that  bring  a  diversity  of  background  and  opinion  from  amongst  those 
candidates with the appropriate background and industry or related expertise and experience. The Nomination 
Committee’s considerations shall include achieving an appropriate level of diversity having regard to factors 
such as gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, cultural and educational background;

•  The Nomination Committee will (a) in reviewing the Board composition, consider the benefits of all aspects 
of  diversity  including,  but  not  limited  to,  those  described  above,  in  order  to  maintain  an  appropriate  range 
and balance of skills, experience, knowledge and character on the Board; and (b) as part of the performance 
evaluation of the Board, consider the balance of skills, experience, knowledge and independence of the Board; 

•  As part of the Nomination Committee’s annual review of the structure, size and composition of the Board, the 
Nomination Committee will expressly consider and include commentary to the Board on the subject of the 
Board’s diversity; and

•  The measurable objectives on board diversity under the Board Diversity Policy include (a) selection of candidates 
for  nomination  as  a  Director  be  based  on  the  Directors’  Nomination  Policy  with  due  regard  to  the  diversity 
perspectives  set  out  in  the  policy;  (b)  to  maintain  the  Board  with  a  majority  of  independent  non-executive 
directors; and (c) to ensure that the Board be made up of members with diverse backgrounds and experience, 
including  diversity  of  nationality,  ethnicity  and  gender,  with  such  members  demonstrating  appropriate 
knowledge, experience and understanding of the markets in which the Company operates its business.

The Nomination Committee held one meeting during the year ended 31 December 2020. The attendance records 
of the Nomination Committee members are set out on page 99 of this Annual Report.

103

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONREMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The Remuneration Committee consists of three members, all of whom are Independent Non-executive Directors. 
They are Mr. So, who serves as chairman of the Remuneration Committee, Mr. Yeo and Mr. Tse. The duties of the 
Remuneration Committee are to make recommendations to the Board on the remuneration policy covering the 
Directors and senior management of the Group and to review and approve remuneration offered to the Executive 
Director and senior management of the Group.

The Remuneration Committee held five meetings during the year ended 31 December 2020. The attendance 
records  of  the  Remuneration  Committee  members  are  set  out  on  page  99  of  this  Annual  Report.  Details  of 
the  role  of  the  Remuneration  Committee,  and  the  key  activities  performed  by  the  Remuneration  Committee 
during the year under review have been set out in the Remuneration Report, which forms part of this Corporate 
Governance Report.

RISK COMMITTEE
The Risk Committee consists of six members, five of whom are Independent Non-executive Directors, including 
Mr. Chow, who serves as chairman of the Risk Committee, Mr. Harrison, Professor Lau, Ms. Teo, Mr. Tse and Mr. 
Lee,  the  sole  Executive  Director,  who  became  a  member  of  the  Risk  Committee  in  place  of  Mr.  Ng  on  1  June 
2020. The Risk Committee is delegated with the authority from the Board to, amongst other things, determine 
the Group’s risk appetite, including the risk appetite statement, risk principles and risk tolerances, oversee and 
review the adequacy and effectiveness of the Risk Management Framework of the Group, ensure that the material 
risks facing the Group have been identified and that the risk profile adequately represents any significant issues 
relating to the Group’s control environment with mitigating actions put in place, and to advise the Board on risk-
related issues.

The duties performed by the Risk Committee during the year under review included providing advice to the Board 
on the risk profile and risk management strategy of the Group; considering and reviewing disclosures in interim 
and annual reports, risk management-related policies and guidelines, statutory solvency positions, risk appetite 
and metrics; overseeing the risk management and compliance framework; reviewing the risk management and 
internal control systems; endorsing the Company’s risk governance structure; and reviewing major risks. Details 
of how the Risk Committee reviews the effectiveness of the risk management and internal control systems of the 
Group are set out in the Risk Management and Internal Control section of this report.

The Risk Committee held four meetings during the year ended 31 December 2020. The attendance records of the 
Risk Committee members are set out on page 99 of this Annual Report.

EXTERNAL AUDITOR
The external auditor of the Company is PricewaterhouseCoopers. The Audit Committee is responsible for making 
recommendations  to  the  Board  on  the  external  auditor’s  appointment,  re-appointment  and  removal,  which  are 
subject to approval by the Board and by the shareholders at a general meeting of the Company. In assessing the 
external  auditor,  the  Audit  Committee  will  take  into  account  relevant  experience,  performance,  objectivity  and 
independence  of  the  external  auditor. The  Board  has  adopted  policies  on  nomination  and  appointment  of  and 
services performed by the external auditor to enhance related governance practices.

104

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORTThe Audit Committee also reviews the non-audit services provided by the external auditor and its remuneration 
on a regular basis. For the year ended 31 December 2020, the total estimated remuneration payable by the Group 
to PricewaterhouseCoopers was US$25.2 million (2019: US$26.0 million), an analysis of which is set out below:

US$ millions

Audit services

Non-audit services, including:

Audit-related services(1)

Tax services

Other services

Total

2020

20.0

3.9

1.2

0.1

25.2

2019 

18.9

5.1

1.4

0.6

26.0

Note:
(1)  audit-related services are assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Group’s 
financial  statements.  They  include,  among  others,  due  diligence  services  pertaining  to  potential  business  acquisitions  (excluding  valuation 
services); services related to implementation new accounting and financial reporting guidance from regulatory authorities; and agreed-upon or 
expanded audit procedures related to compliance with financial, accounting or regulatory reporting matters.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND AUDIT

FINANCIAL REPORTING
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 endeavours to present this 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 125 to 131 of this Annual Report.

RISK MANAGEMENT AND INTERNAL CONTROL
The Board, assisted by its committees, is responsible for overseeing the Group’s risk management and internal 
control systems on an ongoing basis. The Board reviews the effectiveness of risk management and internal control 
systems on an annual basis.

The Group’s RMF does not seek to eliminate all risks but rather to identify, understand and manage them within 
acceptable limits in order to support the sustainability of the business and the creation of long-term value, and 
can only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss. The main features 
and other information on the RMF and the process used to identify, evaluate and manage significant risks are set 
out in the Risk Management section of this Annual Report.

105

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONThe Company has an internal audit function (Internal Audit). The key features of the Company’s internal control 
system include independent reviews and testing of internal controls, taking a risk-based approach and developing 
an annual audit plan presented to the Audit Committee. Reports of significant audit findings are prepared and 
communicated to management and the Audit Committee and where control weaknesses or defects are identified, 
recommendations  are  provided  to  resolve  them.  This  includes  issues  formally  identified  from  internal  audits, 
forensic  investigations,  regulatory  reports  and  special  projects.  Management  is  responsible  for  the  design, 
implementation and evaluation of the internal control system, including ongoing mitigation, across the business 
and processes.

The  Board  has,  through  the  Risk  Committee  and  Audit  Committee,  reviewed  the  adequacy  and  effectiveness 
of  the  Group’s  risk  management  and  internal  control  systems  (covering  all  material  controls  such  as  financial, 
operational and compliance controls), including:

• 

the adequacy of resources, staff qualifications and experience, training programmes and the budget of the 
Group’s accounting, internal audit and financial reporting functions;

•  areas of risk identified by management as well as the quality and scope of management’s ongoing monitoring 

of risks and the risk management system;

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the changes in the nature and extent of significant risks since the previous review and the Group’s ability to 
respond to changes in the external environment and its business;

the  quality  and  scope  of  the  internal  control  system  implemented  by  management  and  the  work  and 
effectiveness of Internal Audit as well as any significant risks reported by Internal Audit;

the extent and frequency of communication of monitoring results to the Board and its committees, to enable 
the assessment of the effectiveness of the Group’s risk management and internal control systems;

the incidence of any significant control failings or weaknesses that have been identified during the year and 
the extent to which they have resulted in a material impact on the Group’s financial performance or condition;

the effectiveness of the Group’s processes in relation to financial reporting and regulatory compliance;

the scope of work performed by both internal and external auditors and any significant issues arising from 
internal and external audit reports; and

• 

the results of management’s control self-assessment exercises.

The annual review of the Group’s risk management and internal control systems was supported by an internal 
certification  process  performed  by  management  (at  both  the  Company’s  and  subsidiaries’  levels),  the  Risk  & 
Compliance function and Internal Audit of the Company.

Management  has  confirmed  to  the  Board  that  the  Group’s  risk  management  and  internal  control  systems  are 
adequate  and  effective.  Based  on  the  review  result  and  management’s  confirmation,  the  Board  considered 
the Group’s risk management and internal control systems to be adequate and effective for the year ended 31 
December 2020.

106

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORTINSIDE INFORMATION
The Company has implemented proper procedures and internal controls for the handling and dissemination of 
inside information:

•  The Company has established a policy on the disclosure of inside information to ensure that all current and 
prospective  investors  of  the  Company,  market  participants  and  the  public  are  provided  with  appropriate 
information relating to the Group in a timely and simultaneous manner. The policy has been communicated to 
all relevant staff and related training has also been provided to them; and

•  A  written  communications  protocol  has  also  been  established  to  implement  a  control  process  within  the 
Group for the management of communications with various internal and external stakeholders. Such protocol 
identifies a list of spokespersons who are authorised to provide information about the Group to the relevant 
stakeholders. The Company’s Code of Conduct further contains a strict prohibition on the unauthorised use of 
confidential or non-public information.

COMPANY SECRETARY

All  the  Directors  have  access  to  the  advice  and  services  of  the  Company  Secretary  at  any  time  in  respect  of 
their duties and the effective operation of the Board and Board committees. The Company Secretary advises the 
Board on all corporate governance matters; facilitates the induction and professional development of Directors; 
and  ensures  good  information  flows  and  communications  within  the  Board  and  its  committees,  and  between 
management and the Non-executive Directors. The Company Secretary also plays an important role in ensuring 
that Board and Board committee policies and procedures are followed and the Board’s obligations to shareholders 
pursuant to the Listing Rules are discharged. During the year under review, Ms. Nicole Pao had undertaken at least 
15 hours of relevant continuing professional education.

ENGAGEMENT WITH SHAREHOLDERS

The Board recognises the importance of maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the Company’s shareholders and 
does so through general meetings, press releases, announcements and corporate communications such as the 
annual report, interim report and circulars. The Board is committed to the timely disclosure of information. The 
latest information regarding the Group’s activities, announcements, results presentations, webcasts and corporate 
communications is made available on the Company’s website at www.aia.com in a timely manner. The financial 
calendar highlighting the key dates for shareholders is set out on page 295 of this Annual Report.

The 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 broker 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  on  a  regular  and 
systematic basis to promote an understanding of external views on the Company’s performance.

The  Board  has  adopted  a  Shareholders’  Communication  Policy  and  such  policy  will  be  reviewed  on  a  regular 
basis  to  ensure  its  effectiveness.  The  Board  welcomes  views,  questions  and  concerns  from  shareholders  and 
other stakeholders. Shareholders and other stakeholders may send their enquiries and concerns to the Board. The 
contact details are set out on page 296 of this Annual Report.

107

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2020 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The most recent general meeting of the Company was the 2020 AGM which was held at the Grand Ballroom, 
Lower Level 1, Kowloon Shangri-La, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong on 29 May 2020. 
The Chairman and all other members of the Board at that time, together with the Group’s senior management 
and external auditor, attended the 2020 AGM. The poll voting results are available on the websites of both the 
Company  and  the  Hong  Kong  Exchanges  and  Clearing  Limited.  The  matters  resolved  at  the  2020  AGM  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 31 December 2019;

•  Declaration of a final dividend of 93.30 Hong Kong cents per share for the year ended 31 December 2019;

•  Re-election, by separate ordinary resolutions, of Mr. Tse and Mr. So as Independent Non- executive Directors of 

the Company;

•  Re-appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers as auditor of the Company until the conclusion of the next annual 

general meeting and authorising 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 aggregate number of shares of the Company in issue on the date of the 2020 AGM, and the 
discount for any shares to be issued not exceeding 10 per cent to the benchmarked price;

•  General mandate to Directors to cause the Company to buy back shares of the Company, not exceeding 10 per 

cent of the aggregate number of shares of the Company in issue on the date of the 2020 AGM; and

•  Approval of the 2020 SO Scheme and termination of the 2010 SO Scheme.

The forthcoming annual general meeting of the Company will be held on Thursday, 20 May 2021. Further details 
will be set out in the Company’s circular to be issued to the shareholders of the Company for the AGM.

SHAREHOLDERS’ RIGHTS

GENERAL MEETING
Shareholder(s) 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, may request to call a general meeting. If such request is made, a 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 Hong 
Kong Companies Ordinance for calling a general meeting.

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. Such notice of resolution must be given by the Company if it has received such 
request 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  a  right  to  vote  on  the  resolution  at  the  annual  general 

meeting to which the request relates.

108

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCECORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT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 be 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. 
Shareholder(s) of the Company should make reference to Sections 615 and 616 of the Hong Kong 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 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

The  Company’s  Articles  of  Association  (in  both  English  and  Chinese)  is  available  on  the  websites  of  both  the 
Company and the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited. During the year under review, there has been no 
change to the Articles of Association of the Company.

By Order of the Board

Nicole Pao 
Company Secretary 
12 March 2021

109

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONREMUNERATION REPORT

STATEMENT OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

On behalf of the Remuneration Committee, I am pleased  
to present the Report on Remuneration for Directors and  
Key Management Personnel for the period ended  
31 December 2020.

The  Remuneration  Committee  continued  its  work  of  ensuring  that  the  Group’s  remuneration  framework  is 
dedicated to delivering value and fair outcomes. Individual remuneration arrangements for our senior executives 
that align to performance indicators are supportive of the Group’s strategy and allow us to recognise and motivate 
key executives and encourage positive behaviour.

The  Remuneration  Committee  continued  to  conduct  its  rigorous  annual  review  of  the  Group’s  executive 
remuneration, taking into account our regulatory environment, AIA’s risk management framework, market practice 
and the interests of our stakeholders.

During 2020, the Remuneration Committee worked with its independent advisor to review and assess the impact 
of the COVID-19 pandemic on compensation trends in the insurance industry globally and in our key markets, and 
continued to monitor other external factors, such as the evolving technology focus in the industry.

The Remuneration Committee had been kept abreast of the regulatory landscape in Hong Kong under the HKIA, 
as well as developments in AIA’s other markets such as Australia and Mainland China. As in previous years, the 
Remuneration Committee will work with its independent advisor to monitor and respond to emerging regulations 
throughout the region that may impact the remuneration of AIA’s senior executives and key management personnel.

In  2020,  the  Group’s  equity-linked  schemes  reached  or  were  soon  reaching  the  end  of  their  intended  term  of  
10 years. As part of the review of the Group’s remuneration policy during the year, the Remuneration Committee 
reviewed and approved four new equity-linked schemes to replace the expiring schemes, each to be effective for 
a period of 10 years from their respective dates of adoption. The four schemes are: 

•  The Restricted Share Unit Scheme (2020 RSU Scheme) aligns the long-term interests of senior executives 
and other key talents with shareholders by granting primarily performance-vesting share units deferred over a 
multi-year period;

•  The shareholder-approved Share Option Scheme (2020 SO Scheme) focuses the senior executives on long-

term, sustainable shareholder returns by granting share options with a 10-year term;

•  The Employee Share Purchase Plan (2020 ESPP) encourages long-term ownership of the Company’s shares  
by  allowing  our  employees  to  purchase  shares  of  the  Company  up  to  pre-determined  monthly  limits  and 
providing matching shares to employees if they remain with the Group for three-years; and

•  The  Agency  Share  Purchase  Plan  (2021  ASPP)  allows  our  top  performing  agents  and  agency  leaders  the 
opportunity to purchase shares of the Company in order to recognise their contribution to the Group’s success, 
encourage retention and motivate future sales performance. 

110

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEThe new schemes, which replace substantially similar prior schemes, remain in line with the relevant regulations, 
support shareholders’ best interests, remain consistent with market best practices, and will allow us to continue 
to attract and engage critical talents, including our employees and best performing agents.

Following  the  2019  announcement  that  Mr.  Lee  Yuan  Siong  would  succeed  Mr.  Ng  Keng  Hooi  as  Group  Chief 
Executive and President, the Remuneration Committee also reviewed and subsequently approved the retirement 
terms and conditions provided to Mr. Ng after over 10 years of service to AIA in a number of leadership roles.

While  the  overall  remuneration  framework  for  senior  executives  remains  largely  unchanged  in  2020  and  will 
continue to apply in 2021, the Remuneration Committee continues to adopt enhancements to improve remuneration 
governance,  encourage  behaviours  designed  to  create  sustainable  value  and  discourage  excessive  risk  taking. 
To  these  ends,  in  2020  the  Remuneration  Committee  approved  a  share  ownership  policy  for  the  Group  Chief 
Executive and President and updated the malus and clawback provisions attached to long-term incentive grants. 

As in prior years, a significant proportion of total remuneration granted in 2020 is subject to multi-year performance-
based vesting conditions which ensure that our executives’ interests are closely aligned with those of our long-
term stakeholders. Further, an annual briefing to the Board’s Risk Committee on the Remuneration Committee’s 
key activities took place in the course of 2020.

Overall, the Remuneration Committee believes that the Group’s current remuneration framework and individual 
remuneration arrangements for senior executives are aligned with and support our strategy. 

Jack Chak-Kwong So
Chairman, Remuneration Committee 
12 March 2021

111

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONREMUNERATION GOVERNANCE

ROLE OF THE REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The  Remuneration  Committee  is  responsible  for  determining  the  employment  terms  and  conditions,  including 
the remuneration, of the Group Chief Executive and President and approving such terms and conditions of Key 
Management Personnel (the members of the Group’s Executive Committee who, by the nature and accountabilities 
of their respective positions, participate directly in the development, implementation, monitoring and reporting of 
the overall business strategies of the Group). Further, the Remuneration Committee makes 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 
remuneration  policies  and  structures.  In  making  its  determinations  and  recommendations,  the  Remuneration 
Committee  considers  such  factors  as  the  responsibilities  of  the  Group  Chief  Executive  and  President  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 design and operation of the Company’s equity-linked and other 
Group  incentive  schemes,  recommending  equity-based  employee  grants  for  approval  by  the  Board  as  well  as 
reviewing and, where appropriate, amending the 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 Group Chief Executive 
and  President  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.

MEMBERS AND MEETINGS
As of 31 December 2020, the Remuneration Committee consisted of three Independent Non-executive Directors, 
being Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So, who is the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee, Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo 
and Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse.

The  Remuneration  Committee  held  five  meetings  during  the  year  ended  31  December  2020.  The  attendance 
records of the Remuneration Committee members are set out on page 99 of this Annual Report.

112

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREMUNERATION REPORTACTIVITIES OF THE REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The Remuneration Committee performed the following major activities in 2020.

Area

Summary of activities

Remuneration decisions 
for the Group Chief 
Executive and President 
and Key Management 
Personnel

•  Reviewed and approved employment terms and conditions, including remuneration 

for the new Group Chief Executive and President and at the start of the year, the 2020 
remuneration of the Key Management Personnel 

•  Recommended the 2020 long-term incentive grant for the Group Chief Executive and 

President for approval by the Independent Non-executive Directors of the Board

•  Reviewed and approved the 2020 remuneration and the retirement terms and 

conditions for the retiring Group Chief Executive and President

•  Reviewed the executive benchmarking results ahead of the 2020/21 annual review 

cycle

Design and operation  
of the Group’s  
incentive schemes

•  Reviewed and approved the 2019 short-term incentive plan pay-outs and the vesting 
of the 2017 long-term incentive awards for the Group Chief Executive and President, 
Key Management Personnel, and all other plan participants 

Remuneration 
governance  
and disclosure

•  Reviewed and approved grants under the long-term incentive plan, including share 
option (SO) grants and performance-vesting restricted share unit (RSU) grants for  
the 2020 to 2023 vesting period 

•  Reviewed and approved the performance measures and targets for the 2021 short-

term and long-term incentive plans

•  Updated and approved four new equity-linked schemes in place of the expiring 

schemes, ensuring continued alignment with regulatory requirements, market best 
practices, AIA’s business strategy and shareholders’ interests

•  Reviewed and approved the 2019 Remuneration Report

• 

Introduced a share ownership policy for the Group Chief Executive and President 

•  Strengthened malus and clawback provisions under the long-term incentive  

schemes for all scheme participants

•  Reviewed the Group’s remuneration and benefits arrangements and practices to 
ensure they align with stakeholders’ interests and do not encourage excessive  
risk-taking, and provided the Board’s Risk Committee with a summary of this review

•  Reviewed the regulatory and corporate governance environment impacting executive 
remuneration practices and governance in the Group’s key markets, including Hong 
Kong, Mainland China and Australia

•  Reviewed the emerging remuneration trends for AIA’s international insurance peer 
companies and for Asia and other regions, especially with respect to the COVID-19 
pandemic

EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION POLICY

OBJECTIVES OF THE EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION POLICY
The  Company’s  executive  remuneration  policies  and  practices  are  designed  to  provide  equitable,  motivating 
and competitive remuneration to foster a strong performance-oriented culture within a robust risk management 
framework.

The policy aims to ensure that all rewards, including 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 sustainability or long-term value of the Group.

113

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCOMPONENTS OF OUR EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION POLICY
The  table  below  summarises  the  Company’s  remuneration  elements  and  their  application  to  the  Group  Chief 
Executive  and  President  and  the  Key  Management  Personnel  for  the  year  ended  31  December  2020  and  will 
continue to apply in 2021.

Element

Base salary

This is the fixed cash element 
of remuneration to recruit and 
retain talent

Short-term incentives

These are delivered in the 
form of a discretionary, 
performance-based cash 
award to incentivise, recognise 
and reward achievement of 
the Group’s objectives and 
individual contribution

Long-term incentives

These are delivered in the form 
of RSUs and SOs 

These grants are used to 
align the long-term interests 
of executives with those of 
shareholders, and to reward 
and motivate participants 
who have made important 
contributions to the Group’s 
success or are expected to play 
a significant role in the future

Benefits and allowances

These include those that may 
be required by regulations and 
/ or in line with local market 
practices. They contribute to 
the value of total remuneration

Employee share purchase plan 
(ESPP)

This provides employees with 
a share investment opportunity 
with matching offer to facilitate 
and encourage AIA share 
ownership

Basis of determination

Notes on practices

Base salary is determined with 
reference to the size and nature of the 
role, geographical location, and scope 
and relevant individual experience, 
whilst also considering competitive 
market positioning and internal equity 
to attract and retain employees with 
required capabilities to achieve the 
Group’s business objectives

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

The Remuneration Committee reviews 
base salaries annually against AIA’s 
international insurance peers and 
wider market levels

Base salary increases, where 
applicable, typically take effect from 
1 March

Pay-out of short-term incentives 
is based on the achievement of 
the Group’s pre-defined financial 
performance targets as well as 
individual contribution

Long-term incentive grant values 
are determined with reference to 
roles and responsibilities as well as 
performance and potential of the 
individual, whilst also considering the 
market competitiveness of variable 
and total compensation opportunities

A significant proportion of the 
remuneration of the Group Chief 
Executive and President and Key 
Management Personnel is provided in 
the form of long-term incentive grants

Long-term incentive grants are 
discretionary and participation is 
determined on an annual basis

Grants are made in RSUs and 
SOs to deliver a balanced mix of 
ownership and incentives, as well 
as reward executives for sustainable 
performance, and generally vest after 
a three-year period

RSUs are subject to pre-defined 
performance vesting requirements

The benefits programme and 
allowances are designed to ensure 
market competitiveness of the overall 
rewards and are fully compliant with 
local regulations

The Group Chief Executive and 
President and Key Management 
Personnel participate in retirement 
schemes and receive welfare related 
benefits, for example, medical and life 
insurance

Except where prohibited by local 
regulations, ESPP is open to all 
employees who have completed 
probation and is subject to a maximum 
contribution indicated as a percentage 
of base salary or the plan’s maximum 
dollar limit

Participants receive matching 
shares for the Company’s shares 
they have purchased and held for 
three years, subject to an investment 
limit approved by the Remuneration 
Committee

Matching shares vest after three years

Further details on the operation of our short and long-term incentives, along with the ESPP, are provided on the 
following pages.

114

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREMUNERATION REPORTVARIABLE REMUNERATION

Variable remuneration opportunities are designed to motivate employees to deliver on key short-term and long-
term objectives. Depending on business and individual performance results, such incentives may result in award 
levels above or below target, reflecting superior performance and performance below expectations, respectively.

AIA’s short-term and long-term incentive plans are described below.

SHORT-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
Short-term incentives help employees to focus on the accomplishment of key objectives set at the beginning of 
the year and are linked to financial, operational and individual performance over the relevant financial year.

2020  short-term  incentive  plan  performance  levels,  including  target  and  maximum  opportunities,  were 
determined by the Remuneration Committee and communicated to the Group Chief Executive and President and 
Key Management Personnel at the beginning of the financial year ended 31 December 2020.

Performance Measures and Awards
For 2020, the performance measures used in the short-term incentive plan were as follows:

VONB

UFSG

OPAT

60% 
WEIGHTING

15% 
WEIGHTING

25% 
WEIGHTING

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

Underlying Free Surplus Generation (UFSG) is the free surplus generated by the 
business excluding the free surplus invested in new business, investment return 
variances and other items

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

Consistent with prior years, an individual’s performance contribution was also considered when determining the amounts to 
be paid to the Group Chief Executive and President and Key Management Personnel

The total value of short-term incentive awards that will be paid to Mr. Lee Yuan Siong (Group Chief Executive and 
President), Mr. Ng Keng Hooi (retired Group Chief Executive and President) and the Key Management Personnel 
for the year ended 31 December 2020 is US$15,215,600.

The short-term incentive amounts for the year ended 31 December 2020 are included in note 41 to the financial 
statements as “Bonuses” for Mr. Lee Yuan Siong and Mr. Ng Keng Hooi, and as part of the “Salaries and other short-
term employee benefits” for the Key Management Personnel.

LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
The purpose of AIA’s long-term incentive plan is to retain key employees and align the behaviour and remuneration 
of the most senior individuals with the key interests of AIA and its stakeholders, taking into account the long-term 
nature of the business we operate. 

Long-term incentives are reserved for the most senior positions in the Group that have significant impact on the 
sustainable  financial  results  and  the  overall  risk  profile  of  the  Group.  Other  individuals  may  be  considered  for 
long-term incentives, for example on the basis of market competitiveness due to their skills and areas of expertise. 

115

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONGrants  of  long-term  incentives  are  discretionary  and  are  determined  on  an  annual  basis  with  reference  to  an 
individual’s overall variable remuneration, total remuneration competitiveness, role and responsibilities, as well as 
performance and potential.

The grants under the long-term incentive plan are delivered in the form of performance-vesting RSUs and time-
vesting SOs for a balanced mix of incentives and ownership. The grants generally vest after a three-year period 
and, in the case of the RSUs, performance goals are met. As applicable to other remuneration payments, long-term 
incentive vesting is subject to the Remuneration Committee’s approval and our long-term incentive schemes are 
reviewed regularly to ensure their design, process, structure and governance work together to balance risk and 
incentives.

The 2010 RSU Scheme and the 2010 SO Scheme were both adopted by the Company on 28 September 2010, 
each with a term of 10 years from the date of adoption.

The  2020  RSU  Scheme,  under  substantially  the  same  terms  as  the  2010  RSU  Scheme,  was  adopted  by  the 
Company on 1 August 2020 in place of the 2010 RSU Scheme. The 2020 RSU Scheme is effective for a period of 
10 years from the date of adoption.

Due  to  the  expiry  of  the  2010  SO  Scheme  in  2020,  the  Company  sought  and  obtained  the  approval  from  its 
shareholders at the annual general meeting of the Company held on 29 May 2020 for the termination of the 2010 
SO  Scheme  and  the  adoption  of  the  2020  SO  Scheme,  each  as  of  29  May  2020. The  2020  SO  Scheme  is  also 
effective for a period of 10 years from the date of adoption.

Summaries of the 2010 RSU Scheme, 2020 RSU Scheme (together, RSU Schemes), 2010 SO Scheme and 2020 
SO Scheme (together, SO Schemes) are provided later in this section and in note 40 to the financial statements.

RESTRICTED SHARE UNIT SCHEMES
The objective of the RSU Schemes is to align the interests of scheme participants with those of the Company’s 
shareholders  and  reward  the  creation  of  sustainable  value  through  the  grant  of  the  Company’s  shares  to 
participants when rigorous performance conditions have been achieved.

Under  the  RSU  Schemes,  the  Company  may  grant  RSUs  to  employees,  directors  (excluding  independent  non-
executive directors) and officers of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. However, despite remaining in full force 
and effect to the extent necessary to give effect to the vesting of any RSUs granted prior to its termination, no 
further grants will be made under the 2010 RSU Scheme.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Company granted 13,451,940 RSUs under the 2010 RSU Scheme. 
Since the adoption of the 2010 RSU Scheme on 28 September 2010 and up to 31 December 2020, a cumulative 
total of 99,780,673 RSUs have vested under the 2010 RSU Scheme, representing approximately 0.828 per cent of 
the shares in issue as at the Company’s listing date. No new shares have been issued under the 2010 RSU Scheme 
since its adoption.

No grants have been made under the 2020 RSU Scheme since its adoption and up to 31 December 2020.

116

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREMUNERATION REPORTRSUs Granted in 2020
Consistent with prior years, the vesting of the performance-vesting RSUs granted in 2020 will be contingent on 
service  requirements  and  the  extent  of  achievement  of  three-year  performance  targets  for  the  following  three 
performance measures:

VONB

EV EQUITY

TSR

1/3 
WEIGHTING

1/3 
WEIGHTING

1/3 
WEIGHTING

VONB is an estimate of the economic value of one year’s sales as published by  
the Company

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  
as published by the Company. 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

Relative 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 is compared with the TSR of the peer companies* over the 
performance period

*  TSR peer companies for the performance-vesting RSUs granted in 2020 include 19 life and health or multi-line insurance companies identified within 

the Dow Jones Insurance Titans 30 index (DJTINN) at the start of the performance period.

The  performance-vesting  RSUs  are  tested  against  pre-defined  performance  targets  at  the  end  of  a  three-year 
performance period. Achievement of each performance measure will independently determine the vesting of one-
third of the grant.

•  Threshold performance levels (for TSR, the 25th percentile of peer companies’ performance) are required for 

any RSUs to vest.

•  At target performance levels (for TSR, the median of peer companies’ performance), 50 per cent of the RSUs 

will vest.

•  At maximum performance levels (for TSR, the 75th percentile or above of peer companies’ performance), the 

full allocation of RSUs will vest.

The performance measures determining the vesting of the 2020 RSU grants will be assessed over a three-year 
period from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2022.

RSUs Vested in 2020
The  performance-vesting  RSUs  granted  in  2017  vested  on  13  March  2020.  After  assessing  the  performance  
of  the  Company  against  the  pre-determined  performance  targets  for  the  VONB,  EV  Equity  and  relative  TSR 
measures (with each measure having an equal weighting) over the three-year period from 1 December 2016 to 
30 November 2019, the Remuneration Committee approved the vesting of the 2017 performance-vesting RSU 
grants at 185.28 per cent of target. 

RSUs to be Granted and to Vest in 2021
The Remuneration Committee will grant performance-vesting RSUs to selected participants after the Company’s year-
end financial results announcement. Details of the grant will be disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report 2021.

Consistent  with  prior  years,  VONB,  EV  Equity  and  relative  TSR  targets  will  continue  to  be  used  to  assess  the 
performance  outcomes  of  the  RSU  grants  that  will  be  granted  in  2021. The  three  performance  measures  will 
continue to be equally weighted and will be assessed over a three-year period starting 1 January 2021.

Similar to the 2020 performance-vesting RSUs, for relative TSR assessment only those DJTINN companies that 
are considered life and health or multi-line insurance companies will be considered peers (19 companies).

117

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONThe Remuneration Committee recognised the extraordinary contributions many AIA employees exhibited during 
the unprecedented and challenging year, and the positive impact these efforts had on the Company’s operations in 
2020. To recognise and reward those contributions, selected individuals will be granted in early 2021 an ex-gratia 
award in the form of time-vesting RSUs. Such ex-gratia award will not be provided to the Group Chief Executive 
and President. Details of the grant will be disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report 2021.

The performance-vesting RSUs granted in 2018 will vest in March 2021 after the Company’s year-end financial 
results announcement. The final vesting results will be disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report 2021.

RSU Movements During the Year Ended 31 December 2020
The table below summarises the movements in RSUs under the 2010 RSU Scheme during the year ended 31 
December 2020.

Group Chief Executive 
and President, 
Key Management 
Personnel and other 
eligible employees and 
participants

Group Chief Executive 
and President
Mr. Lee Yuan Siong

Retired Group Chief 
Executive and  
President (1)
Mr. Ng Keng Hooi

Key Management 
Personnel 
(excluding the current 
and retired Group  
Chief Executive and 
President)

Other eligible 
employees and 
participants (2)

RSUs 
outstanding 
as at  
1 January  
2020

RSUs  
granted  
during the 
year ended 
31 December 
2020

RSUs vested 
during the 
year ended 
31 December 
2020

–

–

–

206,470

–

1,893,366

(315,561)

420,426

–

RSUs 
cancelled /  
lapsed / 
reclassified 
during the 
year ended 
31 December 

RSUs 
outstanding 
as at  
31 December 

2020 (9) 

2020 (10)

–

–

–

206,470

1,577,805

420,426

Date of 
grant  
(day / 
month / 

Date of 
Vesting  
(day / 
month /  

year) (3)

year) (4)

13/3/2020

21/2/2025 (5)

13/3/2020

See note (6)

25/3/2020

25/3/2023 (7)

10/3/2017

10/3/2020 (7)

31/7/2017

1/6/2020 (7)

15/3/2018

15/3/2021 (7)

27/3/2019

27/3/2022 (7)

267,659

213,164

439,258

403,768

–

–

–

–

25/3/2020

25/3/2023 (7)

–

477,758

10/3/2017

10/3/2020 (7)

1,156,660

31/7/2017

1/6/2020 (7)

311,947

15/3/2018

15/3/2021 (7)

1,090,256

12/9/2018

12/9/2021 (7)

61,010

27/3/2019

27/3/2022 (7)

970,244

15/5/2019

1/5/2022 (7)

27,182

30/12/2019

30/12/2022 (8)

445,308

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

25/3/2020

25/3/2023 (7)

–

963,062

10/3/2017

10/3/2020 (7)

10,232,397

31/7/2017

1/6/2020 (7)

28,519

15/3/2018

15/3/2021 (7)

8,626,971

29/6/2018

15/3/2021 (7)

108,956

27/3/2019

27/3/2022 (7)

8,334,202

15/5/2019

1/5/2022 (7)

16,480

25/3/2020

25/3/2023 (7)

10/6/2020

10/6/2023 (7)

–

–

(247,960)

(197,476)

–

–

–

(1,071,535)

(217,637)

(19,699)

(15,688)

(439,258)

(403,768)

(477,758)

(85,125)

(94,310)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(109,816)

980,440

(61,010)

–

(137,650)

832,594

–

–

–

27,182

445,308

963,062

–

–

(9,387,319)

(845,078)

(26,421)

(2,098)

(66,531)

(117,251)

8,443,189

–

–

108,956

(27,453)

(175,330)

8,131,419

–

–

16,480

–

–

–

–

–

–

9,459,716

(4,566)

147,444

9,602,594

31,142

–

–

31,142

Notes:
(1)  Effective 31 May 2020, Mr. Ng Keng Hooi retired as Group Chief Executive and President and from the Board. Mr. Ng’s RSUs outstanding as at  

1 June 2020 were reclassified from “Retired Group Chief Executive and President” to “Other eligible employees and participants”. 

(2)  Includes the RSUs outstanding as at 1 January 2020 of the retired Group Chief Executive and President, Mr. Mark Edward Tucker.

(3)  The measurement dates (i.e. the dates used to determine the value of the grants for accounting purposes) for grants made during the year ended 
30 November 2017 were determined to be 10 March 2017 and 31 July 2017. The measurement dates for grants made during the thirteen months 
ended 31 December 2018 were determined to be 15 March 2018, 29 June 2018 and 12 September 2018. The measurement dates for grants made 
during the financial year ended 31 December 2019 were determined to be 27 March 2019, 15 May 2019 and 30 December 2019. The measurement 
dates for grants made during the year ended 31 December 2020 were determined to be 13 March 2020, 25 March 2020 and 10 June 2020. These 
measurement dates were determined in accordance with IFRS 2.

(4)  The date of vesting is subject to applicable dealing restrictions.

118

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREMUNERATION REPORT(5)  Reference is made to the Company’s announcement on 22 November 2019. The vesting of these RSUs is service-based only (i.e. there are no further 
performance conditions attached except for continued employment). Subject to continued employment, all RSUs will vest on 21 February 2025.

(6)  Reference is made to the Company’s announcement on 22 November 2019. The vesting of these RSUs is service-based only (i.e. there are no 
further performance conditions attached except for continued employment). Subject to continued employment, the RSUs will vest in six equal 
tranches  (i.e.,  315,561  units  each).  The  first  tranche  vested  on  13  September  2020  and  the  remaining  tranches  are  scheduled  to  vest  on  21 
February 2021, 21 February 2022, 21 February 2023, 21 February 2024 and 21 February 2025.

(7)  The vesting of these RSUs is subject to service requirements and the achievement of performance measures shown on page 117 of this Annual Report.

(8)  The vesting of these RSUs is service-based only (i.e. there are no further performance conditions attached except for continued employment). 

Subject to continued employment, all RSUs will vest on 30 December 2022.

(9)  These RSUs lapsed or were reclassified during the year ended 31 December 2020. The reclassification of RSUs was a result of the retirement of Mr. Ng 
Keng Hooi as Group Chief Executive and President during that period. There were no RSUs cancelled during the year ended 31 December 2020.

(10)  Includes RSUs outstanding as at 31 December 2020 that, in accordance with the 2010 RSU Scheme rules, will lapse on or before the respective 

vesting date. 

SHARE OPTION SCHEMES
The objective of the SO Schemes is to align the interests of scheme participants with those of the Company’s 
shareholders by allowing participants to share in the long-term, sustainable value created for our shareholders.

Under the 2020 SO Scheme, the Company may grant SOs to employees, directors (excluding independent non-
executive directors) or officers of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. The 2010 SO Scheme remains in full 
force and effect for SOs granted prior to its termination, however, no further grants can be made under the 2010 
SO Scheme. The exercise of all SOs granted under the 2010 SO Scheme will be subject to and in accordance with 
the terms pursuant to which they were granted and the Listing Rules. 

No  amount  is  payable  by  participants  on  the  acceptance  of  an  SO.  Each  SO  entitles  the  eligible  participant  to 
subscribe  for  one  ordinary  share  of  the  Company.  Benefits  are  realised  only  to  the  extent  that  the  share  price 
exceeds the exercise price when exercised. The prescribed formula for determining the exercise price of SOs is the 
higher of (i) the closing price of the shares on the date of grant and (ii) the average closing price of the shares for 
the five business days immediately preceding the date of grant.

According  to  the  rules  of  the  SO  Schemes,  the  minimum  holding  period  of  an  SO  is  six  months  from  date  of 
acceptance, and an SO shall have a maximum life of 10 years from grant before expiry. Generally, SOs granted by 
the Company become exercisable three years after the date of grant and remain exercisable for another seven 
years, subject to the participants’ continued employment in good standing or retirement.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Company granted 5,856,668 SOs under the 2010 SO Scheme to 
the Group Chief Executive and President and certain employees and officers of the Company and a number of its 
subsidiaries. No SOs were granted under the 2020 SO Scheme.

The aggregate number of shares that may be issued upon exercise of all SOs granted by the Company (excluding 
SOs that have lapsed) pursuant to all SO schemes of the Company (i.e., the 2010 and 2020 SO Schemes) must 
not  exceed  2.5  per  cent  of  the  number  of  shares  in  issue  on  29  May  2020,  the  adoption  date  of  the  2020  SO 
Scheme. Since the adoption of the 2020 SO Scheme and up to 31 December 2020, a cumulative total of 4,340,018 
new shares were issued under the 2010 SO Scheme, representing approximately 0.036 per cent of the shares in 
issue as at the 2020 SO Scheme adoption date. No grants have been made under the 2020 SO Scheme since its 
adoption and up to 31 December 2020.

The total number of shares available for issue for all outstanding share options and share options that can be 
granted under the SO Schemes in future is 297,919,960 shares, representing approximately 2.46 per cent of the 
number of shares in issue as at the date of this report.

Unless  shareholders’  approval  is  obtained  in  accordance  with  the  relevant  procedural  requirements  under  the 
Listing Rules, the maximum number of shares under option that may be granted to any participant in any 12-month 
period up to and including a proposed date of grant is 0.25 per cent (0.1 per cent for a substantial shareholder 
of the Company) of the number of shares in issue as of the proposed date of grant. No SOs have been granted 
to substantial shareholders or in excess of the individual limit pursuant to the SO Schemes since their adoption.

119

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONSOs Granted in 2020
The SOs granted in 2020 pursuant to the 2010 SO Scheme will vest in 2023, assuming all service requirements 
are met. Details of the valuation of the SOs are set out in note 40 to the financial statements.

SOs Vested in 2020
The SOs granted in 2017 in accordance with the 2010 SO Scheme rules (excluding any of such SOs that have 
lapsed in the intervening period) vested on 10 March 2020 and became exercisable on 13 March 2020, being the 
first trading date after the Hong Kong regulatory blackout period.

SOs to be Granted and to Vest in 2021
The Remuneration Committee will grant SOs to selected participants in March 2021 after the Company’s year-end 
financial results announcement. Details of these grants will be disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report 2021.

The SOs granted in 2018 will vest in March 2021 after the Company’s year-end financial results announcement. 

SO Movements During the Year Ended 31 December 2020
The  table  below  summarises  the  movements  in  SOs  under  the  2010  SO  Scheme  during  the  year  ended  31 
December 2020.

Group Chief Executive 
and President, 
Key Management 
Personnel and other 
eligible employees 
and participants

Group Chief  
Executive and 
President 
Mr. Lee Yuan Siong

Retired Group  
Chief Executive  
and President (1)
Mr. Ng Keng Hooi

Key Management 
Personnel  
(excluding the 
current and  
retired Group Chief 
Executive and
President)

Other eligible 
employees and 
participants (2)

Date of 
grant  
(day / 
month / 

year) (3)

Period during  
which SOs 
are exercisable  
(day / month / year)

SOs 
outstanding  
as at  
1 January 
2020

SOs granted  
during the  
year ended  
31 December 
2020

SOs vested  
during the 
 year ended  
31 December 
2020

25/3/2020

  25/3/2023 -  24/3/2030 (4)

–

1,197,133

5/3/2014

  5/3/2017 -   4/3/2024 (5)

12/3/2015

  12/3/2018 -  11/3/2025 (6)

9/3/2016

  9/3/2019 -   8/3/2026 (7)

10/3/2017

  10/3/2020 -   9/3/2027 (8)

31/7/2017

  1/6/2020 -  30/7/2027 (9)

602,486

541,692

851,026

732,574

476,786

15/3/2018

  15/3/2021 -  14/3/2028 (10)

1,105,066

27/3/2019

  27/3/2022 -  26/3/2029 (11)

1,115,158

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

25/3/2020

  25/3/2023 -  24/3/2030 (4)

–

1,360,379

1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 -  31/5/2021 (12)

15/3/2012

  15/3/2015 -  14/3/2022 (13)

11/3/2013

  11/3/2016 -  10/3/2023 (14)

5/3/2014

  5/3/2017 -   4/3/2024 (5)

12/3/2015

  12/3/2018 -  11/3/2025 (6)

100,000

544,337

593,011

527,584

473,259

9/3/2016

  9/3/2019 -   8/3/2026 (7)

1,413,600

10/3/2017

  10/3/2020 -   9/3/2027 (8)

2,430,952

31/7/2017

  1/6/2020 -  30/7/2027 (9)

697,732

15/3/2018

  15/3/2021 -  14/3/2028 (10)

2,627,326

12/9/2018

  12/9/2021 -  11/9/2028 (15)

161,951

27/3/2019

  27/3/2022 -  26/3/2029 (11)

2,575,511

15/5/2019

  1/5/2022 -  14/5/2029 (16)

72,856

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

25/3/2020

  25/3/2023 -  24/3/2030 (4)

–

2,742,235

1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 -  31/5/2021 (12)

1/6/2011

  1/4/2014 -  31/5/2021 (17)

15/3/2012

  15/3/2015 -  14/3/2022 (13)

11/3/2013

  11/3/2016 -  10/3/2023 (14)

5/3/2014

  5/3/2017 -   4/3/2024 (5)

12/3/2015

  12/3/2018 -  11/3/2025 (6)

9/3/2016

  9/3/2019 -   8/3/2026 (7)

592,790

324,277

574,170

438,536

558,745

501,480

482,643

10/3/2017

  10/3/2020 -   9/3/2027 (8)

1,707,433

31/7/2017

  1/6/2020 -  30/7/2027 (9)

15/3/2018

  15/3/2021- 14/3/2028 (10)

27/3/2019

  27/3/2022 -  26/3/2029 (11)

15/5/2019

  1/5/2022 -  14/5/2029 (16)

–

489,354

476,342

9,365

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

25/3/2020

  25/3/2023 -  24/3/2030 (4)

–

556,921

–

–

–

–

732,574

476,786

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,430,952

525,460

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,707,433

–

–

–

–

–

SOs  
cancelled /  
lapsed /  
reclassified  
during the  
year ended  
31 December 

2020 (18)

SOs 
exercised 
during the 
year ended 
31 December 
2020

SOs 
outstanding  
as at  
31 December 

2020 (19)

Exercise 
price 
(HK$)

Weighted 
average  
closing price 
of shares 
immediately 
before the 
dates on  
which SOs  
were 
exercised 
(HK$)

–

–

68.10

1,197,133

n/a

(602,486)

(541,692)

(851,026)

(732,574)

(476,786)

(1,105,066)

(1,115,158)

(1,360,379)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(172,272)

(276,267)

(161,951)

(380,169)

–

–

–

–

–

–

602,486

541,692

851,026

732,574

476,786

1,061,957

1,074,941

–

1,360,379

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(100,000)

(544,337)

(516,074)

–

–

–

(931,188)

(171,810)

–

–

–

–

–

(356,929)

(106,820)

–

–

(880,279)

(16,819)

(922,083)

(330,577)

–

–

–

–

–

37.56

47.73

41.90

50.30

61.55

67.15

76.38

68.10

27.35

28.40

34.35

37.56

47.73

41.90

50.30

61.55

67.15

63.64

76.38

78.70

68.10

27.35

27.35

28.40

34.35

37.56

47.73

41.90

50.30

61.55

67.15

76.38

78.70

68.10

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

76,937

527,584

473,259

1,413,600

1,499,764

353,650

2,351,059

–

2,195,342

72,856

2,742,235

235,861

217,457

574,170

438,536

280,952

1,026,353

411,586

2,109,430

476,786

1,551,311

1,551,283

9,365

1,917,300

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

71.60 

75.04 

88.24 

n/a

n/a

n/a

74.84 

74.84 

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

81.78 

85.14 

n/a

n/a

77.50 

86.65 

78.04 

84.00 

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

120

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREMUNERATION REPORTNotes:
(1)  Effective 31 May 2020, Mr. Ng Keng Hooi retired as Group Chief Executive and President and from the Board. Mr. Ng’s SOs outstanding as at 1 June 

2020 were reclassified from “Retired Group Chief Executive and President” to “Other eligible employees and participants”.

(2)  Includes the SOs outstanding as at 1 January 2020 of the retired Group Chief Executive and President, Mr. Mark Edward Tucker.

(3)  The measurement date (i.e. the date used to determine the value of the grants for accounting purposes) for grants made during the year ended 30 
November  2011  was  determined  to  be  15 June  2011. The  measurement  date  for  grants  made  during  the  year  ended  30  November  2012  was 
determined to be 15 March 2012. The measurement date for grants made during the year ended 30 November 2013 was determined to be 11 
March  2013.  The  measurement  date  for  grants  made  during  the  year  ended  30  November  2014  was  determined  to  be  5  March  2014.  The 
measurement date for grants made during the year ended 30 November 2015 was determined to be 12 March 2015. The measurement date for 
grants made during the year ended 30 November 2016 was determined to be 9 March 2016. The measurement dates for grants made during the 
year ended 30 November 2017 were determined to be 10 March 2017 and 31 July 2017. The measurement dates for grants made during the 
thirteen months ended 31 December 2018 were determined to be 15 March 2018 and 12 September 2018. The measurement dates for grants 
made during the year ended 31 December 2019 were determined to be 27 March 2019 and 15 May 2019. The measurement date for grants made 
during the year ended 31 December 2020 was determined to be 25 March 2020. These measurement dates were determined in accordance with 
IFRS 2.

(4)  The closing price of the Company’s shares immediately before the date on which SOs were granted was HK$63.90. The vesting of SOs is service-

based only. Subject to continued employment, all SOs will vest on 25 March 2023.

(5)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 5 March 2017.

(6)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 12 March 2018.

(7)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 9 March 2019.

(8)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 10 March 2020.

(9)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 1 June 2020.

(10)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. Subject to continued employment, all SOs will vest on 15 March 2021.

(11)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. Subject to continued employment, all SOs will vest on 27 March 2022.

(12)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 1 April 2014.

(13)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 15 March 2015.

(14)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. All SOs vested on 11 March 2016.

(15)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. Subject to continued employment, all SOs will vest on 12 September 2021.

(16)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. Subject to continued employment, all SOs will vest on 1 May 2022.

(17)  The vesting of SOs is service-based only. One-third of SOs vested on 1 April 2014, one-third vested on 1 April 2015, and one third vested on 1 April 

2016.

(18)  These SOs lapsed or were reclassified during the year ended 31 December 2020. The reclassification of SOs was a result of the retirement of Mr. 
Ng Keng Hooi as Group Chief Executive and President during the period. There were no SOs cancelled during the year ended 31 December 2020.

(19)  Includes SOs outstanding as at 31 December 2020 that, in accordance with the 2010 SO Scheme rules, will lapse on or before the end of the 

respective periods during which the SOs are exercisable.

EMPLOYEE SHARE PURCHASE PLANS

The 2011 ESPP and the 2020 ESPP (together, ESPPs) are designed to facilitate and encourage long-term AIA 
share ownership by employees and to encourage employee retention.

The Company adopted the 2011 ESPP on 25 July 2011 for a term of 10 years from the date of adoption. In view 
of the pending expiry of the 2011 ESPP, the Company adopted the 2020 ESPP on 1 August 2020 in place of, and 
with substantially the same terms as, the 2011 ESPP. The 2020 ESPP is effective for a period of 10 years from the 
date of adoption. 

Under  the  ESPPs,  eligible  employees  of  the  Group  may  elect  to  purchase  the  Company’s  shares  and,  through 
the grant of matching restricted stock purchase units (RSPUs), receive one matching share for every two shares 
purchased  and  held  until  the  end  of  the  vesting  period.  In  2020,  prior  to  the  adoption  of  the  new  ESPP,  each 
eligible employee’s participation level was capped under the 2011 ESPP at a maximum purchase of the lower of 
8 per cent of his or her base salary or HK$9,750 (or local currency equivalent) per calendar month. Subsequent to 
the adoption of the 2020 ESPP, each eligible employee’s participation level was capped at the lower of 10 per cent 
of his or her base salary or HK$12,500 (or local currency equivalent) per calendar month.

Upon  vesting  of  the  matching  RSPUs,  i.e.,  three  years  from  the  first  share  purchase  date  in  a  plan  year,  those 
employees who are still in employment with the Group will receive one matching share for each RSPU granted to 
him or her. The matching shares can either be provided to recipients through the issuance by the Company of new 
shares or purchased on market by the trustee of the ESPP. 

121

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONThe  aggregate  number  of  shares  which  can  be  issued  by  the  Company  under  the  2011  ESPP  and  2020  ESPP 
during the respective 10-year periods shall not exceed 2.5 per cent of the number of shares in issue on 25 July 
2011 (the 2011 ESPP adoption date) and on 29 May 2020 (the ESPP Reference Date as specified in the 2020 
ESPP rules), respectively. No new shares have been issued under the 2011 ESPP nor the 2020 ESPP since their 
adoption.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, 1,274,789 matching RSPUs were granted, 1,101,823 matching RSPUs 
vested and no new shares were issued for the RSPUs, in each case pursuant to the 2011 ESPP. Since the 2011 
ESPP adoption date and up to 31 December 2020, a cumulative total of 5,657,450 matching RSPUs vested under 
the 2011 ESPP, representing approximately 0.047 per cent of the shares in issue as at the 2011 ESPP adoption 
date. Since the 2020 ESPP adoption date and up to 31 December 2020, a cumulative total of 278,101 matching 
RSPUs were granted, 57 matching RSPUs vested and no new shares were issued for the RSPUs, in each case 
pursuant to the 2020 ESPP. 

For further information on the ESPPs, please refer to note 40 to the financial statements.

DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL EMOLUMENTS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Upon Mr. Ng Keng Hooi’s retirement as Group Chief Executive and President and from the Board, each effective 
31 May 2020, Mr. Lee Yuan Siong assumed the role effective 1 June 2020. Mr. Lee Yuan Siong and Mr. Ng Keng 
Hooi received remuneration exclusively for their role as Group Chief Executive and President for their respective 
appointment period and neither received separate fees for their respective roles as a Board Director or for acting 
as a director of any subsidiary companies.

The table below provides details of annualised target level of remuneration, excluding benefits and allowances, for 
Mr. Lee Yuan Siong and Mr. Ng Keng Hooi as the Group Chief Executive and President.

US$ thousands

Base Salary (2)

Target short-term incentive

Target long-term incentive

Total Annualised Target Pay Opportunity

Annualised Target Pay Opportunity (1)

2020
Mr. Lee Yuan Siong

2020
Mr. Ng Keng Hooi

2019
Mr. Ng Keng Hooi

1,092

1,980

3,960

7,032

1,092

1,980

4,500

7,572

1,080

1,980

3,960

7,020

Notes:
(1)  Upon  Mr.  Ng  Keng  Hooi’s  retirement  as  Group  Chief  Executive  and  President  and  from  the  Board  effective  31  May  2020,  Mr.  Lee  Yuan  Siong 
assumed the role effective 1 June 2020. The target remuneration levels shown in the table above represent the annualised amount for each of  
them  excluding  benefits  and  allowances.  Mr.  Lee  Yuan  Siong  and  Mr.  Ng  Keng  Hooi  also  each  received  an  annualised  housing  allowance  of  
HK$3,000,000 for each of the years 2020 and 2019.

(2)  Mr. Lee Yuan Siong’s base salary represents the annualised amount as of his date of appointment, and Mr. Ng Keng Hooi’s base salary represents 
the annualised amount as of 1 March (being the annual review salary effective date) for each of the years 2020 and 2019. Base salaries are paid 
in Hong Kong Dollars and converted to U.S. dollars using exchange rates as of the end of each year. 

Details of the actual remuneration costs incurred by the Company during the year ended 31 December 2020 in 
relation to the Group Chief Executive and President are included in note 41 to the financial statements.

122

AIA GROUP LIMITEDCORPORATE GOVERNANCEREMUNERATION REPORTNON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Remuneration for the Non-executive Directors was paid during the year ended 31 December 2020 and included 
fees for their services provided to the Board Committees. All remuneration of the Non-executive Directors was on 
a flat annual fee basis, with no variable component linked to either corporate or individual performance.

Details  of  the  Non-executive  Directors’  remuneration  cost  incurred  by  the  Company  during  the  year  ended  
31 December 2020 are included in note 41 to the financial statements.

Board Chairman
As previously approved by the Board, the Board Chairman Basic Fees, inclusive of Board Membership fee, was 
US$600,000 per annum for the year ended 31 December 2020.

Non-executive Directors
Board Membership fees for the Non-executive Directors were US$168,000 per annum effective 1 January 2020, 
which is similar to market rates provided by our global insurance peers.

Additional  annual  fees  for  Committee  Membership  and  Chair  positions  are  also  provided  to  the  Non-executive 
Directors as follows:

Audit Committee

Nomination Committee

Remuneration Committee

Risk Committee

Chair

US$55,000

US$25,000

US$45,000

US$45,000

Member

US$40,000

US$15,000

US$30,000

US$30,000

KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
The total remuneration cost charged to the consolidated income statement for the Key Management Personnel 
during year ended 31 December 2020 was US$62,478,862.

Details of remuneration provided during the year ended 31 December 2020 are included in note 41 to the financial 
statements.

123

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION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 repurchase agreements
32.  Offsetting of financial assets and 

financial liabilities

33. Provisions
34.  Other liabilities
35.  Share capital and reserves
36.  Non-controlling interests 
37.  Group capital structure
38.  Risk management
39.  Employee benefits
40.  Share-based compensation
41.  Remuneration of directors and 
key management personnel

42.  Related party transactions
43.  Commitments and contingencies
44. Subsidiaries
45.  Events after the reporting period
46.  Statement of financial position of the Company
47.  Statement of changes in equity of the Company
48.  Effect of adoption of revised accounting policies

265  Independent Auditor’s Report on  
the Supplementary Embedded  
Value Information

269  Supplementary Embedded  

Value Information

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

125  Independent Auditor’s Report

132  Consolidated Income Statement

133  Consolidated Statement of  
Comprehensive Income

134  Consolidated Statement of  

Financial Position

136  Consolidated Statement of  

Changes in Equity

138  Consolidated Statement of  

Cash Flows

140  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.  Change in Group composition
6.  Premiums and fee income
7.  Operating profit after tax
8.  Total weighted premium income and  

annualised new premiums

9.  Segment information
10.  Revenue
11.  Expenses
12.  Income tax
13.  Earnings per share
14.  Dividends
15.  Intangible assets
16.  Investments in associates and joint ventures
17.  Property, plant and equipment
18.  Investment property
19.  Reinsurance assets
20.  Deferred acquisition and origination costs
21.  Financial investments
22.  Derivative financial instruments
23.  Fair value measurement
24.  Other assets

124

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF AIA GROUP LIMITED
(incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability)

Opinion
What we have audited
The consolidated financial statements of AIA Group Limited (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries 
(the “Group”) set out on pages 132 to 264, which comprise:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 December 2020;

the consolidated income statement for the year then ended;

the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended;

the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended;

the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended; and

the notes to the consolidated financial statements, which include a summary of significant 
accounting policies.

Our opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the consolidated 
financial  position  of  the  Group  as  at  31  December  2020,  and  of  its  consolidated  financial 
performance and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Hong 
Kong Financial Reporting Standards (“HKFRSs”) issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified 
Public Accountants (“HKICPA”) and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) issued 
by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and have been properly prepared in 
compliance with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.

Basis for Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with Hong Kong Standards on Auditing (“HKSAs”) issued 
by the HKICPA. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s 
Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements section of our report.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a 
basis for our opinion.

Independence
We are independent of the Group in accordance with the HKICPA’s Code of Ethics for Professional 
Accountants (“the Code”), and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance 
with the Code.

125

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORTANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONKey Audit Matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance 
in our audit of the consolidated financial statements of the current period. These matters were 
addressed in the context of our audit of the consolidated financial statements as a whole, and in 
forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

The key audit matters identified relate to the valuation of insurance contract liabilities and the 
amortisation of deferred acquisition costs (“DAC”).

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

a)  Valuation of insurance contract liabilities

Refer  to  the  following  notes  in  the  consolidated  financial  statements:  Note  2.4  for  related 
accounting policies, Note 3 for critical accounting estimates and judgements, Note 27, Note 29 
and Note 48 for the effect of adoption of revised accounting policies.

As  at  31  December  2020,  the  Group  has 
insurance  contract  liabilities  of  US$223,071 
million.

We tested how management made the estimate 
and performed audit procedures including the 
following:

(cid:127)  We understood the valuation methodologies 
used,  identified  changes  in  methodologies 
from  previous  valuation  and  assessed  the 
reasonableness  and 
impact  of  material 
changes identified, by applying our industry 
knowledge  and  experience  to  compare 
whether the methodologies and changes to 
those  are  consistent  with 
recognised 
actuarial practices and expectation derived 
from market experience.

(cid:127)  We assessed the reasonableness of the key 
assumptions  including  those  for  mortality, 
morbidity, persistency, expense, investment 
return and valuation interest rates as well as 
the  provision  for  adverse  deviation.  Our 
assessment of the assumptions included:

(cid:127)  Obtaining  an  understanding  of,  and 
to 

in  place 

testing, 
determine the assumptions;

the  controls 

(cid:127)  Examining 

the  approach  used  by 
management to derive the assumptions 
by applying our industry knowledge and 
experience;

involves 

liabilities 

The  Director’s  valuation  of  these  insurance 
contract 
significant 
judgement about uncertain future outcomes, 
including  mortality,  morbidity,  persistency, 
expense, investment return, valuation interest 
rates  and  provision  for  adverse  deviation,  as 
well  as  complex  valuation  methodologies. 
Therefore,  these  liabilities  are  subject  to 
significant  estimation  uncertainty  and  the 
is  considered 
associated 
significant.

inherent 

risk 

policies  with 

The liabilities for traditional participating life 
discretionary 
assurance 
participation  features  and  non-participating 
life assurance policies, annuities and policies 
related  to  other  protection  products  are 
substantially  determined  by  a  net 
level 
premium  valuation  method  using  best 
estimate  assumptions  at  policy  inception 
adjusted 
for  adverse  deviation.  These 
assumptions  remain  locked  in  thereafter, 
subject  to  meeting  a  liability  adequacy  test 
which compares the liabilities with a valuation 
on current best estimate assumptions.

126

AIA GROUP LIMITEDKey Audit Matters (continued)

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

a)  Valuation of insurance contract liabilities (continued)

During the reporting period, the Group revised 
its  accounting  policy  with  respect  to  the 
recognition  and  measurement  of  insurance 
contract 
(“revised  accounting 
policy”)  of  a  type  of  traditional  participating 
life policies.

liabilities 

Insurance contract liabilities for universal life 
and  unit-linked  policies  are  substantially 
based  on  the  value  of  the  account  balance 
together with liabilities for unearned revenue 
and  additional  insurance  benefits  which  are 
dependent  upon  operating  assumptions  and 
future investment return assumptions that are 
reassessed at each reporting period.

As part of our consideration of assumptions, 
we have focused on those insurance contracts 
where  the  assumptions  are  reassessed  at 
each 
reporting  date  as  well  as  how 
assumptions are set at policy inception dates.

We have, in relation to valuation methodologies 
used,  focused  on  changes  in  methodologies 
from  the  previous  valuation  as  well  as 
to  material  new 
methodologies  applied 
product types (as applicable).

(cid:127)  Challenging  the  key  assumptions  used 
by management against past experience, 
market  observable  data  (as  applicable) 
and our experience of market practice.

(cid:127)  Regarding the revised accounting for a type 
of  traditional  participating  life  policies,  we 
discussed with management and evaluated 
the rationale for and appropriateness of the 
change in accounting policy. We also tested 
the  key  assumptions  and  methodology 
applied  to  calculate  the  restated  balances 
and evaluated the associated disclosures.

(cid:127)  We  checked  the  calculation  of  the  liability 
adequacy  test  and  assessed  the  related 
results  in  order  to  ascertain  whether  the 
insurance  contract  liabilities  used  for  the 
inforce business are adequate in the context 
of  a  valuation  on  current  best  estimate 
assumptions.

Based upon the work performed, we found the 
methodologies  and  assumptions  used  by 
management to be appropriate, including those 
used in the liability adequacy test.

127

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONKey Audit Matters (continued)

Key audit matter

b)  Amortisation of DAC

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Refer  to  the  following  notes  in  the  consolidated  financial  statements:  Note  2.4.1  for  related 
accounting policies, Note 3.3 for critical accounting estimates and judgements, Note 11 and 
Note 20.

We tested how management made the estimate 
and performed audit procedures including the 
following:

and 

accounting  policy 

(cid:127)  Reviewed  and  challenged  the  basis  of 
amortisation  of  DAC  in  the  context  of  the 
Group’s 
the 
appropriateness of the assumptions used in 
determining  the  estimated  gross  profits 
used for amortisation for universal life and 
unit-linked policies. This included those for 
mortality,  morbidity,  persistency,  expense 
investment  returns  by  comparing 
and 
against past experience, market observable 
data  (as  applicable)  and  our  experience  of 
market practice.

Based upon the work performed, we found the 
assumptions used in relation to the amortisation 
of DAC for universal life and unit-linked policies 
to be appropriate.

As  at  31  December  2020,  the  Group  has 
reported DAC of US$27,915 million.

DAC for traditional life insurance policies and 
annuities are amortised over the expected life 
of  the  policies  as  a  constant  percentage  of 
premiums and involve less judgement by the 
Directors compared to universal life and unit-
linked  policies.  Expected  premiums  are 
estimated at the date of policy issue.

policies 

involves 

The amortisation of DAC for universal life and 
greater 
unit-linked 
judgement  by  the  Directors.  For  these 
contracts, DAC is 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  are  revised  regularly 
and  significant  judgement  is  exercised  in 
making appropriate estimates of gross profits. 
Therefore,  the  determination  of  amortisation 
of  DAC  for  these  contracts  are  subject  to 
significant  estimation  uncertainty  and  the 
associated 
is  considered 
significant.

inherent 

risk 

As part of our audit we have focused on DAC 
life  and  unit-linked 
related  to  universal 
policies  where 
are 
reassessed at each reporting date.

assumptions 

the 

128

AIA GROUP LIMITEDOther Information
The Directors of the Company are responsible for the other information. The other information 
comprises all of the information included in the annual report other than the consolidated financial 
statements and our auditor’s report thereon.

Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we 
do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read 
the  other  information  and,  in  doing  so,  consider  whether  the  other  information  is  materially 
inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or 
otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of 
this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

Other Matter
The  Group  has  prepared  Supplementary  Embedded  Value  Information  as  at  and  for  the  year 
ended 31 December 2020 in accordance with the embedded value basis of preparation set out in 
Sections  4  and  5  of  the  Supplementary  Embedded  Value  Information,  on  which  we  issued  a 
separate auditor’s report to the Board of Directors of the Company dated 12 March 2021.

Responsibilities of Directors and Those Charged with Governance for the Consolidated 
Financial Statements
The Directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial 
statements that give a true and fair view in accordance with HKFRSs issued by the HKICPA and 
IFRSs issued by the 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.

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing 
the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to 
going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Directors either intend 
to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Those  charged  with  governance  are  responsible  for  overseeing  the  Group’s  financial  reporting 
process.

129

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONAuditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements
Our  objectives  are  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the  consolidated  financial 
statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to 
issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. We report our opinion solely to you, as a body, 
in accordance with Section 405 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. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an 
audit conducted in accordance with HKSAs will always detect a material misstatement when it 
exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or 
in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users 
taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.

As part of an audit in accordance with HKSAs, we exercise professional judgement and maintain 
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

(cid:127) 

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, 
whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, 
and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 
The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one 
resulting  from  error,  as  fraud  may  involve  collusion,  forgery,  intentional  omissions, 
misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

(cid:127)  Obtain  an  understanding  of  internal  control  relevant  to  the  audit  in  order  to  design  audit 
procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an 
opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control.

(cid:127)  Evaluate  the  appropriateness  of  accounting  policies  used  and  the  reasonableness  of 

accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Directors.

(cid:127)  Conclude on the appropriateness of the Directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting 
and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to 
events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a 
going  concern.  If  we  conclude  that  a  material  uncertainty  exists,  we  are  required  to  draw 
attention  in  our  auditor’s  report  to  the  related  disclosures  in  the  consolidated  financial 
statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are 
based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future 
events or conditions may cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.

(cid:127)  Evaluate  the  overall  presentation,  structure  and  content  of  the  consolidated  financial 
statements,  including  the  disclosures,  and  whether  the  consolidated  financial  statements 
represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

(cid:127)  Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities 
or  business  activities  within  the  Group  to  express  an  opinion  on  the  consolidated  financial 
statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group 
audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

130

AIA GROUP LIMITEDAuditor’s  Responsibilities  for  the  Audit  of  the  Consolidated  Financial  Statements 

(continued)
We  communicate  with  those  charged  with  governance  regarding,  among  other  matters,  the 
planned  scope  and  timing  of  the  audit  and  significant  audit  findings,  including  any  significant 
deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with 
relevant  ethical  requirements  regarding  independence,  and  to  communicate  with  them  all 
relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and 
where applicable, actions taken to eliminate threats or safeguards applied.

From  the  matters  communicated  with  those  charged  with  governance,  we  determine  those 
matters that were of most significance in the audit of the consolidated financial statements of the 
current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s 
report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely 
rare  circumstances,  we  determine  that  a  matter  should  not  be  communicated  in  our  report 
because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the 
public interest benefits of such communication.

The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Ling Tung 
Man, Tom.

PricewaterhouseCoopers
Certified Public Accountants

Hong Kong
12 March 2021

131

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONUS$m

REVENUE

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 losses from associates and joint ventures

Share of losses from associates and joint ventures

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

Notes

6

10

10

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

35,780

(2,452)

33,328

16,707

324

50,359

36,865

(2,126)

34,739

4,402

2,695

292

944

34,777

(2,166)

32,611

14,350

281

47,242

34,068

(1,940)

32,128

4,283

2,468

283

845

11

43,072

40,007

7,287

(17)

7,270

(171)

7,099

(1,491)

171

(1,320)

5,779

5,779

–

0.48

0.48

7,235

(8)

7,227

(179)

7,048

(1,209)

179

(1,030)

6,018

5,979

39

0.50

0.50

12

13

13

132

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTAIA GROUP LIMITEDUS$m

Net profit

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

Fair value gains on available for sale financial assets 

(net of tax of: 2020: US$(198)m; 2019: US$(1,278)m)(2)

Fair value gains on available for sale financial assets transferred to income on disposal 

(net of tax of: 2020: US$98m; 2019: US$66m)(2)

Foreign currency translation adjustments

Cash flow hedges

Share of other comprehensive expense from associates and joint ventures

Subtotal

Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

Revaluation (losses)/gains on property held for own use 

(net of tax of: 2020: US$(1)m; 2019: US$(11)m)

Effect of remeasurement of net liability of defined benefit schemes 

(net of tax of: 2020: US$1m; 2019: US$3m)

Subtotal

Total other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019
(As adjusted)

5,779

6,018

4,865

9,773

(1,345)

951

6

(14)

4,463

(46)

(8)

(54)

4,409

10,188

10,163

25

(545)

619

3

(1)

9,849

154

(24)

130

9,979

15,997

15,926

71

Notes:
(1)  Where applicable, amounts are presented net of tax, policyholders’ participation and other shadow accounting related movements.
(2)  Gross of tax, policyholders’ participation and other shadow accounting related movements, US$8,212m (2019: US$14,173m) relates to the fair 
value gains on available for sale financial assets and US$1,443m (2019: US$611m) relates to the fair value gains on available for sale financial 
assets transferred to income on disposal during the year.

133

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOMEANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
US$m

ASSETS

Intangible assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

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 repurchase agreements

Derivative financial instruments

Provisions

Deferred tax liabilities

Current tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Notes

15

16

17

18

19

20

21, 23

22

12

24

26

27

28

30

31

22

33

12

34

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

As at 
31 December 
2018 
(As adjusted)

2,634

606

2,722

4,639

4,560

2,520

615

2,865

4,834

3,833

1,970

610

1,233

4,794

2,887

27,915

26,328

24,626

9,335

10,086

7,392

165,106

138,852

112,485

36,775

59,182

1,069

33,132

50,322

971

27,736

38,099

430

271,467

233,363

186,142

23

103

5,833

5,619

23

205

5,605

3,941

26

164

4,903

2,451

326,121

284,132

229,806

223,071

12,881

192,181

12,273

8,559

1,664

1,003

230

6,902

346

7,797

5,757

1,826

412

225

6,214

432

9,417

163,308

7,885

4,954

1,683

243

168

4,193

532

5,984

262,453

228,737

188,950

134

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONAIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
US$m

EQUITY

Share capital

Employee share-based trusts

Other reserves

Retained earnings

  Fair value reserve

  Foreign currency translation reserve

  Property revaluation reserve

  Others

Amounts reflected in other comprehensive income

Total equity attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

As at 
31 December 
2018 
(As adjusted)

Notes

35

35

35

35

35

35

36

14,155

(155)

14,129

(220)

14,073

(258)

(11,891)

(11,887)

(11,910)

44,704

15,170

233

1,027

(43)

40,922

11,669

(698)

1,073

(41)

16,387

12,003

63,200

468

63,668

326,121

54,947

448

55,395

284,132

36,880

2,458

(1,301)

534

(20)

1,671

40,456

400

40,856

229,806

Approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 12 March 2021.

Lee Yuan Siong

Director

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Director

135

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONNotes

Share 
capital

Employee 
share-
based 
trusts

Other 
reserves

Retained 
earnings

Other comprehensive income

Fair 
value 
reserve

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

Property 
revaluation 
reserve

Non-
controlling 
interests

Others

Total 
equity

14,129

(220)

(11,887)

40,372

14,663

(698)

1,163

(14)

448

57,956

US$m

Balance at 1 January 2020, 
  as previously reported

Retrospective adjustments 
for change in accounting 

  policy

48

–

–

–

550

(2,994)

–

(90)

(27)

–

(2,561)

Balance at 1 January 2020, 
  as adjusted

Net profit

Fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets(2)

Fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets 
transferred to income on 

  disposal(2)

Foreign currency translation 
  adjustments

Cash flow hedges

Share of other 
  comprehensive expense 
from associates and 
joint ventures

Revaluation losses on 
  property held for 
  own use

Effect of remeasurement 
  of net liability of defined 
  benefit schemes

Total comprehensive 

income/(expense) for 
the year

Dividends

14

Shares issued under share 
  option scheme and 
  agency share purchase 
  plan

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

14,129

(220)

(11,887)

40,922

11,669

(698)

1,073

(41)

448

55,395

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

26

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3)

80

(16)

–

81

(81)

5,779

–

–

4,850

(1,345)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

941

–

(4)

(10)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(46)

–

–

–

–

6

–

–

–

(8)

–

5,779

15

4,865

–

(1,345)

10

–

951

6

–

–

–

(14)

(46)

(8)

5,779

3,501

(1,997)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

931

–

(46)

–

(2)

–

25

(5)

10,188

(2,002)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

26

(3)

80

(16)

–

Balance at 31 December 2020

14,155

(155)

(11,891)

44,704

15,170

233

1,027

(43)

468

63,668

Notes:
(1)  Where applicable, amounts are presented net of tax, policyholders’ participation and other shadow accounting related movements.
(2)  Gross of tax, policyholders’ participation and other shadow accounting related movements, US$8,212m relates to the fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets and US$1,443m relates to the fair value gains on available for sale financial assets transferred to income on disposal 
during the year ended 31 December 2020.

136

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITYAIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes

Share 
capital

Employee 
share-
based 
trusts

Other 
reserves

Retained 
earnings

Other comprehensive income

Fair 
value 
reserve

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

Property 
revaluation 
reserve

Non-
controlling 
interests

Others

Total 
equity

14,073

(258)

(11,910)

35,661

2,211

(1,301)

1,020

(8)

400

39,888

48

–

–

–

1,219

247

–

(77)

(12)

–

1,377

14,073

(258)

(11,910)

36,880

2,458

(1,301)

943

(20)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

56

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(6)

88

(21)

–

59

(59)

5,979

–

–

9,747

–

–

–

–

–

–

(545)

–

–

9

–

–

5,979

9,211

(1,961)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

24

–

–

–

613

–

(10)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

154

–

–

–

–

3

–

–

–

(24)

400

39

41,265

6,018

26

9,773

–

6

–

–

–

–

(545)

619

3

(1)

154

(24)

603

–

154

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(24)

(21)

71

15,997

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(21)

(1,982)

–

(2)

–

–

–

–

56

(8)

88

(21)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

US$m

Balance at 1 January 2019, 
  as previously reported(3)

Retrospective adjustments 
for change in accounting 

  policy(3)

Balance at 1 January 2019, 
  as adjusted(3)

Net profit

Fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets(2)

Fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets 
transferred to income on 

  disposal(2)

Foreign currency translation 
  adjustments

Cash flow hedges

Share of other 
  comprehensive 

income/(expense) from 

  associates and joint 
  ventures

Revaluation gains on 
  property held for 
  own use

Effect of remeasurement 
  of net liability of defined 
  benefit schemes

Total comprehensive 

income/(expense) for 
the year

Dividends

14

Shares issued under share 
  option scheme and 
  agency share purchase 
  plan

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

Revaluation reserve 

transferred to retained 

  earnings on disposal

Balance at 31 December 2019 
  – As adjusted

14,129

(220)

(11,887)

40,922

11,669

(698)

1,073

(41)

448

55,395

Notes:
(1)  Where applicable, amounts are presented net of tax, policyholders’ participation and other shadow accounting related movements.
(2)  Gross of tax, policyholders’ participation and other shadow accounting related movements, US$14,173m relates to the fair value gains on available 
for sale financial assets and US$611m relates to the fair value gains on available for sale financial assets transferred to income on disposal during 
the year ended 31 December 2019.

(3)  The  balances  at  1  January  2019  previously  reported  reflect  an  opening  adjustment  on  adoption  of  IFRS  16,  as  previously  disclosed  in  the 
consolidated financial statements in the Group’s Annual Report 2019, which increased property revaluation reserve and total equity by US$482m. 
This opening adjustment reduced by $73m as a result of the retrospective adjustments for change in accounting policy described in note 48. 
Excluding the net IFRS 16 opening adjustment of US$409m, total equity as at 1 January 2019 was US$40,856m.

137

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITYANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

Notes

US$m

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Profit before tax

Adjustments for:

  Financial investments

Insurance and investment contract liabilities, and deferred 
  acquisition and origination costs

  Obligations under repurchase and securities lending agreements

  Reinsurance commission related to acquisition of subsidiaries

  Other non-cash operating items, including investment income and 

the effect of exchange rate changes on certain operating items

  Operating cash items:

Interest received

  Dividends received

Interest paid

  Tax paid

Net cash provided by operating activities

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Payments for intangible assets

Distribution or dividend from associates

Payments for increase in interest of joint ventures

Proceeds from sales of investment property and 
  property, plant and equipment

Payments for 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

Issuances of medium-term notes and securities

Redemption of medium-term notes

Proceeds from other borrowings

Repayment of other borrowings

Acquisition of non-controlling interests

Payments for lease liabilities(1)

Interest paid on medium-term notes

Dividends paid during the year

31

5

15

16

16

17, 18

17, 18

5

30

30

30

30

Purchase of shares held by employee share-based trusts

Shares issued under share option scheme and agency share purchase plan

Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities

Net increase 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

Note:
(1)  The total cash outflow for leases for the year ended 31 December 2020 was US$187m (2019: US$191m).

138

7,270

7,227

(26,100)

(22,708)

23,159

19,499

(280)

(131)

152

632

(8,510)

(8,220)

7,054

961

(39)

(1,027)

2,357

(254)

3

(9)

–

(120)

(839)

(1,219)

2,792

–

934

(934)

(3)

(180)

(225)

6,668

884

(60)

(737)

3,337

(169)

3

(8)

190

(106)

(155)

(245)

1,301

(500)

1,559

(1,561)

(8)

(157)

(207)

(2,002)

(1,982)

(16)

26

392

1,530

3,753

110

5,393

(21)

56

(1,520)

1,572

2,146

35

3,753

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSAIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents in the above consolidated statement of cash flows can be further analysed as follows:

US$m

Cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated statement of financial position

Bank overdrafts

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS IN THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT 
  OF CASH FLOWS

Note

26

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

5,619

(226)

3,941

(188)

5,393

3,753

139

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION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 18 markets. 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  all  applicable  Hong  Kong  Financial 
Reporting  Standards  (HKFRS),  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  (IFRS)  and  the  Hong  Kong  Companies 
Ordinance. IFRS is substantially consistent with HKFRS 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 HKFRS and IFRS. 
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 not any differences of accounting practice between HKFRS and IFRS affecting these consolidated 
financial statements.

The consolidated financial statements have been approved for issue by the Board of Directors on 12 March 2021.

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, derivative financial instruments, property held for own use and investment properties, 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 Company’s functional currency 
and the presentation currency of the Company and the Group is the US dollar. The consolidated financial statements are 
presented in millions of US dollars (US$m) unless otherwise stated.

The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous financial year, except as described as follows 
and in note 48.

140

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIESAIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance (continued)
(a) The following standard and amendments are effective for the financial year ended 31 December 2020, but the Group 

has elected to apply the temporary exemption described further below:

(cid:127) 

IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, addresses the classification, measurement and recognition of financial assets and 
financial liabilities. IFRS 9 requires financial assets to be classified into separate measurement categories: those 
measured as at fair value with changes either recognised in profit or loss (FVTPL) or in other comprehensive income 
(FVOCI) and those measured at amortised cost. The determination is made at initial recognition depending on the 
entity’s business model for managing its financial instruments and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the 
instrument. An option is also available at initial recognition to irrevocably designate a financial asset that otherwise 
meets  the  requirements  to  be  measured  at  amortised  cost  or  at  FVOCI  as  at  FVTPL  if  doing  so  eliminates  or 
significantly reduces an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise. In addition, a revised Expected Credit 
Loss (ECL) model replaces the incurred loss impairment model under IAS 39. 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 IASB made 
further changes to two areas of IFRS 9. Financial assets containing prepayment features with negative compensation 
can be measured at amortised cost or at FVOCI if the cash flow represents solely payments of principal and interest 
and the financial assets are held within a business model of “hold to collect” or “hold to collect and sell”. Non-
substantial modifications or exchange of financial liabilities that do not result in derecognition will be required to be 
recognised in profit or loss. The Group is conducting a detailed assessment of the new standard.

The  standard  is  mandatorily  effective  for  financial  periods  beginning  on  or  after  1  January  2018  (except  for 
prepayment features with negative compensation and modifications or exchange of financial liabilities that do not 
result  in  derecognition  which  are  effective  for  financial  periods  beginning  on  or  after  1  January  2019),  but  the 
Group qualifies for a temporary exemption as explained below.

(cid:127)  On 12 September 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 4, Insurance Contracts, Applying IFRS 9 Financial 
Instruments with IFRS 4, which provides two alternative measures to address the different effective dates of IFRS 
9 and IFRS 17, Insurance Contracts. These measures include a temporary option (known as the “deferral approach”) 
for companies whose activities are predominantly connected with insurance to defer the effective date of IFRS 9 
until the earlier of the effective date of IFRS 17 and financial reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 
2021, as well as an approach that allows an entity to remove from profit or loss the effects of certain accounting 
mismatches that may occur before IFRS 17 is applied. On 25 June 2020, the IASB issued the amendments to IFRS 
4 and IFRS 17, the effective date of IFRS 17 will be deferred to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 
January  2023,  and  that  the  exemption  currently  in  place  for  some  insurers,  including  the  Group,  regarding  the 
application of IFRS 9 will be extended to enable the implementation of both IFRS 9 and IFRS 17 at the same time.

141

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance (continued)
(a) The following standard and amendments are effective for the financial year ended 31 December 2020, but the Group 

has elected to apply the temporary exemption described further below: (continued)

The Group performed an initial eligibility assessment and met the IFRS 9 requirements for the deferral approach, 
and accordingly has decided to apply IFRS 9 to annual reporting periods beginning 1 January 2023. Subsequent to 
the initial eligibility assessment, there has been no change in the Group’s activities that requires a reassessment of 
the eligibility test. Further details on the eligibility assessment are contained in the consolidated financial statements 
in  the  Group’s  Annual  Report  2019.  Additional  information  on  financial  assets  in  relation  to  the  election  of  the 
deferral approach is illustrated per below:

Financial assets of the Group are separated into the following two groups:

(i)  financial assets with contractual terms that give rise to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and 
interest on the principal amount outstanding (SPPI) in accordance with IFRS 9 and are not held for trading or 
managed on fair value basis; and

(ii) all financial assets other than those specified in (i).

The following tables show the fair value and change in fair value of these two groups of financial assets:

Fair value as at 31 December 2020

Change in fair value for the year ended 
31 December 2020

Financial assets that 
met SPPI criteria and 
not held for trading or 
managed on 
fair value basis

Financial assets that 
met SPPI criteria and 
not held for trading or 
managed on 
fair value basis

Others

Total

Others

Total

US$m

Debt securities

192,362

9,519

201,881

Other financial assets

13,001(1) 60,397(2)

73,398

Total(3)

205,363

69,916

275,279

9,181

–

9,181

223

6,394

6,617

9,404

6,394

15,798

Fair value as at 31 December 2019

Change in fair value for the year ended 
31 December 2019

Financial assets that 
met SPPI criteria and 
not held for trading or 
managed on 
fair value basis

Financial assets that 
met SPPI criteria and 
not held for trading or 
managed on 
fair value basis

Others

Total

Others

Total

US$m

Debt securities

162,997

8,987

171,984

15,266

189

15,455

Other financial assets

13,842(1)

50,881(2)

64,723

Total(3)

176,839

59,868

236,707

–

15,266

4,990

5,179

4,990

20,445

Notes:
(1)  Balance of other financial assets qualifying as SPPI includes loans and deposits, other receivables, accrued investment income and cash 

and cash equivalents.

(2)  Balance predominantly represents equity securities, derivative financial instruments and cash equivalents.
(3)  Certain  financial  assets  included  within  the  consolidated  financial  statements,  including  policy  loans  under  loans  and  deposits, 
reinsurance  receivables  and  insurance  receivables  under  other  receivables  amounting  to  US$6,348m  (2019:  US$5,561m)  are  not 
included above since they will be accounted for under IFRS 17 where its adoption is in parallel with IFRS 9.

The financial assets presented above that met SPPI criteria and not held for trading or managed on fair value basis 
are primarily debt securities. Additional information on the credit quality analysis of these debt securities is provided 
in note 21.

142

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance (continued)
(a) The following standard and amendments are effective for the financial year ended 31 December 2020, but the Group 

has elected to apply the temporary exemption described further below: (continued)

(cid:127)  The Company is not eligible for the deferral approach in its separate financial statements since the Company did not 

meet the eligibility criteria for the temporary exemption.

IFRS 9 categorises financial assets into three principal classification categories: measured at amortised cost, at 
FVOCI and at FVTPL. These supersede IAS 39’s categories of held to maturity investments, loans and receivables, 
available for sale financial assets and financial assets measured at FVTPL. The classification of financial assets 
under IFRS 9 is based on the business model under which the financial asset is managed and its contractual cash 
flow characteristics. In addition, on initial recognition the Company may irrevocably designate a financial asset that 
otherwise meets the requirements to be measured at amortised cost or at FVOCI as at FVTPL if doing so eliminates 
or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise. The classification and measurement 
categories for financial liabilities have remained the same.

IFRS 9 replaces the “incurred loss” model in IAS 39 with a forward-looking ECL model. The ECL model requires an 
ongoing measurement of credit risk associated with a financial asset and therefore recognises ECLs earlier than 
under  the  “incurred  loss”  accounting  model  in  IAS  39.  The  new  impairment  model  applies  to  financial  assets 
measured at amortised cost and debt securities at FVOCI.

The statement of financial position and statement of changes in equity of the Company are disclosed in notes 46 
and 47 of the Group’s consolidated financial statements, respectively.

(b) The following relevant new amendments to standards have been adopted for the first time for the financial year ended 

31 December 2020 and have no material impact to the Group:

(cid:127)  Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8, Definition of Material;

(cid:127)  Amendments to IAS 39 and IFRS 7, Interest Rate Benchmark Reform; and

(cid:127)  Amendments to IFRS 3, Definition of a Business.

(c) The  following  relevant  new  amendments  to  standards  have  been  issued  but  are  not  effective  for  the  financial  year 
ended 31 December 2020 and have not been early adopted (the financial years for which the adoption is required for 
the Group are stated in parentheses). The Group has assessed the impact of these new amendments 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:

(cid:127)  Amendment to IAS 1, Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-Current (2023);

(cid:127)  Amendments to IAS 1 and IFRS Practice Statement 2, Disclosure of Accounting Policies (2023);

(cid:127)  Amendments to IAS 8, Definition of Accounting Estimates (2023);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IAS 16, Proceeds before Intended Use (2022);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IAS 37, Cost of Fulfilling a Contract (2022);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IAS 41, Taxation in Fair Value Measurements (2022);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IFRS 1, Subsidiary as a First-time Adopter (2022);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IFRS 3, Reference to the Conceptual Framework (2022);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IFRS 9, Fees in the ‘10 per cent’ Test for Derecognition of Financial Liabilities (2022);

(cid:127)  Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39, IFRS 7, IFRS 4 and IFRS 16 – Interest Rate Benchmark Reform Phase 2 (2021);

(cid:127)  Amendment to IFRS 16, Covid-19-Related Rent Concessions (2021); and

(cid:127)  Amendment to IFRS 16, Lease Incentives (2022).

143

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.1 Basis of preparation and statement of compliance (continued)
(d) The following relevant new standard has been issued but is not effective for the financial year ended 31 December 

2020 and has not been early adopted:

(cid:127) 

IFRS 17, Insurance Contracts (previously IFRS 4 Phase II) will replace the current IFRS 4, Insurance Contracts. IFRS 
17  includes  fundamental  differences  to  current  accounting  in  both  insurance  contract  measurement  and  profit 
recognition. The general model is based on a discounted cash flow model with a risk adjustment and deferral of 
unearned profits. A separate approach applies to insurance contracts that are linked to returns on underlying items 
and meet certain requirements. Additionally, IFRS 17 requires more granular information and a new presentation 
format for the statement of comprehensive income as well as extensive disclosures. On 12 December 2017, the 
Hong  Kong  Institute  of  Certified  Public  Accountants  (HKICPA)  approved  the  issuance  of  HKFRS  17,  Insurance 
Contracts. On 25 June 2020, the IASB issued the amendments to IFRS 17 and the effective date of IFRS 17 will be 
deferred  to  annual  reporting  periods  beginning  on  or  after  1  January  2023.  In  October  2020,  the  HKICPA  has 
finalised  the  endorsement  of,  and  issued,  equivalent  Amendments  to  HKFRS  17.  The  Group  is  in  the  midst  of 
conducting a detailed assessment of the new standard.

(e) Voluntary change in accounting policy

During the reporting period, the Group revised its accounting policy with respect to the recognition and measurement 
of insurance contract liabilities of other participating business with distinct portfolios. Prior to this change in accounting 
policy, the Group recognised and measured the insurance contract liabilities for this business based on the present 
value of guaranteed benefits and  non-guaranteed participation less  estimated future net premiums to be collected 
from  policyholders.  With  effect  from  1  January  2020,  and  applied  retrospectively,  the  Group  now  recognises  and 
measures the insurance contract liabilities for this business based on the present value of guaranteed benefits less 
estimated future net premiums to be collected from policyholders. In addition, an insurance contract liability is recorded 
for the proportion of the net assets of this other participating business with distinct portfolios 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 policyholder participation. This approach is consistent with the existing 
accounting  for  insurance  contract  liabilities  arising  from  participating  business.  The  allocation  of  benefit  from  the 
assets held in such other participating business with distinct portfolios is set according to the underlying bonus rule as 
determined  by  the  relevant  Board  based  on  applicable  regulatory  requirements  after  considering  the  Appointed 
Actuary’s recommendation. The extent of such policyholder participation may change over time.

The impacts of this voluntary change in accounting policy are described in note 48.

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.  The  Company’s  statement  of  financial 
position  and  the  statement  of  changes  in  equity,  as  set  out  in  notes  46  and  47  respectively,  have  been  prepared  in 
accordance with the Group’s accounting policies, except for the accounting policies in respect of the Company’s investments 
as set out in note 2.3 and financial instruments as set out in note 2.5.5.

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”. Operating profit includes among others the expected long-term 
investment  returns  for  investments  in  equities  and  real  estate  based  on  the  assumptions  applied  by  the  Group  in  the 
Supplementary  Embedded  Value  Information.  The  Group  defines  operating  profit  after  tax  as  net  profit  excluding  the 
following non-operating items:

(cid:127)  short-term fluctuations between expected and actual investment returns related to equities and real estate;

(cid:127)  other investment return (including short-term fluctuations due to market factors); and

(cid:127)  other significant items that management considers to be non-operating income and expenses.

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.

144

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.3 Basis of consolidation
Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are all entities (including structured entities) over which the Group has control. A structured entity is an entity 
that has been designed so that voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, such 
as when any voting rights relate to administrative tasks only, and the relevant activities are directed by means of contractual 
arrangements. The Group has determined that the investment funds and structured securities, such as collateralised debt 
obligations, mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities that the Group has an interest are structured 
entities.

The Group controls an entity when the Group is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the 
entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. 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.

Investment funds
Investment funds in which the Group has interests and power to direct their relevant activities that affect the return of the 
funds  are  consolidated  in  the  financial  statements.  In  conducting  the  assessment,  the  Group  considers  substantive 
contractual rights as well as de facto control. De facto control of an entity may arise from circumstances where the Group 
does not have more than 50% of the voting power but it has the practical ability to direct the relevant activities of the entity. 
If the Group has power to remove or control over the party having the ability to direct the relevant activities of the fund 
based on the facts and circumstances and that the Group has exposure to variable returns of the investment funds, they 
are  consolidated.  Variable  returns  include  both  rights  to  the  profits  or  distributions  as  well  as  the  obligation  to  absorb 
losses of the investees.

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 IFRS 10; 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.

145

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.3 Basis of consolidation (continued)
Associates and joint ventures
Associates  are  entities  over  which  the  Group  has  significant  influence,  but  which  it  does  not  control  or  joint  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 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 measured at fair value 
through profit or loss.

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, except for in a limited number of cases, the Group measures insurance contract liabilities 
with reference to statutory requirements in the applicable jurisdiction (see note 2.4.3).

Product classification
The Group classifies 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 traditional 
participating life 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  and  the  deferral  of 
acquisition costs arising from investment contracts with DPF as it does for insurance contracts. The Group refers to such 
contracts as traditional participating life business.

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, IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, 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, reclassification is not subsequently performed unless the terms of 
the agreement are later amended.

146

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
Product classification (continued)
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:

(cid:127) 

that are likely to be a significant portion of the total contractual benefits;

(cid:127)  whose amount or timing is contractually at the discretion of the Group; and

(cid:127) 

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.

In some jurisdictions traditional participating life 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. Other participating business with 
distinct portfolios refers to business where it is expected that the policyholder will receive, at the discretion of the insurer, 
additional benefits based on the performance of underlying segregated assets where this asset segregation is supported 
by an explicit statutory reserve and reporting in the relevant territory. The allocation of benefit from the assets held in such 
other participating business with distinct portfolios is set according to the underlying bonus rule as determined by the 
relevant Board based on applicable regulatory requirements after considering the Appointed Actuary’s recommendation. 
The extent of such policyholder participation may change over time. The current policyholder participation ratio applied for 
recognition  and  measurement  of  the  insurance  contract  liabilities  for  locations  with  participating  funds  and  other 
participating business with distinct portfolios is set out below.

Country

Participating funds

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Australia

Brunei

Other participating business with distinct portfolios

Hong Kong

Current policyholder 
participation

90%

90%

70%

80%

80%

70% – 90%

In some jurisdictions participating business is not written in a distinct fund and the Group refers to this as other participating 
business without distinct portfolios.

147

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION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(1)

Investment contract liabilities

Basis of accounting for:

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 funds and other 
participating business with distinct portfolios that 
would be allocated to policyholders, assuming all 
performance would be declared as a dividend 
based upon current policyholder participation. In 
addition, deferred profit liabilities for limited 
payment contracts are recognised

Traditional 
participating 
life

Participating 
funds and other 
participating 
business with 
distinct 
portfolios

Participating products include protection 
and savings elements. 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

For participating funds, local regulations 
generally prescribe a minimum 
proportion of policyholder participation 
in declared dividends

For other participating business with 
distinct portfolios, the allocation of benefit 
from the assets held in such distinct 
portfolios is set according to the 
underlying bonus rule as determined by 
the relevant Board based on applicable 
regulatory requirements after considering 
the Appointed Actuary’s recommendation. 
The extent of such policyholder 
participation may change over time

Other 
participating 
business 
without distinct 
portfolios

Participating products include protection 
and savings elements. 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

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. In addition, deferred profit liabilities 
for limited payment contracts are recognised

Not applicable, as IFRS 4 
permits contracts with DPF to 
be accounted for as insurance 
contracts

Non-participating life, annuities 
and other protection products

Benefits payable are not at the discretion 
of the insurer

Universal life

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

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)

Note:
(1)  In  a  limited  number  of  cases,  the  Group  measures  insurance  contract  liabilities  with  reference  to  statutory  requirements  in  the  applicable 

jurisdiction.

In the notes to the financial statements, unit-linked contracts are presented together with pension contracts for disclosure 
purposes.

148

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
Product classification (continued)
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 represents upfront fees and other non-level charges that have been collected and released to 
the consolidated income statement over the estimated life of the business. A separate liability for accumulation value is 
established.

Deferred profit liability
Deferred profit liability arising from traditional insurance contracts represents excess profits that have been collected and 
released to the consolidated income statement over the estimated life of the business. A separate liability for future policy 
benefits is established.

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).

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE 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)
Deferred acquisition costs (continued)
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.

In  a  limited  number  of  cases  where  the  Group  measures  insurance  contract  liabilities  with  reference  to  statutory 
requirements in the applicable jurisdiction, acquisition costs deemed recoverable are included as a component of insurance 
contract liabilities, and are therefore deferred and amortised over the life of the corresponding policies.

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:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

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.

Unbundling
The deposit component of an insurance contract is unbundled when both of the following conditions are met:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

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 period, 
as well as policyholder dividends accrued in anticipation of dividend declarations.

Accident  and  health  claims  incurred  include  all  losses  occurring  during  the  period,  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.

150

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
2.4.1 Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF (continued)
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 insurance contract liabilities for participating business written in participating funds and other 
participating business with distinct portfolios 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 funds and the other participating business with distinct portfolios 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 policyholder participation as described in note 2.4 
above. The Group accounts for other participating business without distinct portfolios 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.

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 
reportable segment.

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 with DPF, 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 when loss 
is incurred.

151

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
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.

When part of the fee received from a policyholder is expected to be refunded in the future, the related fee is not recognised 
as a revenue and a sales inducement liability is established which forms part of the investment contract liabilities.

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.

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.

152

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.4 Insurance and investment contracts (continued)
2.4.2 Investment contracts (continued)
Deferred fee income liability
Deferred fee income liability represents upfront fees and other non-level charges that have been collected and released to 
the consolidated income statement over the estimated life of the business. A separate liability for accumulation value is 
established.

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.

The upfront premium rebate received on reinsurance contracts is a reinsurance liability. This liability is initially recognised 
as a reduction in deferred acquisition and origination costs up to the carrying value of associated deferred acquisition 
costs or associated value of business acquired, if any, with any excess being recognised in other liabilities. This reinsurance 
liability is released in line with the release of the underlying insurance contracts. Change in this reinsurance liability during 
the period is recognised as insurance and investment contract benefits ceded.

Value of business acquired (VOBA)
The VOBA in respect of a portfolio of long-term insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF, 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.

153

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE 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.

Insurance contracts (including investment contracts with DPF) liabilities measured with reference to statutory 
requirements
In a limited number of cases, the Group measures insurance contract liabilities with reference to statutory requirements in 
the  applicable  jurisdiction. The  insurance  contract  liabilities  of  those  countries  are  predominately  measured  at  the  net 
present value of future receipts from and payments to policyholders. The discount rate applied reflects the current market 
rate. The excess of premium received over claims and expenses (the margin) is recognised over the life of the contract in 
a manner that reflects the pattern of service provided to the policyholder. The movement in insurance contract liabilities 
recognised in the profit or loss reflects the planned release of this margin.

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:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

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:

(cid:127) 

financial assets held to back unit-linked contracts and participating funds;

(cid:127)  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

(cid:127)  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.

154

AIA GROUP LIMITED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
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.

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 consolidated 
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 its original cost or amortised cost as appropriate. Amortised 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.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.5 Financial instruments (continued)
2.5.1 Classification of and designation of financial instruments (continued)
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 Financial investments. 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  held  for  cash  management  purposes,  which  have  maturities  at  acquisition  of  three  months  or  less,  or  are 
convertible into known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in value. Cash and cash equivalents 
also include cash received as collateral for derivative transactions, and repo and reverse repo transactions, 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.

2.5.2 Fair values of non-derivative financial instruments
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, which is considered to be the price within the bid-ask spread that is most representative of the fair value 
in the circumstances. 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  objective  evidence  of  impairment  does  not  exist  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.

156

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.5 Financial instruments (continued)
2.5.3 Impairment of financial assets (continued)
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.

Derivative instruments for economic hedging
Whilst  the  Group  enters  into  derivative  transactions  to  provide  economic  hedges  under  the  Group’s  risk  management 
framework,  it  adopts  hedge  accounting  to  these  transactions  only  in  limited  circumstances. 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. Where hedge accounting does not apply, these transactions 
are treated as held for trading and fair value movements are recognised immediately in investment experience.

Cash flow hedge
The Group has, in a limited number of cases, designated certain derivatives as hedges of interest rate risk associated with 
the cash flows of highly probable forecast transactions such as forecast purchases of debt securities. To the extent these 
hedges are effective, the change in fair value of the derivatives designated as hedging instruments is recognised in the 
cash flow hedge reserve in other comprehensive income within equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion 
is recognised immediately in profit or loss. Amounts accumulated in the cash flow hedge reserve are reclassified to profit 
or  loss  when  the  hedged  item  affects  profit  or  loss.  In  respect  of  a  forecast  purchase  of  a  debt  security  classified  as 
available for sale, the cash flows are expected to affect profit or loss when the coupons from the purchased bonds are 
recognised, or on disposal of the security. The application of hedge accounting is discontinued when one of the following 
situations occurs: when a derivative designated as the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised prior 
to the occurrence of the forecast transaction, when the hedge is no longer highly effective or expected to be highly effective, 
or when the Group revokes the designation of the hedging relationship. In these situations, the cumulative gain or loss on 
the hedging instrument that has been recognised in other comprehensive income from the period when the hedge was 
effective remains separately in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. This amount is reclassified to profit or loss 
when the hedged item affects profit or loss. If the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the entire amount is 
reclassified immediately to profit or loss.

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.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.5 Financial instruments (continued)
2.5.5 The Company’s financial instruments
Financial assets are classified as measured at amortised cost, FVOCI or FVTPL. The classification of financial assets is 
based on the business model under which the financial asset is managed and its contractual cash flow characteristics.

A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

it is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and

its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the 
principal amount outstanding.

A debt security is measured at FVOCI if it meets both of the following conditions:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

it is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows and selling 
financial assets; and

its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the 
principal amount outstanding.

All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or FVOCI as described above are measured at FVTPL.

Changes in fair value of debt securities measured at FVOCI are recognised in other comprehensive income, except for 
those  relating  to  expected  credit  losses,  interest  income  (calculated  using  the  effective  interest  method)  and  foreign 
exchange  gains  and  losses  which  are  recognised  in  profit  or  loss.  When  the  investment  is  derecognised,  the  amount 
accumulated in other comprehensive income is recycled from equity to profit or loss.

Changes in fair value of financial assets measured at FVTPL and interest are recognised in profit or loss.

The  Company  recognises  loss  allowances  for  ECL  on  financial  assets  measured  at  amortised  cost  and  debt  securities 
measured  at  FVOCI,  which  measured  at  either  lifetime  ECL  or  12-month  ECL  according  to  a  ‘three-stage’  impairment 
model.  A  financial  instrument  that  is  not  credit-impaired  on  initial  recognition  is  classified  in  ‘Stage  1’.  If  a  significant 
increase  in  credit  risk  since  initial  recognition  is  identified  but  the  financial  instrument  is  not  yet  assessed  as  credit 
impaired, the financial instrument is moved to ‘Stage 2’. If the financial instrument is credit-impaired, it is then moved to 
‘Stage 3’. Financial instruments in Stages 2 and 3 have their loss allowances measured at Lifetime ECL which are the ECL 
that result from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial instrument. Financial instruments in Stage 
1 have their loss allowances measured at 12-month ECL which are the portion of ECL that results from default events that 
are possible within the 12 months after the reporting date (or a shorter period if the expected life of the instrument is less 
than 12 months). The maximum period considered when estimating ECL is the maximum contractual period over which 
the Company is exposed to credit risk.

158

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.5 Financial instruments (continued)
2.5.5 The Company’s financial instruments (continued)
ECL are a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses and are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls – i.e. 
the  difference  between  the  cash  flows  due  to  the  entity  in  accordance  with  the  contract  and  the  cash  flows  that  the 
Company expects to receive.

At each reporting date, the Company assesses whether financial assets carried at amortised cost and debt securities at 
FVOCI are credit-impaired. A financial asset is ‘credit-impaired’ when one or more events that have a detrimental impact 
on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred.

Loss allowance for ECL of financial assets measured at amortised cost is deducted from the gross carrying amount of the 
assets, while ECL of debt securities measured at FVOCI is charged to profit or loss and is recognised in other comprehensive 
income.

The gross carrying amount of a financial asset is written off (either partially or in full) to the extent that there is no realistic 
prospect of recovery. This is generally the case when the Company determines that the borrower does not have assets or 
sources  of  income  that  could  generate  sufficient  cash  flows  to  repay  the  amounts  subject  to  the  write-off.  However, 
financial assets that are written off could still be subject to enforcement activities in order to comply with the Company’s 
procedures for recovery of amount due.

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 period 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  held  for  own  use,  excluding  right-of-use  assets  in  relation  to  other  leased  property,  plant  and  equipment,  is 
carried at fair value at last valuation date less accumulated depreciation. The Group records its interest in leasehold land 
and land use rights associated with property held for own use as right-of-use assets, which are reported as a component 
of property, plant and equipment and carried at fair value at last valuation date less accumulated depreciation. When an 
asset is adjusted for the latest fair value, any accumulated depreciation at the date of valuation is eliminated against the 
gross carrying amount of the asset. The movement of fair values is generally recognised in other comprehensive income. 
When  such  properties  are  sold,  the  amounts  accumulated  in  other  comprehensive  income  are  transferred  to  retained 
earnings.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.8 Property, plant and equipment (continued)
Plant and equipment are 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.

Right-of-use  assets  in  relation  to  other  leased  property,  plant  and  equipment  are  carried  at  cost  less  accumulated 
depreciation. The right-of-use asset in relation to a lease is depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and the 
lease term on a straight-line basis.

Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate cost less any residual value over the estimated useful 
life, generally:

Fixtures, fittings and office equipment

Buildings

Computer hardware and 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.

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.

2.9 Investment property
Property  held  for  long-term  rental  or  capital  appreciation,  or  both  that  is  not  occupied  by  the  Group  is  classified  as 
investment property. Investment property, including land and buildings, is initially recognised at cost with changes in fair 
values in subsequent periods recognised in the consolidated income statement.

If an investment property becomes held for own use, it is reclassified as property, plant and equipment. Where a property 
is partly used as an investment property and partly for the use by the Group, these elements are recorded separately within 
investment property and property, plant and equipment respectively, where the component used as investment property 
would be capable of separate sale or lease.

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.

160

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.10 Goodwill and other intangible assets (continued)
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.

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 period is included in the consolidated income 
statement under “Operating expenses”.

Costs associated with acquiring rights to access distribution networks are amortised over the life of the contracts based on 
the  expected  pattern  of  consumption  of  the  expected  future  economic  benefits  embodied  in  the  intangible  asset. The 
amortisation charge for rights to access distribution networks is included in the consolidated income statement under 
“Commission and other acquisition expenses”.

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  allocated  to  each  of  the 
Group’s cash-generating units, or group of cash-generating units, the lowest level for which there are separately identifiable 
cash flows. 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.

In the statement of financial position of the Company, 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.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
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  sells  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.

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 period, 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. Management 
periodically evaluates tax positions taken where the interpretation of the relevant law or regulation may differ from that of 
the  tax  authorities  and  considers  whether  it  is  probable  that  a  taxation  authority  will  accept  an  uncertain  tax  position. 
Provisions for uncertain tax positions are recognised based on management’s judgement and best estimate in relation to 
the probability or likelihood of different outcomes arising, and may increase or decrease in a particular period to reflect a 
re-assessment of a judgement made and/or change in estimate.

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.

162

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.15 Income taxes (continued)
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 period end and the carrying value at the previous year end or purchase price if purchased during 
the period, less the reversal of previously recognised unrealised gains and losses in respect of disposals made during the 
period.

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. Apart from 
certain additional administrative requests from customers such as fund switching, investment redemptions or subscription 
of which the related fees are recognised as revenue at the point in time when the related services take place, the Group’s 
performance obligations under service contracts are generally satisfied over time as the customer simultaneously receives 
and consumes the benefits of the services rendered.

Income is measured based on the consideration specified in a contract with a customer and excludes amounts collected 
on behalf of third parties. In case of variable consideration contracts, revenue is recognised to the extent that it is highly 
probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognised will not occur when the uncertainty is 
subsequently resolved.

163

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION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.

Remeasurements  arising  from  defined  benefit  plans  comprise  actuarial  gains  and  losses,  the  return  on  plan  assets 
(excluding interest) and the effect of the asset ceiling (if any, excluding interest). The Group recognises them immediately 
in other comprehensive income and all other expenses related to defined benefit plans in staff costs in the consolidated 
income statement.

When the benefits of a plan are changed, or when a plan is curtailed, the portion of the changed benefit related to past 
service by employees, or the gain or loss on curtailment, is recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement 
when the plan amendment or curtailment occurs.

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,  does  not  have  any  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
The Group launched a number of share-based compensation plans, under which the Group receives services from the 
employees,  directors,  officers  and  agents  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 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.

164

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.17 Employee benefits (continued)
Share-based compensation and cash incentive plans (continued)
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 granted. 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  grants  of  share-based  payment  arrangements  have  graded 
vesting terms, each tranche is recognised as a separate grant, 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.

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.

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 as a component of investment return on a straight-line basis over the period of the relevant 
lease.

The Group leases various properties, computer hardware, fixtures, fittings and other small items as a lessee. These leases, 
except for short-term leases and leases of low-value assets, are recognised as right-of-use assets and lease liabilities at 
the date at which the leased assets are available for use by the Group. Right-of-use assets are presented as a component 
of  property,  plant  and  equipment  or  investment  property  while  lease  liabilities  are  presented  as  a  component  of  other 
liabilities (see notes 17, 18 and 34). Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance cost. The finance 
cost is charged to profit or loss over the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining 
balance of the liability for each period. The right-of-use asset is depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and 
the lease term on a straight-line basis. Leasehold land and prepayments for land use rights that are either held for the 
Group’s  own  occupancy  or  used  as  investment  property,  a  different  measurement  model  is  applied.  The  depreciation 
charge for right-of-use assets, by class of underlying asset, and finance cost on lease liabilities are disclosed in note 11.

165

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.19 Leases (continued)
Assets and liabilities arising from a lease are initially measured on a present value basis. Lease liabilities include the net 
present value of the following lease payments:

(cid:127) 

fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable;

(cid:127)  variable lease payments that are based on an index or a rate;

(cid:127)  amounts expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees;

(cid:127) 

the exercise price of a purchase option if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise that option; and

(cid:127)  payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising that option.

The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, 
the incremental borrowing rate of the respective business unit (as the lessee) within the Group. Furthermore, a maturity 
analysis of the Group’s lease liabilities is disclosed in note 38.

Right-of-use assets are measured at cost comprising the following:

(cid:127) 

the amount of initial measurement of lease liability;

(cid:127)  any lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received;

(cid:127)  any initial direct costs; and

(cid:127) 

restoration costs.

Leasehold  land  and  prepayments  for  land  use  rights  are  reported  as  right-of-use  assets  within  property,  plant,  and 
equipment or as a component of investment property depending on whether the property interest is used as investment 
property. Leases held for long-term rental or capital appreciation or both that are not occupied by the Group are classified 
as investment property. They are initially recognised at cost with changes in fair values in subsequent periods recognised 
in the consolidated income statement. Leasehold land and prepayments for land use rights that are held for the Group’s 
own occupancy are recognised at cost and measured subsequently using the revaluation model in IAS 16 Property, plant 
and  equipment,  where  changes  in  fair  values  in  subsequent  periods  are  generally  recognised  in  other  comprehensive 
income. There are not any freehold land interests in Hong Kong.

Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets
Payments associated with short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognised on a straight-line basis as an 
expense in profit or loss. Short-term leases are leases with a lease term of 12 months or less. Low-value assets comprise 
computer hardware and small items of furniture and fixtures that are individually, when new, below US$5,000. Expenses 
relating to short-term leases are disclosed in note 11.

166

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
2.19 Leases (continued)
Lease term
In determining the lease term, management considers all facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive for 
the lessee to exercise an extension option, or not exercise a termination option. Extension and termination options are 
included  in  a  number  of  leases  across  the  Group. These  terms  are  used  to  maximise  operational  flexibility  in  terms  of 
managing contracts. The majority of extension and termination options held are exercisable only by the Group and not by 
the respective lessor.

Extension  options  (or  periods  after  termination  options)  are  only  included  in  the  lease  term  if  the  lease  is  reasonably 
certain to be extended (or not terminated) by the lessee. The assessment is reviewed if a significant event or a significant 
change in circumstances occurs which affects this assessment and that is within the control of the lessee.

Subleases
The  Group  subleases  some  of  its  leased  property,  such  as  office  buildings,  to  third  parties. The  Group  accounts  for  its 
interest in the head lease and the sublease separately. It assesses the lease classification of a sublease with reference to 
the right-of-use asset arising from the head lease, not with reference to the underlying asset. If a head lease is a short-term 
lease to which the Group applies the exemption described above, then it classifies the sublease as an operating lease. 
Sublease income is presented as rental income which is a component of investment return.

2.20 Share capital
Ordinary shares are classified in equity when there is not any obligation to transfer cash or other assets to the holders.

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.

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 period.

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.

167

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
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 does not have contractual rights to the assets 
and acts in a fiduciary capacity such as nominee, trustee or agent.

2.24 Consolidated statement of cash flows
The consolidated statement of cash flows presents movements in cash and cash equivalents and bank overdrafts 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 
measurement and impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets.

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.

168

AIA GROUP LIMITED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 without distinct portfolios), 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, morbidity, 
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 and other 
participating business with distinct portfolios 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 funds and other participating business with distinct portfolios 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 policyholder participation as described in note 2.4. 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 
without  distinct  portfolios  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.

In a limited number of cases, the Group measures insurance contract liabilities with reference to statutory requirements in 
the  applicable  jurisdiction. The  insurance  contract  liabilities  of  those  countries  are  predominately  measured  at  the  net 
present value of future receipts from and payments to policyholders. The discount rate applied reflects the current market 
rate. Significant judgement is exercised in making appropriate assumptions of the cash flows.

The  judgements  exercised  in  the  valuation  of  insurance  contract  liabilities  (including  investment  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.

169

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION3. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS (continued)
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 expected 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.

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 reportable segment.

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 value measurement
3.5.1 Fair value 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 assets 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 and other participating business with 
distinct  portfolios  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 and other participating business with distinct portfolios 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 upon policyholder participation as described in note 2.4. Both of the foregoing changes are 
reflected  in  the  consolidated  income  statement,  except  for  those  relating  to  other  participating  business  with  distinct 
portfolios which recognise a portion of an amount due to changes in fair value of available for sale financial assets and 
properties held for own use that are recognised in other comprehensive income.

170

AIA GROUP LIMITED3. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS (continued)
3.5 Fair value measurement (continued)
3.5.1 Fair value of financial assets (continued)
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 38.

3.5.2 Fair value of property held for own use and investment property
The Group uses independent professional valuers to determine the fair value of properties on the basis of the highest and 
best use of the properties that is physically possible, legally permissible and financially feasible. In most cases, current use 
of the properties is considered to be the highest and best use for determining the fair value. Different valuation techniques 
may be adopted to reach the fair value of the properties. Under the Market Data Approach, records of recent sales and 
offerings  of  similar  property  are  analysed  and  comparisons  are  made  for  factors  such  as  size,  location,  quality  and 
prospective use. For investment properties, the discounted cash flow approach may be used by reference to net rental 
income allowing for reversionary income potential to estimate the fair value of the properties. On some occasions, the cost 
approach is used as well to calculate the fair value which reflects the cost that would be required to replace the service 
capacity of the property.

Further details of the fair value of property held for own use and investment property are provided in note 23.

3.6 Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets
For the purposes of impairment testing, goodwill and other intangible assets are grouped into cash-generating units or 
groups of cash generating units. These assets are tested for impairment by comparing the carrying amount of the cash-
generating  unit  (group  of  units),  including  goodwill,  to  the  recoverable  amount  of  that  cash-generating  unit  (group  of 
units). 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 period are provided in note 15.

171

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION4. EXCHANGE RATES
The Group’s principal overseas operations during the reporting period were located within Asia. The results and cash flows 
of these operations have been translated into US dollars at the following average rates:

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Assets and liabilities have been translated at the following year-end rates:

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Exchange rates are expressed in units of local currency per US$1.

US dollar exchange rates

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

7.76

31.27

1.38

4.20

6.90

7.84

31.03

1.36

4.14

6.91

US dollar exchange rates

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

7.75

29.95

1.32

4.02

6.53

7.79

29.84

1.35

4.09

6.97

172

AIA GROUP LIMITED5. CHANGE IN GROUP COMPOSITION
In September 2017, the Group entered into an agreement to acquire Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s (CBA) life insurance 
business  in  Australia.  On  1  November  2019,  the  Group,  CBA  and  The  Colonial  Mutual  Life  Assurance  Society  Limited 
(CMLA) entered into a contractual joint cooperation agreement, which provided an alternative completion structure for the 
original  planned  acquisition.  The  final  purchase  consideration  with  respect  to  this  acquisition  was  AUD2,135m  or 
US$1,472m at exchange rate of the dates of the acquisition and the completion adjustment. The fair value of consideration 
at acquisition date comprised US$344m in cash, deferred cash consideration of US$1,059m and contingent consideration 
of US$69m.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the purchase price adjustments were finalised and an adjustment of US$18m 
was made to the final purchase consideration. The fair value of consideration increased from US$1,454m to US$1,472m 
and the goodwill increased from US$558m to US$576m. There was no adjustment to the fair values of net assets acquired 
as at the date of acquisition.

At  the  time  of  the  acquisition,  there  was  a  related  reinsurance  agreement,  resulting  in  CMLA  receiving  a  net  upfront 
reinsurance commission of approximately US$480m. During the year ended 31 December 2020, the net upfront reinsurance 
commission was finalised at US$491m.

Details of the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired and the final goodwill arising from the acquisition of CMLA are 
set out as follows:

US$m

Provisional fair value of consideration

Purchase price adjustment

Final purchase consideration

Fair value as at the date of acquisition

Investment securities

Reinsurance assets

Other assets(1)

Cash and cash equivalents

Insurance and investment contract liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Net assets acquired

Final goodwill arising on acquisition

1,454

18

1,472

7,116

329

441

356

(6,811)

(118)

(417)

896

576

Note:
(1)  Other assets include acquired receivables, including insurance and other receivables, for which the fair value approximated the gross contractual 
amount at the acquisition date. As of the acquisition date there are no amounts for contractual cash flows from acquired receivables that are not 
expected to be collected.

6. PREMIUMS AND FEE INCOME
Included in premium and fee income of US$191m (2019: US$142m) is fee income for investment contracts without DPF 
that refers to fees charged for the provision of investment management services for investment contracts without DPF, 
which  usually  vary  with  the  amounts  being  managed,  and  the  release  of  deferred  fee  income.  For  the  investment 
management  service  fee  charged,  revenue  is  recognised  as  services  are  provided  and  the  fees  are  deducted  from  the 
customers’ account balances.

Generally, a customer can cancel an investment contract without DPF at any time after contract inception, subject to a 
surrender charge which is not a significant component of revenue.

173

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION7. 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 and taxes:

  Short-term fluctuations in investment return related to equities and 

real estate(1)

  Reclassification of revaluation losses/(gains) for property held 

for own use(1)

  Corporate transaction related costs

Implementation costs for new accounting standards

  Other non-operating investment return and other items(2)

Subtotal(3)

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 
31 December
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

5,986

5,734

Note

9

(425)

305

52

(56)

(30)

252

(207)

5,779

5,942

44

5,779

–

(153)

(85)

(39)

256

284

6,018

5,689

45

5,979

39

Notes:
(1)  Short-term fluctuations in investment return include the revaluation gains and losses for property held for own use. This amount is then reclassified 

out of net profit to conform to IFRS measurement and presentation.
(2)  Includes the tax expense relating to provisions for uncertain tax positions.
(3)  The amount is net of tax of US$(360)m (2019: nil). The gross amount before tax is US$153m (2019: US$284m).

Operating profit is determined using, among others, expected long-term investment return for equities and real estate. 
Short-term  fluctuations  between  expected  long-term  investment  return  and  actual  investment  return  for  these  asset 
classes  are  excluded  from  operating  profit. The  investment  return  assumptions  used  to  determine  expected  long-term 
investment  return  are  based  on  the  same  assumptions  used  by  the  Group  in  determining  its  embedded  value  and  are 
disclosed in the Supplementary Embedded Value Information.

174

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
8. TOTAL WEIGHTED PREMIUM INCOME AND ANNUALISED NEW PREMIUMS
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). The Group 
measures  new  business  activity  using  a  performance  measure  referred  to  as  annualised  new  premiums  (ANP).  The 
presentation of this note is consistent with our reportable segment presentation in note 9.

TWPI consists of 100 per cent of renewal premiums, 100 per cent of first year 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 
premiums 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

Mainland China

Other Markets

Total

First year premiums by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Total

Single premiums by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Total

Year ended 
31 December
2020

Year ended 
31 December
2019

13,042

13,107

4,462

3,088

2,216

5,622

6,978

4,352

2,916

2,142

4,804

6,681

35,408

34,002

910

605

342

321

1,149

1,013

4,340

1,891

239

1,319

243

322

924

2,134

694

367

325

1,204

935

5,659

2,089

222

1,258

234

326

722

4,938

4,851

175

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION8. TOTAL WEIGHTED PREMIUM INCOME AND ANNUALISED NEW PREMIUMS (continued)

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

11,943

10,764

3,833

2,614

1,871

4,441

5,872

3,636

2,423

1,794

3,567

5,674

30,574

27,858

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

1,138

2,393

661

520

369

1,197

1,334

5,219

729

538

406

1,248

1,271

6,585

TWPI (continued)
US$m

Renewal premiums by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Total

ANP 
US$m

ANP by geography

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Total

176

AIA GROUP LIMITED9. 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 insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans 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, Mainland China, Other Markets and Group Corporate 
Centre.  Other  Markets  includes  the  Group’s  operations  in  Australia  (including  New  Zealand),  Cambodia,  Indonesia, 
Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam and India. The activities of the Group Corporate 
Centre segment consist of the Group’s corporate functions, shared services and eliminations of intragroup transactions.

The acquired subsidiaries and respective operations mentioned in note 5 are included under the operations in Australia 
(including New Zealand).

As 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:

(cid:127)  ANP;

(cid:127)  TWPI;

(cid:127) 

investment return;

(cid:127)  operating expenses;

(cid:127)  operating profit after tax attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited;

(cid:127)  expense ratio, measured as operating expenses divided by TWPI;

(cid:127)  operating margin, measured as operating profit after tax expressed as a percentage of TWPI; and

(cid:127)  operating return on shareholders’ 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 shareholders’ allocated 
segment equity (being the segment assets less segment liabilities in respect of each reportable segment less non-
controlling interests and fair value reserve).

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.

The Group provides deferred tax liabilities in respect of unremitted earnings in jurisdictions where withholding tax charge 
would be incurred upon dividend distribution. Prior to 2020, the Group reflected the withholding tax charge under Group 
Corporate Centre. Starting from 2020, the Group has enhanced the segment information to present the withholding tax 
charge  in  the  operating  segment  where  the  withholding  tax  arises. The  comparative  information  has  been  adjusted  to 
conform to current year presentation.

On 1 October 2020, AIA Company Limited (AIA Co.) converted its Mainland China business to a wholly-owned subsidiary, 
AIA Life Insurance Company Limited, which was incorporated in Shanghai on 9 July 2020. Upon the conversion of the 
Mainland China business to AIA Life Insurance Company Limited, any future dividends to the Group from this subsidiary 
are subject to withholding tax at the applicable tax rate in Mainland China (currently at 5 per cent). Consequently, deferred 
tax liability in respect of unremitted earnings of this subsidiary was provided for in the year ended 31 December 2020.

177

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION9. SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

US$m

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland 
China

Other 
Markets

Group 
Corporate 
Centre

Total

Total expenses

15,146

4,285

4,045

1,987

5,263

4,861

Year ended 31 December 2020

ANP

TWPI

Net premiums, fee income and 
  other operating revenue 

(net of reinsurance ceded)

Investment return

Total revenue

Net insurance and investment 
  contract benefits

Commission and other 
  acquisition expenses

Operating expenses

Finance costs and other expenses

Share of (losses)/profit from 
  associates and joint ventures

Operating profit before tax

Tax on operating profit before tax

Operating profit after tax

Operating profit after tax 
  attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group 

  Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Key operating ratios:

Expense ratio

Operating margin

Operating return on 
  shareholders’ allocated equity

Operating profit before tax includes:

1,138

661

520

369

13,042

4,462

3,088

2,216

1,197

5,622

1,334

6,978

–

–

5,219

35,408

13,879

3,511

17,390

4,238

1,268

5,506

3,395

1,274

4,669

1,818

573

2,391

5,594

1,083

6,677

4,655

1,184

5,839

87

505

592

33,666

9,398

43,064

12,878

3,224

3,357

1,537

4,421

2,858

71

28,346

1,618

464

186

773

235

53

414

222

52

244

190

16

365

439

38

974

943

86

(1)

–

2,243

1,221

(170)

2,073

(234)

987

–

624

(3)

621

1

405

(73)

332

–

1,414

(194)

1,220

(17)

961

(250)

711

14

202

227

514

–

78

(36)

42

4,402

2,695

658

36,101

(17)

6,946

(960)

5,986

2,059

14

987

–

621

–

326

6

1,220

–

687

24

42

–

5,942

44

3.6%

5.3%

7.2%

8.6%

7.8%

15.9%

22.1%

20.1%

15.0%

21.7%

13.5%

10.2%

18.8%

15.1%

16.7%

17.0%

29.7%

7.9%

–

–

–

7.6%

16.9%

13.0%

Finance costs

Depreciation and amortisation

31

104

1

22

2

31

2

22

20

88

9

108

224

32

289

407

178

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
9. SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

US$m

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland 
China

Other 
Markets

Group 
Corporate 
Centre

Total

31 December 2020

Total assets

Total liabilities

Total equity

Shareholders’ allocated equity

113,933

38,640

45,994

17,715

34,919

55,644

19,276 326,121

95,598

28,730

40,640

15,445

29,989

44,369

7,682 262,453

18,335

11,999

9,910

6,421

5,354

3,916

2,270

2,060

4,930

4,407

11,275

11,594

63,668

8,936

10,291

48,030

Net capital (out)/in flows

(643)

(394)

(332)

(97)

(1,139)

28

667

(1,910)

Total assets include:

Investments in associates and 

joint ventures

3

–

–

2

–

601

–

606

Segment information may be reconciled to the consolidated income statement as shown below:

Short-term 
fluctuations in 
investment 
return related 
to equities and 
real estate

Segment 
information

Other 
non-operating 

items(1)

Consolidated 
income 
statement

33,666

9,398

43,064

28,346

7,755

36,101

–

820

820

1,302

–

1,302

(17)

6,946

–

(482)

Net premiums, fee income 
  and other operating 

(14)

33,652

revenue

6,489

6,475

5,091

578

5,669

–

806

16,707

Investment return

50,359

Total revenue

Net insurance and 

investment contract 

34,739

  benefits

8,333 Other expenses

43,072

Total expenses

Share of losses 

(17)

from associates and 
joint ventures

7,270 Profit before tax

US$m

Year ended 31 December 2020

Net premiums, fee income 
  and other operating 

revenue

Investment return

Total revenue

Net insurance and 

investment contract 

  benefits

Other expenses

Total expenses

Share of losses 

from associates and 
joint ventures

Operating profit before tax

Note:
(1)  Include unit-linked contracts.

179

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9. SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

US$m

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland 
China

Other 
Markets

Group 
Corporate 
Centre

Total

Year ended 31 December 2019  
  – As adjusted

ANP

TWPI

Net premiums, fee income and 
  other operating revenue 

(net of reinsurance ceded)

Investment return

Total revenue

Net insurance and investment 
  contract benefits

Commission and other 
  acquisition expenses

Operating expenses

Finance costs and other expenses

2,393

13,107

729

4,352

538

2,916

406

2,142

1,248

4,804

1,271

6,681

–

–

6,585

34,002

14,191

3,119

17,310

4,222

1,394

5,616

3,372

1,225

4,597

1,826

582

2,408

4,814

971

5,785

4,413

1,157

5,570

58

451

509

32,896

8,899

41,795

13,021

3,190

3,348

1,585

3,783

2,705

43

27,675

1,602

454

164

814

236

55

390

222

30

216

183

16

315

376

64

951

759

59

Total expenses

15,241

4,295

3,990

2,000

4,538

4,474

Share of losses from 
  associates and joint ventures

Operating profit before tax

–

–

2,069

1,321

Tax on operating profit before tax

(175)

(257)

Operating profit/(losses) after tax

1,894

1,064

–

607

(24)

583

–

408

(68)

340

–

(8)

1,247

1,088

(186)

1,061

(293)

795

9

238

194

484

–

25

4,297

2,468

582

35,022

(8)

6,765

(28)

(1,031)

(3)

5,734

Operating profit/(losses) 
  after tax attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group 

  Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Key operating ratios:

Expense ratio

Operating margin

Operating return on 
  shareholders’ allocated equity

Operating profit before tax includes:

1,879

1,064

15

–

583

–

333

7

1,061

–

772

23

(3)

–

5,689

45

3.5%

5.4%

7.6%

8.5%

7.8%

14.5%

24.4%

20.0%

15.9%

22.1%

11.4%

11.9%

20.2%

16.6%

17.6%

19.7%

28.8%

10.2%

–

–

–

7.3%

16.9%

14.0%

Finance costs

Depreciation and amortisation

31

79

2

22

–

28

2

22

47

75

8

83

181

31

271

340

180

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
9. SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

US$m

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland 
China

Other 
Markets

Group 
Corporate 
Centre

Total

31 December 2019 – As adjusted

Total assets

Total liabilities

Total equity

92,233

38,842

40,397

15,896

29,084

51,901

15,779 284,132

78,462

28,346

36,034

13,958

24,690

41,371

5,876 228,737

Shareholders’ allocated equity

9,853

6,683

13,771

10,496

4,363

3,515

1,938

1,782

4,394

3,805

10,530

8,441

Net capital (out)/in flows

(986)

(1,037)

(295)

(176)

(1,022)

(214)

9,903

9,199

1,910

55,395

43,278

(1,820)

Total assets include:

Investments in associates and 

joint ventures

3

–

–

4

–

608

–

615

Segment information may be reconciled to the consolidated income statement as shown below:

Short-term 
fluctuations in 
investment 
return related 
to equities and 
real estate

Segment 
information

Other 
non-operating 

items(1)

Consolidated 
income 
statement

32,896

8,899

41,795

27,675

7,347

35,022

(8)

6,765

–

1,474

1,474

1,131

–

1,131

–

343

Net premiums, fee income 
  and other operating 

(4)

32,892

revenue

3,977

3,973

3,322

532

3,854

–

119

14,350

Investment return

47,242

Total revenue

Net insurance and 

investment contract 

32,128

  benefits

7,879 Other expenses

40,007

Total expenses

Share of losses from 
  associates and 
joint ventures

(8)

7,227 Profit before tax

US$m

Year ended 31 December 2019

 – As adjusted

Net premiums, fee income 
  and other operating 

revenue

Investment return

Total revenue

Net insurance and 

investment contract 

  benefits

Other expenses

Total expenses

Share of losses from 
  associates and 
joint ventures

Operating profit before tax

Note:
(1)  Include unit-linked contracts.

181

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10. REVENUE
Investment return

US$m

Interest income

Dividend income

Rental income(1)

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 of debt securities

Net gains of equity securities

Net fair value movement on derivatives

Net gains in respect of financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss

Net fair value movement of investment property

Net foreign exchange losses

Other net realised (losses)/gains

Investment experience

Investment return

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

7,055

932

172

8,159

1,442

1,442

1,192

5,436

958

7,586

(292)

(132)

(56)

8,548

16,707

6,714

914

180

7,808

610

610

1,256

4,897

93

6,246

103

(461)

44

6,542

14,350

Note:
(1)  Represents rental income from operating leases contracts in which the Group acts as a lessor.

Foreign currency movements resulted in the following 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 losses

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

(68)

(345)

Other operating revenue
The balance of other operating revenue largely consists of asset management fees, administrative fees and membership 
fees.

182

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
11. 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

Other operating expenses(1)

Operating expenses

Investment management expenses and others

Depreciation on property held for own use

Restructuring and other non-operating costs(2)

Change in third-party interests in consolidated investment funds

Other expenses

Finance costs

Total

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019
(As adjusted)

14,808

20,752

1,305

36,865

(2,126)

34,739

5,566

(1,164)

4,402

1,727

265

92

611

14,011

19,065

992

34,068

(1,940)

32,128

6,499

(2,216)

4,283

1,569

228

69

602

2,695

2,468

580

32

285

47

944

292

530

42

246

27

845

283

43,072

40,007

Other  operating  expenses  include  auditors’  remuneration  of  US$25m  (2019:  US$26m),  an  analysis  of  which  is  set  out 
below:

US$m

Audit services

Non-audit services, including:

  Audit-related services

  Tax services

  Other services

Total

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

20

4

1

–

25

19

5

1

1

26

Notes:
(1)  Includes payments for short-term leases of US$7m (2019: US$34m).
(2)  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 corporate transaction related costs, implementation costs for new accounting standards and 
other items that are not expected to be recurring in nature.

183

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONYear ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

86

178

1

265

85

142

1

228

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

17

248

11

16

292

54

208

5

16

283

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

1,416

1,278

72

93

14

132

1,727

79

90

13

109

1,569

11. EXPENSES (continued)
Depreciation consists of:

US$m

Computer hardware, fixtures and fittings and others

Right-of-use assets

  Property held for own use

  Fixtures and fittings and others

Total

Finance costs may be analysed as:

US$m

Repurchase agreements

Medium-term notes and securities

Other loans

Lease liabilities

Total

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

184

AIA GROUP LIMITED12. 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 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

158

901

432

157

453

599

1,491

1,209

The  tax  benefit  or  expense  attributable  to  life  insurance  policyholder  returns  in  Singapore,  Brunei,  Malaysia,  Australia, 
Indonesia, New Zealand, the Philippines and Sri Lanka 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 expenses attributable to policyholders’ returns included above is US$171m (2019: 
US$179m).

Corporate income tax
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.

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Other Markets

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

16.5%

16.5%

20%

17%

24%

25%

20%

17%

24%

25%

12% - 30%

12% - 30%

The table above reflects the principal rate of corporate income tax as at the end of each year. The rates reflect enacted or 
substantively enacted corporate tax rates throughout the year in each jurisdiction.

AIA  Korea  is  currently  subject  to  an  effective  corporate  income  tax  of  27.5  per  cent,  which  includes  an  Accumulated 
Earnings Tax. Based on current regulations, the corporate income tax rate will revert to 24.2 per cent from fiscal year 2024.

In 2020, the Indonesian government enacted a change in the corporate income tax rate from 25 per cent to 22 per cent for 
fiscal years 2020 and 2021 and 20 per cent from fiscal year 2022 onwards.

Withholding tax on dividends
In some jurisdictions where the Group operates, dividends remitted by subsidiaries to the Group are subject to withholding 
tax. The Group recognises deferred tax liabilities in respect of unremitted earnings of operations in jurisdictions where 
withholding tax charge would be incurred upon dividend distribution.

185

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION12. INCOME TAX (continued)

US$m

Income tax reconciliation

Profit before income tax

Tax calculated at domestic tax rates applicable to profits in the respective jurisdictions

Reduction in tax payable from:

  Life insurance tax(1)

  Exempt investment income

  Utilisation of previously unrecognised deferred tax assets

  Adjustments in respect of prior years

  Change in tax rate and law

Increase in tax payable from:

  Life insurance tax(1)

  Withholding taxes

  Disallowed expenses

  Unrecognised deferred tax assets

  Provisions for uncertain tax positions(2)

  Adjustments in respect of prior years

  Others

Total income tax expense

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

7,270

1,258

(55)

(330)

(15)

–

(8)

(408)

–

25

66

–

184

106

260

641

1,491

7,227

1,315

–

(305)

–

(15)

(74)

(394)

86

47

101

11

7

–

36

288

1,209

Notes:
(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.

(2)  Provisions for uncertain tax positions relate to situations where the Group’s interpretation of the relevant law or regulation may differ from that of 
the tax authorities. Provisions are recognised based on management’s judgement and best estimate in relation to the probability or likelihood of 
different  outcomes  arising,  which  is  subject  to  periodic  re-assessment.  Due  to  the  uncertainty  associated  with  these  items,  there  remains  a 
possibility that the final outcomes may differ on conclusion of the relevant tax matters at a future date.

186

AIA GROUP LIMITED12. INCOME TAX (continued)
The movement in net deferred tax liabilities in the year may be analysed as set out below:

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
1 January - 
As previously 
reported

Effect of 
change in 
accounting 
policy

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
1 January - 
As adjusted

Acquisition 
of 
subsidiaries

Credited/ 
(charged) to 
the income 
statement

Credited/(charged) to other 
comprehensive income

Fair value 

reserve(2)

Foreign 
exchange

Others

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
year end

(2,468)

(3,339)

639

(203)

215

170

(760)

(468)

33

–

(13)

–

–

–

–

3

(2,435)

(3,339)

626

(203)

215

170

(760)

(465)

(6,214)

23

(6,191)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

55

(96)

3

(141)

(307)

9

(76)

71

(152)

109

(432)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(96)

(128)

(15)

(8)

4

8

(17)

(6)

(159)

–

–

–

–

1

–

–

(2)

(1)

(2,473)

(3,608)

304

(202)

144

249

(929)

(364)

(6,879)

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
1 January - 
As previously 
reported

Effect of 
change in 
accounting 
policy

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
1 January - 
As adjusted

Acquisition 
of 
subsidiaries(3)

Credited/ 
(charged) to 
the income 
statement

Credited/(charged) to other 
comprehensive income

Fair value 

reserve(2)

Foreign 
exchange

Others

Net deferred 
tax asset/
(liability) at 
year end

(886)

(154)

(157)

(1,216)

(3,062)

–

(205)

(890)

(3,062)

726

(181)

137

55

(617)

(329)

4

–

(11)

–

–

–

–

3

715

(181)

137

55

(617)

(326)

26

–

15

–

–

(5)

(4,161)

(4)

(4,165)

(118)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(1,216)

(152)

(17)

53

114

(135)

(100)

(599)

(22)

(72)

37

(5)

7

1

(8)

(7)

(69)

–

–

–

–

3

–

–

(27)

(24)

(2,435)

(3,339)

626

(203)

215

170

(760)

(465)

(6,191)

US$m

31 December 2020

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

US$m

31 December 2019 
  – As adjusted

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 charge/(credit) of US$96m for 2020 (2019: US$1,216m), US$194m (2019: US$1,282m) relates to fair value 
gains on available for sale financial assets and US$(98)m (2019:  US$(66)m) relates  to  fair value gains 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 CMLA.

187

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12. INCOME TAX (continued)
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 of US$65m (2019: US$71m) 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.

The Group has not provided deferred tax liabilities of US$295m (2019: US$176m) in respect of unremitted earnings of 
operations in 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, Macau, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Mainland 
China, Australia, Cambodia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Taiwan (China). The tax 
losses of Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand can be carried forward indefinitely. The tax losses of remaining 
branches and subsidiaries are due to expire within the periods ending 2022 (the Philippines), 2023 (Macau, Mainland 
China  and  Myanmar),  2024  (Sri  Lanka),  2025  (Cambodia  and Thailand),  2027  (Malaysia)  and  2030  (South  Korea  and 
Taiwan (China)).

188

AIA GROUP LIMITED13. 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 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

5,779

12,060

47.92

5,979

12,042

49.65

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 31 December 2020 and 2019, 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  directors,  officers,  employees  and  agents  under  various  share-based 
compensation plans as described in note 40.

Net profit attributable to shareholders of AIA Group Limited (US$m)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (million)

Adjustment for share options, restricted share units, restricted stock purchase units 
  and restricted stock subscription units granted under share-based compensation 
  plans (million)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share (million)

Diluted earnings per share (US cents per share)

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

5,779

12,060

20

12,080

47.84

5,979

12,042

29

12,071

49.53

At  31  December  2020,  9,156,477  share  options  (2019:  4,249,232)  were  excluded  from  the  diluted  weighted  average 
number of ordinary shares calculation as their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Operating profit after tax per share
Operating  profit  after  tax  (see  note  7)  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 31 
December 2020 and 2019, 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  directors,  officers, 
employees and agents under various share-based compensation plans as described in note 40.

Basic (US cents per share)

Diluted (US cents per share)

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

49.27

49.19

47.24

47.13

189

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION14. DIVIDENDS
Dividends to shareholders of the Company attributable to the year:

US$m

Interim dividend declared and paid of 35.00 Hong Kong cents per share 

(2019: 33.30 Hong Kong cents per share)

Final dividend proposed after the reporting date of 100.30 Hong Kong cents per share 

(2019: 93.30 Hong Kong cents per share)(1)

Total

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

545

1,561

2,106

513

1,444

1,957

Note:
(1)  Based upon shares outstanding at 31 December 2020 and 2019 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 12 March 2021 subject to shareholders’ approval at the AGM to be 
held on 20 May 2021. 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 period, approved and paid during the year:

US$m

Final dividend in respect of the previous financial year, approved and 
  paid during the year of 93.30 Hong Kong cents per share 

(2019: 84.80 Hong Kong cents per share)

Special dividend in respect of the previous financial year, approved and 
  paid during the year nil per share (2019: 9.50 Hong Kong cents per share)

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

1,452

1,302

–

146

190

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
15. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

US$m

Cost

At 1 January 2019

  Additions

  Acquisition of subsidiaries

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2019

  Additions

  Measurement period adjustment

5

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2020

Accumulated amortisation

At 1 January 2019

  Amortisation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2019

  Amortisation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2020

Net book value

At 31 December 2019

At 31 December 2020

Note

Goodwill

Computer 
software

Distribution 
and other 
rights

976

–

558

–

21

1,555

–

18

–

86

1,659

(4)

–

–

–

(4)

–

–

–

(4)

1,551

1,655

598

79

4

(2)

8

687

130

–

(22)

28

823

(349)

(69)

1

(5)

(422)

(92)

16

(14)

(512)

265

311

888

2

–

–

5

895

3

–

(2)

15

911

(139)

(52)

–

–

(191)

(50)

2

(4)

(243)

704

668

Total

2,462

81

562

(2)

34

3,137

133

18

(24)

129

3,393

(492)

(121)

1

(5)

(617)

(142)

18

(18)

(759)

2,520

2,634

The Group holds intangible assets for its long-term use and the annual amortisation charge of US$142m (2019: US$121m) 
approximates the amount that is expected to be recovered through consumption within 12 months after the end of the 
reporting period.

Intangible  assets  in  this  note  exclude  deferred  acquisition  and  origination  costs,  which  are  separately  disclosed  with 
further details provided in note 20.

Impairment tests for goodwill
Goodwill arises primarily in respect of the Group’s insurance businesses in Malaysia of US$731m (2019: US$718m) and 
Australia (including New Zealand) of US$820m (2019: US$728m). Goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing the 
carrying amount of the cash-generating unit (group of units), including goodwill, to the recoverable amount of that cash-
generating unit (group of units). If the recoverable amount of the unit (group of units) exceeds the carrying amount of the 
unit (group of units), the goodwill allocated to that unit (group of units) shall be regarded as not impaired. The recoverable 
amount is the value in use of the cash-generating unit (group of units) unless otherwise stated.

The value in use is determined by calculating as an actuarially determined appraisal value, based on embedded value of 
the  business  and  the  present  value  of  expected  future  new  business  of  the  cash-generating  unit  (group  of  units). The 
present value of expected future new business is based on financial budgets approved by management, typically covering 
a three year period unless otherwise stated. These financial budgets reflect management’s best estimate of future profit 
based  on  historical  experience  and  best  estimate  operating  assumptions  such  as  premium  and  expenses.  Further,  the 
present value of expected future new business beyond this initial three year period are extrapolated using a perpetual 
growth  rate,  which  typically  does  not  exceed  the  long-term  expected  Gross  Domestic  Product  (GDP)  growth  of  the 
geographical area in which the cash flows supporting the goodwill are generated.

191

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION15. INTANGIBLE ASSETS (continued)
Impairment tests for goodwill (continued)
The key assumptions used in the embedded value calculations include risk discount rate, investment returns, mortality, 
morbidity,  persistency,  expenses  and  inflation.  In  the  majority  of  instances  these  assumptions  are  aligned  to  those 
assumptions detailed in Section 5 of Supplementary Embedded Value Information. The present value of expected future 
new business is calculated based on a combination of indicators which include, among others, taking into account recent 
production mix, business strategy, market trends and risk associated with the future new business projections. The risk 
discount rates that are used in the value in use of in-force business and present value of expected future new business 
ranges from 8% to 16% (2019: 8% to 16%) and the perpetual growth rates for future new business cash flows of 3% was 
used, where applicable, to extrapolate the present value of expected future new business beyond the initial three year 
period; the rate was determined by reference to the long-term expected GDP growth of the geographical area in which the 
cash flows supporting the goodwill are generated. The Group may apply alternative method to estimate the value of future 
new business if the described method is not appropriate under the circumstances.

16. INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES

US$m

Group

Investments in associates

Investments in joint ventures

Total

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

592

14

606

603

12

615

Investments in associates and joint ventures 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 Group’s interests in its principal associates and joint ventures are as follows:

Place of 
incorporation

Principal 
activity

Type of 
shares held

Group’s interest %

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited

India

Insurance

Ordinary

49%

49%

All associates and joint ventures are unlisted.

Aggregated financial information of associates and joint ventures
The investments in the associates and joint ventures are measured using the equity method. The following table analyses, 
in aggregate, the carrying amount and share of losses and other comprehensive expense of these associates and joint 
ventures.

US$m

Carrying amount in the statement of financial position

Losses from continuing operations

Other comprehensive expense

Total comprehensive expense

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

606

(17)

(14)

(31)

615

(8)

(1)

(9)

192

AIA GROUP LIMITED17. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

US$m

Cost or revaluation

At 1 January 2019

  Additions

  Disposals

  Net transfers from investment property

Increase from valuation

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2019

  Additions

  Disposals

  Decrease from valuation

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2020

Accumulated depreciation

At 1 January 2019

  Depreciation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Revaluation adjustment

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2019

  Depreciation charge for the year

  Disposals

  Revaluation adjustment

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2020

Net book value

At 31 December 2019

At 31 December 2020

Property held 
for own use

Computer 
hardware

Fixtures and 
fittings and 
others

2,384

202

(20)

12

141

22

2,741

118

(32)

(107)

33

2,753

–

(184)

12

29

–

(143)

(210)

32

30

–

(291)

2,598

2,462

195

30

(9)

–

–

5

221

28

(5)

–

5

249

(162)

(21)

8

–

(4)

(179)

(24)

4

–

(4)

(203)

42

46

529

69

(24)

–

–

11

585

51

(27)

–

11

620

(308)

(65)

18

–

(5)

(360)

(63)

24

–

(7)

(406)

225

214

Total

3,108

301

(53)

12

141

38

3,547

197

(64)

(107)

49

3,622

(470)

(270)

38

29

(9)

(682)

(297)

60

30

(11)

(900)

2,865

2,722

193

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
17. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (continued)
Right-of-use assets in relation to leases are reported within property, plant and equipment. The carrying amount of right-
of-use assets, by class of underlying asset, is set out below:

US$m

Property held for own use

Fixtures and fittings and others

Total

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

1,438

4

1,442

1,579

3

1,582

Additions to right-of-use assets for the year ended 31 December 2020 were US$103m (2019: US$193m).

Properties held for own use (excluding right-of-use assets) are carried at fair value at the reporting date less accumulated 
depreciation. Right-of-use assets with respect to the Group’s interest in leasehold land and land use rights associated with 
property  held  for  own  use  are  also  carried  at  the  same  basis.  The  fair  value  at  the  reporting  date  is  determined  by 
independent professional valuers. Details of valuation techniques and process are disclosed in notes 3 and 23. Right-of-
use assets in relation to other leased property, plant and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation.

During the year, US$22m expenditure (2019: US$6m) recognised in the carrying amount of property held for own use was 
in the course of its construction. Decrease from revaluation on property held for own use of US$77m (2019: Increase of 
US$170m)  were  taken  to  other  comprehensive  income,  of  which  US$66m  was  related  to  right-of-use  assets  (2019: 
Increase of US$146m).

If property held for own use (excluding right-of-use assets) were stated on a historical cost basis, the carrying value would 
be US$345m (2019: US$335m). Similarly, stated on a historical basis the carrying value of the right-of-use assets related 
to the Group’s interest in leasehold land and land use rights associated with property held for own use would be US$878m 
(2019:  US$894m).  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.

194

AIA GROUP LIMITED18. INVESTMENT PROPERTY
US$m

Fair value

At 1 January 2019

  Additions and capitalised subsequent expenditures

  Disposals

  Net transfers to property, plant and equipment

  Fair value gains

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2019

  Additions and capitalised subsequent expenditures

  Disposals

  Fair value losses

  Foreign exchange movements

At 31 December 2020

4,794

9

(120)

(12)

103

60

4,834

29

(1)

(292)

69

4,639

Investment properties are carried at fair value at the reporting date as determined by independent professional valuers. 
Details of valuation techniques and process are disclosed in notes 3 and 23.

The Group leases out its investment property under operating leases. The leases typically run for an initial period of one to 
ten years, with an option to renew the lease based on future negotiations. Lease payments are usually negotiated every one 
to four years to reflect market rentals. There were not any material contingent rentals earned as income for the period. 
Rental income generated from investment property amounted to US$172m (2019: US$180m). Direct operating expenses 
(including repair and maintenance) on investment property that generates rental income amounted to US$27m (2019: 
US$34m).

The Group owns investment property in the form of freehold land outside Hong Kong and leasehold land. Leasehold land 
which is held for long-term rental or capital appreciation or both that is not occupied by the Group is classified as investment 
property.  They  are  leased  out  under  operating  leases  and  are  initially  recognised  as  right-of-use  assets  at  cost,  with 
changes in fair values in subsequent periods recognised in the consolidated income statement. The Group does not hold 
freehold land in Hong Kong.

The future undiscounted lease payments under operating leases that the Group expects to receive in future periods may 
be analysed as follows:

US$m

Leases of investment property classified as operating leases

Expiring no later than one year

Expiring later than one year and no later than two years

Expiring later than two years and no later than three years

Expiring later than three years and no later than four years

Expiring later than four years and no later than five years

Expiring after five years or more

Total undiscounted lease receipts

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

132

99

56

44

13

25

369

132

80

57

22

21

43

355

195

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION19. REINSURANCE ASSETS

US$m

Amounts recoverable from reinsurers

Ceded insurance and investment contract liabilities

Total(1)

Note

27

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

671

3,889

4,560

683

3,150

3,833

Note:
(1)  Including US$1,290m (2019: US$972m) which is expected to be recovered within 12 months after the end of the reporting period.

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

Less: Upfront reinsurance premium rebate

Total

Movements in the year

At beginning of financial year

Deferral and amortisation of acquisition and origination costs

Foreign exchange movements

Impact of assumption changes

Other movements

At end of financial year

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

27,549

25,915

261

432

(327)

27,915

302

432

(321)

26,328

Year ended 
31 December 
2020

Year ended 
31 December 
2019

26,328

1,220

559

(55)

(137)

24,626

2,242

403

(26)

(917)

27,915

26,328

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.

196

AIA GROUP LIMITED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 participating business 
with discretionary expected sharing with policyholders and underlying distinct investment portfolios (“Other participating 
business  with  distinct  portfolios”),  and  other  policyholder  and  shareholder.  Other  participating  business  with  distinct 
portfolios refers to business where it is expected that the policyholder will receive, at the discretion of the insurer, additional 
benefits based on the performance of underlying segregated investment assets where this asset segregation is supported 
by an explicit statutory reserve and reporting in the relevant territory.

The reason for separately analysing financial investments held by participating funds and other participating business 
with  distinct  portfolios  is  that  participating  funds  are  subject  to  local  regulations  that  generally  prescribe  a  minimum 
proportion of policyholder participation in declared dividends, and for other participating business with distinct portfolios 
it is, as explained above, expected that the policyholder will receive, at the discretion of the insurer, additional benefits 
based on the performance of the underlying segregated investment assets where this asset segregation is supported by an 
explicit statutory reserve and reporting in the relevant territory. The Group has elected the fair value option for debt and 
equity securities of participating funds. For other participating business with distinct portfolio, the Group has elected the 
fair value option for equity securities and the available for sale classification for the majority of debt securities. The Group’s 
accounting policy is to record an insurance liability for the proportion of net assets of the participating funds and other 
participating business with distinct portfolio that would be allocated to policyholders assuming all performance would be 
declared as a dividend based upon policyholder participation as described in note 2.4 as at the date of the consolidated 
statement of financial position. As a result, the Group’s net profit before tax for the year is impacted by the proportion of 
investment return that would be allocated to shareholders as described above.

Other policyholder and shareholder investments are distinct from unit-linked investments, participating funds and other 
participating business with distinct portfolios as there is not any direct contractual or regulatory requirement governing 
the amount, if any, for allocation to policyholders or it is not expected that the policyholder will receive at the discretion of 
the insurer additional benefits based on the performance of the underlying segregated investment assets where this asset 
segregation is supported by an explicit statutory reserve and reporting in the relevant territory. 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.

197

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION21. FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS (continued)
Debt securities
In compiling the tables, external ratings have been used in accordance with the Group’s credit risk assessment framework. 
Where external ratings are not readily available an internal rating methodology has been adopted, if applicable.

Credit risk limits are set according to the Group’s credit risk assessment framework, which define the relative risk level of 
a debt security.

External ratings

Internal ratings

Reported as

Standard and Poor’s and Fitch

AAA

AA+ to AA-

A+ to A-

BBB+ to BBB-

BB+ and below

Moody’s

Aaa

Aa1 to Aa3

A1 to A3

Baa1 to Baa3

Ba1 and below

Debt securities by type comprise the following:

1

2+ to 2-

3+ to 3-

4+ to 4-

AAA

AA

A

BBB

5+ and below

Below investment grade

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating funds and 
other participating 
business with distinct 
portfolios

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Consolidated 
investment 

Unit-linked

funds(1)

US$m

FVTPL

AFS

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

FVTPL

Total

31 December 2020

Government bonds(2)

Thailand

Mainland China

South Korea

Singapore

Philippines

Malaysia

Indonesia

Other

Subtotal

–

4,041

–

3,396

–

1,422

–

465

9,324

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

148

16,524

16,524

13,706

17,747

8,225

1,588

2,777

769

586

8,225

4,984

2,777

2,191

734

1,041

1,575

3,081

–

38

311

867

157

168

92

213

1,189

45,750

56,263

1,846

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

16,524

17,785

8,536

5,851

2,934

2,359

826

3,294

58,109

Notes:
(1)  Consolidated investment funds reflect 100 per cent of assets and liabilities held by such funds.
(2)  Government bonds include bonds issued in local or foreign currencies by the government of the country where respective business unit operates. 
The Group’s credit risk assessment framework does not apply credit risk limits on these government bonds, therefore credit ratings are not shown 
in the table. Of the total balance as at 31 December 2020, 99 per cent are rated as investment grades.

198

AIA GROUP LIMITED21. FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS (continued)
Debt securities (continued)
Debt securities by type comprise the following: (continued)

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating funds and 
other participating 
business with distinct 
portfolios

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Consolidated 
investment 

Unit-linked

funds(1)

US$m

FVTPL

AFS

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

FVTPL

Total

31 December 2020

Other government and government 
  agency bonds(3)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Corporate bonds

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Structured securities(4)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Total(5)(6)

2,501

268

3,269

676

53

–

1,296

1,028

1,545

1,046

19

–

7

3

4

58

3

–

5,247

4,324

4,440

4,450

382

–

9,051

5,623

9,258

6,230

457

–

183

165

87

63

6

4

–

260

71

1

–

–

9,234

6,048

9,416

6,294

463

4

6,767

4,934

75

18,843

30,619

508

332

31,459

12

323

352

2,428

–

9

600

964

3,052

5,812

5,220

18,954

55

22,063

46,292

5,880

20,645

156

24,158

50,839

481

6

289

–

20

24

2,102

2,892

–

30

25

10

256

892

122

154

–

989

315

6,137

1,299

47,847

395

52,126

54

–

3,068

184

11,922

42,668

264

51,975 106,829

1,459

2,063 110,351

97

30

100

90

–

40

357

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

203

–

–

–

–

271

474

10

146

471

286

12

11

310

176

571

376

12

322

149

–

25

20

–

1

936

1,767

195

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

459

176

596

396

12

323

1,962

28,370

47,602

2,002 117,504 195,478

4,008

2,395 201,881

Notes:
(1)  Consolidated investment funds reflect 100 per cent of assets and liabilities held by such funds.
(3)  Other government and government agency bonds comprise other bonds issued by government and government-sponsored institutions such as 
national, provincial and municipal authorities; government-related entities; multilateral development banks and supranational organisations.

(4)  Structured securities include collateralised debt obligations, mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities.
(5)  Debt securities of US$9,188m are restricted due to local regulatory requirements.
(6)  AFS debt securities with contractual terms that give rise to cash flows qualifying as SPPI in accordance with IFRS 9 amounted to US$197,244m 

with 98 per cent are rated as investment grades.

199

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION21. FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS (continued)
Debt securities (continued)
Debt securities by type comprise the following: (continued)

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating funds and 
other participating 
business with distinct 
portfolios

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Consolidated 
investment 

Unit-linked

funds(1)

US$m

FVTPL

AFS

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

FVTPL

Total

31 December 2019

Government bonds(2)

Thailand

Mainland China

South Korea

Singapore

Philippines

Malaysia

Indonesia

Other

Subtotal

Other government and government 
  agency bonds(3)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

–

2,987

–

3,099

–

1,334

–

331

7,751

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

190

1,207

1,397

16,454

16,454

12,006

14,993

7,607

1,276

2,558

564

583

900

7,607

4,375

2,558

1,898

773

2,438

–

74

280

578

145

69

102

352

41,948

51,096

1,600

2,195

1,511

265

2,950

518

46

–

733

890

864

2

–

7

4

4

54

7

–

4,250

4,128

4,007

4,082

184

–

7,963

5,130

7,851

5,518

239

–

82

53

80

31

20

4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

291

56

–

–

–

16,454

15,067

7,887

4,953

2,703

1,967

875

2,790

52,696

8,045

5,474

7,987

5,549

259

4

5,974

4,000

76

16,651

26,701

270

347

27,318

Notes:
(1)  Consolidated investment funds reflect 100 per cent of assets and liabilities held by such funds.
(2)  Government bonds include bonds issued in local or foreign currencies by the government of the country where respective business unit operates. 
The Group’s credit risk assessment framework does not apply credit risk limits on these government bonds, therefore credit ratings are not shown 
in the table. Of the total balance as at 31 December 2019, 99 per cent are rated as investment grades.

(3)  Other government and government agency bonds comprise other bonds issued by government and government-sponsored institutions such as 
national, provincial and municipal authorities; government-related entities; multilateral development banks and supranational organisations.

200

AIA GROUP LIMITED21. FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS (continued)
Debt securities (continued)
Debt securities by type comprise the following: (continued)

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating funds and 
other participating 
business with distinct 
portfolios

Other policyholder and 
shareholder

Consolidated 
investment 

Unit-linked

funds(1)

US$m

FVTPL

AFS

FVTPL

AFS

Subtotal

FVTPL

FVTPL

Total

31 December 2019

Corporate bonds

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Structured securities(4)

AAA

AA

A

BBB

Below investment grade

Not rated

Subtotal

Total(5)(6)

41

381

5,146

5,006

516

6

211

1,399

13,389

14,036

178

–

–

22

64

424

676

2,512

4,314

20,086

38,685

186

21,200

40,428

26

5

1,893

2,613

–

11

24

28

402

908

103

150

1

701

379

4,721

1,281

40,368

283

41,619

–

2

2,716

163

11,096

29,213

303

46,115

86,727

1,615

1,946

90,288

51

30

70

120

–

20

291

–

19

99

124

–

–

242

122

–

–

–

–

256

378

12

144

338

185

3

1

185

193

507

429

3

277

683

1,594

60

–

25

–

–

3

88

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

245

193

532

429

3

280

1,682

25,112

33,455

2,154 105,397 166,118

3,573

2,293 171,984

Notes:
(1)  Consolidated investment funds reflect 100 per cent of assets and liabilities held by such funds.
(4)  Structured securities include collateralised debt obligations, mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities.
(5)  Debt securities of US$8,150m are restricted due to local regulatory requirements.
(6)  AFS debt securities with contractual terms that give rise to cash flows qualifying as SPPI in accordance with IFRS 9 amounted to US$138,307m 

with 98 per cent are rated as investment grades.

The Group’s debt securities classified at fair value through profit or loss are all designated at fair value through profit or 
loss.

201

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION21. FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS (continued)
Equity securities
Equity securities by type comprise the following:

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating 
funds and other 
participating 
business 
with distinct 
portfolios

Other 
policyholder 
and 
shareholder

Unit-linked

US$m

FVTPL

FVTPL

Subtotal

FVTPL

Consolidated 
investment 

funds(1)

FVTPL

31 December 2020

Equity shares

Interests in investment funds

Total

15,596

8,296

23,892

6,302

756

7,058

21,898

9,052

30,950

7,185

19,974

27,159

1,073

–

1,073

Policyholder and shareholder

Participating 
funds and other 
participating 
business 
with distinct 
portfolios

Other 
policyholder 
and 
shareholder

Unit-linked

US$m

FVTPL

FVTPL

Subtotal

FVTPL

Consolidated 
investment 

funds(1)

FVTPL

31 December 2019

Equity shares

Interests in investment funds

Total

12,114

6,625

18,739

6,613

869

7,482

18,727

7,494

26,221

6,302

17,468

23,770

331

–

331

Note:
(1)  Consolidated investment funds reflect 100 per cent of assets and liabilities held by such funds.

Debt and equity securities

Total

30,156

29,026

59,182

Total

25,360

24,962

50,322

As at
31 December 
2020

As at
31 December 
2019

160,062

41,819

201,881

31,050

28,132

59,182

137,014

34,970

171,984

26,743

23,579

50,322

US$m

Debt securities

Listed

Unlisted

Total

Equity securities

Listed

Unlisted(1)

Total

Note:
(1)  Including US$25,806m (2019: US$21,333m) of investment funds which can be redeemed daily.

202

AIA GROUP LIMITED21. FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS (continued)
Interests in structured entities
The Group has determined that the investment funds and structured securities, such as collateralised debt obligations, 
mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities that the Group has interest are structured entities.

The Group has consolidated certain investment funds for which the Group provides guarantee on capital or rate of return 
to the investors and deemed to have control based on an analysis of the guidance in IFRS 10. For these investment funds, 
the Group has the ability to reduce the guaranteed rates of return, subject to obtaining approvals of applicable regulators. 
The Group has an obligation to absorb losses in the event that the returns of the funds are insufficient to cover the capital 
or rate of return guarantee provided to the investors.

The following table summarises the Group’s interest in unconsolidated structured entities:

US$m

As at 31 December 2020

As at 31 December 2019

Investment 
funds

Structured 
securities(1)

Investment 
funds

Structured 
securities(1)

Available for sale debt securities

Debt securities at fair value through profit or loss

Equity securities at fair value through profit or loss

Total

2,984(2)

811(2)

29,026

32,821

936

1,026

–

1,962

2,158(2)

721(2)

24,962

27,841

925

757

–

1,682

Notes:
(1)  Structured securities include collateralised debt obligation, mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities.
(2)  Balance represents the Group’s interests in debt securities issued by real estate investment trusts.

The Group’s maximum exposure to loss arising from its interests in these unconsolidated structured entities is limited to 
the carrying amount of the assets. Dividend income and interest income are received during the reporting period from 
these interests in unconsolidated structured entities.

In  addition,  the  Group  receives  management  fees  and  trustee  fees  in  respect  of  providing  trustee,  management  and 
administrative  services  to  certain  retirement  scheme  funds  and  investment  funds.  These  funds  are  not  held  and  the 
associated investment risks are not borne by the Group, the Group does not have exposure to loss in these funds.

203

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION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
31 December 
2020

As at
31 December 
2019

3,547

3,246

590

49

760

(14)

4,932

2,683

1,720

9,335

606

49

776

(13)

4,664

3,696

1,726

10,086

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$2,057m (2019: 
US$1,951m).

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  31 
December 2020, the carrying value of such receivables is US$271m (2019: US$265m).

204

AIA GROUP LIMITED22. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Group’s derivative exposure was as follows:

US$m

31 December 2020

Foreign exchange contracts

  Cross-currency swaps

  Forwards

  Foreign exchange futures

Total foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

Interest rate swaps

Other

  Warrants and options

  Forward contracts

  Swaps

Netting

Total

31 December 2019

Foreign exchange contracts

  Cross-currency swaps

  Forwards

  Foreign exchange futures

  Currency options

Total foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

Interest rate swaps

Other

  Warrants and options

  Forward contracts

  Swaps

Netting

Total

Notional amount

Assets

Liabilities

Fair value

8,172

2,694

100

10,966

8,510

1,342

10,658

1,267

(100)

32,643

8,338

4,973

98

3

13,412

8,740

147

1,843

1,333

(98)

25,377

313

121

–

434

561

51

18

5

–

(158)

(17)

–

(175)

(308)

(45)

(469)

(6)

–

1,069

(1,003)

396

62

–

–

458

487

3

14

9

–

971

(204)

(24)

–

–

(228)

(161)

–

(17)

(6)

–

(412)

The column “notional amount” in the above table represents the pay leg of derivative transactions other than equity-index 
option.  For  certain  equity-index  call  and  put  options  with  the  same  notional  amount  that  are  purchased  to  hedge  the 
downside risk of the underlying equities by means of a collar strategy, the notional amount represents the exposure of the 
hedged equities.

Of  the  total  derivatives,  US$25m  (2019:  US$12m)  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 risks, similar to those related to the underlying financial instruments.

205

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
22. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (continued)
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’s derivative contracts 
are  established  to  provide  an  economic  hedge  to  financial  exposures.  The  Group  adopts  hedge  accounting  in  limited 
circumstances. 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 gains and losses 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. Forward contracts are contractual obligations to buy or sell a financial instrument on a predetermined 
future date at a specified price. Swaps are OTC contractual agreements between the Group and a third party to exchange 
a series of cash flows based upon an index, rates or other variables applied to a notional amount.

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 31 December 2020, the Group had posted cash collateral of US$86m (2019: US$37m) and pledged debt securities with 
carrying value of US$696m (2019: US$266m) for liabilities and held cash collateral of US$500m (2019: US$581m), debt 
securities collateral with carrying value of US$17m (2019: US$7m) 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 repurchase agreements.

206

AIA GROUP LIMITED23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
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

31 December 2020

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

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Obligations under repurchase agreements

  Derivative financial instruments

  Other liabilities

Financial liabilities

Fair value

Fair value 
through 
profit or loss

Available
for sale

Cost/
amortised 
cost

Total
carrying 
value

Total
fair value

Notes

21

22

19

24

24

26

–

36,775

59,182

1,069

–

–

–

–

–

9,335

9,335

9,333

165,106

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

671

3,053

1,822

5,619

201,881

201,881

59,182

59,182

1,069

671

3,053

1,822

5,619

1,069

671

3,053

1,822

5,619

97,026

165,106

20,500

282,632

282,630

Fair value 
through 
profit or loss

Cost/
amortised 
cost

Total
carrying
value

Total
fair value

Notes

28

30

31

22

34

12,026

–

–

1,003

1,025

14,054

543

8,559

1,664

–

6,772

17,538

12,569

12,569

8,559

1,664

1,003

7,797

9,555

1,664

1,003

7,797

31,592

32,588

207

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

US$m

31 December 2019

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

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

  Borrowings

  Obligations under repurchase agreements

  Derivative financial instruments

  Other liabilities

Financial liabilities

Fair value

Fair value 
through 
profit or loss

Available
for sale

Cost/
amortised 
cost

Total
carrying 
value

Total
fair value

Notes

21

22

19

24

24

26

–

33,132

50,322

971

–

–

–

–

–

10,086

10,086

10,086

138,852

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

683

2,983

1,710

3,941

171,984

171,984

50,322

50,322

971

683

2,983

1,710

3,941

971

683

2,983

1,710

3,941

84,425

138,852

19,403

242,680

242,680

Fair value 
through 
profit or loss

Cost/
amortised
cost

Total
carrying 
value

Total
fair value

Notes

28

30

31

22

34

11,391

–

–

412

1,116

12,919

515

5,757

1,826

–

8,301

16,399

11,906

11,906

5,757

1,826

412

9,417

6,169

1,826

412

9,417

29,318

29,730

The carrying amount of assets included in the above tables represents the maximum credit exposure.

Foreign currency exposure, including the net positions of foreign currency derivative, is shown in note 38 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.

208

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value measurements on a recurring basis
The Group measures at fair value property held for own use, investment property, 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.

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.

Fair value of properties is based on valuation by independent professional valuers.

The Group does not have assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis during the year ended 31 
December 2020.

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Group to estimate the fair value of financial instruments and 
properties.

Determination of fair value
Loans and receivables
For  loans  and  advances  that  are  repriced  frequently  and  have  not  had  any  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.

209

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Determination of fair value (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.

When the Group holds a group of derivative assets and derivative liabilities entered into with a particular counterparty, the 
Group takes into account the arrangements that mitigate credit risk exposure in the event of default (e.g. International 
Swap and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreements and Credit Support Annex (CSA) that require the exchange of 
collateral on the basis of each party’s net credit risk exposure). The Group measures the fair value of the group of financial 
assets and financial liabilities on the basis of its net exposure to the credit risk of that counterparty or the counterparty’s 
net exposure to our credit risk that reflects market participants’ expectations about the likelihood that such an arrangement 
would be legally enforceable in the event of default.

Property held for own use and investment property
The Group engaged external, independent and qualified valuers to determine the fair value of the Group’s properties at 
least  on  an  annual  basis. The  valuation  on  an  open  market  value  basis  by  independent  professional  valuer  for  certain 
investment properties was calculated by reference to net rental income allowing for reversionary income potential. The fair 
values of certain other properties were derived using the Market Data Approach. In this approach, the values are based on 
sales and listing of comparable property registered in the vicinity. Certain other properties are valued using a combination 
of these two methods.

The properties held for own use and investment properties, in most cases, are valued on the basis of the highest and best 
use of the properties that is physically possible, legally permissible and financially feasible. The current use of the properties 
are considered to be its highest and best use; records of recent sales and offerings of similar property are analysed and 
comparison  made  for  such  factors  as  size,  location,  quality  and  prospective  use.  On  limited  occasions,  potential 
redevelopment  of  the  properties  in  use  would  be  taken  into  account  when  they  would  maximise  the  fair  value  of  the 
properties; the Group is occupying these properties for operational purposes.

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 financial 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.

210

AIA GROUP LIMITED23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Determination of fair value (continued)
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.

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.

Other liabilities
The fair values of other unquoted financial liabilities are estimated by discounting expected future cash flows using current 
market  rates  applicable  to  their  yield,  credit  quality  and  maturity,  except  for  those  without  stated  maturity,  where  the 
carrying value approximates to fair value.

Fair value hierarchy for fair value measurement on a recurring basis
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:

(cid:127)  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 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.

(cid:127)  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.

(cid:127)  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 properties held for own use, investment 
properties,  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.

211

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value hierarchy for fair value measurement on a recurring basis (continued)
A summary of assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis according to fair value hierarchy is given below:

US$m

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Fair value hierarchy

31 December 2020

Recurring fair value measurements

Non-financial assets

Property held for own use

Investment property

Financial assets

Available for sale

  Debt securities

  Participating funds and other participating business 

  with distinct portfolios

  Other policyholder and shareholder

At fair value through profit or loss

  Debt securities

  Participating funds and other participating business 

  with distinct portfolios

  Unit-linked and consolidated investment funds

  Other policyholder and shareholder

  Equity securities

  Participating funds and other participating business 

  with distinct portfolios

  Unit-linked and consolidated investment funds

  Other policyholder and shareholder

Derivative financial instruments

  Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

  Other contracts

–

–

–

69

14

14

1

20,272

27,640

5,481

–

–

13

–

–

1,025

4,639

1,025

4,639

47,594

116,178

8

1,257

47,602

117,504

27,426

6,386

1,697

877

285

1,077

434

561

61

930

3

304

2,743

307

500

–

–

–

28,370

6,403

2,002

23,892

28,232

7,058

434

561

74

Total assets on a recurring fair value measurement basis

53,504

202,576

11,716

267,796

% of Total

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

  Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

  Other contracts

Other liabilities

Total liabilities on a recurring fair value measurement 
  basis

% of Total

20.0

75.6

4.4

100.0

–

–

–

12

–

12

0.1

–

12,026

12,026

175

308

508

1,025

2,016

14.3

–

–

–

–

175

308

520

1,025

12,026

85.6

14,054

100.0

212

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value hierarchy for fair value measurement on a recurring basis (continued)

US$m

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Fair value hierarchy

31 December 2019

Recurring fair value measurements

Non-financial assets

Property held for own use

Investment property

Financial assets

Available for sale

  Debt securities

  Participating funds and other participating business 

  with distinct portfolios

  Other policyholder and shareholder

At fair value through profit or loss

  Debt securities

  Participating funds and other participating business 

  with distinct portfolios

  Unit-linked and consolidated investment funds

  Other policyholder and shareholder

  Equity securities

  Participating funds and other participating business 

  with distinct portfolios

  Unit-linked and consolidated investment funds

  Other policyholder and shareholder

Derivative financial instruments

  Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

  Other contracts

Total assets on a recurring fair value measurement basis

% of Total

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

  Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

  Other contracts

Other liabilities

Total liabilities on a recurring fair value measurement 
  basis

% of Total

–

–

–

–

1,019

4,834

1,019

4,834

72

133

33,153

104,220

230

1,044

33,455

105,397

8

–

1

24,529

5,848

1,886

896

244

755

458

487

12

575

18

267

1,735

298

379

–

–

–

25,112

5,866

2,154

18,739

24,101

7,482

458

487

26

172,488

10,399

229,130

75.3

4.5

100.0

–

11,391

11,391

228

161

11

1,116

1,516

11.7

–

–

–

–

228

161

23

1,116

11,391

88.2

12,919

100.0

213

16,108

23,559

6,348

–

–

14

46,243

20.2

–

–

–

12

–

12

0.1

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value hierarchy for fair value measurement on a recurring basis (continued)
The Group’s policy is to recognise transfers of assets and liabilities between Level 1 and Level 2 at their fair values as at 
the end of each reporting period, consistent with the date of the determination of fair value. Assets are transferred out of 
Level 1 when they are no longer transacted with sufficient frequency and volume in an active market. During the year 
ended 31 December 2020, the Group transferred US$127m (2019: US$379m) of assets measured at fair value from Level 
1  to  Level  2.  Conversely,  assets  are  transferred  from  Level  2  to  Level  1  when  transaction  volume  and  frequency  are 
indicative of an active market. The Group transferred US$9m of assets (2019: US$36m) from Level 2 to Level 1 during the 
year ended 31 December 2020.

The  Group’s  Level  2  financial  instruments  include  debt  securities,  equity  securities,  derivative  instruments  and  other 
liabilities. The fair values of Level 2 financial instruments are estimated using values obtained from private pricing services 
and brokers corroborated with internal review as necessary. When the quotes from private pricing services and brokers are 
not available, internal valuation techniques and inputs will be used to derive the fair value for the financial instruments.

The tables below set out a summary of changes in the Group’s Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a 
recurring basis for the year ended 31 December 2020 and 2019. The tables reflect gains and losses, including gains and 
losses on assets and liabilities categorised as Level 3 as at 31 December 2020 and 2019.

Level 3 assets and liabilities

US$m

Property 
held for
own use

Investment 
property

Debt
securities

Equity
securities

Derivative 
financial 
assets/
(liabilities)

At 1 January 2020

1,019 

4,834

2,134

2,412

Net movement on investment contract 

liabilities

Total gains/(losses)

  Reported under investment return and 
  other expenses in the consolidated 

income statement

  Reported under fair value reserve, foreign 

  currency translation reserve and 
  property revaluation reserve in the 
  consolidated statement of 
  comprehensive income

Purchases

Sales

Settlements

Transfer into Level 3

At 31 December 2020

Change in unrealised gains or losses 

included in the consolidated income 
  statement for assets and liabilities held 
  at the end of the reporting period, under 
investment return and other expenses

–

–

–

–

(15)

(292)

(26)

75

3

18

–

–

–

69

29

(1)

–

–

1,025

4,639

99

798

(313)

(233)

43

2,502

80

1,141

(258)

–

100

3,550

(15)

(292)

(26)

(5)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Investment 
contracts

(11,391)

(635)

–

–

–

–

–

–

(12,026)

–

214

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value hierarchy for fair value measurement on a recurring basis (continued)
Level 3 assets and liabilities (continued)

US$m

Property 
held for
own use

Investment 
property

Debt
securities

Equity
securities

Derivative 
financial 
assets/
(liabilities)

At 1 January 2019

982

4,794

1,850

1,333

Net movement on investment contract 

liabilities

Total gains/(losses)

  Reported under investment return and 
  other expenses in the consolidated 

income statement

  Reported under fair value reserve, foreign 

  currency translation reserve and 
  property revaluation reserve in the 
  consolidated statement of 
  comprehensive income

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Transfer from investment property

Purchases

Sales

Settlements

Transfer out of Level 3

At 31 December 2019

Change in unrealised gains or losses 

included in the consolidated income 
  statement for assets and liabilities held 
  at the end of the reporting period, under 
investment return and other expenses

–

–

–

–

(26)

103

(10)

(35)

44

–

9

10

–

–

–

60

–

(9)

9

(120)

–

(3)

(6)

247

–

559

(19)

(487)

–

24

448

–

706

(31)

–

(33)

1,019

4,834

2,134

2,412

(26)

103

(3)

19

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Investment 
contracts

(6,907)

(480)

–

–

(4,004)

–

–

–

–

–

(11,391)

–

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.

Assets transferred out of Level 3 mainly relate to equity securities of which market-observable inputs became available 
during the year and were used in determining the fair value.

There are not any 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.

215

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Significant unobservable inputs for level 3 fair value measurements
As at 31 December 2020 and 2019, the valuation techniques and applicable unobservable inputs used to measure the 
Group’s Level 3 financial instruments are summarised as follows:

Description

Fair value at 
31 December 2020 (US$m) Valuation techniques

Unobservable inputs

Range

Debt securities

997

Discounted cash flows Risk adjusted discount rate 3.40% – 10.40%

Description

Fair value at 
31 December 2019 (US$m) Valuation techniques

Unobservable inputs

Range

Debt securities

817

Discounted cash flows Risk adjusted discount rate 3.69% – 14.14%

Fair value of the Group’s properties are determined based on appropriate valuation techniques which may consider among 
others income projection, value of comparable property and adjustments for factors such as size, location, quality and 
prospective use. These valuation inputs are deemed unobservable.

Valuation processes
The Group has the valuation policies, procedures and analyses in place to govern the valuation of financial assets required 
for financial reporting purposes, including Level 3 fair values. In determining the fair values of financial assets, the Group 
in general uses private pricing providers and, only in rare cases when third-party prices do not exist, will use prices derived 
from internal models. The Chief Investment Officers of each of the business units are required to review the reasonableness 
of the prices used and report price exceptions, if any. The Group Investment team analyses reported price exceptions and 
reviews price challenge responses from private pricing providers and provides the final recommendation on the appropriate 
price to be used. Any changes in valuation policies are reviewed and approved by the Group Valuations Advisory Committee 
which is part of the Group’s wider financial risk governance processes. Changes in Level 2 and 3 fair values are analysed 
at each reporting date.

The main Level 3 input used by the Group pertains to the discount rate for the debt securities and investment contracts. 
The unobservable inputs for determining the fair value of these instruments include the obligor’s credit spread and/or the 
liquidity spread. A significant increase/(decrease) in any of the unobservable input may result in a significantly lower/
(higher) fair value measurement. The Group has subscriptions to private pricing services for gathering such information. If 
the information from private pricing services is not available, the Group uses the proxy pricing method based on internally-
developed valuation inputs.

216

AIA GROUP LIMITED23. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (continued)
Fair value of financial and insurance assets and liabilities for which the fair value is disclosed at reporting 
date
A summary of fair value hierarchy of assets and liabilities not carried at fair value but for which the fair value is disclosed 
as at 31 December 2020 and 2019 is given below.

US$m

31 December 2020

Assets for which the fair value is disclosed

Financial assets

Loans and deposits

Reinsurance receivables

Other receivables

Accrued investment income

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets for which the fair value is disclosed

Liabilities for which the fair value is disclosed

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

Borrowings

Obligations under repurchase agreements

Other liabilities

Total liabilities for which the fair value is disclosed

US$m

31 December 2019

Assets for which the fair value is disclosed

Financial assets

Loans and deposits

Reinsurance receivables

Other receivables

Accrued investment income

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets for which the fair value is disclosed

Liabilities for which the fair value is disclosed

Financial liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

Borrowings

Obligations under repurchase agreements

Other liabilities

Total liabilities for which the fair value is disclosed

Fair value hierarchy

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

2,153

–

27

37

5,619

7,836

–

8,132

–

575

8,707

2,700

671

2,975

1,785

–

8,131

–

1,423

1,664

6,132

9,219

4,480

–

51

–

–

9,333

671

3,053

1,822

5,619

4,531

20,498

543

–

–

65

608

543

9,555

1,664

6,772

18,534

Fair value hierarchy

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

2,959

–

55

36

3,941

6,991

–

5,350

–

354

5,704

2,769

683

2,855

1,674

–

7,981

–

819

1,826

7,888

10,533

4,358

10,086

–

73

–

–

683

2,983

1,710

3,941

4,431

19,403

515

–

–

59

574

515

6,169

1,826

8,301

16,811

217

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION24. OTHER ASSETS

US$m

Accrued investment income

Pension scheme assets

  Defined benefit pension scheme surpluses

Insurance receivables due from insurance and investment contract holders

Others(1)

Total

Note:
(1)  Represents, among others, prepayments and investment-related receivables.

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

1,822

1,710

46

1,983

1,982

5,833

44

1,459

2,392

5,605

All amounts other than certain prepayments are generally expected to be recovered within 12 months after the end of the 
reporting period.

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 31 December 2020, no impairment loss (2019: nil) was 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 31 December 
2020 was nil (2019: nil).

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 31 December 2020 was 
US$15m (2019: US$14m). 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.

218

AIA GROUP LIMITED26. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

US$m

Cash

Cash equivalents

Total(1)

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

2,877

2,742

5,619

3,158

783

3,941

Note:
(1)  Of cash and cash equivalents, US$1,111m (2019: US$703m) are held to back unit-linked contracts and US$108m (2019: US$49m) are held by 

consolidated investment funds.

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 that are convertible into known 
amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in value. Accordingly, all such amounts are expected to be 
realised within 12 months after the end of the reporting period.

27. INSURANCE CONTRACT LIABILITIES
The  movements  of  insurance  contract  liabilities  (including  liabilities  in  respect  of  investment  contracts  with  DPF)  and 
ceded insurance contract liabilities (see note 19) are shown as follows:

US$m

Note

Gross

Reinsurance

Net

At 1 January 2019 – As previously reported

Effect of change in accounting policy

At 1 January 2019 – As adjusted

Valuation premiums and deposits

Liabilities released for policy termination or other 
  policy benefits paid and related expenses

Fees from account balances

Accretion of interest

Change in net asset values attributable to policyholders

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Foreign exchange movements

Other movements

At 31 December 2019 – As adjusted

Valuation premiums and deposits

Liabilities released for policy termination or 
  other policy benefits paid and related expenses

Fees from account balances

Accretion of interest

Change in net asset values attributable to policyholders

Foreign exchange movements

Other movements

At 31 December 2020

48

164,764

(1,381)

163,383

33,822

(22,063)

(2,401)

5,542

9,996

2,807

2,207

(1,112)

192,181

35,438

(23,038)

(2,427)

6,056

11,491

3,657

(287)

(2,323)

162,441

–

(2,323)

(1,804)

1,269

–

(20)

–

(285)

13

–

(3,150)

(2,128)

1,720

–

(33)

–

(298)

–

(1,381)

161,060

32,018

(20,794)

(2,401)

5,522

9,996

2,522

2,220

(1,112)

189,031

33,310

(21,318)

(2,427)

6,023

11,491

3,359

(287)

223,071

(3,889)

219,182

219

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202027. INSURANCE CONTRACT LIABILITIES (continued)
Insurance contract liabilities (including liabilities in respect of investment contracts with DPF) can also be analysed as 
follows:

US$m

Deferred profit

Unearned revenue

Policyholders’ share of participating surplus

Liabilities for future policyholder benefits

Total

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

24,972

1,751

31,151

165,197

223,071

20,500

2,091

21,870

147,720

192,181

220

AIA GROUP LIMITED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

Nature of benefits and 
compensation for claims

Factors affecting 
contract cash 
flows

Key reportable 
segments

Minimum guaranteed benefits 
may be enhanced based on 
investment experience and 
other considerations

(cid:127) Investment 
performance

(cid:127) Expenses
(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Surrenders
(cid:127) Morbidity

Hong Kong, 
Singapore, 
Mainland China, 
Malaysia

Participating products include 
protection and savings elements. 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

For participating funds, local 
regulations generally prescribe a 
minimum proportion of policyholder 
participation in declared dividends

For other participating business with 
distinct portfolios, the allocation of 
benefit from the assets held in such 
distinct portfolios is set according to 
the underlying bonus rule as 
determined by the relevant Board 
based on applicable regulatory 
requirements after considering the 
Appointed Actuary’s recommendation. 
The extent of such policyholder 
participation may change over time

Participating products include 
protection and savings elements. 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 paid on death, maturity, 
sickness or disability that are fixed 
and guaranteed and not at the 
discretion of the insurer

These products provide morbidity or 
sickness benefits and include health, 
disability, critical illness and accident 
cover

Traditional 
participating 
life

Participating 
funds and 
other 
participating 
business with 
distinct 
portfolios

Other 
participating 
business 
without 
distinct 
portfolios

Traditional 
non-participating 
life

Accident and 
health

Unit-linked

Universal life

Note:
(1)  Other than the Group Corporate Centre segment.

Minimum guaranteed benefits 
may be enhanced based on 
investment experience and 
other considerations

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

(cid:127) Investment 
performance

Thailand, 
Other Markets

(cid:127) Expenses
(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Surrenders
(cid:127) Morbidity

(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Morbidity
(cid:127) Lapses
(cid:127) Expenses

(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Morbidity
(cid:127) Lapses
(cid:127) Expenses

(cid:127) Investment 
performance

(cid:127) Lapses
(cid:127) Expenses
(cid:127) Mortality

(cid:127) Investment 
performance
(cid:127) Crediting rates
(cid:127) Lapses
(cid:127) Expenses
(cid:127) Mortality

All(1)

All(1)

All(1)

All(1)

221

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

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020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 risks is offset by a corresponding 
movement in insurance contract liabilities.

Market and credit risks

Direct exposure

Type of contract

Traditional 
participating 
life

Insurance and investment 
contract liabilities

Risks associated with 
related investment portfolio Indirect exposure

Significant insurance and 
lapse risks

Participating 
funds and other 
participating 
business with 
distinct 
portfolios

(cid:127) Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

(cid:127) Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

(cid:127) Guarantees

(cid:127) Guarantees

Other 
participating 
business 
without distinct 
portfolios

(cid:127) Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

(cid:127) Net neutral except for 
the insurer’s share of 
participating 
investment 
performance

(cid:127) Guarantees

(cid:127) Guarantees

(cid:127) Investment 

performance subject to 
smoothing through 
dividend declarations

(cid:127) Impact of persistency 
on future dividends

(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Morbidity

(cid:127) Investment 

performance subject to 
smoothing through 
dividend declarations

(cid:127) Impact of persistency 
on future dividends

(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Morbidity

Traditional 
non-participating 
life

(cid:127) Guarantees
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

Accident and health

(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

Pension

(cid:127) Net neutral
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

(cid:127) Investment 
performance
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

(cid:127) Credit risk

(cid:127) Investment 
performance

(cid:127) Credit risk
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

(cid:127) Net neutral
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

(cid:127) Not applicable

(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Persistency
(cid:127) Morbidity

(cid:127) Not applicable

(cid:127) Morbidity
(cid:127) Persistency

(cid:127) Performance-related 

(cid:127) Persistency

investment 
management fees

Unit-linked

(cid:127) Net neutral

(cid:127) Net neutral

(cid:127) Performance-related 

investment 
management fees

(cid:127) Persistency
(cid:127) Mortality

Universal life

(cid:127) Guarantees
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

(cid:127) Investment 
performance

(cid:127) Credit risk
(cid:127) Asset-liability 
mismatch risk

(cid:127) Spread between earned 
rate and crediting rate 
to policyholders

(cid:127) Mortality
(cid:127) Persistency
(cid:127) Withdrawals

The Group is also exposed to foreign exchange rate 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.

222

AIA GROUP LIMITED27. INSURANCE CONTRACT LIABILITIES (continued)
Methodology and assumptions (continued)
Valuation interest rates
As at 31 December 2020 and 2019, the ranges of applicable valuation interest rates for traditional insurance contracts, 
which vary by operating segment, year of issuance and products, within the first 20 years are as follows:

Hong Kong

Thailand

Singapore

Malaysia

Mainland China

Australia

Indonesia

Philippines

South Korea

Sri Lanka

Taiwan (China)

Vietnam

28. INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES

US$m

At beginning of financial year

Investment contract benefits

Fees charged

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Net withdrawals and other movements

Foreign exchange movements

At end of financial year(1)

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

3.00% – 7.50%

3.50% – 7.50%

2.49% – 9.00%

3.13% – 9.00%

2.00% – 7.00%

2.00% – 7.00%

3.00% – 5.43%

3.70% – 5.43%

2.75% – 7.00%

2.75% – 7.00%

0.01% – 7.11%

0.51% – 7.11%

3.02% – 8.61%

3.02% – 8.61%

2.20% – 9.20%

2.20% – 9.20%

2.05% – 6.50%

2.17% – 6.50%

8.87% – 10.29%

8.61% – 10.96%

1.75% – 6.50%

1.75% – 6.50%

5.53% – 11.48%

5.53% – 11.48%

Year ended
31 December 
2020

Year ended
31 December 
2019

12,273

1,305

(88)

–

(1,046)

437

12,881

7,885

992

(93)

4,004

(603)

88

12,273

Note:
(1)  Of investment contract liabilities, US$312m (2019: US$367m) represents deferred fee income. Movement of deferred fee income of US$55m 

(2019: US$62m) represents revenue recognised as a result of performance obligations satisfied during the year.

223

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020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 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

140

(162)

(63)

(92)

(76)

127

(143)

(50)

(80)

(66)

Future policy benefits for the Group’s majority 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 not any impact of the above assumption 
sensitivities on the carrying amount of these traditional life insurance liabilities as the sensitivities presented would not 
have  triggered  a  liability  adequacy  adjustment.  During  the  years  presented  there  were  not  any  effect  of  changes  in 
assumptions and estimates on the Group’s traditional life products, except for a limited number of cases where statutory 
requirements are adopted in the applicable jurisdiction.

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$166m 
(2019: US$38m) decrease in profit.

224

AIA GROUP LIMITED30. BORROWINGS

US$m

Medium-term notes and securities

  Senior notes

  Subordinated securities

Total

As at 
31 December 
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

6,824

1,735

8,559

5,757

–

5,757

Interest expense on borrowings is shown in note 11. Further information relating to interest rates and the maturity profile 
of borrowings is presented in note 38.

The following table summarises the Company’s outstanding medium-term notes and securities placed to the market at 31 
December 2020:

Senior notes
Issue date

13 March 2013(1)

11 March 2014(1)

11 March 2015(1)

16 March 2016(1)

23 May 2017(2)

6 April 2018(1)

12 April 2018

20 September 2018(1)

16 January 2019

16 January 2019

9 April 2019(1)

7 April 2020(1)

24 June 2020

Nominal amount

Interest rate

Tenor at issue

Maturity

US$500m
US$500m
US$750m
US$750m
US$500m
US$500m
HK$3,900m

HK$1,300m
HK$1,100m
US$1,000m
US$1,000m
A$90m

3.125%

4.875%

3.200%

4.500%

4.470%

3.900%

3.680%

3.600%

3.375%

2.950%

10 years

30 years

10 years

30 years

30 years

10 years

3 years

13 March 2023

11 March 2044

11 March 2025

16 March 2046

23 May 2047

6 April 2028

12 April 2021

3 years 20 September 2021

3.5 years

12 years

10 years

10 years

10 years

16 July 2022

16 January 2031

9 April 2029

7 April 2030

24 June 2030

2.760%
US$500m 3M LIBOR + 0.52%
2.950%

Subordinated securities
Issue date

Nominal amount

Interest rate

Tenor at issue

Maturity

16 September 2020(1)(3)

US$1,750m

3.200%

20 years 16 September 2040

Notes:
(1)  These medium-term notes and securities are listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.
(2)  These medium-term notes are listed on The Taipei Exchange, Taiwan. The Company has the right to redeem these notes at par on 23 May of each 

year beginning on 23 May 2022.

(3)  These medium-term securities are subordinated instruments of the Company. The Company has the right to redeem these securities in the event 
of a tax event, regulatory event or a minimal outstanding amount, or to conduct a make-whole redemption, subject to the satisfaction of the 
applicable redemption conditions.

The net proceeds from issuance during the year ended 31 December 2020 are used for general corporate purposes.

The Group has access to an aggregate of US$2,290m unsecured committed credit facilities, which includes a US$100m 
revolving three-year credit facility expiring in 2023 and a US$2,190m five-year credit facility expiring in 2025, both subject 
to certain extension options. The credit facilities will be used for general corporate purposes. There were no outstanding 
borrowings under these credit facilities as of 31 December 2020 and 2019.

225

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202031. OBLIGATIONS UNDER REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
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 de-recognised from the Group’s consolidated statement of financial 
position, but are retained within the appropriate financial asset classification. During the term of the 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 repurchase agreements which do not qualify for de-recognition at each 
year end:

US$m

Debt securities – AFS

  Repurchase agreements

Debt securities – FVTPL

  Repurchase agreements

Total

As at 
31 December
2020

As at 
31 December 
2019

1,444

1,947

232

1,676

41

1,988

Collateral
At 31 December 2020, the Group had pledged debt securities of US$1m (2019: nil). No cash collateral (2019: US$1m) 
were held based on the market value of the securities transferred. In the absence of default, the Group does not sell or 
repledge the debt securities collateral received and they are not recognised in the consolidated statement of financial 
position.

At 31 December 2020, the obligations under repurchase agreements were US$1,664m (2019: US$1,826m).

226

AIA GROUP LIMITED32. OFFSETTING OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Offsetting, enforceable master netting agreements and similar agreements
The following table shows the assets that are subject to offsetting, enforceable master netting agreements and similar 
arrangements at each year end:

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
liabilities 
set off in the 
consolidated 
statement 
of financial 
position

Net amount 
of financial 
assets 
presented 
in the 
consolidated 
statement of 
financial 
position

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
assets

Related amounts 
not set off in the 
consolidated statement 
of financial position

Financial 
instruments

Cash 
collateral 
received

Net 
amount

1,069

271

1,340

–

–

–

1,069

271

1,340

(17)

(271)

(288)

(500)

–

(500)

552

–

552

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
liabilities 
set off in the 
consolidated 
statement 
of financial 
position

Net amount 
of financial 
assets 
presented 
in the 
consolidated 
statement of 
financial 
position

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
assets

Related amounts 
not set off in the 
consolidated statement 
of financial position

Financial 
instruments

Cash 
collateral 
received

Net 
amount

971

265

1,236

–

–

–

971

265

1,236

(7)

(265)

(272)

(581)

–

(581)

383

–

383

US$m

31 December 2020

Financial assets:

  Derivative assets

  Reverse repurchase agreements

Total

US$m

31 December 2019

Financial assets:

  Derivative assets

  Reverse repurchase agreements

Total

227

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202032. OFFSETTING OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES (continued)
Offsetting, enforceable master netting agreements and similar agreements (continued)
The following table shows the liabilities that are subject to offsetting, enforceable master netting agreements and similar 
arrangements at each year end:

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
assets 
set off in the 
consolidated 
statement 
of financial 
position

Net amount 
of financial 
liabilities 
presented 
in the 
consolidated 
statement 
of financial 
position

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
liabilities

Related amounts 
not set off in the 
consolidated statement 
of financial position

Financial 
instruments

Cash 
collateral 
pledged

Net 
amount

1,003

1,664

2,667

–

–

–

1,003

1,664

2,667

(696)

(1,664)

(2,360)

(86)

–

(86)

221

–

221

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
assets 
set off in the 
consolidated 
statement 
of financial 
position

Net amount 
of financial 
liabilities 
presented 
in the 
consolidated 
statement 
of financial 
position

Gross 
amount of 
recognised 
financial 
liabilities

Related amounts 
not set off in the 
consolidated statement 
of financial position

Financial 
instruments

Cash 
collateral 
pledged

Net 
amount

412

1,826

2,238

–

–

–

412

1,826

2,238

(266)

(1,826)

(2,092)

(37)

–

(37)

109

–

109

US$m

31 December 2020

Financial liabilities:

  Derivative liabilities

  Repurchase agreements

Total

US$m

31 December 2019

Financial liabilities:

  Derivative liabilities

  Repurchase agreements

Total

The  Group  entered  into  enforceable  master  netting  agreements  for  derivative  transactions,  as  well  as  the  repurchase 
agreements  for  debt  instruments  with  various  counterparties.  Except  for  certain  futures  contracts  executed  through 
clearing house mechanism where the settlement arrangement satisfied the IFRS netting criteria, the transactions under 
the enforceable master netting agreements and similar agreements involving the exchange of financial instruments or 
cash  as  collateral  do  not  satisfy  the  IFRS  netting  criteria.  The  provision  in  the  master  netting  agreement  and  similar 
agreements enables a party to terminate transactions early and settle at a net amount if a default or termination event 
occurs.

228

AIA GROUP LIMITED33. PROVISIONS

US$m

At 1 January 2019

Charged to the consolidated income statement

Charged to other comprehensive income

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Exchange differences

Released during the year

Utilised during the year

Other movements

At 31 December 2019

Charged to the consolidated income statement

Charged to other comprehensive income

Exchange differences

Released during the year

Utilised during the year

At 31 December 2020

Employee benefits

Other

130

13

25

–

9

–

(7)

6

176

14

10

–

–

(5)

195

38

34

–

15

1

(6)

(33)

–

49

36

–

2

(13)

(39)

35

Total

168

47

25

15

10

(6)

(40)

6

225

50

10

2

(13)

(44)

230

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.

34. OTHER LIABILITIES

US$m

Trade and other payables

Lease liabilities

Third-party interests in consolidated investment funds

Reinsurance-related payables

Total

As at 
31 December
2020

As at 
31 December
2019

4,850

502

1,025

1,420

7,797

6,262

556

1,116

1,483

9,417

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 generally 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.

Reinsurance-related payables of US$563m (2019: US$573m) are expected to be settled more than 12 months after the 
end of the reporting period.

229

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202035. SHARE CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Share capital

Ordinary shares(1), issued and fully paid

At beginning of the financial year

Shares issued under share option scheme and 
  agency share purchase plan

At end of the financial year

Note:
(1)  Ordinary shares have no nominal value.

As at 31 December 2020

As at 31 December 2019

Million shares

US$m

Million shares

US$m

12,089

14,129

12,077

14,073

6

12,095

26

14,155

12

12,089

56

14,129

The Company issued 4,876,916 shares under share option scheme (2019: 10,552,614 shares) and 1,185,442 shares under 
agency share purchase plan (2019: 1,260,386 shares) during the year ended 31 December 2020.

The Company and its subsidiaries have not purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company’s shares during the year 
ended 31 December 2020 with the exception of 1,552,886 shares (2019: 3,127,664 shares) of the Company purchased by 
and nil share (2019: 911,718 shares) of the Company sold by the employee share-based trusts. 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.

During  the  year  ended  31  December  2020,  12,667,066  shares  (2019:  15,525,163  shares)  were  transferred  to  eligible 
directors, officers and employees of the Group from the employee share-based trusts under share-based compensation 
plans as a result of vesting. As at 31 December 2020, 28,748,261 shares (2019: 39,862,439 shares) of the Company were 
held by the employee share-based trusts.

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.

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 plans. Those shares acquired by the trusts, to the extent not transferred to the participants 
upon vesting, are reported as “Employee share-based trusts”.

Property revaluation reserve
Property revaluation reserve comprises the cumulative net change in the revalued amount of property held for own use at 
the end of the reporting period. Property revaluation surplus is not considered to be a realised profit available for distribution 
to shareholders.

Other reserves
Other reserves mainly include the impact of merger accounting for business combinations under common control and 
share-based compensation.

230

AIA GROUP LIMITED36. NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS

US$m

Equity shares in subsidiaries

Share of earnings

Share of other reserves

Total

As at 
31 December
2020

As at 
31 December
2019

69

369

30

468

69

374

5

448

37. 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 AIA’s capacity to pay dividends to 
shareholders.

Regulatory Solvency
The Group supervisor is the Hong Kong Insurance Authority (HKIA). The Group is in compliance with the solvency and 
capital adequacy requirements applied by its regulators. The Group’s principal operating companies are AIA Co. and AIA 
International Limited (AIA International) which are required by the HKIA to meet the solvency margin requirements of the 
Hong Kong Insurance Ordinance (HKIO). The HKIO (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.

AIA has given an undertaking to the HKIA to maintain an excess of assets over liabilities for branches other than Hong 
Kong at no less than 100% of the Hong Kong statutory minimum solvency margin requirement in each of AIA Co. and AIA 
International.

The capital positions of the Group’s two principal operating companies as of 31 December 2020 and 2019 are as follows:

US$m

AIA Co.

AIA International

31 December 2020

31 December 2019

Total 
available 
capital

Regulatory 
minimum 
capital

9,780

9,382

2,000

3,122

Solvency 
ratio

489%

301%

Total 
available 
capital

Regulatory 
minimum 
capital

11,856

9,280

3,272

2,443

Solvency 
ratio

362%

380%

For these purposes, the Group defines total available capital as the amount of assets in excess of liabilities measured in 
accordance with the HKIO and “regulatory minimum capital” as the required minimum margin of solvency calculated in 
accordance with the HKIO. The solvency ratio is the ratio of total available capital to regulatory minimum capital.

231

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202037. GROUP CAPITAL STRUCTURE (continued)
Group-wide Supervision Framework
In  addition  to  the  HKIO  requirements  for  AIA  Co.  and  AIA  International,  the  HKIA  has  been  developing  a  Group-wide 
Supervision  (GWS)  framework  to  align  with  international  standards  to  supervise  Hong  Kong  domiciled  Internationally 
Active Insurance Groups (IAIGs). Legislation setting out the GWS framework was enacted on 17 July 2020. On 31 December 
2020,  the  Government  gazetted  the  commencement  date  of  the  legislation  to  be  on  29  March  2021.  In  addition,  the 
Insurance (Group Capital) Rules (Group Capital Rules) were tabled before the Legislative Council on 6 January 2021 and 
will also come into operation on 29 March 2021. Under the Group Capital Rules, the GWS framework will be based on a 
“Summation Approach”. The Group’s available capital and minimum required capital will be calculated based on summing 
up of the available capital and required capital according to the regulatory requirements for each relevant regulated entity 
within the Group, also known as Group Local Capital Summation Method (LCSM).

Upon the effective date of the GWS framework, the Group will apply the LCSM to determine the group-level regulatory 
capital position and will disclose it in its financial statements for the six months ending 30 June 2021 and going forward. 
Following the new disclosure of the Group’s regulatory capital position in the Group’s consolidated financial statements, 
the  solvency  ratio  disclosure  for AIA  Co.  and AIA  International  will  no  longer  be  published  in  the  Group’s  consolidated 
financial statements. AIA Co. and AIA International will continue to disclose their solvency ratios in their respective financial 
statements, and will submit annual filings to the HKIA of their solvency margin positions based on their annual audited 
financial statements.

Local Regulatory Solvency
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 and their parent entity 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 HKIA of their solvency margin position based on their annual audited 
financial statements.

Dividends, remittances and other payments from individual branches and subsidiaries
The ability of the Company to pay dividends to shareholders and to meet other obligations depends ultimately on dividends, 
remittances  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, remittances and other payments to AIA Co., including increasing the required margin of 
solvency that an operating unit must maintain. For example, capital may not be remitted without the consent from regulators 
for certain individual branches or subsidiaries of the Group.

232

AIA GROUP LIMITED37. GROUP CAPITAL STRUCTURE (continued)
Capital and Regulatory Orders Specific to the Group
As of 31 December 2020, the requirements and restrictions summarised below may be considered material to the Group 
and remain in effect unless otherwise stated.

Hong Kong Insurance Authority
AIA Group Limited has given to the HKIA an undertaking that AIA Group Limited will:

(i)  ensure that (a) each of AIA Co. and AIA International will at all times maintain an excess of assets over liabilities of not 
less than the aggregate of 150% of the Hong Kong statutory minimum solvency margin requirement in respect of the 
Hong Kong branch and no less than 100% of the Hong Kong statutory minimum solvency margin requirement for 
branches other than Hong Kong (“minimum amount”); (b) it will not withdraw capital or transfer any funds or assets 
out of AIA Co. or AIA International that will cause the solvency ratio to fall below the minimum amounts specified in 
(a), except with, in either case, the prior written consent of the HKIA; and (c) should the solvency ratio of either AIA 
Co. or AIA International fall below the respective minimum amounts, AIA Group Limited will take steps as soon as 
possible to restore it to at least the respective minimum amounts in a manner acceptable to the HKIA;

(ii)  notify the HKIA in writing as soon as the Company becomes aware of any person (a) becoming a controller (within the 
meaning of Section 9(1)(a)(iii)(B) of the HKIO) 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)(a)(iii)(B) of the HKIO) of AIA 
Co. and AIA International through the disposal of our shares traded on the HKSE;

(iii)  be subject to the supervision of the HKIA and AIA Group Limited will be required to continually comply with the HKIA’s 
guidance on the “fit and proper” standards of a controller pursuant to Section 8(2) of the HKIO. The HKIA is empowered 
by the HKIO 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 HKIA; 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 HKIA 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 HKIA; 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 HKIA or requirements that may be prescribed by the HKIA in 
accordance with the HKIO, regulations under the HKIO or guidelines issued by the HKIA from time to time.

233

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202038. RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk management framework
AIA recognises the importance of sound risk management in every aspect of our business and for all our stakeholders. The 
Risk  Management  Framework  (RMF)  provides  the  structure  for  identifying,  quantifying  and  mitigating  risk  across  the 
Group.  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.

Insurance risk
Insurance  risk  is  the  risk  arising  from  changes  in  claims  experience  as  well  as  more  general  exposure  relating  to  the 
acquisition and persistency of insurance business. This also includes changes to assumptions regarding future experience 
for these risks.

Lapse
Lapse risk is the risk policies lapse, on average, earlier than assumed in the pricing or reserving assumptions.

Ensuring customers buy products that meet their needs is central to the Group’s Operating Philosophy. Through effective 
implementation of the Business Quality Framework, comprehensive sales training programmes and active monitoring of 
sales  activities  and  persistency,  the  Group  seeks  to  ensure  that  appropriate  products  are  sold  by  qualified  sales 
representatives and that standards of service consistently meet our customers’ needs.

Expense
Expense risk is the risk of greater than expected trends in, or sudden shocks to, the amount or timing of expenses incurred 
by the business.

Daily operations follow a disciplined budgeting and control process that allows for the management of expenses based on 
the Group’s very substantial experience within the markets in which we operate.

Morbidity and Mortality
Morbidity and mortality risk is the risk that the incidence and/or amounts of medical/death claims are higher than the 
assumptions made in pricing and/or reserving.

The  Group  adheres  to  well-defined  market-oriented  underwriting  and  claims  guidelines  and  practices  that  have  been 
developed based on extensive historical experience and with the assistance of professional reinsurers.

The Group’s actuarial teams conduct regular experience studies of all the insurance risk factors in its in-force book. 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.

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 is used to reduce concentration and volatility risk, especially with large policies or new risks, and as protection 
against catastrophic events such as pandemics or natural disasters.

234

AIA GROUP LIMITED38. RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)
Investment and financial risks
Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk that third parties fail to meet their obligations to the Group when they fall due. Although the primary 
source of credit risk is the Group’s investment portfolio, such risk can also arise through reinsurance, procurement, and 
treasury activities.

The Group’s credit risk management oversight process is governed centrally, but provides for decentralised management 
and  accountability  by  our  lines  of  defence.  A  key  to  AIA’s  credit  risk  management  is  adherence  to  a  well-controlled 
underwriting  process.  The  Group’s  credit  risk  management  starts  with  the  assignment  of  an  internal  rating  to  all 
counterparties. A detailed analysis of each counterparty is performed and a rating determined by the investment teams. 
The  Group’s  Risk  Management  function  manages  the  Group’s  internal  ratings  framework  and  conducts  periodic  rating 
reviews. Measuring and monitoring of credit risk is an ongoing process and is designed to enable early identification of 
emerging risk.

Interest rate risk
The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk predominantly arises from any differences between the duration of the Group’s 
liabilities  and  assets.  Since  most  markets  do  not  have  assets  of  sufficient  tenor  to  match  life  insurance  liabilities,  an 
uncertainty arises around the reinvestment of maturing assets to match the Group’s insurance liabilities.

AIA manages interest rate risk primarily on an economic basis to determine the durations of both assets and liabilities. 
Interest rate risk on local solvency basis is also taken into consideration for business units where local solvency regimes 
deviate from economic basis. Furthermore, for products with discretionary benefits, additional modelling of interest rate 
risk is performed to guide determination of appropriate management actions. Management also takes into consideration 
the asymmetrical impact of interest rate movements when evaluating products with options and guarantees.

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.

US$m

31 December 2020

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 repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Total financial liabilities

Variable 
interest rate

Fixed 
interest rate

Non-interest 
bearing

Total

1,020

69

10,735

–

–

–

4,071

–

15,895

–

500

1,664

409

–

2,573

7,421

1

191,146

–

–

–

–

–

894

2,636

–

59,182

671

1,822

1,548

1,069

9,335

2,706

201,881

59,182

671

1,822

5,619

1,069

198,568

67,822

282,285

–

8,059

–

503

–

8,562

12,569

12,569

–

–

6,885

1,003

20,457

8,559

1,664

7,797

1,003

31,592

235

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
38. RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)
Investment and financial risks (continued)
Exposure to interest rate risk (continued)

US$m

31 December 2019

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 repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Total financial liabilities

Variable 
interest rate

Fixed 
interest rate

Non-interest 
bearing

Total

1,042

2

8,238

1

8,229

163,755

–

–

–

3,639

–

–

–

–

–

–

806

2,677

–

50,322

683

1,710

302

971

10,086

2,680

171,984

50,322

683

1,710

3,941

971

12,912

171,994

57,471

242,377

–

500

1,826

682

–

3,008

–

5,257

–

141

–

5,398

11,906

11,906

–

–

8,594

412

20,912

5,757

1,826

9,417

412

29,318

Equity price risk
Equity price risk arises from changes in the market value of equity securities. Investments in equity securities on a long-
term  basis  are  expected  to  align  policyholders  expectations,  provide  diversification  benefits  and  enhance  returns. The 
extent of exposure to equities at any time is subject to the terms of the Group’s strategic asset allocations.

Equity price risk is managed in the first instance through the individual investment mandates which define benchmarks 
and any tracking error targets. Equity limits are also applied to contain individual exposures. Equity exposures are included 
in the aggregate exposure reports on each individual counterparty to ensure concentrations are avoided.

236

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
38. RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)
Investment and financial risks (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 policyholder participation ratios described in note 2.

Information is presented to illustrate the estimated impact on profits and total equity arising from a change in a single 
variable before taking into account the effects of taxation.

The impact of any impairments of financial assets has been ignored for the purpose of illustrating the sensitivity of profit 
before tax and total equity before the effects of taxation to changes in interest rates and equity prices on the grounds that 
default  events  reflect  the  characteristics  of  individual  issuers.  As  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 not any corresponding 
effect on liabilities.

31 December 2020

31 December 2019 – As adjusted

Impact on 
total equity 
(before the 
effects of 
taxation)

Impact on 
allocated 
equity 
(before the 
effects of 
taxation)

Impact on 
profit 
before tax

Impact on 
total equity 
(before the 
effects of 
taxation)

Impact on 
allocated 
equity 
(before the 
effects of 
taxation)

Impact on 
profit 
before tax

US$m

Equity price risk

10 per cent increase in equity prices

1,091

1,091

1,091

1,050

1,050

1,050

10 per cent decrease in equity prices

(1,091)

(1,091)

(1,091)

(1,050)

(1,050)

(1,050)

Interest rate risk

+ 50 basis points shift in yield curves

– 50 basis points shift in yield curves

(550)

584

(8,403)

9,356

(550)

584

(289)

312

(7,026)

7,869

(289)

312

237

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202038. RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)
Investment and financial risks (continued)
Foreign exchange rate risk
The Group’s foreign exchange rate risk arises mainly from the Group’s operations in multiple geographical markets in Asia 
and the translation of multiple currencies to US dollar for financial reporting purposes. The balance sheet values of our 
operating units and subsidiaries are not hedged to the Group’s presentation currency, the US dollar.

However, assets, liabilities and local regulatory and stress capital in each business unit are generally currency matched 
with the exception of holdings of equities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency, or any expected 
capital movements due within one year which may be hedged. Bonds denominated in currencies other than the functional 
currency are commonly hedged with cross-currency swaps or foreign exchange forward contracts.

Foreign exchange rate net exposure

US$m

United States 
Dollar

Hong Kong 
Dollar

Thai 
Baht

Singapore 
Dollar

Malaysian 
Ringgit

China 
Renminbi

31 December 2020

Equity analysed by original currency

Net positions of currency derivatives

Currency exposure

5% strengthening of original currency

Impact on profit before tax

Impact on other comprehensive income

Impact on total equity

5% strengthening of the US dollar

Impact on profit before tax

Impact on other comprehensive income

Impact on total equity

35,400

(9,942)

25,458

4,617

650

5,267

6,445

3,457

9,902

(4,644)

4,239

(405)

2,516

135

2,651

5,862

–

5,862

260

(286)

(26)

260

(286)

(26)

71

141

212

(5)

(207)

(212)

9

485

494

(6)

(488)

(494)

25

(45)

(20)

(9)

29

20

5

128

133

(4)

(129)

(133)

41

252

293

(34)

(259)

(293)

US$m

United States 
Dollar

Hong Kong 
Dollar

Thai 
Baht

Singapore 
Dollar

Malaysian 
Ringgit

China 
Renminbi

31 December 2019 – As adjusted

Equity analysed by original currency

Net positions of currency derivatives

Currency exposure

5% strengthening of original currency

Impact on profit before tax

Impact on other comprehensive income

Impact on total equity

5% strengthening of the US dollar

Impact on profit before tax

Impact on other comprehensive income

Impact on total equity

29,978

(8,371)

21,607

3,483

592

4,075

6,703

3,349

10,052

(2,604)

3,274

670

2,312

(123)

2,189

4,612

(629)

3,983

152

(180)

(28)

152

(180)

(28)

(2)

151

149

46

(195)

(149)

(17)

519

502

20

(522)

(502)

11

23

34

4

(38)

(34)

(8)

118

110

9

(119)

(110)

(25)

224

199

26

(225)

(199)

238

AIA GROUP LIMITED38. RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)
Investment and financial risks (continued)
Liquidity risk
The liquidity principle adopted by the Group Board is “We will maintain sufficient liquidity to meet our expected financial 
commitments as they fall due” and as such AIA has defined liquidity risk as the risk of failure to meet current and future 
financial commitments as they fall due.  This incorporates the risks arising from the timing mismatch of cash inflows and 
outflows in day-to-day operations, including collateral requirements, as well as the market liquidity of assets required for 
policyholder liabilities. 

AIA manages liquidity risk in accordance with the Group’s liquidity framework.  This framework contains the standards, 
procedures,  and  tools  used  by  the  Group  to  monitor  and  manage  liquidity  risk  in  base  and  stressed  conditions  across 
multiple time horizons from daily to twelve months.  AIA further supports its liquidity by maintaining access to committed 
credit facilities, use of bond repurchase markets and debt markets via the Group’s Global Medium-term Note and Securities 
Programme.

US$m

31 December 2020

Financial assets (Policyholder and 
  shareholder investments)

  Loans and deposits

  Other receivables

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Reinsurance receivables

  Accrued investment income

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivative financial instruments

Due in 
one year 
or less

Due after 
one year 
through 
five years

Due after 
five years 
through 
ten years

Total

Due after 
ten years

No fixed 
maturity(2)

8,940

2,574

195,478

30,950

671

1,757

4,400

1,016

1,997

2,477

3,973

–

671

1,756

4,400

189

1,013

50

580

13

1,793

3,557

–

21,353

31,072

139,080

–

–

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

189

249

389

34

–

30,950

–

–

–

–

Subtotal

245,786

15,463

22,606

31,914

141,262

34,541

Financial assets (Unit-linked contracts and 
  consolidated investment funds)

Total

Financial and insurance contract liabilities 

(Policyholder and shareholder investments)

Insurance and investment contract liabilities 
(net of deferred acquisition and origination 

  costs, and reinsurance)

  Borrowings

  Obligations under repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities excluding lease liabilities

  Lease liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

36,499

–

–

–

–

36,499(3)

282,285

15,463

22,606

31,914

141,262

71,040

169,477

8,559

1,664

4,025

539

991

4,316

1,002

1,664

2,305

177

135

15,559

17,309

132,293

1,414(1)

2,548

3,595

–

240

325

534

–

150

35

109

–

171

2

213

–

–

–

1,159

–

–

Subtotal

185,255

9,599

18,072

20,151

136,274

1,159

Financial and insurance contract liabilities 
(Unit-linked contracts and consolidated 
investment funds)

Total

35,125

220,380

–

–

–

–

9,599

18,072

20,151

136,274

35,125

36,284

Note:
(1)  Including US$1,246m which fall due after 2 years through 5 years.

239

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
38. RISK MANAGEMENT (continued)
Investment and financial risks (continued)
Liquidity risk (continued)

US$m

31 December 2019 – As adjusted

Financial assets (Policyholder and 
  shareholder investments)

  Loans and deposits

  Other receivables

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

  Reinsurance receivables

  Accrued investment income

  Cash and cash equivalents

  Derivative financial instruments

Due in 
one year 
or less

Total

Due after 
one year 
through 
five years

Due after 
five years 
through 
ten years

Due after 
ten years

No fixed 
maturity(2)

9,383

2,598

166,118

26,221

683

1,644

3,189

937

2,657

2,488

2,849

–

683

1,635

3,189

167

1,048

75

594

7

1,828

3,256

–

19,404

31,219

112,646

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

189

196

385

Subtotal

210,773

13,668

20,716

32,016

114,859

29,514

Financial assets (Unit-linked contracts and 
  consolidated investment funds)

Total

Financial and insurance contract liabilities 

(Policyholder and shareholder investments)

Insurance and investment contract liabilities 
(net of deferred acquisition and origination 

31,604

–

–

–

–

31,604(3)

242,377

13,668

20,716

32,016

114,859

61,118

  costs, and reinsurance)

144,801

3,297

12,025

13,676

115,803

  Borrowings

  Obligations under repurchase agreements

  Other liabilities excluding lease liabilities

  Lease liabilities

  Derivative financial instruments

Subtotal

Financial and insurance contract liabilities 
(Unit-linked contracts and consolidated 
investment funds)

Total

5,757

1,826

7,716

605

397

–

1,665(4)

2,233

1,859

1,826

5,868

178

40

–

234

368

165

–

162

55

79

–

229

4

113

161,102

11,209

14,457

16,205

118,008

1,223

31,098

–

–

–

–

192,200

11,209

14,457

16,205

118,008

31,098

32,321

Notes:
(2)  Financial assets with no fixed maturity are equities or receivables on demand which the Group has the choice to call. Similarly, financial liabilities 

with no fixed maturity are payable on demand as the counterparty has a choice of when the amount is paid.

(3)  The  total  value  of  amounts  within  financial  assets  (Unit-linked  contracts  and  consolidated  investment  funds)  is  included  within  the  no  fixed 
maturity category to facilitate comparison with the corresponding total value of amounts within financial and insurance contract liabilities (Unit-
linked contracts and consolidated investment funds). Included within financial assets (Unit-linked contracts and consolidated investment funds) 
are debt securities of US$433m (2019: US$668m) due in one year or less, US$2,622m (2019: US$2,392m) due after 1 year through 5 years, 
US$1,934m (2019: US$1,792m) due after 5 years through 10 years and US$1,414m (2019: US$1,014m) due after 10 years, in accordance with 
the contractual terms of the financial investments.

(4)  Including US$665m which fall due after 2 years through 5 years.

240

28

–

26,221

–

9

–

–

–

–

–

1,223

–

–

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
 
 
 
39. 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, Indonesia, South Korea, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China) and 
Vietnam.  The  latest  independent  actuarial  valuation  of  the  plans  was  at  31  December  2020  and  was  prepared  by 
credentialed  actuaries  of  Towers  Watson  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 39 per cent (2019: 40 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$96m (2019: US$88m). The total 
expenses relating to these plans recognised in the consolidated income statement was US$14m (2019: US$13m).

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$93m  (2019:  US$90m).  Employees  and  the  employer  are  required  to  make  monthly  contributions 
equal to 1 per cent to 22 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.

40. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Share-based compensation plans
During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Group made further grants of share options (SOs), restricted share units 
(RSUs) and restricted stock purchase units (RSPUs) to certain directors, officers and employees of the Group under the 
Share Option Scheme (2010 SO Scheme) and the Restricted Share Unit Scheme (2010 RSU Scheme) and the Employee 
Share  Purchase  Plan  (2011  ESPP).  In  addition,  the  Group  made  further  grants  of  restricted  stock  subscription  units 
(RSSUs) to eligible agents under the Agency Share Purchase Plan (ASPP).

Due to the expiry of the 2010 SO Scheme in 2020, the Company has sought and obtained the approval from its shareholders 
at  the  annual  general  meeting  of  the  Company  held  on  29  May  2020  (2020 AGM)  for  the  termination  of  the  2010  SO 
Scheme and the adoption of a new share option scheme (2020 SO Scheme), each as of 29 May 2020. The 2020 SO Scheme 
is  effective  for  a  period  of  10  years  from  the  date  of  adoption.  Following  the  termination  of  the  2010  SO  Scheme  and 
adoption of the 2020 SO Scheme, no further SOs can be granted thereunder. However, the 2010 SO Scheme shall remain 
in full force and effect for all SOs granted prior to its termination, and the exercise of such SOs shall be subject to and in 
accordance with the terms on which they were granted under the provisions of the 2010 SO Scheme and the Listing Rules.

In addition, the Company has adopted a new restricted share unit scheme (2020 RSU Scheme) and a new employee share 
purchase plan (2020 ESPP) on 1 August 2020, in place of the 2010 RSU Scheme and 2011 ESPP, which were terminated 
with effect from 31 July 2020 and 31 October 2020 respectively. Both the 2020 RSU Scheme and 2020 ESPP are also 
effective for a period of 10 years from the date of adoption. Following the termination of the 2010 RSU Scheme and the 
2011 ESPP, no further RSUs or RSPUs can be granted thereunder. However, the 2010 RSU Scheme and the 2011 ESPP 
shall remain in full force and effect for all RSUs and RSPUs granted prior to their terminations, and the vesting of such 
RSUs and RSPUs shall be subject to and in accordance with the terms on which they were granted under the provisions of 
the 2010 RSU Scheme and 2011 ESPP respectively.

241

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202040. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (continued)
Share-based compensation plans (continued)
RSU Schemes
Under the 2010 and 2020 RSU Schemes, the vesting of the granted RSUs is conditional upon the eligible participants 
remaining in employment with the Group during the respective vesting periods. Restricted share unit (RSU) grants are 
vested  either  entirely  after  a  specific  period  of  time  or  in  tranches  over  the  vesting  period  during  which,  the  eligible 
participants are required to remain in employment with the Group. 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  respective  vesting 
period. For most 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. The total number of shares that can be granted under this scheme is 302,264,978 (2019: 301,100,000), representing 
2.5 per cent of the number of shares in issue on the reference date, being the 2020 AGM date.

Number of shares

Restricted Share Units

Outstanding at beginning of financial year

Granted

Forfeited

Vested

Outstanding at end of financial year

Year ended
31 December 
2020

Year ended
31 December 
2019

32,733,981

37,801,324

13,451,940

10,672,622

(2,836,395)

(2,202,873)

(11,562,459)

(13,537,092)

31,787,067

32,733,981

SO Schemes
The objectives of the 2010 and 2020 SO Schemes 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. 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 
that are vested in tranches, each vesting tranche is accounted for as a separate grant for the purposes of recognising the 
expense over the respective vesting periods. The granted SOs expire 10 years from the date of grant and each SO entitles 
the eligible participant to subscribe for one ordinary share. Subject to restrictions in the applicable laws, regulations and 
rules of the relevant jurisdictions, the granted SOs are expected to be settled in equity. The total number of shares under 
options  that  can  be  granted  under  this  scheme  is  302,264,978  (2019:  301,100,000),  representing  2.5  per  cent  of  the 
number of shares in issue on the date of adoption.

Information  about  SOs  outstanding  and  SOs  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

Exercised

Forfeited or expired

Outstanding at end of financial year

Share options exercisable at end of financial year

Year ended
31 December 2020

Year ended
31 December 2019

Number of 
share options

Weighted 
average 
exercise price
(HK$)

Number of 
share options

Weighted 
average 
exercise price
(HK$)

23,798,042

5,856,668

(4,876,916)

(1,073,985)

23,703,809

10,115,925

53.86

68.10

40.01

69.34

59.53

45.22

30,403,944

4,412,153

(10,552,614)

(465,441)

23,798,042

9,119,636

46.22

76.42

40.71

66.45

53.86

37.93

At the respective dates on which the SOs were exercised, the weighted average share price of the Company was HK$80.73 
for the year ended 31 December 2020 (2019: HK$78.65).

242

AIA GROUP LIMITED40. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (continued)
Share-based compensation plans (continued)
SO Schemes (continued)
The range of exercise prices for the SOs outstanding as of 31 December 2020 and 2019 is summarised in the table below.

Range of exercise price
HK$26 – HK$35
HK$36 – HK$45
HK$46 – HK$55
HK$56 – HK$65
HK$66 – HK$75
HK$76 – HK$85
Outstanding at end of financial year

Year ended
31 December 2020

Year ended
31 December 2019

Number of 
share options 
outstanding

Weighted 
average 
remaining 
contractual life
(years)

Number of 
share options 
outstanding

Weighted 
average 
remaining 
contractual life
(years)

1,542,961

2,633,722

5,108,806

830,436

9,759,038

3,828,846

23,703,809

1.30

4.57

5.60

6.58

8.42

8.24

6.83

3,167,121

4,436,084

6,387,390

1,336,469

4,221,746

4,249,232

23,798,042

2.27

5.42

6.71

7.72

8.20

9.24

6.65

ESPP
Under the 2011 and 2020 ESPPs, eligible employees of the Group can purchase ordinary shares of the Company with 
qualified employee contributions and the Company will grant one matching restricted stock purchase unit (RSPU) 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 relevant vesting period, the eligible employees 
must hold the contribution shares purchased and remain employed by the Group in order to qualify to receive the matching 
shares upon the vesting of the matching RSPUs. The granted matching RSPUs are expected to be settled in equity. Under 
the 2010 ESPP, the level of qualified employee contribution was subject to a maximum amount equal to 8 per cent of the 
monthly base salary or HK$9,750 (or local currency equivalent) per month, whichever is lower. Under the 2020 ESPP, the 
level of qualified employee contribution is subject to a maximum amount equal to 10 per cent of the monthly base salary 
or HK$12,500 (or local currency equivalent) per month, whichever is lower. For the year ended 31 December 2020, eligible 
employees paid US$32m (2019: US$27m) to purchase 3,126,641 ordinary shares (2019: 2,640,834 ordinary shares) of 
the Company under the 2011 ESPP and 2020 ESPP.

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 grant one matching restricted stock subscription unit (RSSU) to them at the end of the vesting period for 
each  two  shares  purchased  through  the  qualified  agent  contributions  (agent  contribution  shares).  Each  RSSU  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 and maintain their 
agent contracts with the Group in order to qualify to receive the matching shares upon the vesting of the matching RSSUs. 
The granted matching RSSUs are expected to be settled in equity. The level of qualified agent contribution is subject to a 
maximum amount of US$15,000 per annum. For the year ended 31 December 2020, eligible agents paid US$24m (2019: 
US$25m) to purchase 2,411,360 ordinary shares (2019: 2,501,196 ordinary shares) of the Company.

243

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202040. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (continued)
Valuation methodology
The Group utilises a binomial lattice model to calculate the fair value of the SO grants, a Monte-Carlo simulation model 
and/or discounted cash flow technique to calculate the fair value of the RSU, RSPU and RSSU grants, taking into account 
the terms and conditions upon which the grants were made. 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. The expected life of the SOs 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. An allowance for forfeiture prior to vesting is not 
included in the valuation of the grants.

The fair value calculated for SOs is inherently subjective due to the assumptions made and the limitations of the model 
utilised.

Year ended 31 December 2020

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$)

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.

0.85% 0.31% – 0.78%* 0.09% – 1.68%

24%

1.60%

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

1.60%

n/a

n/a

n/a

0.87%

n/a

1.60%

n/a

n/a

n/a

24%

1.60%

68.10

10

7.84

15.51

63.20

79.07

59.48

Year ended 31 December 2019

Share options

Restricted 
share units

ESPP Restricted 
stock purchase 
units

ASPP Restricted 
stock subscription 
units

1.44% – 1.59% 1.36% – 1.67%* 1.44% – 1.76%

20%

20%

n/a

1.50% 1.50% – 1.60% 1.50% – 1.60%

76.38 – 78.70

10

7.97

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

1.59%

n/a

1.50%

n/a

n/a

n/a

15.55

67.32

75.36

65.08

The weighted average share price for SO valuation for grants made during the year ended 31 December 2020 is HK$68.10 
(2019: HK$76.37). The total fair value of SO granted during the year ended 31 December 2020 is US$12m (2019: US$9m).

Recognised compensation cost
The total recognised compensation cost (net of expected forfeitures) related to various share-based compensation grants 
made by the Group for the year ended 31 December 2020 is US$80m (2019: US$88m).

244

AIA GROUP LIMITED41. 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 40.

US$

Year ended 31 December 2020

Executive Directors

Mr. Ng Keng Hooi(5)

Mr. Lee Yuan Siong(6)

Total

US$

Year ended 31 December 2019

Executive Director

Mr. Ng Keng Hooi(5)

Total

Salaries, 
allowances 
and benefits 
in kind(1)

Director’s 
fees

Share-
based 
payments(2)

Pension 
scheme 
contributions

Bonuses

Other 
benefits(3)

Other 
payments(4)

Total

–

–

–

688,987

2,839,400

7,631,345

1,428,337

3,960,000

1,493,396

2,117,324

6,799,400

9,124,741

40,933

56,271

97,204

112,203

– 11,312,868

– 10,892,303 17,830,307

112,203 10,892,303 29,143,175

Salaries, 
allowances 
and benefits 
in kind(1)

Director’s 
fees

Share-
based 
payments(2)

Pension 
scheme 
contributions

Bonuses

Other 
benefits(3)

Other 
payments

Total

–

–

1,617,677

3,267,000

4,816,710

1,617,677

3,267,000

4,816,710

96,476

96,476

697,485

697,485

– 10,495,348

– 10,495,348

Notes:
(1)  Includes non-cash benefits for housing, medical and life insurance, club and professional membership, company car and perquisites.
(2)  Includes amortised expenses for unvested SOs, RSUs and matching shares under ESPP based on the fair value at the respective grant dates.
(3)  Other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2020 include retirement bonus, long-service payment and annual leave pay. Other benefits for the 

year ended 31 December 2019 include a tax reimbursement to relief double taxation in Singapore and Hong Kong.

(4)  This represents amortised expenses in relation to the awarded compensation for unvested long-term incentives and deferred payments that Mr. 

Lee Yuan Siong forfeited on leaving his prior employments.

(5)  Mr. Ng Keng Hooi’s remuneration includes compensation and benefits up to his retirement as Group Chief Executive and President and Director 
effective 31 May 2020, with the bonus for the year ended 31 December 2020 to be paid on full-year basis and subject to actual performance 
assessments.

(6)  Mr. Lee Yuan Siong is currently the Group Chief Executive and President of the Company. He receives his remuneration exclusively for his role as 
Group Chief Executive and President of the Company and receives no separate fees for his role as a director of the Company or for acting as a 
director of any subsidiary of the Company.

245

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202041. REMUNERATION OF DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL (continued)
Directors’ remuneration (continued)
The remuneration of Independent Non-executive Directors of the Company at 31 December 2020 and 2019 are included 
in the tables below:

US$

fees(1)

in kind(2)

Bonuses

Salaries, 
allowances 
and benefits 

Director’s 

Share-
based 
payments

Pension 
scheme 
contributions

Other 
benefits

Other 
payments

Total

Year ended 31 December 2020

Independent Non-executive 
  Directors

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow

Mr. John Barrie Harrison

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo

Mr. Mohamed Azman Yahya(3)

685,000

268,000

228,000

268,000

253,000

87,295

Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee Lau

213,000

Ms. Swee-Lian Teo

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee(4)

Mr. Cesar Velasquez Purisima

213,000

281,333

183,000

143,315

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total

2,679,628

143,315

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

828,315

268,000

228,000

268,000

253,000

87,295

213,000

213,000

281,333

183,000

– 2,822,943

246

AIA GROUP LIMITED41. REMUNERATION OF DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL (continued)
Directors’ remuneration (continued)

US$

fees(1)

in kind(2)

Bonuses

Salaries, 
allowances 
and benefits 

Director’s 

Share-
based 
payments

Pension 
scheme 
contributions

Other 
benefits

Other 
payments

Total

Year ended 31 December 2019

Independent Non-executive 
  Directors

Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong So

Mr. Chung-Kong Chow

Mr. John Barrie Harrison

Mr. George Yong-Boon Yeo

Mr. Mohamed Azman Yahya(3)

627,500

268,000

228,000

268,000

253,000

213,000

Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee Lau

213,000

Ms. Swee-Lian Teo

Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee(4)

Mr. Cesar Velasquez Purisima

213,000

273,000

183,000

149,080

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total

2,739,500

149,080

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

776,580

268,000

228,000

268,000

253,000

213,000

213,000

213,000

273,000

183,000

2,888,580

Notes:
(1)  Save as disclosed below, all Directors receive the fees for their role as a director of the Company and not for acting as a director of any subsidiary 

of the Company.

(2)  Includes non-cash benefits for housing, club and professional membership, medical insurance and company car.
(3)  Mr. Mohamed Azman Yahya retired as an Independent Non-executive Director of the Company with effect from 30 May 2020.
(4)  US$58,333 and US$50,000 which represented remuneration to Dr. Narongchai Akrasanee in respect of his services as Chairman of Advisory 

Board of AIA Thailand for the year ended 31 December 2020 and 2019 respectively are included in his fees stated above.

Remuneration of five highest-paid individuals
The  aggregate  remuneration  of  the  five  highest-paid  individuals  employed  by  the  Group  in  each  of  the  year  ended  31 
December 2020 and 2019 is presented in the table below.

US$

Salaries, 
allowances 
and benefits 

in kind(1)

Bonuses

Director’s 
fees

Share-
based 
payments(2)

Pension 
scheme 
contributions

Other 
benefits(3)

Other 

payments(4)

Total

Year ended 31 December 2020

– 5,367,242 9,502,800 15,162,153

303,157

112,203 10,892,303 41,339,858

Year ended 31 December 2019

– 5,806,998

5,878,400 10,892,582

313,044

765,257

– 23,656,281

Notes:
(1)  2020 and 2019 non-cash benefits include housing, medical and life insurance, medical check-up, children’s education, club and professional 

membership, company car and perquisites.

(2)  Includes amortised expenses for unvested SOs, RSUs and matching shares under ESPP to the five highest-paid individuals based on the fair value 

at the respective grant dates.

(3)  Other benefits for the year ended 31 December 2020 include retirement bonus, long-service payment and annual leave pay. Other benefits for the 

year ended 31 December 2019 include relief of double taxation arrangement.

(4)  This represents amortised expenses in relation to the awarded compensation for unvested long-term incentives and deferred payments that Mr. 

Lee Yuan Siong forfeited on leaving his prior employments.

247

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202041. 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$

23,500,001 to 24,000,000

25,000,001 to 25,500,000

26,500,001 to 27,000,000

27,500,001 to 28,000,000

28,500,001 to 29,000,000

30,500,001 to 31,000,000

35,000,001 to 35,500,000

82,000,001 to 82,500,000

87,500,001 to 88,000,000

138,000,001 to 138,500,000

Year ended
31 December 
2020

Year ended
31 December 
2019

–

–

–

–

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

Share-based payments(1)

Termination benefits

Total

Year ended
31 December 
2020

Year ended
31 December 
2019

30,844,469

23,633,256

1,118,468

1,422,732

28,808,491

16,552,154

1,707,434

618,081

62,478,862

42,226,223

Note:
(1)  Includes amortised expenses for unvested SOs, RSUs and matching shares under ESPP to the key management personnel based on the fair value 

at the respective grant dates.

The emoluments of the key management personnel are within the following bands:

Year ended
31 December 
2020

Year ended
31 December 
2019

1

–

6

4

1

2

2

4

4

4

–

1

US$

Below 1,000,000

1,000,001 to 2,000,000

2,000,001 to 3,000,000

3,000,001 to 4,000,000

4,000,001 to 5,000,000

Over 10,000,000

248

AIA GROUP LIMITED42. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Remuneration of Directors and key management personnel is disclosed in note 41.

43. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
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 
31 December
2020

As at 
31 December
2019

2,504

174

16

2,694

1,911

8

–

1,919

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,  claims  and  taxes. The  Group  believes  that  these 
matters are adequately provided for in these financial statements.

The Group operates in many jurisdictions across Asia and in certain of those jurisdictions, the Group’s interpretation of the 
relevant law or regulation may differ from that of the tax authorities, which can result in disputes arising. The Group has 
made provisions to cover the potential tax implications, based on management’s judgement and best estimate in relation 
to the probability or likelihood of the potential outcomes, which is subject to periodic re-assessment. Due to the uncertainty 
associated with these items, there remains a possibility that the final outcomes may differ on conclusion of the relevant tax 
matters at a future date.

The  Group  is  the  reinsurer  in  a  residential  mortgage  credit  reinsurance  agreement  covering  residential  mortgages  in 
Australia. The  Group  is  exposed  to  the  risk  of  losses  in  the  event  of  the  failure  of  the  retrocessionaire,  a  subsidiary  of 
American  International  Group,  Inc.,  to  honour  its  outstanding  obligations  which  is  mitigated  by  a  trust  agreement. The 
principal balance outstanding of mortgage loans to which the reinsurance agreement relates were approximately US$479m 
at  31  December  2020  (2019:  US$462m).  The  liabilities  and  related  reinsurance  assets,  which  totalled  US$3m  (2019: 
US$6m),  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.

249

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202044. 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:

Name of entity

Place of 
incorporation 
and operation

Principal activity Issued share capital

As at 
31 December 2020

As at 
31 December 2019

Group’s 
interest %

NCI’s 
interest %

Group’s 
interest %

NCI’s 
interest %

AIA Company Limited(1)

Hong Kong

Insurance

2,596,049,861 ordinary shares  
of US$7,407,084,182 issued 
share capital

100%

AIA International Limited

Bermuda

Insurance

3,000,000 ordinary shares of 

100%

AIA Australia Limited

Australia

Insurance

AIA Bhd.

Malaysia

Insurance

US$1.20 each

2,025,462,500 ordinary shares  
of A$2,107,267,000 issued 
share capital

191,859,543 ordinary shares  
of RM810,000,000 issued 
share capital

100%

100%

AIA Singapore Private Limited

Singapore

Insurance

1,558,021,163 ordinary shares  

100%

of S$1 each

PT. AIA Financial

Indonesia

Insurance

1,910,844,141 ordinary shares  

100%

of Rp1,000 each

The Philippine American Life and 

Philippines

Insurance

199,560,671 ordinary shares  

100%

General Insurance (PHILAM LIFE) 
Company

of PHP10 each and 439,329 
treasury shares

AIA (Vietnam) Life Insurance Company 

Vietnam

Insurance

Contributed capital of 

100%

Limited

VND3,224,420,000,000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Bayshore Development Group Limited

British Virgin 
Islands

Investment 
holding 
company

100 ordinary shares of US$1 

90%

10%

90%

10%

each

BPI-Philam Life Assurance (BPLAC) 

Philippines

Insurance

Corporation

749,993,979 ordinary shares  
of PHP1 each and 6,000 
treasury shares

51%

49%

51%

49%

AIA Reinsurance Limited

Bermuda

Reinsurance 250,000 common shares of  

100%

US$1 each

AIA Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

South Korea

Insurance

60,328,932 ordinary shares of 

100%

AIA New Zealand Limited

New Zealand Insurance

KRW603,289,320,000 issued 
share capital

246,543,729 ordinary shares  
of NZD856,310,811 issued 
share capital

100%

–

–

–

100%

100%

100%

–

–

–

The Colonial Mutual Life Assurance 

Australia

Insurance

Society Limited(3)

1,608,901,100 ordinary shares  
of A$897,901,100 issued  
share capital

 Note 3

Note 3

Note 3

Note 3

AIA Life Insurance Company Limited

Mainland 
China

Insurance

Registered share capital of 

100%

–

–

–

RMB3,777,399,440

Notes:
(1)  The Company’s subsidiary.
(2)  All of the above subsidiaries are audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers.
(3)  The Group has not legally acquired the voting equity of this entity but has entered into a contractual joint cooperation agreement under which it 
exercises control over it with the exception of a stake in BoCommLife Insurance Company Limited. No non-controlling interest is recorded in 
relation to this subsidiary during the year ended 31 December 2020 and 2019.

All subsidiaries are unlisted.

250

AIA GROUP LIMITED45. EVENTS AFTER THE REPORTING PERIOD
On 12 March 2021, a Committee appointed by the Board of Directors proposed a final dividend of 100.30 Hong Kong cents 
per share (2019: final dividend of 93.30 Hong Kong cents per share).

251

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202046. STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION OF THE COMPANY

US$m

Assets

Investment in subsidiaries

Financial investments:

  At fair value through other comprehensive income

  Debt securities(2)

  At fair value through profit or loss

  Debt securities

  Equity securities

Loans to/amounts due from subsidiaries

Other assets

Promissory notes from subsidiaries(3)

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial instruments

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Equity

Share capital

Employee share-based trusts

Other reserves

Retained earnings

Amounts reflected in other comprehensive income

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

As at 
31 December
2020

As at 
31 December
2019

17,341

17,476

9,871

7,374

37

227

10,135

1,904

78

1,844

409

12

87

7,473

1,918

235

997

160

31,711

28,259

9,152

12

92

9,256

6,351

27

238

6,616

14,155

14,129

(155)

259

7,360

836

22,455

31,711

(220)

260

7,079

395

21,643

28,259

Notes:
(1)  The financial information of the Company should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Group.
(2)  Includes United States Treasury securities of US$3,372m as at 31 December 2020 (2019: US$2,561m).
(3)  The promissory notes from subsidiaries are repayable on demand.

Approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 12 March 2021.

Lee Yuan Siong

Director

Edmund Sze-Wing Tse

Director

252

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
47. STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY OF THE COMPANY

US$m

Share capital

Employee 
share-based 
trusts

Other 
reserves

Retained 
earnings

Amounts 
reflected in other 
comprehensive 
income

Total equity

Balance at 1 January 2020

14,129

(220)

260

Net profit

Fair value gains on debt securities at fair 
  value through other comprehensive 

income

Fair value gains on debt securities at fair 
  value through other comprehensive 

income transferred to profit or loss on 

  disposal

Dividends

Shares issued under share option scheme
  and agency share purchase plan

Share-based compensation

Purchase of shares held by employee
  share-based trusts

Transfer of vested shares from employee
  share-based trusts

–

–

–

–

26

–

–

–

Balance at 31 December 2020

14,155

–

–

–

–

–

–

(16)

81

(155)

–

–

–

–

–

80

–

(81)

259

7,079

2,278

395

–

21,643

2,278

–

–

(1,997)

–

–

–

–

549

549

(108)

–

–

–

–

–

(108)

(1,997)

26

80

(16)

–

7,360

836

22,455

US$m

Share capital

Employee 
share-based 
trusts

Other 
reserves

Retained 
earnings

Amounts 
reflected in other 
comprehensive 
income

Total equity

Balance at 1 January 2019

14,073

(258)

231

Net profit

Fair value gains on debt securities at fair 
value through other comprehensive 
income

Fair value losses on debt securities at fair 
value through other comprehensive 
income transferred to profit or loss on 
disposal

Dividends

Shares issued under share option scheme 

and agency share purchase plan

Share-based compensation

Purchase of shares held by employee 

share-based trusts

Transfer of vested shares from employee 

share-based trusts

–

–

–

–

56

–

–

–

Balance at 31 December 2019

14,129

–

–

–

–

–

–

(21)

59

(220)

–

–

–

–

–

88

–

(59)

260

6,488

2,552

(79)

20,455

–

2,552

–

–

(1,961)

–

–

–

–

303

303

171

–

–

–

–

–

171

(1,961)

56

88

(21)

–

7,079

395

21,643

253

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES
For the year ended 31 December 2020, the Group has revised its accounting policy with respect to the recognition and 
measurement of insurance contract liabilities of other participating business with distinct portfolios. Other participating 
business with distinct portfolios refer to business where it is expected that the policyholder will receive, at the discretion 
of the insurer, additional benefits based on the performance of underlying segregated assets where this asset segregation 
is  supported  by  an  explicit  statutory  reserve  and  reporting  in  the  relevant  territory.  Prior  to  this  change  in  accounting 
policy, the Group recognised and measured the insurance contract liabilities for this business based on the present value 
of  guaranteed  benefits  and  non-guaranteed  participation  less  estimated  future  net  premiums  to  be  collected  from 
policyholders. With effect from 1 January 2020, and applied retrospectively, the Group now recognises and measures the 
insurance contract liabilities for this business based on the present value of guaranteed benefits less estimated future net 
premiums to be collected from policyholders. In addition, an insurance contract liability is recorded for the proportion of 
the net assets of this other participating business with distinct portfolios 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 policyholder participation. This approach is consistent with the existing accounting for insurance 
contract  liabilities  arising  from  participating  business.  The  allocation  of  benefit  from  the  assets  held  in  such  other 
participating business with distinct portfolios is set according to the underlying bonus rule as determined by the relevant 
Board  based  on  applicable  regulatory  requirements  after  considering  the  Appointed  Actuary’s  recommendation.  The 
extent of such policyholder participation may change over time; the current policyholder participation ratio applied for 
recognition and measurement of the insurance contract liabilities for Hong Kong ranged from 70% to 90%.

The Group believes that the new accounting policy is more relevant and no less reliable to the economic decision-making 
needs of users. It brings more consistency between assets and liabilities of the other participating business with distinct 
portfolios  and  more  closely  reflects  its  economic  substance,  thereby  enhancing  the  understandability  of  the  Group’s 
performance.

254

AIA GROUP LIMITED48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
The tables below show the quantitative effect of the adoption of the revised accounting policy on the consolidated financial 
statements.

(a) Consolidated Income Statement

US$m

REVENUE

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/(losses) before share of losses from associates and joint ventures

Share of losses from associates and joint ventures

Profit/(losses) before tax

Income tax expense attributable to policyholders’ returns

Profit/(losses) before tax attributable to shareholders’ profits

Tax expense

Tax attributable to policyholders’ returns

Tax expense attributable to shareholders’ profits

Net profit/(losses)

Net profit/(losses) attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

EARNINGS PER SHARE (US$)
Basic

Diluted

Year ended 
31 December 
2020 
(Before change 
in accounting 
policy)

Impact of 
change in 
accounting 
policy

Year ended 
31 December 
2020 
(As reported)

35,780

(2,452)

33,328

16,707

324

50,359

35,090

(2,126)

32,964

4,402

2,695

292

944

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,775

–

1,775

–

–

–

–

35,780

(2,452)

33,328

16,707

324

50,359

36,865

(2,126)

34,739

4,402

2,695

292

944

41,297

1,775

43,072

9,062

(17)

9,045

(171)

8,874

(1,489)

171

(1,318)

(1,775)

–

(1,775)

–

(1,775)

(2)

–

(2)

7,287

(17)

7,270

(171)

7,099

(1,491)

171

(1,320)

7,556

(1,777)

5,779

7,556

–

(1,777)

–

5,779

–

0.63

0.63

(0.15)

(0.15)

0.48

0.48

255

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202048. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(a) Consolidated Income Statement (continued)

US$m

REVENUE

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/(losses) before share of losses from associates and joint ventures

Share of losses from associates and joint ventures

Profit/(losses) before tax

Income tax expense attributable to policyholders’ returns

Profit/(losses) before tax attributable to shareholders’ profits

Tax expense

Tax attributable to policyholders’ returns

Tax expense attributable to shareholders’ profits

Net profit/(losses)

Net profit/(losses) attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

EARNINGS PER SHARE (US$)
Basic

Diluted

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments  
for change in 
accounting 
policy

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

34,777

(2,166)

32,611

14,350

281

47,242

33,400

(1,940)

31,460

4,283

2,468

283

845

39,339

7,903

(8)

7,895

(179)

7,716

(1,208)

179

(1,029)

6,687

6,648

39

0.55

0.55

–

–

–

–

–

–

668

–

668

–

–

–

–

668

(668)

–

(668)

–

(668)

(1)

–

(1)

34,777

(2,166)

32,611

14,350

281

47,242

34,068

(1,940)

32,128

4,283

2,468

283

845

40,007

7,235

(8)

7,227

(179)

7,048

(1,209)

179

(1,030)

(669)

6,018

(669)

–

5,979

39

(0.05)

(0.05)

0.50

0.50

256

AIA GROUP LIMITED48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(b) Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

US$m

ASSETS

Intangible assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

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 repurchase agreements

Derivative financial instruments

Provisions

Deferred tax liabilities

Current tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

As at 
31 December 
2020 
(Before change 
in accounting 
policy)

Impact of 
change in 
accounting 
policy

As at 
31 December 
2020 
(As reported)

2,634

606

2,722

4,639

4,560

27,915

9,335

165,106

36,775

59,182

1,069

271,467

23

103

5,833

5,619

326,121

215,454

12,881

8,559

1,664

1,003

230

6,945

346

7,797

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

7,617

–

–

–

–

–

(43)

–

–

2,634

606

2,722

4,639

4,560

27,915

9,335

165,106

36,775

59,182

1,069

271,467

23

103

5,833

5,619

326,121

223,071

12,881

8,559

1,664

1,003

230

6,902

346

7,797

254,879

7,574

262,453

257

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
 
 
48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(b) Consolidated Statement of Financial Position (continued)

US$m

EQUITY

Share capital

Employee share-based trusts

Other reserves

Retained earnings

  Fair value reserve

  Foreign currency translation reserve

  Property revaluation reserve

  Others

As at 
31 December 
2020 
(Before change 
in accounting 
policy)

Impact of 
change in 
accounting 
policy

As at 
31 December 
2020 
(As reported)

14,155

(155)

(11,891)

45,931

21,392

233

1,074

35

–

–

–

(1,227)

(6,222)

–

(47)

(78)

14,155

(155)

(11,891)

44,704

15,170

233

1,027

(43)

Amounts reflected in other comprehensive income

22,734

(6,347)

16,387

Total equity attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

70,774

468

71,242

326,121

(7,574)

–

(7,574)

–

63,200

468

63,668

326,121

258

AIA GROUP LIMITED48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(b) Consolidated Statement of Financial Position (continued)

US$m

ASSETS

Intangible assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

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 repurchase agreements

Derivative financial instruments

Provisions

Deferred tax liabilities

Current tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments 
for change in 
accounting 
policy

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

2,520

615

2,865

4,834

3,833

26,328

10,086

138,852

33,132

50,322

971

233,363

23

205

5,605

3,941

284,132

189,597

12,273

5,757

1,826

412

225

6,237

432

9,417

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,584

–

–

–

–

–

(23)

–

–

2,520

615

2,865

4,834

3,833

26,328

10,086

138,852

33,132

50,322

971

233,363

23

205

5,605

3,941

284,132

192,181

12,273

5,757

1,826

412

225

6,214

432

9,417

226,176

2,561

228,737

259

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
 
 
48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(b) Consolidated Statement of Financial Position (continued)

US$m

EQUITY

Share capital

Employee share-based trusts

Other reserves

Retained earnings

  Fair value reserve

  Foreign currency translation reserve

  Property revaluation reserve

  Others

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments 
for change in 
accounting 
policy

As at 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

14,129

(220)

(11,887)

40,372

14,663

(698)

1,163

(14)

–

–

–

550

(2,994)

–

(90)

(27)

14,129

(220)

(11,887)

40,922

11,669

(698)

1,073

(41)

Amounts reflected in other comprehensive income

15,114

(3,111)

12,003

Total equity attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

57,508

448

57,956

284,132

(2,561)

–

(2,561)

–

54,947

448

55,395

284,132

260

AIA GROUP LIMITED48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(b) Consolidated Statement of Financial Position (continued)

US$m

ASSETS

Intangible assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

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 repurchase and securities lending agreements

Derivative financial instruments

Provisions

Deferred tax liabilities

Current tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

As at 
31 December 
2018 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments 
for change in 
accounting 
policy

As at 
31 December 
2018 
(As adjusted)

1,970

610

1,233

4,794

2,887

24,626

7,392

112,485

27,736

38,099

430

186,142

26

164

4,903

2,451

229,806

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,970

610

1,233

4,794

2,887

24,626

7,392

112,485

27,736

38,099

430

186,142

26

164

4,903

2,451

229,806

164,764

(1,456)

163,308

7,885

4,954

1,683

243

168

4,187

532

5,984

–

–

–

–

–

6

–

–

7,885

4,954

1,683

243

168

4,193

532

5,984

190,400

(1,450)

188,950

261

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
 
 
48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(b) Consolidated Statement of Financial Position (continued)

US$m

EQUITY

Share capital

Employee share-based trusts

Other reserves

Retained earnings

  Fair value reserve

  Foreign currency translation reserve

  Property revaluation reserve

  Others

Amounts reflected in other comprehensive income

Total equity attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

As at 
31 December 
2018 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments 
for change in 
accounting 
policy

As at 
31 December 
2018 
(As adjusted)

14,073

(258)

(11,910)

35,661

2,211

(1,301)

538

(8)

1,440

39,006

400

39,406

229,806

–

–

–

1,219

247

–

(4)

(12)

231

1,450

–

1,450

–

14,073

(258)

(11,910)

36,880

2,458

(1,301)

534

(20)

1,671

40,456

400

40,856

229,806

262

AIA GROUP LIMITED48. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
The tables below set out the impacts of the adoption of the revised accounting policy on operating profit/(losses).

(c) Operating profit

US$m

Operating profit before tax

Tax on operating profit before tax

Operating profit after tax

Operating profit after tax attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Operating profit after tax per share (US cents)

Basic

Diluted

US$m

Operating profit/(losses) before tax

Tax on operating profit/(losses) before tax

Operating profit/(losses) after tax

Operating profit/(losses) after tax attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Operating profit/(losses) after tax per share (US cents)

Basic

Diluted

Year ended 
31 December 
2020 
(Before change 
in accounting 
policy)

Impact of 
change in
 accounting 
policy

Year ended 
31 December 
2020 
(As reported)

6,830

(957)

5,873

5,829

44

48.33

48.25

116

(3)

113

113

–

0.94

0.94

6,946

(960)

5,986

5,942

44

49.27

49.19

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments 
for change in 
accounting 
policy

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As adjusted)

6,816

(1,030)

5,786

5,741

45

47.67

47.56

(51)

(1)

(52)

(52)

–

(0.43)

(0.43)

6,765

(1,031)

5,734

5,689

45

47.24

47.13

263

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 202048. EFFECT OF ADOPTION OF REVISED ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
(c) Operating profit (continued)
Operating profit/(losses) after tax may be reconciled to net profit/(losses) as follows:

US$m

Year ended 
31 December 
2019 
(As previously 
reported)

Retrospective 
adjustments 
for change in 
accounting 
policy

Year ended 
31 December 
2019
(As adjusted)

Operating profit/(losses) after tax

5,786

(52)

5,734 

Non-operating items, net of related changes in insurance and 

investment contract liabilities and taxes:

  Short-term fluctuations in investment return related to equities and

 real estate 

  Reclassification of revaluation gains for property held for own use 

  Corporate transaction related costs 

Implementation costs for new accounting standards 

  Other non-operating investment return and other items 

Subtotal(1)

Net profit/(losses) 

Operating profit/(losses) after tax attributable to:

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests

Net profit/(losses) attributable to: 

  Shareholders of AIA Group Limited

  Non-controlling interests 

937

(170)

(85)

(39)

258

901

6,687

5,741

45

6,648

39

(632)

17

–

–

(2)

(617)

(669)

(52)

–

(669)

–

305

(153)

(85)

(39)

256

284

6,018

5,689

45

5,979

39

Note: 
(1)  The  adjusted  amount  is  net  of  tax  of  nil  (As  previously  reported:  US$1m). The  gross  adjusted  amount  before  tax  is  US$284m  (As  previously 

reported: US$900m). 

264

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT  AUDITOR’S  REPORT  ON  THE  SUPPLEMENTARY  EMBEDDED  VALUE 
INFORMATION AS AT AND FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020
TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF AIA GROUP LIMITED
(incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability)

Opinion
What we have audited
The  Supplementary  Embedded  Value  Information  (the  “EV  Information”)  of  AIA  Group  Limited 
(the “Company”) and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) set out on pages 269 to 294, which comprises:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

the consolidated EV results as at and for the year ended 31 December 2020;

the sensitivity analysis as at and for the year then ended; and

(cid:127)  a summary of significant methodology and assumptions and other explanatory notes.

Our opinion
In our opinion, the EV Information of the Group as at and for the year ended 31 December 2020 is 
prepared,  in  all  material  respects,  in  accordance  with  the  EV  basis  of  preparation  set  out  in 
Sections 4 and 5 of the EV Information.

Basis for Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with Hong Kong Standards on Auditing (“HKSAs”) issued 
by the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”). Our responsibilities under 
those  standards  are  further  described  in  the  Auditor’s  Responsibilities  for  the  Audit  of  the  EV 
Information section of our report.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a 
basis for our opinion.

Independence
We are independent of the Group in accordance with the HKICPA’s Code of Ethics for Professional 
Accountants (“the Code”), and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance 
with the Code.

Emphasis of Matter – Basis of Preparation
We  draw  attention  to  Sections  4  and  5  of  the  EV  Information,  which  describe  the  EV  basis  of 
preparation. As a result, the EV Information may not be suitable for another purpose. Our opinion 
is not modified in respect of this matter.

265

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT ON THE SUPPLEMENTARY EMBEDDED VALUE INFORMATIONFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020Other Matter
The Group has prepared a separate set of consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 
December  2020  in  accordance  with  Hong  Kong  Financial  Reporting  Standards  issued  by  the 
HKICPA and International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the International Accounting 
Standards  Board,  on  which  we  issued  a  separate  auditor’s  report  to  the  shareholders  of  the 
Company dated 12 March 2021.

Other Information
The Directors of the Company are responsible for the other information. The other information 
comprises all of the information included in the annual report other than the EV Information and 
our auditor’s report thereon.

Our opinion on the EV Information does not cover the other information and we do not express any 
form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In  connection  with  our  audit  of  the  EV  Information,  our  responsibility  is  to  read  the  other 
information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent 
with  the  EV  Information  or  our  knowledge  obtained  in  the  audit,  or  otherwise  appears  to  be 
materially misstated.

If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of 
this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

266

AIA GROUP LIMITEDResponsibilities of Directors and Those Charged with Governance for the EV Information
The  Directors  of  the  Company  are  responsible  for  the  preparation  of  the  EV  Information  in 
accordance with the EV basis of preparation set out in Sections 4 and 5 of the EV Information and 
for such internal control as the Directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the 
EV Information that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the EV Information, the Directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s ability to 
continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using 
the going concern basis of accounting unless the Directors either intend to liquidate the Group or 
to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Those  charged  with  governance  are  responsible  for  overseeing  the  Group’s  EV  Information 
reporting process.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the EV Information
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the EV Information as a whole 
is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report 
that includes our opinion. We report our opinion solely to you, as a body, and for no other purpose. 
We do not assume responsibility towards or accept liability to any other person for the contents 
of this report. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an 
audit conducted in accordance with HKSAs will always detect a material misstatement when it 
exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or 
in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users 
taken on the basis of this EV Information.

As part of an audit in accordance with HKSAs, we exercise professional judgement and maintain 
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:

(cid:127) 

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the EV Information, whether due to 
fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit 
evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not 
detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from 
error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the 
override of internal control.

(cid:127)  Obtain  an  understanding  of  internal  control  relevant  to  the  audit  in  order  to  design  audit 
procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an 
opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control.

267

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the EV Information (continued)
(cid:127)  Evaluate the appropriateness of the EV basis of preparation used and the reasonableness of 

accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Directors.

(cid:127)  Conclude on the appropriateness of the Directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting 
and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to 
events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a 
going  concern.  If  we  conclude  that  a  material  uncertainty  exists,  we  are  required  to  draw 
attention  in  our  auditor’s  report  to  the  related  disclosures  in  the  EV  Information  or,  if  such 
disclosures  are  inadequate,  to  modify  our  opinion.  Our  conclusions  are  based  on  the  audit 
evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions 
may cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.

(cid:127)  Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the EV Information of the entities or 
business  activities  within  the  Group  to  express  an  opinion  on  the  EV  Information.  We  are 
responsible  for  the  direction,  supervision  and  performance  of  the  group  audit.  We  remain 
solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We  communicate  with  those  charged  with  governance  regarding,  among  other  matters,  the 
planned  scope  and  timing  of  the  audit  and  significant  audit  findings,  including  any  significant 
deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with 
relevant  ethical  requirements  regarding  independence,  and  to  communicate  with  them  all 
relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and 
where applicable, actions taken to eliminate threats or safeguards applied.

The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Ling Tung 
Man, Tom.

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Certified Public Accountants

Hong Kong

12 March 2021

268

AIA GROUP LIMITED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 the 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.

269

SUPPLEMENTARY EMBEDDED VALUE INFORMATIONFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20201. HIGHLIGHTS
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) for all entities other than Tata 
AIA Life Insurance Company Limited (Tata AIA Life). This methodology makes an implicit overall level of allowance for 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 the economic cost of capital, through the use of 
a risk discount rate. For Tata AIA Life, the Group uses the Indian Embedded Value (IEV) methodology as defined in Actuarial 
Practice Standard 10 issued by the Institute of Actuaries of India, consistent with local practice in India.

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, after allowing for taxes. Prior to 2020, the Group 
reflected the impact of withholding tax under Group Corporate Centre. Starting from 2020, the segment information has 
been  enhanced  to  present  withholding  tax  under  the  appropriate  operating  segment.  More  details  on  the  EV  results, 
methodology and assumptions are covered in later sections of this report.

Unless otherwise stated, the growth rates provided in the commentaries are shown on a constant exchange rate (CER) 
basis.

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 premiums (ANP)

VONB margin

EV operating profit

Operating return on EV (Operating ROEV)

Underlying free surplus generation (UFSG)

As at
31 December
2020

As at
31 December
2019

Change
CER

Change
AER

67,185

65,247

28,503

36,744

63,905

61,985

28,241

33,744

Year ended
31 December
2020

Year ended
31 December
2019

2,765

5,219

52.6%

7,243

11.7%

5,843

4,154

6,585

62.9%

8,685

15.9%

5,501

3%

3%

(1)%

7%

YoY
CER

(33)%

(20)%

5%

5%

1%

9%

YoY
AER

(33)%

(21)%

(10.4) pps

(10.3) pps

(17)%

(17)%

(4.1) pps

(4.2) pps

7%

6%

Note:
(1)  The results are after adjustment to reflect the consolidated reserving and capital requirements and the present value of future after-tax unallocated 

Group Office expenses.

270

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS
2.1 Embedded Value by Business Unit
The EV as at 31 December 2020 is presented consistently with the segment information in the IFRS consolidated financial 
statements.

Summary of EV by Business Unit (US$ millions)

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

Other Markets

Group Corporate Centre

Subtotal

Adjustment to reflect consolidated

reserving and capital requirements(3)

After-tax value of unallocated Group
  Office expenses

Total (before non-controlling interests)

Non-controlling interests

Total

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

Other Markets

Group Corporate Centre

Subtotal

Adjustment to reflect consolidated

reserving and capital requirements(3)

After-tax value of unallocated Group
  Office expenses

Total (before non-controlling interests)

Non-controlling interests

Total

As at 31 December 2020

VIF before
CoC

17,319

5,145

4,416

2,084

8,409

5,018

–

CoC

2,159

1,096

814

233

4

1,561

–

VIF after
CoC

EV

15,160

22,895

4,049

3,602

1,851

8,405

3,457

–

7,057

6,586

3,144

11,844

9,440

11,472

72,438

42,391

5,867

36,524

ANW(2)

7,735

3,008

2,984

1,293

3,439

5,983

11,472

35,914

(7,064)

3,115

1,596

1,519

(5,545)

–

28,850

(347)

28,503

(1,138)

44,368

(173)

44,195

–

7,463

(12)

7,451

(1,138)

36,905

(161)

36,744

(1,138)

65,755

(508)

65,247

As at 31 December 2019 (as adjusted)(1)

ANW(2)

8,372

4,802

2,805

1,211

3,074

5,949

9,291

VIF before
CoC

15,059

5,583

4,360

1,946

6,968

4,708

–

CoC

1,534

1,365

831

215

–

1,309

–

VIF after
CoC

EV

13,525

21,897

4,218

3,529

1,731

6,968

3,399

–

9,020

6,334

2,942

10,042

9,348

9,291

35,504

38,624

5,254

33,370

68,874

(6,905)

3,180

1,583

1,597

(5,308)

–

28,599

(358)

28,241

(1,067)

40,737

(164)

40,573

–

6,837

(8)

6,829

(1,067)

33,900

(156)

33,744

(1,067)

62,499

(514)

61,985

Notes:
(1)  In 2020, the Group enhanced the segment information to present withholding tax under the appropriate operating segment. The 2019 comparative 

information has been adjusted to conform to this presentation.

(2)  ANW by Business Unit is after net capital flows between Business Units and Group Corporate Centre as reported in the IFRS consolidated financial 

statements.

(3)  Adjustment to reflect consolidated reserving and capital requirements as described in Section 4.4 of this report.

271

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
2. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.2 Reconciliation of ANW from IFRS Equity
Derivation of the Consolidated 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

Difference between net IFRS policy liabilities and local statutory policy 

liabilities

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

ANW (Business Unit)

Adjustment to reflect consolidated reserving requirements, net of tax

ANW (Consolidated)

As at
31 December
2020

63,200

(27,915)

(937)

As at
31 December
2019
(as adjusted)

54,947

(26,328)

5,949

(28,852)

(20,379)

(3)

(2,634)

3,735

121

35,567

(7,064)

28,503

–

(2,520)

3,008

90

35,146

(6,905)

28,241

IFRS equity attributable to shareholders of the Company as at 31 December 2019 has been adjusted to reflect the change 
in accounting policy as per note 48 to the IFRS consolidated financial statements.

2.3 Breakdown of ANW
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, is set out below:

Free Surplus and Required Capital for the Group (US$ millions)

Free surplus

Required capital

ANW

As at 31 December 2020

As at 31 December 2019

Business Unit

Consolidated

Business Unit

Consolidated

24,093

11,474

35,567

13,473

15,030

28,503

24,523

10,623

35,146

14,917

13,324

28,241

The Company’s subsidiaries, AIA Company Limited (AIA Co.) and AIA International Limited (AIA International), are both 
subject  to  the  Hong  Kong  reserving  and  capital  requirements.  In  addition,  AIA  International,  which  is  incorporated  in 
Bermuda,  is  subject  to  the  Bermuda  Monetary  Authority  (BMA)  reserving  and  capital  requirements.  These  regulatory 
reserving  and  capital  requirements,  and  other  consolidated  reserving  and  capital  requirements  as  determined  by  the 
Group, apply in addition to the relevant local requirements applicable to our Business Units.

272

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
2. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.4 Earnings Profile
The tables below show 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 
consolidated reserving and capital requirements.

Profile of Projected After-Tax Distributable Earnings for the Group’s In-force Business (US$ millions)

Expected period of emergence

1 – 5 years

6 – 10 years

11 – 15 years

16 – 20 years

21 years and thereafter

Total

Expected period of emergence

1 – 5 years

6 – 10 years

11 – 15 years

16 – 20 years

21 years and thereafter

Total

As at 31 December 2020

Undiscounted

Discounted

21,452

19,489

22,452

20,070

143,817

227,280

17,845

10,980

8,615

5,356

8,978

51,774

As at 31 December 2019

Undiscounted

Discounted

20,000

16,759

18,398

18,724

166,423

240,304

16,641

9,383

7,029

4,963

9,052

47,068

The profile of distributable earnings is shown on an undiscounted and discounted basis. The discounted value of after-tax 
distributable earnings of US$51,774 million (2019: US$47,068 million) plus the free surplus of US$13,473 million (2019: 
US$14,917 million) shown in Section 2.3 of this report is equal to the EV of US$65,247 million (2019: US$61,985 million) 
shown in Section 2.1 of this report.

273

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20202. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.5 Value of New Business
The VONB for the Group for the year ended 31 December 2020 is summarised in the table 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 consistently with the segment information in the IFRS consolidated financial statements. Section 4.1 of this 
report contains a list of the entities included in this report and the mapping of these entities to Business Units for the 
purpose of this report.

The Group VONB for the year ended 31 December 2020 was US$2,765 million, a decrease of US$1,389 million, or 33 per 
cent, from US$4,154 million for the year ended 31 December 2019.

Summary of VONB by Business Unit (US$ millions)

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

Other Markets

Total before unallocated Group Office
  expenses and non-controlling

interests (Business Unit)

Adjustment to reflect consolidated reserving
  and capital requirements

Total before unallocated Group Office
  expenses and non-controlling

interests (Consolidated)

After-tax value of unallocated Group Office
  expenses

Total before non-controlling interests 

(Consolidated)

Non-controlling interests

Total

Year ended 31 December 2020

Year ended 31 December 2019

VONB 
before
CoC

670

520

347

239

1,030

632

VONB 
after
CoC

VONB 
before
CoC

VONB 
after
CoC

CoC

550

469

330

222

968

514

1,728

107

1,621

559

384

276

1,248

646

65

32

18

81

111

494

352

258

1,167

535

CoC

120

51

17

17

62

118

3,438

385

3,053

4,841

414

4,427

(56)

47

(103)

(88)

(1)

(87)

3,382

432

2,950

4,753

413

4,340

(161)

–

(161)

(154)

–

(154)

3,221

(25)

3,196

432

(1)

431

2,789

(24)

2,765

4,599

(32)

4,567

413

–

413

4,186

(32)

4,154

274

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
2. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.5 Value of New Business (continued)
The  table  below  shows  the  breakdown  of  the  VONB, ANP,  VONB  margin,  and  present  value  of  new  business  premium 
(PVNBP) margin for the Group, by quarter, for business written in the year ended 31 December 2020.

The  VONB  margin  and  PVNBP  margin  are  defined  as  VONB,  gross  of  non-controlling  interests  and  excluding  pension 
business, expressed as a percentage of ANP and PVNBP, respectively. The VONB used in the margin calculation is gross of 
non-controlling interests and excludes pension business to be consistent with the definition of ANP and PVNBP.

The Group VONB margin for the year ended 31 December 2020 was 52.6 per cent compared with 62.9 per cent for the year 
ended 31 December 2019. The Group PVNBP margin for the year ended 31 December 2020 was 9 per cent compared with 
11 per cent for the year ended 31 December 2019.

Breakdown of VONB, ANP, VONB Margin and PVNBP Margin(1) (US$ millions)

VONB
after CoC(1)

ANP(1)

VONB
Margin(1)

PVNBP 
Margin(1)

Year

Values for 2020

Twelve months ended 31 December 2020

2,765

5,219

52.6%

Values for 2019

Twelve months ended 31 December 2019(1)

4,154

6,585

62.9%

Quarter

Values for 2020

Three months ended 31 March 2020

Three months ended 30 June 2020

Three months ended 30 September 2020

Three months ended 31 December 2020

Values for 2019

Three months ended 31 March 2019(1)

Three months ended 30 June 2019(1)

Three months ended 30 September 2019(1)

Three months ended 31 December 2019(1)

841

569

706

649

1,169

1,106

980

899

1,483

1,096

1,359

1,281

1,827

1,616

1,444

1,698

56.6%

51.4%

51.6%

50.2%

63.6%

67.9%

67.0%

54.1%

9%

11%

10%

9%

9%

9%

11%

11%

12%

9%

Note:
(1)  The VONB, ANP, VONB margin and PVNBP margin for the three-month periods up to 30 September 2019 are presented without the Group’s share of 
Tata AIA Life and before deducting the amount attributable to non-controlling interests. The VONB, ANP, VONB margin and PVNBP margin in the three 
months and the twelve months ended 31 December 2019 are presented including the Group’s share of Tata AIA Life for 2019 full year and, where 
relevant, after deducting the amount attributable to non-controlling interests for 2019 full year.

275

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20202. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.5 Value of New Business (continued)
The table below shows the VONB (excluding pension business), ANP, and VONB margin by Business Unit.

Summary of VONB Excluding Pension, ANP and VONB Margin by Business Unit (US$ millions)

Business Unit

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Thailand

AIA Singapore

AIA Malaysia

AIA China

Other Markets

Total before unallocated Group Office
  expenses (Business Unit)

Adjustment to reflect consolidated

reserving and capital requirements

Total before unallocated Group Office
  expenses (Consolidated)

After-tax value of unallocated Group
  Office expenses

Total

Year ended 31 December 2020

Year ended 31 December 2019

VONB 
Excluding 
Pension

509

469

330

221

968

512

VONB 
Margin

44.7%

71.0%

63.4%

59.9%

80.9%

38.4%

VONB 
Excluding 
Pension

ANP

VONB 
Margin

1,583

2,393

494

352

256

1,167

533

729

538

406

1,248

1,271

66.1%

67.7%

65.5%

63.1%

93.5%

41.9%

ANP

1,138

661

520

369

1,197

1,334

3,009

5,219

57.7%

4,385

6,585

66.6%

(102)

–

(87)

–

2,907

5,219

55.7%

4,298

6,585

65.3%

(161)

2,746

–

5,219

52.6%

(154)

4,144

–

6,585

62.9%

276

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
2. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.6 Analysis of EV Movement
Analysis of EV Movement (US$ millions)

Year ended 31 December 2020

Year ended 31 December 2019

YoY AER

ANW

VIF

EV

ANW

VIF

EV

EV

Opening EV

Purchase price(2)

Acquired EV(3)

Effect of acquisition

Value of new business

Expected return on EV

Operating experience variances

Operating assumption changes

Finance costs

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

28,241

33,744

61,985

24,637

29,880

54,517

(18)

(1,454)

–

(18)

2,765

4,176

533

16

(247)

7,243

(1,868)

790

(664)

(702)

5,072

394

(18)

(208)

4,538

(942)

65

2,491

6,152

–

417

417

4,856

(967)

206

52

–

4,147

1,459

(319)

(2,569)

2,718

–

–

(1,454)

1,207

(247)

4,154

4,105

600

34

(208)

8,685

517

(254)

(78)

8,870

(1,961)

14%

n/m(1)

n/m

n/m

(33)%

2%

n/m

n/m

19%

(17)%

n/m

n/m

n/m

n/m

2%

(1,997)

(1,961)

81

136

136

(40)%

(1,048)

(1,013)

(490)

2,158

(330)

 4,032

(18)

–

(18)

(726)

5,591

538

(31)

(247)

5,125

(3,446)

35

160

1,874

(1,997)

81

322

–

–

–

3,491

(1,415)

(5)

47

–

2,118

1,578

–

–

842

28,503

36,744

1,164

65,247

(59)

729

670

28,241

33,744

61,985

n/m

5%

Notes:
(1)  Not meaningful (n/m).
(2)  The purchase price in 2020 refers to the purchase price adjustments for the alternative arrangements with Commonwealth Bank of Australia 
(CBA) in relation to The Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited (CMLA) as per note 5 to the IFRS consolidated financial statements.

(3)  The acquired EV for CMLA is calculated as at 1 November 2019 net of the related reinsurance agreement.

277

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20202. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.6 Analysis of EV Movement (continued)
EV grew to US$65,247 million at 31 December 2020, an increase of 3 per cent over the year from US$61,985 million at 31 
December 2019.

EV operating profit was US$7,243 million (2019: US$8,685 million), reflecting VONB of US$2,765 million (2019: US$4,154 
million),  an  expected  return  on  EV  of  US$4,176  million  (2019:  US$4,105  million),  operating  experience  variances  and 
operating assumption changes which were again positive and amounted to US$549 million (2019: US$634 million), net of 
finance costs of US$247 million (2019: US$208 million).

The VONB for the year ended 31 December 2020 is calculated at the point of sale for business written during the year. The 
expected return on EV is the expected change in the EV over the year plus the expected return on the VONB up to 31 
December 2020. Operating experience variances reflect the impact on the ANW and VIF from differences between the 
actual experience over the year and that expected based on the operating assumptions.

The  operating  experience  variances,  net  of  tax,  increased  EV  by  US$533  million  (2019:  increased  by  US$600  million), 
driven by:

(cid:127)  Expense variances of US$6 million (2019: US$28 million), partially offset by development costs of US$5 million (2019: 

US$24 million);

(cid:127)  Mortality and morbidity claims variances of US$384 million (2019: US$212 million); and

(cid:127)  Persistency and other variances of US$148 million (2019: US$384 million) including persistency variances of US$(49) 
million (2019: US$77 million) and other variances arising from management actions of US$197 million (2019: US$307 
million).

The effect of changes in operating assumptions during the year was an increase in EV of US$16 million (2019: increase in 
EV of US$34 million).

The EV profit of US$4,032 million (2019: US$8,870 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,  reflecting  short-term  fluctuations  in  investment  returns,  arise  from  the  impact  of 
differences between the actual investment returns in the year and the expected investment returns. This amounted to a 
decrease  in  EV  of  US$1,868  million  (2019:  an  increase  in  EV  of  US$517  million)  driven  by  the  effect  of  short-term 
fluctuations in interest rates and equity markets, and other capital market movements, on the Group’s investment portfolio 
and the reserves and capital requirements compared with the expected returns.

The effect of changes in economic assumptions was a decrease in EV of US$1,013 million (2019: a decrease in EV of 
US$254 million).

Other  non-operating  variances  reduced  EV  by  US$330  million  (2019:  reduced  EV  by  US$78  million)  which  comprised 
negative impacts from the application of withholding tax and other impacts due to the subsidiarisation of AIA China as 
described in Section 4.1, provisions for uncertain tax positions as disclosed in note 12 to the IFRS consolidated financial 
statements, and other items including modelling-related enhancements and certain non-operating expenses. These were 
partially offset by positive impacts from the subsidiarisation of New Zealand, the implementation of Risk-Based Capital 2 
in Singapore, and adjustments to capital requirements on consolidation.

The  Group  paid  total  shareholder  dividends  of  US$1,997  million  (2019:  US$1,961  million).  Other  capital  movements 
increased EV by US$81 million (2019: increased EV by US$136 million).

Foreign exchange movements increased EV by US$1,164 million (2019: increased EV by US$670 million).

278

AIA GROUP LIMITED2. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.6 Analysis of EV Movement (continued)
Operating ROEV (US$ millions)
Operating return on EV (operating ROEV) is calculated as EV operating profit expressed as a percentage of the opening EV 
and was 11.7 per cent (2019: 15.9 per cent) for the year ended 31 December 2020.

EV operating profit

Opening EV

Operating ROEV

Year ended
31 December
2020

Year ended
31 December
2019

7,243

61,985

11.7%

8,685

54,517

15.9%

YoY
CER

(17)%

12%

YoY
AER

(17)%

14%

(4.1) pps

(4.2) pps

2.7 EV Equity
The EV Equity grew to US$67,185 million at 31 December 2020, an increase of 3 per cent from US$63,905 million as at 31 
December 2019.

Derivation of EV Equity from EV (US$ millions)

EV

Goodwill and other intangible assets(1)

EV Equity

As at
31 December
2020

As at
31 December
2019

65,247

1,938

67,185

61,985

1,920

63,905

Change
CER

3%

(3)%

3%

Change
AER

5%

1%

5%

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

279

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20202. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS (continued)
2.8 Free Surplus Generation
Free Surplus Generation (US$ millions)

Opening free surplus

Effect of acquisition(1)

Underlying free surplus generation

Free surplus used to fund new business

Investment return variances and other items

Unallocated Group Office expenses

Dividends

Finance costs and other capital movements

Closing free surplus

Year ended
31 December 
2020

Year ended
31 December
2019

14,917

(18)

5,843

(1,428)

(3,505)

(173)

(1,997)

(166)

13,473

14,751

(1,045)

5,501

(1,477)

(588)

(192)

(1,961)

(72)

14,917

YoY
CER

1%

n/m

7%

(2)%

n/m

YoY
AER

1%

n/m(2)

6%

(3)%

n/m

(10)%

(10)%

2%

n/m

2%

n/m

(11)%

(10)%

Notes:
(1)  The effect of acquisition in 2020 refers to the purchase price adjustments for the alternative arrangements with CBA in relation to CMLA as per 

note 5 to the IFRS consolidated financial statements.

(2)  Not meaningful (n/m).

Free surplus decreased by US$1,444 million (2019: increased by US$166 million) to US$13,473 million (2019: US$14,917 
million) as of 31 December 2020.

Underlying free surplus generation, as defined in Section 4.8, increased by 7 per cent, to US$5,843 million (2019: US$5,501 
million). Investment in writing new business reduced free surplus by US$1,428 million (2019: US$1,477 million).

Investment  return  variances  and  other  items  amounted  to  US$(3,505)  million  (2019:  US$(588)  million),  reflecting  the 
effect of short-term fluctuations in interest rates and equity markets, and other capital market movements, on the Group’s 
investment  portfolio  and  the  reserves  and  capital  requirements  compared  with  the  expected  returns  and  other  items, 
including the free surplus impacts arising from other non-operating variances as described in Section 2.6.

Unallocated Group Office expenses amounted to US$173 million (2019: US$192 million) in 2020.

280

AIA GROUP LIMITED3. SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS
The EV as at 31 December 2020 and the VONB for the year ended 31 December 2020 have been recalculated to illustrate 
the sensitivity of the results to changes in certain central assumptions discussed in Section 5 of this report.

The sensitivities analysed were:

(cid:127)  Risk discount rates 200 basis points per annum higher than the central assumptions;

(cid:127)  Risk discount rates 200 basis points per annum lower than the central assumptions;

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

Interest rates 50 basis points per annum higher than the central assumptions;

Interest rates 50 basis points per annum lower than the central assumptions;

(cid:127)  The presentation currency (as explained below) appreciated by 5 per cent;

(cid:127)  The presentation currency depreciated by 5 per cent;

(cid:127)  Lapse  and  premium  discontinuance  rates  increased  proportionally  by  10  per  cent  (i.e.  110  per  cent  of  the  central 

assumptions);

(cid:127)  Lapse  and  premium  discontinuance  rates  decreased  proportionally  by  10  per  cent  (i.e.  90  per  cent  of  the  central 

assumptions);

(cid:127)  Mortality/morbidity rates increased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 110 per cent of the central assumptions);

(cid:127)  Mortality/morbidity rates decreased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 90 per cent of the central assumptions);

(cid:127)  Maintenance expenses 10 per cent lower (i.e. 90 per cent of the central assumptions); and

(cid:127)  Expense inflation set to 0 per cent.

The EV as at 31 December 2020 has been further analysed for the following sensitivities:

(cid:127)  Equity prices increased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 110 per cent of the prices at 31 December 2020); and

(cid:127)  Equity prices decreased proportionally by 10 per cent (i.e. 90 per cent of the prices at 31 December 2020).

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 31 December 2020 
and the values of debt instruments and derivatives held at 31 December 2020 were changed to be consistent with the 
interest rate assumptions in the sensitivity analysis, while all the other assumptions were unchanged.

As the Group operates in multiple geographical markets, the EV results for the Group are translated from multiple currencies 
to  US  dollar  which  is  the  Group’s  presentation  currency.  In  order  to  provide  sensitivity  results  for  EV  and  VONB  of  the 
impact of foreign currency movements, a change of 5 per cent to the US dollar is included.

For the equity price sensitivities, the projected bonus rates on participating business and the values of equity securities 
and  equity  funds  held  at  31  December  2020  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 analyses, the statutory reserving bases as at 31 December 2020 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.

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FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020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.

As at 31 December 2020

As at 31 December 2019

EV

Ratio

EV

Ratio

65,247

(9,098)

(13.9)%

14,409

1,099

(1,095)

652

(1,294)

(1,906)

1,906

(891)

1,049

(4,556)

4,665

882

1,063

22.1%

1.7%

(1.7)%

1.0%

(2.0)%

(2.9)%

2.9%

(1.4)%

1.6%

(7.0)%

7.1%

1.4%

1.6%

61,985

(8,500)

13,696

968

(967)

719

(797)

(1,837)

1,837

(999)

1,087

(4,627)

4,540

699

868

(13.7)%

22.1%

1.6%

(1.6)%

1.2%

(1.3)%

(3.0)%

3.0%

(1.6)%

1.8%

(7.5)%

7.3%

1.1%

1.4%

Year ended 31 December 2020

Year ended 31 December 2019

VONB

Ratio

VONB

Ratio

2,765

(655)

(23.7)%

963

193

(298)

(116)

116

(176)

182

(357)

337

89

54

34.8%

7.0%

(10.8)%

(4.2)%

4.2%

(6.4)%

6.6%

(12.9)%

12.2%

3.2%

2.0%

4,154

(956)

1,527

151

(207)

(129)

129

(209)

224

(362)

348

97

61

(23.0)%

36.8%

3.6%

(5.0)%

(3.1)%

3.1%

(5.0)%

5.4%

(8.7)%

8.4%

2.3%

1.5%

Sensitivity of EV (US$ millions)

Scenario

Central value

Impact of:

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%

Sensitivity of VONB (US$ millions)

Scenario

Central value

Impact of:

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/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%

282

AIA GROUP LIMITED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 Co., a 
company incorporated in Hong Kong and a subsidiary of the Company, and AIA International, a company incorporated in 
Bermuda  and  an  indirect  subsidiary  of  the  Company.  Furthermore,  AIA  Co.  has  branches  located  in  Thailand  and  AIA 
International has branches located in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

The following is a list of the entities and their mapping to Business Units included in this report.

(cid:127)  AIA Australia refers to AIA Australia Limited, a subsidiary of AIA Co., and the business acquired by the Group from CBA 
via a contractual joint cooperation agreement (CMLA), and AIA Sovereign Limited, a subsidiary of AIA International;

(cid:127)  AIA Cambodia refers to AIA (Cambodia) Life Insurance Plc., a subsidiary of AIA International;

(cid:127)  AIA China refers to AIA Life Insurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of AIA Co.(1);

(cid:127)  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.;

(cid:127)  AIA Indonesia refers to PT. AIA Financial, a subsidiary of AIA International;

(cid:127)  AIA Korea refers to AIA Life Insurance Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of AIA International;

(cid:127)  AIA Malaysia refers to AIA Bhd., a subsidiary of AIA Co. and AIA PUBLIC Takaful Bhd., a 70 per cent owned subsidiary 

of AIA Bhd., and AIA General Bhd.;

(cid:127)  AIA Myanmar refers to AIA Myanmar Life Insurance Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of AIA Co.;

(cid:127)  AIA Philippines refers to The Philippine American Life and General Insurance (PHILAM LIFE) Company, a subsidiary of 

AIA Co. and its 51 per cent owned subsidiary BPI-Philam Life Assurance (BPLAC) Corporation;

(cid:127)  AIA Singapore refers to AIA Singapore Private Limited, a subsidiary of AIA Co., and its Brunei branch;

(cid:127)  AIA Sri Lanka refers to AIA Insurance Lanka Limited, a subsidiary of AIA Co.;

(cid:127)  AIA Taiwan refers to the Taiwan branch of AIA International;

(cid:127)  AIA Thailand refers to the Thailand branches of AIA Co.;

(cid:127)  AIA Vietnam refers to AIA (Vietnam) Life Insurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of AIA International; and

(cid:127)  Tata AIA Life refers to Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited, an associate 49 per cent owned by AIA International.

Note:
(1)  On 9 July 2020, AIA Life Insurance Company Limited was incorporated in Shanghai, following the approval from the China Banking and Insurance 
Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) to convert the existing Shanghai branch of AIA Co. to a wholly-owned subsidiary. Subsequently, the conversion 
process was completed on 1 October 2020. After the conversion, any future remittances from this new subsidiary to the Group are subject to 
withholding tax at the applicable rate in Mainland China (currently set at 5%). In addition, the new subsidiary is no longer subject to the Hong Kong 
statutory minimum solvency margin requirement. The impact of withholding tax on future remittances has been reflected in the EV and VONB 
since the date of incorporation, while the impact due to the change in capital requirement has been reflected in the EV and VONB since the 
completion of the conversion.

Results  are  presented  consistently  with  the  segment  information  in  the  IFRS  consolidated  financial  statements.  The 
summary of the EV of the Group by Business Unit in this report also includes the ANW for the “Group Corporate Centre” 
segment,  which  is  derived  from  the  IFRS  equity  for  this  segment  plus  mark-to-market  adjustments  less  the  value  of 
intangible assets. In the presentation of EV and VONB, the present value of withholding tax payable on future remittances 
from local business units is presented under the appropriate operating segment.

283

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020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  for  all 
entities other than Tata AIA Life. This methodology makes an implicit overall level of allowance for 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 the economic cost of capital, through the use of a risk 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.

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 VONB is the present value, measured at the 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 sale, after allowing for 
any acquisition expense overruns in excess of the relevant expense assumptions.

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 of other activities, 
such  as  general  insurance  business,  less  the  value  of  intangible  assets.  It  excludes  any  amounts  not  attributable  to 
shareholders  of  the  Company. The  market  value  of  investment  property  and  property  held  for  own  use  that  is  used  to 
determine the ANW is based on the fair value disclosed as per note 23 to the Group’s IFRS consolidated financial statements 
as at the valuation date.

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.

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.

For Tata AIA Life, the Group uses the IEV methodology as defined in Actuarial Practice Standard 10 issued by the Institute 
of Actuaries of India, consistent with local practice in India. The EV and VONB reported for Tata AIA Life are reported on a 
one-quarter-lag basis.

284

AIA GROUP LIMITED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  premiums.  For 
individually  significant  group  cases,  the  VONB  is  calculated  over  each  premium  rate  guarantee  period  entered  upon 
contract inception or renewal.

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, sales of new contracts during the period and any new contributions, 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 premiums (ANP), which is an internal 
measure of new business sales.

4.4 Consolidation of Branches and Subsidiaries of AIA Co. and AIA International
The Group’s subsidiaries, AIA Co. and AIA International, are both Hong Kong-regulated entities and subject to the Hong 
Kong reserving and capital requirements. In addition, AIA International, which is incorporated in Bermuda, is subject to the 
BMA reserving and capital requirements. AIA operates in a number of territories as branches and subsidiaries of these 
entities. These regulatory and other consolidated reserving and capital requirements apply in addition to the relevant local 
requirements applicable to our Business Units.

The EV and VONB results for the Group shown in Section 2 of this report have been adjusted to reflect the consolidated 
reserving and capital requirements. This approach was taken to reflect the distribution of profits from AIA Co. and AIA 
International after allowing for the Hong Kong, BMA, and local regulatory requirements, and other reserving and capital 
requirements as determined by the Group. The EV and VONB for each Business Unit reflect the local reserving and capital 
requirements,  as  discussed  in  Section  4.6  of  this  report,  before  a  Group-level  adjustment  to  reflect  the  consolidated 
reserving and capital requirements.

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. 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, with any negative VIF eliminated for each reported segment by reducing the 
ANW. 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 
consolidated reserving and capital requirements have the effect of reducing the level of any future projected statutory 
losses. Based on the assumptions described in Section 5 of this report, and allowing for the consolidated statutory reserving 
and  capital  requirements,  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. 

285

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20204. METHODOLOGY (continued)
4.6 Capital Requirements
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 local capital requirement for each Business Unit are set out in the table 
below:

Business Unit

Capital requirements

AIA Australia

(cid:127)  Australia

100% of regulatory capital adequacy requirement

(cid:127)  New Zealand

100% of regulatory capital adequacy requirement

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Indonesia

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA Philippines

AIA Singapore

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Tata AIA Life

100% of required capital as specified under the CAA EV assessment guidance

150% of required minimum solvency margin

120% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

150% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

170% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement 

100% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement 

Higher of 135% of capital adequacy requirement and 80% of Tier 1 capital 

requirement under the regulatory Risk-Based Capital framework

120% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement 

250% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement

140% of regulatory Risk-Based Capital requirement(1)

100% of required minimum solvency margin 

175% of required minimum solvency margin

Note:
(1)  The Capital Requirement ratio assumed in the EV calculation is 120% up to year-end of 2021, and 140% thereafter, in line with the regulatory 

requirement under Thailand RBC 2.

Capital Requirements on Consolidation
The Group has an undertaking to the Hong Kong Insurance Authority (HKIA) to maintain required capital not less than the 
aggregate of 150% of the Hong Kong statutory minimum solvency margin requirement in respect of AIA Hong Kong and 
no less than 100% of the Hong Kong statutory minimum solvency margin requirement for branches other than Hong Kong.

AIA International and its subsidiaries hold required capital of no less than 120% of the BMA regulatory capital requirements.

As described in Section 4.1, the existing Shanghai branch of AIA Co. was converted to a wholly-owned subsidiary on 1 
October 2020. After the conversion, AIA China is no longer subject to the Hong Kong statutory minimum solvency margin 
requirement.

In  addition  to  the  above,  the  reserving  and  capital  requirements  for  the  purpose  of  consolidation  allow  for  the  local 
regulatory requirements outlined above and other reserving and capital requirements as determined by the Group.

286

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
 
4. METHODOLOGY (continued)
4.7 Foreign Exchange
The EV as at 31 December 2020 and 31 December 2019 have been translated into US dollars using exchange rates as at 
each valuation date. The VONB results shown in this report have been translated into US dollars using the corresponding 
average exchange rates for each quarter. The other components of the EV profit shown in the analysis of EV movement 
have been translated using average exchange rates for the period.

Change  on  actual  exchange  rates  (AER)  is  calculated  based  on  the  translated  figures  as  described  above.  Change  on 
constant  exchange  rates  (CER)  is  calculated  for  all  figures  for  the  current  year  and  for  the  prior  year,  using  constant 
average exchange rates, other than for EV as at the end of the current year and as at the end of the prior year, which are 
translated using the CER.

4.8 Underlying Free Surplus Generation
The free surplus is defined as the ANW in excess of the required capital after reflecting consolidated reserving and capital 
requirements.  The  underlying  free  surplus  generation  represents  free  surplus  generated  from  the  in-force  business, 
adjusted for certain non-recurring items, and before free surplus used to fund new business, unallocated Group Office 
expenses, finance costs, investment return variances and other non-operating items. The underlying free surplus generation 
is also calculated after reflecting consolidated reserving and capital requirements.

5. ASSUMPTIONS
5.1 Introduction
This section summarises the assumptions used by the Group to determine the EV as at 31 December 2020 and the VONB 
for the year ended 31 December 2020 and highlights certain differences in assumptions between the EV as at 31 December 
2019 and the EV as at 31 December 2020.

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 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 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 allowance for the current market 
yields. In these cases, in calculating the VIF, adjustments have been 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 remaining term, to be consistent with the valuation of the assets backing the policy liabilities.

The Group has set the equity return and property return assumptions by reference to the return on 10-year government 
bonds, allowing for an internal assessment of risk premia that vary by asset class and 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 asset classes.

For unit-linked business, fund growth assumptions have been determined based on actual asset mix within the funds at 
the valuation date and expected long-term returns for major asset classes.

For Tata AIA Life, the Group uses the IEV methodology as defined in Actuarial Practice Standard 10 issued by the Institute 
of Actuaries of India for determining its EV and VONB. This methodology uses investment returns and risk discount rates 
that reflect the market-derived government bond yield curve. Therefore, the risk discount rate and long-term investment 
returns are not provided for Tata AIA Life.

287

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 20205. ASSUMPTIONS (continued)
5.2 Economic Assumptions (continued)
Risk Discount Rates
The risk discount rates 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  an  implicit  overall  level  of  allowance  for  risk.  For  2020  and  prior,  the  risk  margins 
assumed in the VONB calculations are equal to those assumed in the EV calculations as at the beginning of the reporting 
period. Starting from 2021, the risk margins assumed in the VONB calculations will be determined at a product level to 
better reflect the risk associated with the mix of products sold during the reporting period. If product level risk margins 
were applied in 2020, the impact on the 2020 reported VONB for the Group overall would be immaterial.

The table below summarises the current market 10-year government bond yields referenced in EV calculations.

Business Unit

AIA Australia

(cid:127)  Australia

(cid:127)  New Zealand

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong(1)

AIA Indonesia

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA Philippines

AIA Singapore

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Current market 10-year government
bond yields referenced in EV
calculations (%)

As at
31 December
2020

As at
31 December
2019

0.97

0.99

3.15

0.91

5.89

1.72

2.65

3.00

0.84

7.55

0.32

1.28

2.60

1.37

1.65

3.14

1.92

7.06

1.67

3.31

4.46

1.74

10.07

0.67

1.49

3.56

Note:
(1)  The majority of AIA Hong Kong’s assets and liabilities are denominated in US dollars. The 10-year government bond yields shown above are those 

of US dollar-denominated bonds.

288

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
 
5. ASSUMPTIONS (continued)
5.2 Economic Assumptions (continued)
Risk Discount Rates (continued)
The table below summarises the risk discount rates and long-term investment returns assumed in EV calculations. The 
same risk discount rates were used for all the EV results shown in Section 1 and Section 2 of this report. The present value 
of unallocated Group Office expenses was calculated using the AIA Hong Kong risk discount rate. The investment returns 
on existing fixed income assets were set consistently with the market yields on these assets. Note that the VONB results 
were calculated based on start-of-quarter economic assumptions consistent with the measurement at the point of sale. 
The investment returns shown are gross of tax and investment expenses.

Risk discount rates assumed in EV 
calculations (%)

Long-term investment returns assumed in EV calculations (%)

10-year government bonds

Local equities

As at 
31 Dec 
2020

As at 
30 Jun 
2020 
(Unaudited)

As at 
31 Dec 
2019

As at 
31 Dec 
2020

As at 
30 Jun 
2020 
(Unaudited)

As at 
31 Dec 
2019

As at 
31 Dec 
2020

As at 
30 Jun 
2020 
(Unaudited)

As at 
31 Dec 
2019

Business Unit

AIA Australia

(cid:127)  Australia

(cid:127)  New Zealand

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong(1)

6.45

6.55

9.75

7.00

6.45

6.85

9.75

7.00

6.45

6.85

9.75

7.20

AIA Indonesia

13.00

13.00

13.00

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA Philippines

AIA Singapore

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

8.10

8.55

11.80

6.60

15.70

7.25

7.80

9.80

8.10

8.55

11.80

6.60

15.70

7.55

7.90

9.80

8.10

8.55

11.80

6.90

15.70

7.55

7.90

10.80

2.30

2.30

3.70

2.20

7.50

2.20

4.00

5.30

2.20

2.30

2.60

3.70

2.20

7.50

2.20

4.00

5.30

2.20

2.30

2.60

3.70

2.70

7.50

2.20

4.00

5.30

2.50

10.00

10.00

10.00

1.00

2.70

4.00

1.30

2.70

4.00

1.30

2.70

5.00

6.60

6.80

9.30

7.00

6.60

7.10

9.30

7.00

6.60

7.10

9.30

7.50

12.00

12.00

12.00

6.50

8.60

10.50

6.70

12.00

5.60

7.70

9.30

6.50

8.60

10.50

6.70

12.00

5.90

7.70

9.30

6.50

8.60

10.50

7.00

12.00

5.90

7.70

10.30

Note:
(1)  The majority of AIA Hong Kong’s assets and liabilities are denominated in US dollars. The 10-year government bond assumptions shown above are 

those of US dollar-denominated bonds.

289

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
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 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 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 premiums, 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-operating expenses, based on actual acquisition 
and  maintenance  expenses  in  the  year  ended  31  December  2020.  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.

290

AIA GROUP LIMITED5. ASSUMPTIONS (continued)
5.5 Expense Inflation
The expected long-term expense inflation rates used by Business Units are set out below:

Expense Inflation Assumptions by Business Unit (%)

Business Unit

AIA Australia

(cid:127)  Australia

(cid:127)  New Zealand

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Indonesia

AIA Korea

AIA Malaysia

AIA Philippines

AIA Singapore

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Tata AIA Life(1)

As at
31 December
2020

As at
31 December
2019

2.05

2.00

2.00

2.00

3.50

3.50

3.00

3.50

2.00

6.50

1.20

2.00

4.00

5.60

2.05

2.00

2.00

2.00

3.50

3.50

3.00

3.50

2.00

6.50

1.20

2.00

4.00

7.25

Note:
(1)  For Tata AIA Life, in accordance with the IEV methodology as defined in Actuarial Practice Standard 10 issued by the Institute of Actuaries of India, 

the inflation assumption is derived by applying a spread to the reference interest rate.

Unallocated Group Office expenses are assumed to inflate by the weighted average of the Business Unit expense inflation 
rates.

291

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
5. ASSUMPTIONS (continued)
5.6 Mortality
Assumptions have been developed by each Business Unit based on their recent historical experience 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 annuity products that are exposed to longevity risk, an allowance has been made for expected future 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 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.

5.9 Policyholder Dividends, Profit Sharing and Interest Crediting
The projected policyholder dividends, 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 expectation 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.

292

AIA GROUP LIMITED5. ASSUMPTIONS (continued)
5.10 Taxation
The EV and VONB presented in this report are net of tax based on current taxation legislation. The projected corporate 
income tax payable in any year allows for the benefits arising from any tax loss carried forward where relevant. Where 
applicable, tax payable on investment income has been reflected in the projected investment returns. Any withholding tax 
payable on future remittances from local business units are also reflected under the appropriate operating segment.

The local corporate income tax rates used by each Business Unit are set out below:

Local Corporate Income Tax Rates by Business Unit (%)

Business Unit

AIA Australia

(cid:127)  Australia

(cid:127)  New Zealand

AIA China

AIA Hong Kong

AIA Indonesia(1)

AIA Korea(2)

AIA Malaysia

AIA Philippines

AIA Singapore

AIA Sri Lanka

AIA Taiwan

AIA Thailand

AIA Vietnam

Tata AIA Life

As at
31 December
2020

As at
31 December
2019

30.0

28.0

25.0

16.5

22.0

27.5

24.0

30.0

17.0

28.0

20.0

20.0

20.0

14.6

30.0

28.0

25.0

16.5

25.0

27.5

24.0

30.0

17.0

28.0

20.0

20.0

20.0

14.6

Notes:
(1)  During the reporting period, a change in corporate income tax rate has been enacted in Indonesia from 25% to 22% for fiscal years 2020 and 2021 

and to 20% from fiscal year 2022 onwards.

(2)  From fiscal years 2019 to 2022 (extended from 2020 according to the latest tax regulation), AIA Korea is subject to an assumed corporate income 
tax of 27.5%, which includes an Accumulated Earnings Tax. Based on current regulations, the corporate income tax rate will revert to 24.2% from 
fiscal year 2023.

293

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
 
5. ASSUMPTIONS (continued)
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.

6. EVENTS AFTER THE REPORTING PERIOD
On 12 March 2021, a Committee appointed by the Board of Directors proposed a final dividend of 100.30 Hong Kong cents 
per share (2019: final dividend of 93.30 Hong Kong cents per share).

294

AIA GROUP LIMITEDFINANCIAL CALENDAR
Announcement of 2020 Annual Results for 

the year ended 31 December 2020

Book Close Period for the AGM

Date of the AGM

Announcement of 2021 Interim Results

12 March 2021

14 May 2021 to 20 May 2021 (both days inclusive)

20 May 2021

17 August 2021

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The AGM will be held at 11:00 a.m. (Hong Kong time) on Thursday, 20 May 2021 at the Grand Ballroom, Lower Level I, 
Kowloon Shangri-La, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong. Details of the business to be transacted at 
the AGM are set out in the Company’s circular to be issued to the shareholders of the Company for the AGM.

Details of voting results at the AGM can be found on the websites of both the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited 
at www.hkex.com.hk and the Company at www.aia.com on Thursday, 20 May 2021 after the AGM.

FINAL DIVIDEND
The Board has recommended an increase in the payment of a final dividend of 7.5 per cent to 100.30 Hong Kong cents per 
share for the year ended 31 December 2020 (2019: 93.30 Hong Kong cents per share), consistent with AIA’s established 
prudent, sustainable and progressive dividend policy.

Subject to shareholders’ approval at the AGM, the final dividend will be payable on Thursday, 10 June 2021 to shareholders 
whose names appear on the register of members of the Company at the close of business on Wednesday, 26 May 2021, 
being the record date for determining the entitlements to the final dividend.

RELEVANT DATES FOR THE FINAL DIVIDEND
Tuesday, 25 May 2021
Ex-dividend date

Record date

Payment date

Wednesday, 26 May 2021

Thursday, 10 June 2021

ANNUAL STATEMENT ISSUED PURSUANT TO THE OFFSHORE FUND TAX EXEMPTION REGIME IN SINGAPORE
An indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, AIA Investment Management Private Limited, was incorporated in 
Singapore on 15 June 2016. Its businesses include the management of certain assets of the Company and its subsidiaries 
and  branches,  and  it  is  required  by  the  Income  Tax  (Exemption  of  Income  of  Prescribed  Persons  Arising  from  Funds 
Managed  by  Fund  Manager  in  Singapore)  Regulations  2010  to  issue  an  annual  statement  to  each  shareholder  of  the 
Company. To comply with the above legal requirement in Singapore, an annual statement containing the profit and market 
capitalisation information of the Company is available on the Company’s website. You may visit the Company’s website by 
clicking “Annual Statements issued pursuant to The Offshore Fund Tax Exemption Regime In Singapore” under the sub-
section headed “Shareholder Centre” in the section headed “Investor Relations” to view the annual statement.

295

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONINFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERSFINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020 
SHARE REGISTRAR
If you have any enquiries relating to your shareholding, please contact the Company’s share registrar with the contact 
details set out below:

Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited

17M Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong

Telephone: +852 2862 8555

Email:

aia.ecom@computershare.com.hk (for printed copies of the Company’s corporate communications)

Website:

www.computershare.com

www.computershare.com/hk/contact (for general enquiries)

ANNUAL REPORT
The English and Chinese versions of this Annual Report are available on 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 
provided above.

The Company makes every effort to ensure consistency between the Chinese and English versions of this Annual Report. 
In the event of any inconsistency, the English version shall prevail.

For  environmental  and  cost  reasons,  shareholders  are  encouraged  to  elect  to  receive  corporate  communications  (as 
defined in the Listing Rules) 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 corporate communications.

INVESTMENT COMMUNITY AND NEWS MEDIA
Enquiries may be directed to:

Investment Community

Lance Burbidge

Evelyn Lam

Feon Lee

Rachel Poon

+852 2832 1398

+852 2832 1633

+852 2832 4704

+852 2832 4792

News Media

Dudley White

Emerald Ng

+852 2832 1978

+852 2832 4720

296

AIA GROUP LIMITEDFORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This document may contain 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, 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  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.

297

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONANNUAL REPORT 2020BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Independent Non-executive Chairman and
Independent Non-executive Director
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE

Executive Director,
Group Chief Executive and President
Mr. LEE Yuan Siong

Independent Non-executive Directors
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO
Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW
Mr. John Barrie HARRISON
Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO
Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU
Ms. Swee-Lian TEO
Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE
Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA

AUDIT COMMITTEE
Mr. John Barrie HARRISON (Chairman)
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO
Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO
Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE
Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA

NOMINATION COMMITTEE
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE (Chairman)
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO
Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW
Mr. John Barrie HARRISON
Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO
Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU
Ms. Swee-Lian TEO
Dr. Narongchai AKRASANEE
Mr. Cesar Velasquez PURISIMA

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
Mr. Jack Chak-Kwong SO (Chairman)
Mr. George Yong-Boon YEO
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE

RISK COMMITTEE
Mr. Chung-Kong CHOW (Chairman)
Mr. John Barrie HARRISON
Professor Lawrence Juen-Yee LAU
Ms. Swee-Lian TEO
Mr. Edmund Sze-Wing TSE
Mr. LEE Yuan Siong

REGISTERED OFFICE
35/F, AIA Central
No. 1 Connaught Road Central
Hong Kong

WEBSITE
www.aia.com

COMPANY SECRETARY
Ms. Nicole PAO

AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVES
Mr. LEE Yuan Siong
Ms. Nicole PAO

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
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

AUDITOR
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Certified Public Accountant
Registered Public Interest Entity Auditor

298

CORPORATE INFORMATIONAIA GROUP LIMITED2010 RSU Scheme

2010 SO Scheme

2011 ESPP

2012 ASPP

2020 ESPP

2020 RSU Scheme

2020 SO Scheme

2021 ASPP

Restricted Share Unit Scheme of the Company adopted on 28 September 2010 
(as  amended)  under  which  the  Company  granted  restricted  share  units  to 
employees,  directors  (excluding  independent  non-executive  directors)  or 
officers of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. It was terminated with effect 
from 31 July 2020 prior to the adoption of the 2020 RSU Scheme.

Share  Option  Scheme  of  the  Company  adopted  on  28  September  2010  (as 
amended),  under  which  the  Company  granted  share  options  to  employees, 
directors  (excluding  independent  non-executive  directors)  or  officers  of  the 
Company or any of its subsidiaries. It was terminated with effect from 29 May 
2020 upon the adoption of the 2020 SO Scheme.

Employee Share Purchase Plan of the Company adopted on 25 July 2011 (as 
amended), a voluntary share purchase plan with matching offer to facilitate and 
encourage  AIA  share  ownership  by  employees.  It  was  terminated  with  effect 
from 31 October 2020 (being the last day of the 2019/2020 plan year).

Agency Share Purchase Plan of the Company adopted on 23 February 2012, a 
share purchase plan with matching offer to facilitate and encourage AIA share 
ownership by agents. It was terminated with effect from 31 March 2021 (being 
the last day of the 2020/2021 plan year). 

Employee Share Purchase Plan of the Company adopted on 1 August 2020, a 
voluntary share purchase plan with matching offer to facilitate and encourage 
AIA share ownership by employees, and is effective for a period of 10 years from 
the date of adoption.

Restricted  Share  Unit  Scheme  of  the  Company  adopted  on  1  August  2020, 
under  which  the  Company  may  grant  restricted  share  units  to  employees, 
directors  (excluding  independent  non-executive  directors)  or  officers  of  the 
Company or any of its subsidiaries, and is effective for a period of 10 years from 
the date of adoption.

Share Option Scheme of the Company adopted on 29 May 2020, under which 
the  Company  may  grant  share  options  to  employees,  directors  (excluding 
independent non-executive directors) or officers of the Company or any of its 
subsidiaries, and is effective for a period of 10 years from the date of adoption.

Agency Share Purchase Plan of the Company adopted on 1 February 2021, a 
share purchase plan with matching offer to facilitate and encourage AIA share 
ownership by agents, and is effective for a period of 10 years from the date of 
adoption. 

active agent

An agent who sells at least one policy per month.

299

GLOSSARYANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONactive market

A market in which all the following conditions exist:

(cid:127) 

the items traded within the market are homogeneous;

(cid:127)  willing buyers and sellers can normally be found at any time; and

(cid:127)  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 of other activities, such as general insurance business, less 
the  value  of  intangible  assets.  It  excludes  any  amounts  not  attributable  to 
shareholders of AIA Group Limited. ANW for AIA is stated after adjustment to 
reflect  consolidated  reserving  requirements. ANW  by  market  is  stated  before 
adjustment to reflect consolidated reserving requirements, and presented on a 
local statutory basis.

Actual exchange rates.

2021 Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held at 11:00 a.m. (Hong 
Kong time) on Thursday, 20 May 2021.

adjusted net worth or ANW

AER

AGM

AIA or the Group

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries.

AIA Company Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong and a subsidiary 
of the Company.

AIA International Limited, a company incorporated in Bermuda and an indirect 
subsidiary of the Company.

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 partnership between AIA and Discovery Limited, a 
specialist insurer headquartered in South Africa.

American International Group, Inc.

The AIA Leadership Centre located in Bangkok, Thailand.

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.

AIA Co.

AIA International

AIA Vitality

AIG

ALC

amortised cost

300

AIA GROUP LIMITEDannualised new premiums or 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.  For  group 
renewable business, it includes any premium payable on existing schemes that 
exceeds the prior year’s premiums.  

Asia

Mainland  China,  Hong  Kong  SAR,  Thailand,  Singapore,  Malaysia,  Australia, 
Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan 
(China), Vietnam, Brunei, Macau SAR, New Zealand and India.

available for sale (AFS) financial assets

bancassurance

BEPS 2.0

Board

CBA

CER

CMLA

Company

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.

The  distribution  of  insurance  products  through  banks  or  other  financial 
institutions.

The  common  name  for  the  Organisation  for  Economic  Co-operation  and 
Development’s programme of work to develop a consensus based solution to 
the tax challenges arising from the digitalisation of the economy that has been 
agreed by the 139 jurisdictions that are members of the OECD/G20 Inclusive 
Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting. This work contains two pillars. 
The first pillar deals with the allocation of taxing rights between jurisdictions, 
while  the second pillar focuses on  introducing a global  minimum  tax rate for 
multinational enterprises.

The board of Directors.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

Constant exchange rates. Change on constant exchange rates is calculated for 
all  figures  for  the  current  year  and  for  the  prior  year,  using  constant  average 
exchange rates, other than for balance sheet items as at the end of the current 
year and as at the end of the prior year, which is translated using the constant 
exchange rates.

The  Colonial  Mutual  Life  Assurance  Society  Limited  (including  its  affiliated 
companies), one of the largest life insurance providers in Australia.

AIA Group Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability, 
whose shares are listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange 
(stock code: 1299).

301

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONconsolidated investment funds

Investment  funds  in  which  the  Group  has  interests  and  power  to  direct  their 
relevant activities that affect the return of the funds.

Corporate Governance Code

Corporate Governance Code set out in Appendix 14 to the Listing Rules.

cost of capital or 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  participating  funds, 
there is no associated cost of capital included in the VIF or VONB. CoC for AIA is 
stated  after  adjustment  to  reflect  consolidated  capital  requirements.  CoC  by 
market is stated before adjustment to reflect consolidated capital requirements, 
and presented on a local statutory basis.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by a recently identified coronavirus. 

Dealing Policy

Directors’ and Chief Executives’ Dealing Policy of the Company.

deferred acquisition costs or DAC

deferred origination costs or DOC

Acquisition costs 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. 
Such 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.

Director(s)

The director(s) of the Company.

embedded value or 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. EV for AIA is 
stated  after  adjustments  to  reflect  consolidated  reserving  and  capital 
requirements and the after-tax value of unallocated Group Office expenses. EV 
by  market  is  stated  before  adjustments  to  reflect  consolidated  reserving  and 
capital requirements and unallocated Group Office expenses, and presented on 
a local statutory basis.

EPS

Earnings per share.

302

AIA GROUP LIMITEDequity attributable to 
  shareholders of the 
  Company on the embedded 
  value basis or EV Equity

EV Equity is the total of embedded value, goodwill and other intangible assets 
attributable to shareholders of the Company.

ExCo

The Executive Committee of the Group.

fair value through profit or 

loss or FVTPL

first half

first quarter

first year premiums

Under IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, 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.

The six months from 1 January to 30 June.

The three months from 1 January to 31 March.

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.

fourth quarter

The three months from 1 October to 31 December.

free surplus

group insurance

ANW  in  excess  of  the  required  capital.  Free  surplus  for  AIA  is  stated  after 
adjustment to reflect consolidated reserving and capital requirements.

An insurance scheme whereby individual participants are covered by a master 
contract held by a single group or entity on their behalf.

Group LCSM surplus

The  difference  between  the  Group  available  capital  and  the  Group  minimum 
capital requirement.

Group Office

HKFRS

HKIA

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.

Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards.

Insurance Authority established under the Insurance Companies (Amendment) 
Ordinance  2015  or  prior  to  26  June  2017,  the  Office  of  the  Commissioner  of 
Insurance.

HKICPA

Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Holding company financial resources

Debt and equity securities, deposits, cash and cash equivalents and dividends 
paid  but  not  settled  by  subsidiaries,  net  of  obligations  under  repurchase 
agreements, at the Group’s listed holding company, AIA Group Limited. These 
are presented in note 46 to the consolidated financial statements.

303

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the PRC; in the context 
of our reportable market segments, Hong Kong includes Macau SAR.

Hong Kong Companies Ordinance

Companies Ordinance (Chapter 622 of the Laws of Hong Kong), as amended 
from time to time.

Hong Kong Insurance Ordinance 
  or HKIO

Insurance Ordinance (Chapter 41 of the Laws of Hong Kong), as amended from 
time to time. It provides a legislative framework for the prudential supervision of 
the insurance industry in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Stock Exchange or HKSE

The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.

IAIS

IAS

IASB

ICS

IFA

IFRS

International Association of Insurance Supervisors.

International Accounting Standards.

International Accounting Standards Board.

A risk-based global insurance capital standard being developed by the IAIS.

Independent financial adviser.

Standards and interpretations adopted by the IASB comprising:

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

(cid:127) 

International Financial Reporting Standards;

IAS; and

Interpretations developed by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRS IC) 
or the former Standing Interpretations Committee (SIC).

ING Malaysia

ING Management Holdings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.

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 return

Investment return consists of investment income plus investment experience.

Initial Public Offering.

Local  Capital  Summation  Method  is  the  method  to  be  used  by  the  HKIA  as  a 
measure  of  group  capital  under  the  new  Group-wide  Supervision  (GWS) 
framework.  Group  available  capital  is  the  sum  of  available  capital  of  each 
relevant regulated entity within the Group. Group minimum capital requirement 
(MCR)  is  the  sum  of  the  minimum  required  capital  of  those  same  entities. 
Adjustments are made to eliminate double counting. Group LCSM surplus is the 
excess of Group available capital over the Group MCR. The Group LCSM cover 
ratio is the ratio of Group available capital to the Group MCR.

IPO

LCSM

304

AIA GROUP LIMITED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.

Listing Rules

The Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong 
Kong Limited.

Million Dollar Round Table or 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

Model Code for Securities Transactions of Directors of Listed Issuers set out in 
Appendix 10 to the Listing Rules.

net funds to Group Corporate Centre

In presenting net capital in/(out) flows to reportable market segments, capital 
outflows  consist  of  dividends  and  profit  distributions  to  the  Group  Corporate 
Centre segment and capital inflows consist of capital injections into reportable 
market 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.

n/a

n/m

Not available.

Not meaningful.

operating profit after tax or OPAT

Operating  profit  is  determined  using,  among  others,  expected  long-term 
investment return for equities and real estate. Short-term fluctuations between 
expected long-term investment return and actual investment return for these 
asset  classes  are  excluded  from  operating  profit.  The  investment  return 
assumptions  used  to  determine  expected  long-term  investment  return  are 
based on the same assumptions used by the Group in determining its embedded 
value and are disclosed in the Supplementary Embedded Value Information.

operating return on EV 
  or operating ROEV

Operating  return  on  EV  is  calculated  as  EV  operating  profit,  expressed  as  a 
percentage of the opening embedded value.

operating return on 
  shareholders’ allocated equity 
  or operating ROE

Operating  return  on  shareholders’  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 shareholders’ allocated 
equity.

OTC

Over-the-counter.

other participating business with 
  distinct portfolios

Business where it is expected that the policyholder will receive, at the discretion 
of  the  insurer,  additional  benefits  based  on  the  performance  of  underlying 
segregated investment assets where this asset segregation is supported by an 
explicit statutory reserve and reporting in the relevant territory.

305

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONparticipating funds

persistency

Philam Life

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  allocation  of  benefits 
from  the  assets  held  in  the  participating  funds  is  subject  to  minimum 
policyholder participation mechanisms established by regulation.

The percentage of insurance policies remaining in force from month to month in 
the past 12 months, as measured by premiums.

The Philippine American Life and General Insurance (PHILAM LIFE) Company, 
a subsidiary of AIA Co.

policyholder and shareholder 

investments

Investments  other  than  those  held  to  back  unit-linked  contracts  as  well  as 
assets from consolidated investment funds.

pps

PRC

protection gap

puttable liabilities

PVNBP margin

Percentage points.

The People’s Republic of China.

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  interests  in  any  such  funds 
which have to be consolidated by AlA are treated as financial liabilities.

VONB gross of non-controlling interests excluding pension business, expressed 
as a percentage of present value of new business premiums (PVNBP). PVNBP 
margin for AIA is stated after adjustments to reflect consolidated reserving and 
capital  requirements  and  the  after-tax  value  of  unallocated  Group  Office 
expenses.

regulatory minimum capital

Net assets held to meet the minimum solvency margin requirement set by the 
HKIO that an insurer must meet in order to be authorised to carry on insurance 
business in or from Hong Kong.

renewal premiums

Premiums receivable in subsequent years of a recurring premium policy.

rider

A supplemental plan that can be attached to a basic insurance policy, typically 
with payment of additional premiums.

Risk-Based Capital or RBC

RBC represents an amount of capital based  on  an assessment of  risks that a 
company should hold to protect customers against adverse developments.

RSPUs

Restricted stock purchase units.

306

AIA GROUP LIMITED 
RSSUs

second half

SFO

share(s)

Restricted stock subscription units.

The six months from 1 July to 31 December.

Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the laws of Hong Kong), as 
amended from time to time.

For the Company, shall mean ordinary share(s) in the capital of the Company.

shareholders’ allocated equity

Shareholders’ allocated equity is total equity attributable to shareholders of the 
Company less fair value reserve.

Singapore

The Republic of Singapore; in the context of our reportable market segments, 
Singapore includes Brunei.

single premium

A single payment that covers the entire cost of an insurance policy.

solvency

solvency ratio

Sovereign

Takaful

The  ability  of  an  insurance  company  to  satisfy  its  policyholder  benefits  and 
claims obligations.

The  ratio  of  the  total  available  capital  to  the  regulatory  minimum  capital 
applicable to the insurer pursuant to relevant regulations.

ASB Group (Life) Limited (renamed AIA Sovereign Limited in July 2018) and its 
subsidiaries,  including  Sovereign  Assurance  Company  Limited,  a  licensed 
insurer in New Zealand.

Islamic  insurance  which  is  based  on  the  principles  of  mutual  assistance  and 
risk sharing.

Tata AIA Life

Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited.

total weighted premium 

income or TWPI

TWPI consists of 100 per cent of renewal premiums, 100 per cent of first year 
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.

underlying free surplus generation 
  or UFSG

Underlying free surplus generation represents free surplus generated from the 
in-force  business,  adjusted  for  certain  non-recurring  items.  It  excludes  free 
surplus  used  to  fund  new  business,  unallocated  group  office  expenses, 
investment  variances  and  other  non-operating  items.  UFSG  for  AIA  is  stated 
after reflecting consolidated reserving and capital requirements.

unit-linked investments

Financial investments held to back unit-linked contracts.

307

ANNUAL REPORT 2020FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEWOVERVIEWCORPORATE GOVERNANCEFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
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.

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.  VIF  for  AIA  is  stated 
after  adjustments  to  reflect  consolidated  reserving  and  capital  requirements 
and the after-tax value of unallocated Group Office expenses. VIF by market is 
stated  before  adjustments  to  reflect  consolidated  reserving  and  capital 
requirements and unallocated Group Office expenses, and presented on a local 
statutory basis.

VONB is the present value, measured at the 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 the required capital in excess of regulatory reserves to 
support  this  business.  VONB  for  AIA  is  stated  after  adjustments  to  reflect 
consolidated  reserving  and  capital  requirements  and  the  after-tax  value  of 
unallocated Group Office expenses. VONB by market is stated before adjustments 
to  reflect  consolidated  reserving  and  capital  requirements  and  unallocated 
Group Office expenses, and presented on a local statutory basis.

VONB gross of non-controlling interests excluding pension business, expressed 
as  a  percentage  of  ANP.  VONB  margin  for  AIA  is  stated  after  adjustments  to 
reflect consolidated reserving and capital requirements and the after-tax value 
of unallocated Group Office expenses. VONB margin by market is stated before 
adjustments  to  reflect  consolidated  reserving  and  capital  requirements  and 
unallocated Group Office expenses, and presented on a local statutory basis.

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.

unit-linked products

universal life

value of business acquired or VOBA

value of in-force business or VIF

value of new business or VONB

VONB margin

working capital

308

AIA GROUP LIMITEDOUR  
PURPOSE

Our Purpose is  
to help people live 
Healthier, Longer, 
Better Lives.

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 a presence in 18 markets –  
wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries 
in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR(1), 
Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, 
Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar,  
the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, 
Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei,  
Macau SAR(2) and New Zealand, and  
a 49 per cent joint venture in India. 

The business that is now AIA was  
first established in Shanghai more than  
a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader 
in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance 
premiums and holds leading positions 
across the majority of its markets.  
It had total assets of US$326 billion as  
of 31 December 2020. 

AIA meets the long-term 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, partners  
and employees across Asia, AIA serves 
the holders of more than 38 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)  Hong Kong SAR refers to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. 

(2)  Macau SAR refers to Macau Special Administrative Region.

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

CONTENTS

OVERVIEW
006  Financial Highlights
008  Chairman’s Statement
010  Group Chief Executive and 

President’s Report

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING 
REVIEW
016  Group Chief Financial  
Officer’s Review
040  Business Review
056  Risk Management
062  Regulatory and International 

Developments

064  Our People

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
069  Statement of Directors’ 
Responsibilities

070  Board of Directors
078  Executive Committee
083  Report of the Directors
096  Corporate Governance Report
110  Remuneration Report

Independent Auditor’s Report

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
125 
132  Consolidated Income Statement
133  Consolidated Statement of  
Comprehensive Income
134  Consolidated Statement of 

Financial Position

136  Consolidated Statement of 

Changes in Equity

138  Consolidated Statement of  

Cash Flows

140  Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements and 
Significant Accounting Policies
Independent Auditor’s Report on 
the Supplementary Embedded 
Value Information

265 

269  Supplementary Embedded Value 

Information

Information for Shareholders

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
295 
298  Corporate Information
299  Glossary

A

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友
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HEALTHIER 
LONGER 
BETTER 
LIVES

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

AIA.COM

AIA GROUP LIMITED

友邦保險控股有限公司  

STOCK CODE 1299