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Power Financial Corp

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FY2012 Annual Report · Power Financial Corp
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KEEPING 
COMMITMENTS

2012 ANNUAL REPORT

KEEPING COMMITMENTS

Keeping commitments is important to all of us. It is an easy 

concept to understand, but much harder to actually put 

in practice.

Fortunately, the world is filled with people whose daily lives 

and activities are focused upon keeping their commitments.

Earning and maintaining the trust of our clients and other 

stakeholders is the goal of each of the companies in the 

Power Financial group, our employees and the financial advisors 

who work with us. All our business decisions are geared to 

ensuring we have the resources and financial strength to keep 

our commitments over the long term.

Because keeping commitments is important to all of us.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS 

GROUP ORGANIZATION CHART 

BUSINESS SUMMARY 

DIRECTORS’ REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS 

RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT 

GREAT-WEST LIFECO 

GREAT-WEST LIFE, LONDON LIFE, CANADA LIFE 

CANADA LIFE – EUROPE 

GREAT-WEST FINANCIAL 

PUTNAM INVESTMENTS 

1

2

4

6

16

18

19

21

22

23

IGM FINANCIAL 

INVESTORS GROUP 

MACKENZIE INVESTMENTS 

PARGESA GROUP 

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 

24

26

27

28

31

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NOTES  47

FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

OFFICERS 

CORPORATE INFORMATION 

107

108

109

110

This Annual Report is intended to 

In addition, selected information 

The following abbreviations are used 

provide interested shareholders 

concerning the business, operations, 

throughout this report: Power Financial 

and other interested persons with 

financial condition, financial 

Corporation (Power Financial or the 

selected information concerning 

performance, priorities, ongoing 

Corporation); Great-West Life & Annuity 

Power Financial Corporation. 

objectives, strategies and outlook 

Insurance Company (Great-West Life 

For further information concerning the 

of Power Financial Corporation’s 

& Annuity or Great-West Financial); 

Corporation, shareholders and other 

subsidiaries and associates is derived 

Great-West Lifeco Inc. (Great-West Lifeco 

interested persons should consult the 

from public information published by 

or Lifeco); Groupe Bruxelles Lambert 

Corporation’s disclosure documents, 

such subsidiaries and associates and 

(GBL); IGM Financial Inc. (IGM Financial or 

such as its Annual Information Form and 

is provided here for the convenience 

IGM); Investment Planning Counsel Inc. 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis. 

of the shareholders of Power Financial 

(Investment Planning Counsel); 

Copies of the Corporation’s continuous 

Corporation. For further information 

Investors Group Inc. (Investors Group); 

disclosure documents can be obtained 

concerning such subsidiaries and 

Lafarge SA (Lafarge); London Life 

at www.sedar.com, on the Corporation’s 

associates, shareholders and other 

Insurance Company (London Life); 

website at www.powerfinancial.com, or 

interested persons should consult 

Mackenzie Financial Corporation 

from the Office of the Secretary at the 

the websites of, and other publicly 

(Mackenzie or Mackenzie Investments); 

addresses shown at the end of this report.

available information published by, such 

Pargesa Holding SA (Pargesa); Parjointco 

Readers should also review the note 

subsidiaries and associates.

N.V. (Parjointco); Power Corporation of 

further in this report, in the section 

The selected performance 

entitled Review of Financial Performance, 

measures shown on pages 2, 3 

concerning the use of Forward-Looking 

and 5 are as of December 31, 2012 

Statements, which applies to the entirety 

unless otherwise noted.

of this Annual Report.

Canada (Power Corporation); Putnam 

Investments, LLC (Putnam Investments 

or Putnam); Suez Environnement 

Company (Suez Environnement); The 

Canada Life Assurance Company 

(Canada Life); The Great-West Life 

Assurance Company (Great-West 

Life); Total SA (Total).  In addition, 

IFRS refers to International Financial 

Reporting Standards. 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS]

Revenues

Operating earnings attributable to 

common shareholders

Operating earnings per common share

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders

Net earnings per common share

Dividends declared per common share

Total assets

Consolidated assets and assets under management

Shareholders’ equity

Total equity

Book value per common share

Common shares outstanding (in millions)

2012

32,412

1,686

2.38

1,626

2.30

1.40

268,593

523,885

14,029

24,372

16.60

709.1

2011

32,400

1,729

2.44

1,722

2.43

1.40

252,678

496,781

13,521

22,815

16.26

708.2

The Corporation uses operating earnings as a performance measure in analyzing its financial performance. For a discussion 
of the Corporation’s use of non-IFRS financial measures, please refer to the Review of Financial Performance section in this 
Annual Report.

1
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

GROUP ORGANIZATION CHART  

Power Financial Corporation is a diversified management 

and holding company that has interests, directly or 

indirectly, in companies in the financial services sector 

in Canada, the United States and Europe. It also has 

substantial holdings in a diversified industrial group based 

in Europe.

POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION

4.0%

Percentages denote 
participating equity interest 
as at December 31, 2012. 

Operating earnings is a 
non‑IFRS financial measure.

Return on shareholders’ 
equity is calculated using 
operating earnings.

[1]  Denotes voting interest.

2
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

68.2%GREAT-WEST LIFECO100%GREAT-WEST  LIFE100%CANADA LIFE 2012 Operating earnings attributable  to common shareholders$1,955 MILLION2012 Return on shareholders’ equity15.9%Total assets under administration$546 BILLION100%LONDON LIFE100%GREAT-WEST  FINANCIAL 100% [1]PUTNAM INVESTMENTS2012 OPERATING  
EARNINGS ATTRIBUTABLE 
TO COMMON  
SHAREHOLDERS

$1,686
MILLION

2012 RETURN ON 
SHAREHOLDERS’  
EQUITY

14.4%

CONSOLIDATED ASSETS 
AND ASSETS UNDER 
MANAGEMENT

TOTAL 
ASSETS UNDER 
ADMINISTRATION

$524
BILLION

$667
BILLION

3.7%

[2]  Through its wholly owned 

[3]  Representing 52% 

of the voting rights.

subsidiary, Power Financial 
Europe, Power Financial 
held a 50% interest 
in Parjointco. Parjointco 
held a voting interest of 
75.4% and an equity interest 
of 55.6% in Pargesa. 

3
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

IMERYS  56.9%50.0% [3]GROUPE BRUXELLES LAMBERTLAFARGE  21.0%SUEZ ENVIRONNEMENT7.2% GDF SUEZ  5.1% PERNOD RICARD  7.5%TOTAL  4.0%100% INVESTORS GROUP100% MACKENZIE INVESTMENTS97.8% INVESTMENT PLANNINGCOUNSEL58.7%IGM FINANCIALPARGESA[2]2012 Operating earnings available to common shareholders $750 MILLION2012 Return on shareholders’ equity 17.3%Total assets under management $121 BILLION2012 Operating earningsSF359 MILLIONNet asset valueSF7.6 BILLION 
BUSINESS SUMMARY

CANADA

GREAT-WEST 
LIFECO
GREAT-WEST LIFE
LONDON LIFE
FREEDOM 55 FINANCIALTM
CANADA LIFE

GREAT-WEST FINANCIAL®
PUTNAM INVESTMENTS

UNITED  
STATES

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS

MARKET POSITION

>  Life, disability and critical illness insurance for individuals, business owners 

>  Gold Key financial security advisors associated with Great-West Life

>  Serves the financial security needs of more than 12 million Canadians

and families

>  Retirement savings and income plans for individuals and groups

>  Fund management, investment and advisory services

>  Comprehensive benefit solutions for small, medium and large employer groups

>  National accounts, including Investors Group

>  Creditor insurance, including life, disability, job loss and critical illness coverage

>  Life, health, accident and critical illness insurance for members of affinity groups

>  Freedom 55 Financial and Wealth & Estate Planning Group financial 

>  33% market share of individual life insurance measured by premium [1]

security advisors associated with London Life

>  22% market share of individual living benefits measured by sales premium [1]

> 

Independent advisors associated with managing general agencies

>  26% market share of individual segregated fund assets [2]

>  Great-West Life group insurance and retirement sales and service staff 

in offices across Canada that support independent advisors, brokers 

and benefit consultants distributing its group products

>  22% market share of group insurance [3]

> 

18% market share of group capital accumulation plans, serving 1.2 million 

member accounts [4]

>  Leading market share for creditor insurance revenue premium [2]

>  Employer-sponsored defined contribution plans

>  Brokers, consultants, advisors and third-party administrators

>  Great-West Financial serves 5.2 million customers

>  Administrative and record-keeping services for financial institutions and 

>  Financial institutions

>  More than 27,000 defined contribution plans

retirement plans

>  Fund management, investment and advisory services

> 

Individual retirement accounts, life insurance, annuities, business-owned life 
insurance and executive benefits products

>  Global asset management offering mutual funds, institutional portfolios, college 

savings plans, 401(k)s, IRAs and other retirement plans

> 

Investment capabilities include fixed income, equities (both U.S. and global), 
global asset allocation and alternatives, including absolute return, risk parity and 
hedge funds.

>  Sales and service staff and specialized consultants

>  25% market share of state and local government deferred 

>  Services global institutional, domestic retail, defined contribution, and 

compensation plans 

registered investment advisor markets

>  36% market share of individual life insurance sold through the retail bank channel [1]

CANADA LIFE

EUROPE

>  Protection and wealth management products and related services in the United 

> 

Independent financial advisors and employee benefit consultants 

U.K. AND 

 29% share of group life market [3]

Kingdom, Isle of Man, Ireland and Germany

>  Reinsurance and retrocession business, primarily in the United States and 

European markets

in the U.K. and Isle of Man

Independent brokers and direct sales force in Ireland

Independent brokers and multi-tied agents in Germany

> 

> 

> 

Independent reinsurance brokers

>  Direct placements

[1]  As at September 30, 2012

[2]  As at December 31, 2012

[3]  As at December 31, 2011

[4]  As at June 30, 2012

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS

MARKET POSITION

IGM FINANCIAL
INVESTORS GROUP
MACKENZIE INVESTMENTS
INVESTMENT PLANNING COUNSEL

>  Financial advice and planning for individual Canadians

>  Family of exclusive mutual funds with multiple sub-brands

> 

> 

Institutional asset management mandates

Insurance, Solutions Banking, mortgage and trust company products and services

> 

Investors Group network of 4,518 consultants

>  $120.7 billion in assets under management

>  Mackenzie sales and service for financial advisors across multiple 

>  Significant market position in mutual fund management, with 12.5% of 

distribution channels (over 30,000 financial advisors)

industry long-term mutual fund assets under management

> 

Investment Planning Counsel has close to 800 independent 

>  Among Canada’s leading providers of financial planning services

>  $21.1 billion in institutional, sub-advised and other mandates with Mackenzie

financial advisors

> 

Institutional asset management sales force

>  Relationship with Canadian Medical Association

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

GROUP HOLDINGS

PERFORMANCE RECORD

PARGESA

>  Core shareholder investing in Europe

LAFARGE 

> 

 One of the world leaders in cement, 

>  Strong and consistent dividend payout; $2.8 billion over 15 years

>  Concentrated positions in a limited number of large industrial companies based 

in Europe

aggregates and concrete

>  Consistent outperformance of relevant equity market indices over the 

 A world leader in industrial minerals

long term

>  Seeking to exercise significant influence or control over its investments

 An international integrated oil and 

>  Fifteen-year total return to shareholders of 6.6% (SF), compared with 3.2% 

(SF) for the Swiss SPI index and 4.1% (€) for the French CAC 40 index

IMERYS 

TOTAL 

> 

> 

gas company

natural gas

GDF SUEZ 

> 

 A leading energy provider in electricity and 

SUEZ ENVIRONNEMENT 

> 

 An international water and waste 

management company

PERNOD RICARD 

> 

 The world co-leader in wines and spirits

> 

10% market share of business-owned life insurance purchased by 

financial institutions [1]

>  Putnam has nearly 4.5 million shareholders and retirement plan participants 

and 140 institutional client accounts around the world

>  More than 160,000 advisors distribute Putnam products

>  Putnam provides services to approximately 288 defined contribution plans

> 

> 

> 

with 14% share [1]

market share [1]

market share [4]

ISLE OF MAN 

 21% share of group income protection market [3]

 Among the top offshore life companies in the U.K. market 

> 

 Among the top insurers in payout annuities, with 6% 

IRELAND 

> 

 Among the top seven insurers by new business 

GERMANY 

> 

 One of the top two insurers in the independent 

intermediary unit-linked market [4]

> 

 Among the top six in the overall unit-linked market [1]

REINSURANCE  > 

 Among top ten life reinsurers in the U.S. by 

assumed business [3]

4
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

 
 
 
GREAT-WEST 

LIFECO

GREAT-WEST LIFE

LONDON LIFE

FREEDOM 55 FINANCIALTM

CANADA LIFE

GREAT-WEST FINANCIAL®

PUTNAM INVESTMENTS

UNITED  

STATES

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS

MARKET POSITION

CANADA

>  Life, disability and critical illness insurance for individuals, business owners 

and families

>  Retirement savings and income plans for individuals and groups

>  Fund management, investment and advisory services

>  Gold Key financial security advisors associated with Great-West Life

>  Serves the financial security needs of more than 12 million Canadians

>  Freedom 55 Financial and Wealth & Estate Planning Group financial 

>  33% market share of individual life insurance measured by premium [1]

security advisors associated with London Life

>  22% market share of individual living benefits measured by sales premium [1]

> 

Independent advisors associated with managing general agencies

>  26% market share of individual segregated fund assets [2]

>  Comprehensive benefit solutions for small, medium and large employer groups

>  National accounts, including Investors Group

>  Creditor insurance, including life, disability, job loss and critical illness coverage

>  Life, health, accident and critical illness insurance for members of affinity groups

>  Great-West Life group insurance and retirement sales and service staff 
in offices across Canada that support independent advisors, brokers 
and benefit consultants distributing its group products

>  22% market share of group insurance [3]

> 

18% market share of group capital accumulation plans, serving 1.2 million 
member accounts [4]

>  Leading market share for creditor insurance revenue premium [2]

>  Employer-sponsored defined contribution plans

>  Brokers, consultants, advisors and third-party administrators

>  Great-West Financial serves 5.2 million customers

>  Administrative and record-keeping services for financial institutions and 

>  Financial institutions

>  More than 27,000 defined contribution plans

> 

Individual retirement accounts, life insurance, annuities, business-owned life 

registered investment advisor markets

>  36% market share of individual life insurance sold through the retail bank channel [1]

>  Sales and service staff and specialized consultants

>  25% market share of state and local government deferred 

>  Services global institutional, domestic retail, defined contribution, and 

compensation plans 

> 

10% market share of business-owned life insurance purchased by 
financial institutions [1]

>  Putnam has nearly 4.5 million shareholders and retirement plan participants 

and 140 institutional client accounts around the world

>  More than 160,000 advisors distribute Putnam products

>  Putnam provides services to approximately 288 defined contribution plans

> 

> 

> 

> 

Independent financial advisors and employee benefit consultants 
in the U.K. and Isle of Man

U.K. AND 

ISLE OF MAN 

Independent brokers and direct sales force in Ireland

Independent brokers and multi-tied agents in Germany

Independent reinsurance brokers

>  Direct placements

IRELAND 

GERMANY 

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

 29% share of group life market [3]

 21% share of group income protection market [3]

 Among the top offshore life companies in the U.K. market 
with 14% share [1]

 Among the top insurers in payout annuities, with 6% 
market share [1]

 Among the top seven insurers by new business 
market share [4]

 One of the top two insurers in the independent 
intermediary unit-linked market [4]

> 

 Among the top six in the overall unit-linked market [1]

REINSURANCE  > 

 Among top ten life reinsurers in the U.S. by 
assumed business [3]

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS

MARKET POSITION

IGM FINANCIAL

INVESTORS GROUP

MACKENZIE INVESTMENTS

INVESTMENT PLANNING COUNSEL

>  Financial advice and planning for individual Canadians

>  Family of exclusive mutual funds with multiple sub-brands

Institutional asset management mandates

> 

> 

Insurance, Solutions Banking, mortgage and trust company products and services

> 

Investors Group network of 4,518 consultants

>  $120.7 billion in assets under management

>  Mackenzie sales and service for financial advisors across multiple 

>  Significant market position in mutual fund management, with 12.5% of 

distribution channels (over 30,000 financial advisors)

industry long-term mutual fund assets under management

> 

Investment Planning Counsel has close to 800 independent 
financial advisors

>  Among Canada’s leading providers of financial planning services

>  $21.1 billion in institutional, sub-advised and other mandates with Mackenzie

> 

Institutional asset management sales force

>  Relationship with Canadian Medical Association

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

GROUP HOLDINGS

PERFORMANCE RECORD

LAFARGE 

IMERYS 

TOTAL 

GDF SUEZ 

> 

> 

> 

> 

 One of the world leaders in cement, 
aggregates and concrete

>  Strong and consistent dividend payout; $2.8 billion over 15 years

>  Consistent outperformance of relevant equity market indices over the 

 A world leader in industrial minerals

long term

 An international integrated oil and 
gas company

>  Fifteen-year total return to shareholders of 6.6% (SF), compared with 3.2% 

(SF) for the Swiss SPI index and 4.1% (€) for the French CAC 40 index

 A leading energy provider in electricity and 
natural gas

SUEZ ENVIRONNEMENT 

> 

 An international water and waste 
management company

PERNOD RICARD 

> 

 The world co-leader in wines and spirits

5
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

retirement plans

>  Fund management, investment and advisory services

insurance and executive benefits products

>  Global asset management offering mutual funds, institutional portfolios, college 

savings plans, 401(k)s, IRAs and other retirement plans

> 

Investment capabilities include fixed income, equities (both U.S. and global), 

global asset allocation and alternatives, including absolute return, risk parity and 

hedge funds.

CANADA LIFE

EUROPE

>  Protection and wealth management products and related services in the United 

Kingdom, Isle of Man, Ireland and Germany

>  Reinsurance and retrocession business, primarily in the United States and 

European markets

[1]  As at September 30, 2012

[2]  As at December 31, 2012

[3]  As at December 31, 2011

[4]  As at June 30, 2012

PARGESA

>  Core shareholder investing in Europe

>  Concentrated positions in a limited number of large industrial companies based 

in Europe

>  Seeking to exercise significant influence or control over its investments

 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ 
REPORT TO 
SHAREHOLDERS

Power Financial and its subsidiaries produced solid financial results 

in 2012 in an environment which remained challenging for many of the 

company’s businesses. Ongoing uncertainty regarding the resolution 

of financial challenges in Europe and the United States resulted in 

clients remaining very cautious in their investment and insurance 

decisions. Historically low interest rates also prevailed throughout 

the year, creating challenges for savers everywhere, including life 

insurance companies and pension funds.

Against this backdrop, the companies in the Power Financial group 

continued  to  invest  in  strengthening  their  product  and  service 

offerings to their clients and the advisors who serve them with a view 

to enhancing the long-term growth prospects of their businesses.

In addition to pursuing organic growth opportunities, 

We believe our corporate governance structures 

our companies have sought to create growth over time 

and practices have been essential in creating and 

through acquisitions. In early 2013, Great-West Lifeco 

maintaining strong business franchises capable of 

agreed to acquire Irish Life Group Limited from the 

performing in good times and in bad. Our governance is 

Government of Ireland for $1.75 billion. The acquisition is 

rooted in a long-term perspective towards shareholder 

expected to be accretive to Lifeco’s earnings and is highly 

returns, and focuses upon key factors such as strategy, 

consistent with its global business strategy.

people, capital and risk. We oversee our principal 

Keeping commitments is an essential attribute in 

financial services. Our financial strength allows our 

investments through boards of directors made up of 

a mix of experienced individuals both from within our 

companies to keep their commitments over the 

group and from the outside.

long term for the benefit of their clients, employees, 

Our group companies also have a long and proud history 

communities and shareholders. This is why our group 

of contributing to the well-being of the communities 

companies have maintained their prudent approach 

in which they operate. The principles underlying our 

to balance sheet management and a strong risk-

approach in this area are outlined later in this report 

management culture over many years. This is evident 

under “Responsible Management”.

in the maintenance of strong credit ratings across 

our group.

6
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIAL RESULTS

Power Financial’s operating earnings attributable 

to common shareholders for the year ended 

December 31, 2012 were $1,686 million or $2.38 per share, 

compared with $1,729 million or $2.44 per share in 2011.

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders, 

including other items, were $1,626 million or $2.30 per 

share for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared 

with $1,722 million or $2.43 per share in 2011.

Dividends declared by Power Financial Corporation 

totalled $1.40 per common share in 2012, unchanged 

For the twelve-month period ended December 31, 

from 2011.

2012, other items represented a charge of $60 million, 

compared with a charge of $7 million in 2011.

 RESULTS OF GROUP COMPANIES

Other items in 2012 included the Corporation’s share of 

G R E AT- W E S T   L I F E C O

the impact of litigation provision adjustments at Lifeco 

in the fourth quarter of 2012, as well as the Corporation’s 

share of impairment charges at GBL, net of gains on the 

disposal of two investments during the year.

Great-West Lifeco’s financial condition continues 

to be very solid as a result of its continued strong 

performance in 2012. The company delivered superior 

results compared to peer companies in its industry due 

to strong organic growth of premiums and deposits, 

and solid investment performance, despite challenging 

market conditions.

7
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS  CONTINUED

Great-West Lifeco reported operating earnings 

consolidated assets. In addition, Great-West Lifeco’s 

attributable to common shareholders of $1,955 million 

conservative product underwriting standards and 

or $2.059 per share for 2012, compared with 

disciplined approach to introducing new products have 

$1,898 million or $2.000 per share for 2011.

proved beneficial for the company and its subsidiaries 

Great-West Lifeco’s return on equity (ROE) of 15.9 per 

cent on operating earnings and 14.7 per cent on net 

over the long term. Also, Great-West Lifeco’s approach 

to asset/liability management has minimized exposure 

earnings for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 

to interest rate movements. In Canada, the company 

continued to rank among the strongest in the financial 

continued to offer segregated fund guarantees in a 

services sector.

Other measures of Great-West Lifeco’s performance 

in 2012 include:

>  Premiums and deposits of $59.8 billion, compared 

with $62.3 billion in 2011.

>  An increase in general fund and segregated fund 

assets from $238.8 billion to $253.7 billion in 2012.

>  Total assets under administration at 

December 31, 2012 of $546 billion, compared with 

$502 billion twelve months ago.

prudent and disciplined manner, thereby limiting its risk 

exposure. As a result, Great-West Lifeco’s balance sheet 

is one of the strongest in the industry.

The Minimum Continuing Capital and Surplus 

Requirements (MCCSR) ratio for Great-West Life was 

207 per cent on a consolidated basis at December 31, 2012.

In Canada, Great-West Lifeco’s companies maintained 

leading market positions in their individual and group 

businesses, and experienced strong organic growth. 

This was achieved by focusing on three broad goals in 

2012: improving products and services for clients and 

The dividend on Great-West Lifeco’s common shares 

advisors, maintaining strong financial discipline, and 

remained unchanged in 2012.

improving tools, information and processes to enable 

Great-West Lifeco’s companies continue to benefit 

greater productivity and effectiveness.

from prudent and conservative investment policies 

and practices with respect to the management of their 

8
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

Group retirement services business recorded strong 

401(k) plans increased 14 per cent, business-owned life 

growth, group insurance business continued to 

insurance sales were up 20 per cent and single premium 

experience excellent persistency, and individual 

life insurance sales jumped 56 per cent year over year.

segregated fund and mutual fund businesses 

In 2012, Putnam continued its focus on investment 

maintained positive net cash flows. Individual insurance 

performance and innovation. For the second time in 

sales in Canada increased 15 per cent and sales of 

proprietary retail investment funds increased 2.8 per 

cent year over year.

the last four years, Barron’s magazine ranked Putnam 

#1 out of 62 fund companies in 2012, based upon its 

fund performance over a broad range of investment 

Together, Great-West Lifeco’s subsidiaries Great-West 

categories. Putnam’s financial advisor website was 

Life, London Life and Canada Life remain Canada’s 

ranked the industry’s best by researcher kasina, and the 

number one provider of individual insurance solutions.

FundVisualizer analytical tool received an award from 

In the United States, a single brand identity, Great-West 

the Mutual Fund Education Alliance, as well as from 

Financial, was introduced in 2012 across all of the lines 

Money Management Executive, in conjunction with the 

of business operated by Great-West Life & Annuity. The 

National Investment Company Service Association.

clarity of one brand with a focused and well-positioned 

In Europe, Canada Life has operations in the United 

message is helping build name recognition and creating 

Kingdom, Isle of Man, Ireland and Germany. As a result 

stronger brand equity in all Great-West Financial 

of its continued focus on credit and expense controls, 

markets, to further augment growth.

Great-West Lifeco’s European operations were in a 

Diverse products, expanded partnerships, enhanced 

strong position coming into 2012, and this focus was 

tools and a new brand identity all contributed to 

maintained throughout the year.

Great-West Financial’s solid growth in 2012. Sales of 

9
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS  CONTINUED

I G M   F I N A N C I A L

Investors Group expanded the number of its region 

IGM Financial and its operating companies experienced 

an increase in total assets under management in 2012.

Investors Group and Mackenzie Investments, the 

company’s principal businesses, continued to generate 

business growth through product innovation, pricing 

enhancements, additional investment management 

resources and overall resource management throughout 

the year.

Operating earnings available to common shareholders, 

excluding other items, for the year ended December 31, 

2012, were $750 million or $2.94 per share, compared 

with $833 million or $3.22 per share in 2011.

Net earnings available to common shareholders for 

the year ended December 31, 2012, were $762 million or 

$2.99 per share, compared with $901 million or $3.48 per 

share in 2011.

Total assets under management at December 31, 2012, 

totalled $120.7 billion. This compared with total assets 

under management of $118.7 billion at December 31, 2011, 

an increase of 1.7 per cent.

Dividends were $2.15 per share for the year, up from 

$2.10 in the prior year.

offices by two in 2012, for a total of 108 across Canada. 

As at December 31, 2012, there were 4,518 consultants 

working with clients to help them understand the 

impact of financial market volatility on their long-term 

financial planning.

Investors Group continued to respond to the complex 

financial needs of its clients by delivering a diverse range 

of products and services in the context of personalized 

financial advice. In May 2012, Investors Group announced 

enhanced pricing for the majority of its funds effective 

June 30, 2012, and the addition of alternative high net 

worth series for households investing $500,000 or more 

with the company.

Investors Group mutual fund assets under management 

were $60.6 billion at the end of 2012, compared with 

$57.7 billion at December 31, 2011. Mutual fund sales were 

$5.8 billion, compared with mutual fund sales in 2011 of 

$6.0 billion. The redemption rate on long-term mutual 

funds was 10.0 per cent at December 31, 2012, compared 

to 8.8 per cent at December 31, 2011. Net redemptions of 

mutual funds in 2012 were $724 million.

Mackenzie maintained its focus on delivering consistent 

long-term investment performance, while emphasizing 

product innovation and communication with advisors 

10
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

and investors. Mackenzie’s relationship with financial 

solutions for investors. Its investment in technology and 

advisors is strengthened by the work it does through 

operations continues to help it manage its resources 

investor and advisor education programs, and through 

effectively and develop long-term growth in its business.

its commitment to focusing on active investment 

management strategies. During 2012, Mackenzie 

PA R G E S A

broadened its investment choices for Canadians by 

Through the Belgian holding company Groupe Bruxelles 

adding several new funds and more options, including 

Lambert (GBL), the Pargesa group holds significant 

tax-deferred solutions.

Mackenzie’s total assets under management 

were $61.5 billion at the end of 2012, compared with 

$61.7 billion at December 31, 2011. Total sales were 

$10.0 billion, compared with the prior year level 

of $10.3 billion. Total net redemptions for the year 

were $4.2 billion, compared with $2.5 billion in 2011.

IGM Financial continues to build its business through 

its extensive network of distribution opportunities 

delivering high-quality advice and innovative, flexible 

positions in six large companies based in Europe: 

Lafarge, which produces cement and building materials; 

Imerys, a producer of industrial minerals; Total, in the oil 

and gas industry; GDF Suez, in electricity and gas; Suez 

Environnement, in water and waste management; and 

Pernod Ricard, a leading producer of wines and spirits. 

The Pargesa group’s strategy is to establish a limited 

number of substantial interests in which it can acquire a 

position of control or significant influence.

11
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS  CONTINUED

Pargesa’s operating earnings stood at SF359 million 

ACQUISITION OF IRISH LIFE

in 2012, compared with SF343 million in 2011, an increase 

of 4.7 per cent. Although Imerys’ income increased by 

On February 19, 2013, Great-West Lifeco announced that 

2.3 per cent in 2012, its contribution at the Pargesa level 

it had reached an agreement with the Government of 

declined due to the latter’s decreased economic interest 

Ireland to acquire all of the shares of Irish Life Group 

in this holding following the sale of Pargesa’s share of 

Imerys to GBL. Lafarge reported operating earnings 

of €772 million in 2012, compared with €453 million 

in 2011. Including non-operating income consisting 

Limited for $1.75 billion (€1.3 billion). Established in 

1939, Irish Life is the largest life and pensions group 

and investment manager in Ireland. The acquisition is 

transformational for the Lifeco companies in Ireland. 

primarily of gains on the disposal by GBL of its interest in 

With this single transaction, Lifeco achieves the leading 

Arkema and the partial disposal by GBL of its interest in 

position in life insurance, pensions and investment 

Pernod Ricard, and of an impairment charge recorded by 

management, which is consistent with Lifeco’s global 

GBL on its investment in GDF Suez, Pargesa’s net income 

business strategy of developing significant market 

in 2012 was SF418 million.

At the end of December 2012, Pargesa’s adjusted net 

asset value was SF7.6 billion. This represents a value of 

SF90.4 per Pargesa share, compared with SF79.0 at the 

end of 2011, an increase of 14.4 per cent.

At the next annual meeting of shareholders on May 8, 

2013, Pargesa’s board of directors is expected to propose 

paying a stable dividend of SF2.57 per bearer share, for a 

total distribution of SF217.5 million.

positions in the sectors where the company participates.

Great-West Lifeco also announced a $1.25 billion offering 

of subscription receipts exchangeable into common 

shares by way of a $650 million bought deal public 

offering as well as concurrent private placements 

of subscription receipts to Power Financial and IGM 

Financial at the same price as the public offering.

12
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

On March 12, 2013, Power Financial and IGM Financial 

THE VALUE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE

purchased $550 million and $50 million, respectively, of 

Lifeco subscription receipts. Each subscription receipt 

Most people who invest know and appreciate the 

entitles the holder to receive one common share of 

Great-West Lifeco upon closing of the acquisition of 

Irish Life, without any action on the part of the holder 

and without payment of additional consideration.

Should the subscription receipts be converted into 

common shares of Great-West Lifeco, Power Financial 

will hold, directly and indirectly, a 69.4% economic 

interest in Lifeco.

The Corporation also announced on February 28, 

2013, the closing of an offering of $300 million of 

First Preferred Shares. Proceeds from the issue  

were used to acquire the subscription receipts 

of Great-West Lifeco referred to above.

benefits of working with a financial advisor. In repeated 

surveys since 2006, the Investment Funds Institute of 

Canada has found approximately 85 per cent of mutual 

fund investors prefer to invest through an advisor, and 

rate highly their advisor’s support.

Research shows that Canadians who rely on advice 

to guide their financial decisions are wealthier, more 

confident and better prepared for the financial 

implications of marriage, a new child, their children’s 

education, retirement and other life events.

A groundbreaking 2012 study from the Montréal-

based Center for Interuniversity Research and Analysis 

on Organizations (CIRANO) shows that advisors 

13
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS  CONTINUED

positively affect the level of wealth of Canadian 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

households. The research conducted by Professor 

Claude Montmarquette and Nathalie Viennot-

Briot uses econometric modelling techniques on 

At the May 2013 Annual Meeting, shareholders will be asked 

to elect Mr. J. David A. Jackson to the Board.

a very robust sample of Canadian households to 

Mr. Jackson retired as a Partner of the law firm Blake, 

demonstrate convincingly that financial advisors 

Cassels & Graydon LLP in 2012, and currently serves as 

contribute significantly to the accumulation of financial 

Senior Counsel to the firm, providing advice primarily 

wealth. After controlling for a host of socio-economic, 

in the areas of mergers and acquisitions and corporate 

demographic, and attitudinal variables that can affect 

governance. He was the Chairman of Blakes from 1995 

wealth, the research indicates that advised households 

to 2001. He is recognized as a leading practitioner in 

have, on average, twice the level of financial assets 

the areas of mergers and acquisitions, corporate 

when compared to their non-advised counterparts, 

finance and corporate governance by numerous 

and that this additional wealth is largely attributed to a 

independent assessment organizations. Mr. Jackson 

greater savings discipline.

served as a Director of Investors Group Inc. from 1991 to 

The CIRANO research further shows that having advice 

positively impacts retirement readiness and is an 

important contributor to levels of trust, satisfaction, 

and confidence in financial advisors, which are strong 

2001, and has also served as a director of a number of 

public and private organizations. Mr. Jackson has also 

been nominated for election to the Boards of Power 

Corporation and Great-West Lifeco.

indicators of the value of advice.

Mr. T. Timothy Ryan, Jr. will not stand for re-election 

to the Board at the May 2013 Annual Meeting of 

Shareholders. Mr. Ryan joined the Board of Power 

Financial Corporation in 2011. Mr. Ryan was recently 

appointed Managing Director, Global Head of Regulatory 

14
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

Strategy and Policy for JPMorgan Chase & Co., a leading 

optimism. Individual investors have started to deploy 

global financial services firm. He was previously the 

funds into higher-return asset classes. These positive 

President and Chief Executive Officer of SIFMA, the 

signs are tempered with the knowledge that many 

Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association, 

global economic issues will take time to resolve.

a leading trade association representing global financial 

The Corporation and its subsidiaries will continue to 

market participants. Mr. Ryan has also served as a 

Director of Power Corporation, where he chaired the 

Audit Committee of the Board, as well as Great-West 

Lifeco and many of its subsidiaries. Mr. Ryan brought 

to the Boards of our group companies the benefit of 

his broad international involvement in the financial 

services industry.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

As we enter 2013, steady if unspectacular progress in 

the U.S. economy together with calmer and more 

liquid markets in Europe have contributed to increased 

invest and build for future growth based upon a long-

term optimistic view of the future coupled with an acute 

awareness of the possible risk of interim setbacks.

Above all, we will continue to manage our affairs 

prudently so as to ensure we have the financial strength 

to honour the commitments we make to our various 

stakeholders over the long term.

Your Directors wish to express gratitude on behalf of 

the shareholders for the important contribution of 

the management and employees of our Corporation 

and its associated companies to the successful results 

achieved in 2012 in an improving but still challenging 

operating environment.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Signed,

Signed,

Signed,

R. Jeffrey Orr 

President and 

Chief Executive Officer

March 13, 2013

Paul Desmarais, Jr., o.c., o.q. 

André Desmarais, o.c., o.q. 

Co-Chairman of the Board 

Co-Chairman of the Board 

15
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

RESPONSIBLE 
MANAGEMENT

Responsible management lies at the heart of our business, driving 

the long-term performance and profitability of the Corporation. It is 

this mindset that has enabled us to build a resilient and sustainable 

business, through our role as an investor, employer and contributor 

to the communities where we operate. Through all our endeavours, 

we recognize the breadth of our corporate responsibility and hold in 

earnest the privilege to play our part.

In the course of 2012, we strengthened our responsible management 

commitments and worked together with our portfolio companies to 

align our corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts. Our progress 

over the past year is best viewed through the five pillars under which 

we have grouped our related activities.

OV E R S I G H T  Our dedication 
to responsible management is 
predicated on a strong foundation 
of integrity and ethical conduct 
which we view as integral to 
our business.

Our CSR Statement and Code of Ethics 

reflect our responsible management 

philosophy. During the past year, we 

developed a CSR Statement to provide 

greater clarity on our commitment 

to international human rights, the 

environment, and responsible 

investments. Our CSR Statement was 

adopted by our Board of Directors in 

March, 2012.

We also formalized our CSR governance 

structure. At the Board level, the 

Governance and Nominating Committee 

has been tasked with monitoring the 

implementation of the Corporation’s 

strategy and initiatives with respect to 

corporate social responsibility; its charter 

has been amended accordingly. At the 

executive level, our CSR lead continued 

to oversee our efforts to formalize our 

CSR practices.

Throughout the year, we continued 

to work with our group companies 

to support the development of their 

CSR programs.

P E O P L E We provide a work 
environment where the people 
in our group of companies feel 
connected and supported.

We strive to create positive working 

relationships for our employees and to 

provide them with opportunities for 

growth and community involvement. 

Over the past year, we continued to 

encourage and support our employees in 

becoming involved in their communities 

by volunteering their time and talents 

to worthy causes. Because of their 

experience and expertise, many officers 

and employees of the Corporation 

are asked to sit on the boards of the 

non-profit organizations for which 

S O C I E T Y We contribute to 
society by making sound business 
investments and by supporting 
the communities where we are 
established, generating both social 
and economic value.

In terms of making sound investments, 

our active ownership approach involves 

considering financial, environmental, 

social and governance factors, 

when relevant.

With the majority of our investments in 

financial services, we positively impact 

society through products and services 

that enable our customers to achieve 

financial security and generate wealth. 

Our financial services companies offer 

life and health insurance, retirement 

savings programs and a broad range of 

investment vehicles, including socially 

responsible investment funds.

they volunteer. This strengthens these 

Our approach to community investment 

organizations and, in turn, provides a 

consists of providing support to 

further sense of community belonging to 

organizations that are addressing issues 

our officers and employees.

in the areas of health, education, arts and 

culture, community development and 

16
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

the environment. Through our parent 

Over the years, our substantial 

company, Power Corporation, and our 

commitment to philanthropy across 

subsidiaries we make contributions to 

the country has earned companies in 

numerous organizations through both 

our group the designation of “Caring 

corporate donations and investments, 

Company” from Imagine Canada.

E N V I R O N M E N T We continue 
our commitment to operating our 
business in an environmentally 
responsible manner.

CO L L A B O R AT I O N  A N D 
T R A N S PA R E N CY  We are 
committed to responsible disclosure.

We recognize that our CSR performance 

attracts the interest of a number of 

stakeholders. We continue to work with 

these stakeholders on a collaborative 

basis to provide meaningful information 

in a transparent manner.

and our support of employee 

volunteering initiatives.

As business entrepreneurs, we especially 

value and support the role that social 

entrepreneurs play in helping to build 

strong and connected communities, 

guiding us to seek partnerships and 

investments that have a lasting 

impact on our communities. Social 

entrepreneurs are driven to champion 

their cause and devote their lives to 

the service of others. They use their 

knowledge and experience to forge 

change in their communities and to bring 

comfort and healing to those in need. We 

are also drawn to smaller initiatives that 

deliver broad social benefit because of 

their entrepreneurial, innovative spirit.

As a holding company, our direct 

In the past year, we expanded our CSR 

environmental impact is limited to the 

communications. In a first for the 

operations of our head office, which 

Corporation, we reported on our carbon 

has no production or manufacturing 

footprint and climate change strategies 

functions. Despite this limited impact, 

to the Carbon Disclosure Project. 

we work diligently to reduce our 

We ranked favourably among 

environmental footprint and we support 

Canadian corporations.

and encourage our group companies in 

their environmental efforts.

We continue to proactively engage with 

our stakeholders to ensure they are kept 

In 2012, we stepped up our environmental 

abreast of our CSR initiatives. We also 

commitment by establishing a three-year 

expanded our CSR disclosure on our 

carbon reduction target. In addition to 

corporate website.

our resource conservation initiatives, we 

promote leading energy efficiency and 

waste management practices at our 

head office.

17
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

GREAT-WEST 
LIFECO

Great-West Lifeco Inc. is an international financial services holding 

company with interests in life insurance, health insurance, retirement 

and  investment  services,  asset  management  and  reinsurance 

businesses. Great-West Lifeco has operations in Canada, the United 

States, Europe and Asia through The Great-West Life Assurance 

Company,  London  Life  Insurance  Company,  The  Canada  Life 

Assurance Company, Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company 

and Putnam Investments, LLC. Great-West Lifeco and its companies 

have $546 billion in assets under administration.

Great-West Lifeco’s financial condition continues to be very 

The Minimum Continuing Capital and Surplus 

solid as a result of its continued strong performance in 2012. 

Requirements (MCCSR) ratio for Great-West Life was 

The company delivered superior results compared to peer 

207 per cent on a consolidated basis at December 31, 2012. 

companies in its industry due to strong organic growth of 

This measure of capital strength remains at the upper end 

premiums and deposits, and solid investment performance, 

of Great-West Lifeco’s target operating range.

despite challenging market conditions.

At December 31, 2012, Great-West Lifeco held cash and cash 

Great-West Lifeco’s companies continue to benefit from 

equivalents of approximately $0.5 billion, which includes 

prudent and conservative investment policies and practices 

an intercompany loan repaid on January 15, 2013. As this 

with respect to the management of their consolidated 

cash is held at Great-West Lifeco, it is not reflected in the 

assets. In addition, Great-West Lifeco’s conservative 

regulatory capital ratios of its operating subsidiaries. 

product underwriting standards and disciplined approach 

It augments the company’s capital and liquidity position, 

to introducing new products have proved beneficial 

thereby enhancing its capability to take advantage of 

for the company and its subsidiaries over the long term. 

market opportunities.

Also, Great-West Lifeco’s approach to asset/liability 

management has minimized its exposure to interest rate 

movements. In Canada, the company continued to offer 

segregated fund guarantees in a prudent and disciplined 

manner, thereby limiting its risk exposure. As a result, 

Great-West Lifeco’s balance sheet is one of the strongest in 

the industry.

18
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CANADA

GREAT-WEST LIFE 
LONDON LIFE 
CANADA LIFE

Great-West Life is a leading Canadian insurer, with interests in life 

insurance, health insurance, investment, savings and retirement 

income and reinsurance businesses, primarily in Canada and Europe.

In Canada, Great-West Life and its subsidiaries, London Life and 

Canada Life, offer a broad portfolio of financial and benefit plan 

solutions  and  serve  the  financial  security  needs  of  more  than 

12 million people.

G R E AT- W E S T   L I F E

These products and services are distributed through 

Great-West Life’s products include a wide range of 

investment, savings and retirement income plans and 

financial security advisors associated with our companies, 

as well as independent advisors, brokers and consultants.

payout annuities, as well as life, disability, critical illness 

In 2012, Great-West Life and its subsidiaries in Canada 

and health insurance for individuals and families. These 

and Europe continued to deliver strong performance. 

products and services are distributed through a diverse 

Our conservative investment practices and disciplined 

network of financial security advisors and brokers 

approach to introducing new products and managing 

associated with Great-West Life; financial security advisors 

expenses have served us well over the long term and 

associated with London Life’s Freedom 55 Financial 

position us well for organic growth.

division and the Wealth & Estate Planning Group; and the 

In Canada, Great-West Life, together with London Life 

distribution channels Canada Life supports, including 

and Canada Life, maintained leading market positions in 

independent advisors associated with managing 

our individual and group businesses. This was achieved by 

general agencies, as well as national accounts, including 

focusing on three broad goals in 2012: improving products 

Investors Group.

and services for clients and advisors, maintaining strong 

For large and small businesses and organizations, Great-

financial discipline, and improving tools, information and 

West Life offers a variety of group benefit plan solutions 

processes to enable greater productivity and effectiveness.

featuring options such as life, health care, dental care, 

Group retirement services business recorded strong 

critical illness, disability, wellness, and international 

growth, group insurance business continued to experience 

benefits, plus convenient online services. The company also 

excellent persistency, and individual segregated fund and 

offers group retirement and savings plans that are tailored 

mutual fund businesses maintained positive net cash flows.

to the unique needs of businesses and organizations. 

19
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

LO N D O N   L I F E

C A N A D A   L I F E

London Life offers financial security advice and planning 

In Canada, Canada Life offers a broad range of insurance 

through its more than 3,400-member Freedom 55 Financial 

and wealth management products and services for 

division. Freedom 55 Financial offers London Life’s own 

individuals, families and business owners from coast to 

brand of investments, savings and retirement income, 

coast. These products include investments, savings and 

annuities, life insurance and mortgage products. Within 

retirement income, annuities, life, disability and critical 

Freedom 55 Financial, the Wealth & Estate Planning Group 

illness insurance.

is a specialized segment of advisors focused on meeting the 

Canada Life, together with Great-West Life, is a leading 

complex needs of affluent Canadians.

provider of individual disability and critical illness insurance 

In addition, financial security advisors associated with 

in Canada.

London Life offer a broad range of financial products from 

other financial institutions. A London Life subsidiary, 

Quadrus Investment Services Ltd., offers 44 exclusive 

mutual funds under the Quadrus Group of Funds™ brand.

Canada Life is the leading provider of creditor insurance 

in Canada for mortgages, loans, credit cards, lines of 

credit and leases through leading financial institutions, 

automobile dealerships and other lending institutions.

The relationship the company has with advisors supports 

the very strong persistency of its business, provides a 

strategic advantage and contributes to strong market 

share across multiple lines of business.

20
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

EU RO PE

CANADA LIFE

Canada Life in Europe provides a broad range of insurance and wealth 

management products, including: payout annuities, investments 

and group insurance in the United Kingdom; individual insurance and 

savings, as well as pension products in Ireland; and pensions, critical 

illness and disability insurance in Germany.

As a result of a continued focus on credit and expense 

In Germany, Canada Life is one of the leading insurers for 

controls, Canada Life‘s European operations were in 

unit-linked products in the independent broker segment. 

a strong position coming into 2012, and this focus was 

Its income protection and retirement savings products 

maintained throughout the year. 

were enhanced, and its serious illness and GMWB products 

In the U.K., the company faces a period of change with 

legislation affecting distribution and Europe-wide 

retained their status as the leading products in their 

categories in a poll of insurance intermediaries.

legislation on gender equality in pricing, although the 

A recent survey of intermediaries indicated improved 

proposed implementation of the Solvency II rules has been 

ratings for Canada Life in the targeted areas of products, 

delayed. Annuity business premium volumes grew but sales 

broker support and technology.

of U.K.- and Isle of Man-originated wealth management 

The sales environment was challenging in early 2012 but 

products were challenged by difficult market conditions.

sales grew in the last few months of the year.

In the company’s group insurance business, in force 

premium levels were maintained although general 

economic conditions adversely affected sales.

Through its Reinsurance Division, Canada Life is a leading 

provider of traditional mortality, structured and longevity 

reinsurance solutions for life insurers in the United States 

In Ireland, sales to intermediaries performed well in 2012 

and in international markets.

due to the launch of an award- winning Guaranteed 

Minimum Withdrawal Benefit (GMWB) product, a 

widening of fund offerings and strong investment 

performance on core fund offerings. However, sales in 

Strong results for reinsurance in 2012 reflect continued 

robust demand for structured life reinsurance in the U.S. 

and longevity reinsurance in Europe. Canada Life continues 

to monitor the global reinsurance markets for potential 

the direct sales channel were impacted by lower agent 

business opportunities.

numbers and a further fall in the new business market.

21
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

U NITED  STATES

GREAT-WEST 
FINANCIAL

Great-West Financial® is a leading provider of employer-sponsored 

retirement savings plans. It offers fund management, investment 

and advisory services as well as record-keeping and administrative 

services for other retirement plan providers. Great-West Financial 

also offers business-owned life insurance, executive benefits products, 

individual retirement accounts, life insurance and annuities. It markets 

its products and services nationwide through its sales force and 

distribution partners.

In 2012, Great-West Life & Annuity introduced a single brand 

Great-West Financial launched two retail retirement 

identity, Great-West Financial, across all lines of business. 

income products, securing agreements with five 

The clarity of one brand with a focused message will build 

distribution partners. Individual retirement account sales 

name recognition and create stronger brand equity to 

grew 50 per cent as part of an effort to provide enhanced 

augment growth.

distribution education services to terminated group 

Diverse products, expanded partnerships and enhanced 

tools also contributed to solid growth. Business-owned life 

plan participants. An initiative to increase participant 

account balances garnered US$916 million in roll-ins to 

insurance sales rose 20 per cent, 401(k) plan sales increased 

existing plans.

14 per cent, and single premium life insurance sales jumped 

New tools equipped 401(k) sales employees to increase 

56 per cent over 2011.

their productivity and enhance their effectiveness with 

The nine business initiatives that make up an aggressive 

five-year strategic plan were implemented. The projects 

include strategies to increase sales, improve retention and 

boost assets under management.

advisors, third-party administrators and prospects. To 

improve clients’ experience and ultimately increase 

retention, service functions were re-engineered to speed 

responsiveness. The rollout of a new client relationship 

management system also advanced the client experience.

Managed account program assets rose 28 per cent. The 

Great-West Lifetime Funds grew 89 per cent to become the 

14th largest U.S. target date fund offering.

22
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

U NITED  STATES >  EU RO PE  > A SIA

PUTNAM 
INVESTMENTS

Putnam Investments is a global asset manager and retirement plan 

provider, offering investment management services across a range of 

equity, fixed income, global asset allocation and alternative strategies, 

including absolute return, risk parity and hedge funds, for individuals 

and institutions. Putnam distributes those services largely through 

intermediaries and its own institutional sales force via its offices and 

strategic alliances in North America, Europe, and Asia, including 

through its recently opened Beijing office — its first in China.

Putnam’s assets under management ended 2012 at 

service offering was named “Best in Class” by plan sponsors 

US$128 billion, reflecting favorable market conditions 

in an Anova Consulting Group study, and the firm won 

as well as positive sales momentum at PanAgora Asset 

the DALBAR Service Award for the 23rd consecutive 

Management, Inc., Putnam’s quantitative institutional 

year for providing the highest levels of service to mutual 

manager, and in several key retail product offerings, such as 

fund shareholders.

the Putnam Spectrum Funds, Short Duration Income Fund, 

In the retirement area, Putnam announced the 

and Dynamic Risk Allocation Fund.

introduction of a personalized health cost estimator within 

Putnam made substantial progress this year toward 

its industry-leading Lifetime Income Analysis Tool and saw 

its goal of delivering superior investment performance 

significant growth in new retirement plans on its record-

through innovative product offerings, while maintaining 

keeping platform as well as strong investment-only sales 

award-winning customer service. The firm was named 

during the year.

the top U.S. fund family by Barron’s for 2012 performance 

across asset classes, marking the second time in four 

years it achieved the milestone. In addition, four Putnam 

fixed-income funds received Lipper Fund Awards for long-

term performance excellence. Putnam’s financial advisor 

site was ranked number one by leading consulting firm 

kasina, and Putnam’s newly launched iPad app — the fund 

analysis tool, FundVisualizer — received top honours from 

Putnam also launched a national marketing and 

advertising campaign and announced several fund 

introductions for 2013. The content-driven multimedia 

campaign, “This is Putnam today,” positions Putnam as 

an innovative company with solutions for the challenges 

investors face in today’s markets. The firm’s six planned 

upcoming fund launches include funds designed to pursue 

low-volatility equity strategies, short-term municipal 

the Mutual Fund Education Alliance. Putnam’s retirement 

income, and global dividends.

23
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

IGM 
FINANCIAL

IGM Financial is one of Canada’s premier personal financial services 

companies, and one of the country’s largest managers and distributors 

of  mutual  funds  and  other  managed  asset  products,  with  over 

$120 billion in total assets under management at December 31, 2012. 

The company serves the financial needs of Canadians through multiple 

distinct businesses, including Investors Group, Mackenzie Investments 

and Investment Planning Counsel.

IGM Financial and its operating companies experienced 

The scope of the company’s business and its association 

an increase in total assets under management in 2012.

with other members of the Power Financial Corporation 

Investors Group and Mackenzie Investments, the 

company’s principal businesses, continued to generate 

business growth through product innovation, pricing 

enhancements, additional investment management 

group of companies have placed IGM Financial in a position 

of leadership and strength in the financial services industry. 

Together, these elements will enable IGM Financial to 

create long-term value for its clients, consultants, advisors, 

resources and overall resource management throughout 

employees and shareholders over time.

the year.

IGM Financial has a long-standing commitment to 

The company is well diversified through its multiple 

distribution channels, product types, investment 

management units and fund brands. Assets under 

management are diversified by country of investment, 

industry sector, security type and management style.

A primary theme in the company’s business approach is 

to support financial advisors as they work with clients to 

plan for and achieve their financial goals. The importance 

of financial advice has become clearer throughout the 

financial industry in the last few years based on emerging 

research and continued public interest in enhanced 

financial literacy.

responsible management, which it believes is fundamental 

to long-term profitability and value creation. The company 

conducts its business in a way that emphasizes good 

governance, operational integrity, ethical practices 

and respect for the environment. Fundamental to the 

company’s activities is its belief that advancing the financial 

literacy and financial security of Canadians is important 

to society.

The company has a long-standing practice of corporate 

giving through a range of philanthropic activities at each 

of IGM Financial’s operating companies. Its people are 

encouraged to volunteer in the community, on industry 

committees and through professional associations. 

24
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

In keeping with its commitment to good governance and 

Mackenzie maintained its focus on delivering consistent 

ethical dealing, the company has adopted an extensive 

long-term investment performance, while emphasizing 

written code of conduct that governs its directors, officers 

product innovation and communication with advisors and 

and employees.

investors. Mackenzie’s relationship with financial advisors 

During 2012, IGM Financial introduced formal 

responsibilities for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) 

activities as it works to enhance CSR disclosures and 

coordinate such activities across its companies and with 

its parent and sister companies.

The Investors Group consultant network continued to 

expand by opening two new region offices during 2012. 

The company now has 108 region offices across Canada. 

There were 4,518 consultants at December 31, 2012. Investors 

Group continued to respond to the complex financial needs 

of its clients by delivering a diverse range of products and 

services in the context of personalized financial advice. 

The company enhanced pricing for the majority of its funds 

effective June 30, 2012, and added alternative high net 

worth series for households investing $500,000 or more.

is strengthened by the work it does through investor and 

advisor education programs, and through its commitment 

to focusing on active investment management strategies. 

During 2012, Mackenzie broadened its investment choices 

for Canadians by adding several new funds and more 

options, including tax-deferred solutions.

IGM Financial continues to build its business through its 

extensive network of distribution opportunities delivering 

high-quality advice and innovative, flexible solutions for 

investors. The company’s investment in technology and 

operations continues to help it manage its resources 

effectively and develop long-term growth in its business.

25
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

INVESTORS 
GROUP

Investors Group is a national leader in delivering personalized financial 

solutions through a network of over 4,500 consultants to nearly one 

million Canadians. Investors Group is committed to comprehensive 

planning and offers an exclusive family of mutual funds and other 

investment vehicles along with a wide range of insurance, securities, 

mortgage and other financial services.

In 2012, Investors Group continued to make progress in 

Investors Group is committed to the ongoing evolution and 

a number of key areas. Enhanced product and pricing 

expansion of its product and service offering. In early 2012, 

opportunities combined with more stable equity markets 

the company implemented the mergers of eight funds with 

in Canada and around the world increased investor and 

similar investment mandates. In May 2012, Investors Group 

consultant confidence. To provide more concentrated focus 

announced a number of changes in the pricing of its mutual 

on the investment management of each fund the company 

funds and product enhancements designed to expand 

offers, it recruited several additional experienced portfolio 

services to its clients. The changes involved reducing 

managers and analysts throughout 2012. 

management fees on approximately two thirds of the 

The company’s commitment to training and support 

is integral to consultants’ ability to deliver effective 

financial advice. Investors Group’s culture provides 

company’s funds, representing two thirds of its managed 

assets. Moreover, it introduced a new series of its mutual 

funds for clients with household account balances in excess 

consultants with an entrepreneurial environment and 

of $500,000.

unique support structure to deliver personalized service 

Investors Group continues to focus on its strengths 

and knowledgeable advice to clients. Clients enhance 

as building blocks for the future. In 2012, the ongoing 

their financial literacy and gain financial confidence 

recruitment and retention of consultants, together 

as consultants assist them with the development and 

with the active engagement of over 1,800 employees, 

deployment of their financial plans.

the continual refinement of financial planning and the 

expansion of product and service offerings demonstrate 

the company’s commitment to meet the evolving financial 

needs of Canadians.

26
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

MACKENZIE 
INVESTMENTS

Mackenzie Investments is recognized as one of Canada’s premier 

investment managers and provides investment advisory and related 

services through multiple distribution channels focused on the provision 

of  financial  advice.  Mackenzie  offers  mutual  funds,  pooled  funds, 

segregated accounts and separate accounts for retail and institutional 

investors. 

In 2012, Mackenzie focused on business growth, investment 

In 2012, Mackenzie relaunched its institutional brand, 

excellence and the client experience.

building out 13 proprietary mandates, adding staff, 

Mackenzie merged, reorganized and closed several funds 

investing in technology resources and establishing a U.S. 

to eliminate duplication and increase cost-effectiveness of 

presence to lay the groundwork for future growth.

certain funds, and to improve the overall relevance of its 

The strength of Mackenzie’s retail distribution network is 

product shelf as investors’ needs continue to evolve. The 

based on its long-standing and expanding relationships 

company added a low-volatility component to Symmetry 

with financial advisors, consultants and representatives 

Portfolios to help manage risk, grow capital and smooth 

across the breadth of its distribution channels. These 

out returns. 

relationships allow the company’s products to be efficiently 

A continued focus on risk management led to the hiring 

of a team that provides enhanced analytical tools and 

specialized reporting to its portfolio managers.

Mackenzie established a company-wide Client Experience 

initiative to sustain and build its culture of service 

excellence, making it easier and more satisfying for advisors 

to work with the company.

The company also sold Winfund Software Corp. to allow 

it to focus its energy and resources on its core business of 

investment management.

distributed through retail brokers, financial advisors, 

insurance agents, banks, pension consulting firms and 

financial institutions, giving the company one of the 

broadest retail distribution platforms in Canada.

Mackenzie remains dedicated to providing clients 

with high-quality, innovative investment solutions 

that meet their needs and strives to maintain strong 

long-term investment performance across its multiple 

product offerings.

27
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

PARGESA 
GROUP

The Pargesa group holds significant positions in six large companies 

based  in  Europe:  Imerys  (industrial  minerals),  Lafarge  (cement, 

aggregates and concrete), Total (oil and gas), GDF Suez (electricity 

and gas), Suez Environnement (water and waste management) and 

Pernod Ricard (wines and spirits).

Power  Financial,  through  its  wholly  owned  subsidiary,  Power 

Financial Europe B.V., and the Frère family group of Belgium each hold 

a 50 per cent interest in Parjointco, a Netherlands-based company. 

Parjointco’s principal holding is a 55.6 per cent equity interest (75.4 per 

cent of the voting rights) in Pargesa Holding SA, the Pargesa group’s 

parent company based in Geneva, Switzerland.

The Pargesa group’s strategy is to establish a limited 

> 

In December 2012, the Power group and the Frère family 

number of substantial interests in which it can acquire a 

group announced that the term of the agreement in 

position of control or significant influence.

effect since 1990 within Parjointco, Pargesa’s controlling 

Highlights for fiscal 2012 and early 2013 were as follows:

> 

In March 2012, GBL sold its entire interest in Arkema for 

€433 million and 2.3 per cent of Pernod Ricard’s capital 

for €499 million, leaving GBL a 7.5 per cent stake in 

the business.

> 

In September 2012, GBL issued bonds exchangeable for 

Suez Environnement shares amounting to €400 million 

and covering substantially all of the interest. The bonds 

have a three-year maturity and bear interest at a rate 

of 0.125 per cent per annum, the exchange price of 

the bonds representing a 20 per cent premium to the 

reference share price.

shareholder, had been extended to December 31, 2029, 

with provision for possible further extension.

> 

In January 2013, GBL completed a placement of €1 billion 

in bonds exchangeable for existing GDF Suez shares. 

This issue covers almost half the GDF Suez securities 

held by GBL. The bonds have a four-year term and 

bear interest at a rate of 1.25 per cent per annum, the 

exchange price of the bonds representing a 20 per cent 

premium to the reference share price.

At the level of Pargesa, according to the economic 

presentation of results, net operating earnings increased 

4.7 per cent to SF359 million. Net income, after non-

recurring items, stood at SF418 million in 2012, compared to 

a SF65 million net loss in 2011, affected by a writedown on 

the interest held by GBL in Lafarge.

28
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

I M E R Y S

L A FA R G E

The world leader in mineral-based specialty solutions 

With operations in more than 64 countries, Lafarge, a 

for industry, Imerys processes, enriches and combines 

world leader in building materials, holds leading positions 

a unique range of minerals, often mined from its own 

in each of its markets: cement, aggregates and concrete.

deposits. The group occupies leading positions in each of 

its sectors: Performance and Filtration Minerals; Materials 

and Monolithics; Pigments for Papers and Packaging; 

Ceramics, Refractaries, Abrasives and Foundry.

In 2012, the group’s sales were up 3.5 per cent to €15.8 billion, 

sustained by higher prices across all business lines in 

response to production cost inflation and growth in 

emerging countries, which account for almost 60 per 

In 2012, Imerys pursued its growth in an economic 

cent of Lafarge’s sales. Cost-cutting programs continued, 

environment characterized by the intensification of 

driving operating income up by 12.0 per cent to €2.4 billion. 

geographic contrasts that emerged in mid-2011. The 

Net income, after non-recurring items, stood at 

United States regained some momentum but several 

€432 million, compared to €593 million in 2011.

European countries slowed significantly, while emerging 

markets continued to grow, though at a more moderate 

pace. Sales grew by 5.7 per cent to €3.9 billion, current 

operating income rose 0.6 per cent to €490 million and net 

income, after non-recurring items, was up 6.7 per cent to 

€301 million.

29
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

PARGESA GROUP  CONTINUED

T O TA L

Created from the successive mergers of Total, PetroFina 

and Elf Aquitaine, Total is one of the largest international oil 

and gas groups and a major player in chemicals.

In 2012, Total benefited from an oil environment that 

Current operating income was up 6.0 per cent to 

€9.5 billion, and net income stood at €1.6 billion versus 

€4.0 billion in 2011, after essentially €2 billion in European 

asset impairments.

S U E Z   E N V I R O N N E M E N T

was extremely stable for upstream operations, with a 

Suez Environnement integrates water and waste 

Brent price more or less unchanged at US$111/barrel and 

management operations that were formerly within 

an average selling price of gas that saw a modest rise 

the scope of Suez before it merged with Gaz de France. 

of 3 per cent in comparison with 2011. In downstream 

In the Water sector, the group designs and manages 

operations, the European refining margin rose sharply 

drinking water production and distribution systems and 

to US$36.0/tonne on average from US$17.4/tonne in 2011. 

wastewater treatment systems, carries out engineering 

In these conditions, Total’s 2012 operating income was 

work and supplies a wide range of services to industry. 

up by 2 per cent in euros and down 6 per cent in dollars 

In the Waste sector, Suez Environnement is active 

compared to 2011. Net income, after non-recurring items, 

in managing (collecting, sorting, recycling, treating, 

stood at €10.7 billion versus €12.3 billion in 2011.

recovering and storing) industrial and household waste.

G D F   S U E Z

GDF Suez, created from the 2008 merger of Suez 

and Gaz de France, is an international industrial and 

services group active across the entire energy value chain 

In 2012, the group’s sales were up 1.8 per cent to €15.1 billion. 

Current operating income rose 10.3 per cent to €1.1 billion and 

net income declined 22.3 per cent to €251 million as a result of 

non-recurring expenses recorded in the first quarter.

in electricity and natural gas, upstream to downstream. 

P E R N O D   R I C A R D

GDF Suez develops its core business in electricity and 

Since the creation of Pernod Ricard in 1975, significant 

heat generation, trading, transmission and distribution 

organic growth and a series of acquisitions, particularly 

of electricity and gas (natural and liquified), and energy 

Seagram in 2001, Allied Domecq in 2005 and Vin & Sprit 

and industrial services.

in 2008, have made the company the global co-leader in 

In 2012, the company recorded sales of €97.0 billion, a 

wines and spirits.

7.0 per cent increase mainly driven by higher gas and 

In 2011–2012, Pernod Ricard’s sales grew 7.5 per cent 

electricity sales in France, increased exploration-

to €8.2 billion. Current operating income increased 

production and LNG sales, and continuing international 

10.7 per cent to €2.1 billion and net income stood at 

development, especially in Latin America and Asia. 

€1,146 million, compared to €1,045 million the previous year.

30
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

All tabular amounts are in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted.

MARCH 13, 2013

This Annual Report is intended to provide interested shareholders and others with selected information concerning Power Financial Corporation. For further 

information concerning the Corporation, shareholders and other interested persons should consult the Corporation’s disclosure documents, such as its Annual 

Information Form and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A). Copies of the Corporation’s continuous disclosure documents can be obtained at 

www.sedar.com, on the Corpo ration’s website at www.powerfinancial.com, or from the office of the Secretary at the addresses shown at the end of this report.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS  >   Certain statements in this document, 

changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition 

other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements based 

(including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and 

on certain assumptions and reflect the Corporation’s current expectations, or 

estimates), the effect of applying future accounting changes, business competition, 

with respect to disclosure regarding the Corporation’s public subsidiaries, reflect 

operational and reputational risks, technological change, changes in government 

such subsidiaries’ disclosed current expectations. Forward-looking statements 

regulation and legislation, changes in tax laws, unexpected judicial or regulatory 

are  provided  for  the  purposes  of  assisting  the  reader  in  understanding  the 

proceedings, catastrophic events, the Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ ability 

Corporation’s financial performance, financial position and cash flows as at 

to  complete  strategic  transactions,  integrate  acquisitions  and  implement 

and for the periods ended on certain dates and to present information about 

other growth strategies, and the Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ success in 

management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future and the reader 

anticipating and managing the foregoing factors.

is cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. 

These statements may include, without limitation, statements regarding the 

operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, 

prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, strategies 

and outlook of the Corporation and its subsidiaries, as well as the outlook for North 

American and international economies for the current fiscal year and subsequent 

periods. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in 

nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or include words such 

as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates”, “seeks”, “intends”, “targets”, 

“projects”, “forecasts” or negative versions thereof and other similar expressions, 

or future or conditional verbs such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “would” and “could”.

By its nature, this information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that 

may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, 

forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, 

that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and 

priorities will not be achieved. A variety of factors, many of which are beyond the 

Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ control, affect the operations, performance 

and results of the Corporation and its subsidiaries and their businesses, and could 

cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations of estimated 

or anticipated events or results. These factors include, but are not limited to: the 

impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors 

in North America and internationally, interest and foreign exchange rates, global 

equity and capital markets, management of market liquidity and funding risks, 

The reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and 

potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking 

statements. Information contained in forward-looking statements is based 

upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or 

making a forecast or projection, including management’s perceptions of historical 

trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other 

considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances, including 

that the list of factors in the previous paragraph, collectively, are not expected 

to have a material impact on the Corporation and its subsidiaries. While the 

Corporation considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information 

currently available to management, they may prove to be incorrect.

Other than as specifically required by applicable Canadian law, the Corporation 

undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect 

events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made, or 

to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, whether as a result of new 

information, future events or results, or otherwise.

Additional information about the risks and uncertainties of the Corporation’s 

business and material factors or assumptions on which information contained 

in forward-looking statements is based is provided in its disclosure materials, 

including its most recent MD&A and Annual Information Form, filed with the 

securities regulatory authorities in Canada and available at www.sedar.com.

Readers are reminded that a list of the abbreviations used throughout can be found at the beginning of this Annual Report. In addition, the following abbreviations are used 

in the Review of Financial Performance and in the Financial Statements and Notes thereto: Audited Consolidated Financial Statements of Power Financial and Notes thereto 

for the year ended December 31, 2012 (the 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements or the Financial Statements); International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS); previous 

Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (previous Canadian GAAP).

31
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

OVERVIEW

Power Financial, a subsidiary of Power Corporation, is a holding company 

The Pargesa group has holdings in major companies based in Europe. These 

with substantial interests in the financial services sector in Canada, the 

investments are held by Pargesa through its affiliated Belgian holding 

United States and Europe, through its controlling interests in Lifeco and 

company, Groupe Bruxelles Lambert. As at December 31, 2012, Pargesa held 

IGM. Power Financial also holds, together with the Frère group of Belgium, 

a 50% equity interest in GBL, representing 52% of the voting rights.

an interest in Pargesa.

As at December 31, 2012, Pargesa’s portfolio was composed of interests in 

As at December 31, 2012, Power Financial and IGM held 68.2% and 4.0%, 

various sectors, including primarily mineral-based specialties for industry 

respectively, of Lifeco’s common shares, representing approximately 65% 

through Imerys; cement and other building materials through Lafarge; oil, 

of the voting rights attached to all outstanding Lifeco voting shares. As at 

gas and alternative energies through Total; electricity, natural gas, and 

December 31, 2012, Power Financial and Great-West Life, a subsidiary of Lifeco, 

energy and environmental services through GDF Suez; water and waste 

held 58.7% and 3.7%, respectively, of IGM’s common shares.

management services through Suez Environnement; and wines and spirits 

Power Financial Europe B.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of Power Financial, 

and the Frère group each hold a 50% interest in Parjointco, which, as at 

December 31, 2012, held a 55.6% equity interest in Pargesa, representing 75.4% 

of the voting rights of that company. These figures do not reflect the dilution 

which could result from the potential conversion of outstanding debentures 

convertible into new bearer shares issued by Pargesa in 2006 and 2007.

On December 17, 2012, Power Financial and the Frère group extended the 

term of the agreement governing their strategic partnership in Europe 

to  December  31,  2029,  with  provision  for  possible  further  extension  of 

the agreement.

through Pernod Ricard. On March 14, 2012, GBL sold its interest in Arkema 

for proceeds of €433 million and realized a gain of €221 million. On March 15, 

2012, GBL sold 6.2 million shares of Pernod Ricard, representing approximately 

2.3% of the share capital of Pernod Ricard, for proceeds of €499 million and 

a gain of €240 million. Following this transaction, GBL held 7.5% of Pernod 

Ricard’s share capital.

In addition, Pargesa and GBL have also invested, or committed to invest, in 

the area of French private equities, including in equity funds Sagard 1 and 

Sagard 2, whose management company is a subsidiary of Power Corporation.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

On February 19, 2013, Lifeco announced that it had reached an agreement 

of subscription receipts by private placements concurrently with the closing 

with the Government of Ireland to acquire, through its subsidiary Canada Life 

of the bought deal public offering of Lifeco’s subscription receipts. The public 

Limited, all of the shares of Irish Life Group Limited (Irish Life) for $1.75 billion 

offering and private placements of subscription receipts are at the same price 

(€1.3 billion). Established in 1939, Irish Life is the largest life and pensions group 

of $25.70 per subscription receipt.

and investment manager in Ireland.

Should the subscription receipts be converted into common shares of Lifeco, 

Lifeco  also  announced  a  $1.25  billion  offering  of  subscription  receipts 

Power Financial will hold, directly and indirectly, a 69.4% economic interest 

exchangeable into Lifeco common shares by way of a $650 million bought 

in Lifeco.

deal public offering as well as concurrent private placements of subscription 

receipts to Power Financial and IGM for an aggregate amount of $600 million.

The acquisition is expected to close in July of 2013, and is subject to customary 

regulatory approvals, including approvals from the European Commission 

On  March  12,  2013,  Power  Financial  purchased  $550  million  of  Lifeco 

under the EU Merger Regulation, and certain closing conditions.

subscription receipts. On that date, IGM also purchased $50 million of 

Lifeco subscription receipts. Each subscription receipt entitles the holder to 

receive one common share of Lifeco upon closing of the acquisition of Irish 

Life, without any action on the part of the holder and without payment of 

additional consideration. Power Financial and IGM completed the purchase 

The Corporation also announced, on February 28, 2013, the closing of an 

offering of 12,000,000 4.80% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series S 

priced at $25.00 per share for gross proceeds of $300 million. Proceeds from 

the issue were used to acquire the subscription receipts of Lifeco referred to 

above and to supplement the Corporation’s financial resources.

32
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEBASIS OF PRESENTATION

The 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance 

>  operating earnings attributable to common shareholders; and

with IFRS and are presented in Canadian dollars.

INCLUSION OF PARG ESA’ S RESU LTS

The investment in Parjointco is accounted for by Power Financial under 

the equity method as the Corporation has joint control over its activities. 

Parjointco’s only investment is its controlling interest in Pargesa. As described 

above, the Pargesa portfolio currently consists primarily of investments in 

Imerys, Lafarge, Total, GDF Suez, Suez Environnement and Pernod Ricard, 

which are held through GBL, which is consolidated in Pargesa. Imerys’ results 

are consolidated in the financial statements of GBL, while the contribution 

from Total, GDF Suez, Suez Environnement and Pernod Ricard to GBL’s 

operating earnings consists of the dividends received from these companies. 

>  other items or non-operating earnings, which include the after-tax impact 

of any item that management considers to be of a non-recurring nature 

or that could make the period-over-period comparison of results from 

operations less meaningful, and also include the Corporation’s share of 

any such item presented in a comparable manner by its subsidiaries and 

jointly controlled corporation. Please also refer to the comments above 

related to the inclusion of Pargesa’s results.

Management  has  used  these  financial  measures  for  many  years  in  its 

presentation and analysis of the financial performance of Power Financial, 

and believes that they provide additional meaningful information to readers 

in their analysis of the results of the Corporation.

GBL accounts for its investment in Lafarge under the equity method, and 

Operating earnings attributable to common shareholders and operating 

consequently, the contribution from Lafarge to GBL’s earnings consists of 

earnings per share are non-IFRS financial measures that do not have a 

GBL’s share of Lafarge’s net earnings.

NON - IFRS FINANCIAL M EASU RES

standard meaning and may not be comparable to similar measures used by 

other entities. For a reconciliation of these non-IFRS measures to results 

reported  in  accordance  with  IFRS,  see  the  “Results  of  Power  Financial 

In analyzing the financial results of the Corporation and consistent with 

Corporation — Earnings Summary — Condensed Supplementary Statements 

the presentation in previous years, net earnings attributable to common 

of Earnings” section below.

shareholders are subdivided in the section “Results of Power Financial 

Corporation” below into the following components:

RESULTS OF POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION

This section is an overview of the results of Power Financial. In this section, 

the equity method in order to facilitate the discussion and analysis. This 

consistent with past practice, the contributions from Lifeco and IGM, which 

presentation has no impact on Power Financial’s net earnings and is intended 

represent most of the earnings of Power Financial, are accounted for using 

to assist readers in their analysis of the results of the Corporation.

EARN ING S SU M MARY — CON DEN SED SU PPLEM ENTARY STATEM ENTS OF EARN ING S

The following table shows a reconciliation of non-IFRS financial measures used herein for the periods indicated, with the reported results in accordance with 

IFRS for net earnings attributable to common shareholders and earnings per share.

T WELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Contribution to operating earnings from subsidiaries and Parjointco

Lifeco

IGM

Pargesa

Results from corporate activities

Dividends on perpetual preferred shares

Operating earnings attributable to common shareholders

Other items

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders

Earnings per share (attributable to common shareholders)

 – operating earnings

 – non-operating earnings (other items)

 – net earnings

2012

1,335

433

106

1,874

(71)

(117)

1,686

(60)

1,626

2.38

(0.08)

2.30

2011

1,298

480

110

1,888

(55)

(104)

1,729

(7)

1,722

2.44

(0.01)

2.43

33
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

OPER ATING EARN ING S AT TRIB UTAB LE 
TO COM MON SHAREHOLDERS

>  On May 18, 2012, Investors Group announced a number of changes in 

the pricing of its mutual funds and product enhancements designed to 

Operating earnings attributable to common shareholders for the year ended 

expand its services to clients. Investors Group reduced the fees of many 

December 31, 2012 were $1,686 million or $2.38 per share, compared with 

of its mutual funds when their prospectuses renewed on June 30, 2012. 

$1,729 million or $2.44 per share in the corresponding period in 2011, a decrease 

This has resulted in a decrease in management fees in the third and fourth 

of 2.5% on a per share basis.

quarters of 2012.

A discussion of the reasons for period-over-period changes in operating 

Pargesa’s  contribution  to  Power  Financial’s  operating  earnings  was 

earnings attributable to common shareholders is included in the following 

$106 million for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012, compared 

sections.

with a contribution of $110 million in the corresponding period in 2011. Details 

CONTRIB UTION TO OPER ATING EARN ING S FROM 
SU B SIDIARIES AN D INVESTM ENT IN PARJOINTCO

Power Financial’s share of operating earnings from its subsidiaries and 

investment  in  Parjointco  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2012  was 

$1,874 million, compared with $1,888 million in the same period in 2011.

Lifeco’s  contribution  to  Power  Financial’s  operating  earnings  was 

$1,335  million  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2012,  compared  with 

$1,298 million for the corresponding period in 2011. Details are as follows:

>  Lifeco reported operating earnings attributable to common shareholders 

of $1,955 million or $2.059 per share for the year ended December 31, 2012, 

compared with $1,898 million or $2.000 per share in the corresponding 

period in 2011, an increase of 3.0% on a per share basis.

>  Lifeco  in  Canada:  operating  earnings  attributable  to  common 

shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2012 were $1,040 million, 

compared with $986 million in the corresponding period in 2011.

>  Lifeco in the United States: operating earnings attributable to common 

shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2012 were $325 million, 

compared with $370 million in the corresponding period in 2011.

are as follows:

>  Pargesa’s  operating  earnings  for  the  twelve-month  period  ended 

December 31, 2012 were SF359 million, compared with operating earnings 

of SF343 million in the corresponding period in 2011.

>  The contribution of Pargesa to the Corporation’s earnings was negatively 

affected in 2012 as a result of the weakening of the euro and the Swiss franc 

against the Canadian dollar.

>  Although  the  results  of  Imerys  for  the  twelve-month  period  ended 

December 31, 2012 were 2.3% higher than in the corresponding period in 

2011, the contribution from Imerys to Pargesa’s earnings decreased by 

8.9% in 2012, due to the decrease in percentage of ownership as a result 

of Pargesa having sold its direct interest in Imerys to GBL in April 2011, as 

previously disclosed.

>  The  contribution  of  Lafarge  to  Pargesa’s  earnings  increased  from 

SF56 million in 2011 to SF102 million in 2012.

>  The Pargesa results for 2011 include an additional quarterly dividend of 

SF30 million received from Total as a result of Total paying its dividend on 

a quarterly basis starting in 2011.

>  Lifeco  in  Europe:  operating  earnings  attributable  to  common 

RESU LTS FROM CORPOR ATE ACTIVITIES

shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2012 were $618 million, 

Results  from  corporate  activities  include  interest  on  cash  and  cash 

compared  with  $562  million  in  the  corresponding  period  in  2011. 

equivalents,  operating  expenses,  financing  charges,  depreciation  and 

The 2011 results include catastrophe provisions of $84 million relating 

income taxes.

to earthquake events in Japan and New Zealand.

Corporate activities represented a net charge of $71 million in the twelve-

IGM’s contribution to Power Financial’s operating earnings was $433 million 

month period ended December 31, 2012, compared with a net charge of 

for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012, compared with 

$55 million in the corresponding period in 2011.

$480 million for the corresponding period in 2011. Details are as follows:

The variation in the results from corporate activities for the twelve-month 

>  IGM reported operating earnings available to common shareholders 

period ended December 31, 2012, compared with the corresponding period 

of $750 million or $2.94 per share for the twelve-month period ended 

in 2011, was mainly due to the recognition in the first quarter of 2011 of the tax 

December 31, 2012, compared with $833 million or $3.22 per share in the 

benefits of loss carry forwards transferred to IGM under a loss consolidation 

same period in 2011, a decrease of 8.7% on a per share basis.

transaction and higher operating expenses in 2012.

>  IGM’s earnings are primarily dependent on the level of assets under 

management. Average daily mutual fund assets for the three-month 

periods  ended  December  31,  2012,  September  30,  2012,  June  30,  2012 

and March 31, 2012 were $102.4 billion, $101.0 billion, $100.9 billion and 

$103.6 billion, respectively, compared with $99.6 billion, $103.5 billion, 

$109.9 billion and $110.0 billion, in the corresponding three-month periods 

of 2011.

34
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEOTH ER ITEM S / NON - OPER ATING EARN ING S

T WELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Share of Lifeco’s other items

Litigation provisions (charge) reversal

Share of IGM’s other items

Non-cash income tax charge

Gain on disposal of M.R.S. Trust Company and M.R.S. Inc.

Changes in the status of certain income tax filings

Share of Pargesa’s other items

Impairment charges

Gain on partial disposal of Pernod Ricard

Gain on disposal of Arkema

Other (charge) income

2012

2011

(99)

(4)

15

(48)

46

43

(13)

(60)

88

18

17

(133)

3

(7)

For  the  twelve-month  period  ended  December  31,  2012,  other  items 

Other items in 2011 mainly comprised the following:

represented a net charge of $60 million, compared with a net charge of 

$7 million in the corresponding period in 2011.

>  A contribution of $88 million representing the Corporation’s share of 

non-operating earnings of Lifeco. In the fourth quarter of 2011, Lifeco 

Other items in 2012 mainly comprised the following:

re-evaluated and reduced a litigation provision established in the third 

>  The Corporation’s share of a charge reported by Lifeco relating to a litigation 

provisions adjustment of $99 million, net of tax, in the fourth quarter.

>  The Corporation’s share of a non-cash income tax charge recorded by IGM 

in the second quarter resulting from increases in Ontario corporate income 

tax rates and their effect on the deferred income tax liability related to 

indefinite life intangible assets arising from prior business acquisitions, 

as well as the recording in the fourth quarter of 2012 of a favourable change 

in income tax provision estimates related to certain tax filings.

>  The Corporation’s share of GBL’s write-down of its investment in GDF Suez 

in the fourth quarter, representing an amount of $48 million, net of foreign 

currency gains recorded by Pargesa and the Corporation. Under IFRS, a 

significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an investment in an 

available-for-sale equity instrument below its cost is objective evidence of 

impairment. Once impaired, any subsequent decrease in the market price 

of a stock is automatically recognized as an impairment loss. A recovery of 

the price of a stock that has been impaired is accounted for through Other 

comprehensive income. Such recovery will impact earnings only upon the 

disposal of the investment.

>  The Corporation’s share of the gains realized by GBL in the first quarter on 

the partial disposal of its interest in Pernod Ricard was $46 million and on 

the disposal of its interest in Arkema was $43 million.

>  The Corporation’s share of goodwill impairment and restructuring charges 

recorded by Lafarge in the first and second quarters.

quarter of 2010 which positively impacted Lifeco’s common shareholders’ 

net earnings by $223 million. Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2011, 

Lifeco established a provision of $99 million after tax in respect of the 

settlement of litigation relating to its ownership in a U.S.-based private 

equity firm. The net impact to Lifeco of these two unrelated matters was 

$124 million.

>  The Corporation’s share of an amount recorded by IGM in the third quarter 

relating to changes in the status of certain income tax filings as well as the 

Corporation’s share of the gain on the disposal of M.R.S. Trust Company 

and M.R.S. Inc. by IGM.

>  The Corporation’s share of GBL’s write-down of its investment in Lafarge, 

representing an amount of $133 million recorded in the third quarter.

N ET EARN ING S AT TRIB UTAB LE   
TO COM MON SHAREHOLDERS

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders for the twelve-month 

period ended December 31, 2012 were $1,626 million or $2.30 per share, compared 

with $1,722 million or $2.43 per share in the corresponding period in 2011.

A discussion of period-over-period changes in net earnings attributable to 

common shareholders is included in the foregoing sections.

35
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CONDENSED SUPPLEMENTARY BALANCE SHEETS

AS AT DECEMBER 31

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents [1]

Investment in Parjointco

Investment in subsidiaries at equity

Investments

Funds held by ceding insurers

Reinsurance assets

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Other assets

CONSOLIDATED BASIS

EQUIT Y BASIS

2012

2011

2012

2011

3,313

2,149

3,385

2,222

123,587

117,042

10,537

2,064

4,933

8,673

8,389

9,923

2,061

5,023

8,786

7,654

984

2,149

11,464

707

2,222

11,147

102

104

Interest on account of segregated fund policyholders

104,948

96,582

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Insurance and investment contract liabilities

Obligations to securitization entities

Debentures and debt instruments

Capital trust securities

Other liabilities

Investment and insurance contracts on account of segregated fund policyholders

Total liabilities

EQUITY

Perpetual preferred shares

Common shareholders’ equity

Non-controlling interests [2]

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

268,593

252,678

14,699

14,180

120,658

115,512

4,701

5,858

119

7,937

3,827

5,888

533

7,521

104,948

96,582

244,221

229,863

2,255

11,774

10,343

24,372

2,005

11,516

9,294

22,815

268,593

252,678

250

420

670

2,255

11,774

14,029

14,699

250

409

659

2,005

11,516

13,521

14,180

[1]  Under the equity basis presentation, cash equivalents include $625 million ($430 million at December 31, 2011) of fixed income securities with maturities of more 

than 90 days. In the 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements, this amount of cash equivalents is classified in investments.

[2]  Non-controlling interests include the Corporation’s non-controlling interests in the common equity of Lifeco and IGM as well as the participating account surplus 

in Lifeco’s insurance subsidiaries and perpetual preferred shares issued by subsidiaries to third parties.

CON SOLIDATED BASI S

Investments at December 31, 2012 were $123.6 billion, a $6.5 billion increase 

The  consolidated  balance  sheets  include  Lifeco’s  and  IGM’s  assets  and 

from December 31, 2011, primarily related to Lifeco’s activities. See also the 

liabilities.

discussion in the “Cash Flows” section below.

Total assets of the Corporation increased to $268.6 billion at December 31, 

Liabilities increased from $229.9 billion at December 31, 2011 to $244.2 billion 

2012, compared with $252.7 billion at December 31, 2011.

at December 31, 2012, mainly due to an increase in Lifeco’s insurance and 

investment contract liabilities as well as investment and insurance contracts 

on account of segregated fund policyholders.

36
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEAS SETS U N DER ADM IN I STR ATION

Assets under administration of Lifeco and IGM are as follows:

AS AT DECEMBER 31
(IN BILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS)

Assets under management of Lifeco

Invested assets

Other corporate assets

Segregated funds net assets

Proprietary mutual funds and institutional net assets

Assets under management of IGM

Total assets under management

Other assets under administration of Lifeco

Total assets under administration

2012

120.0

28.8

104.9

134.6

388.3

120.7

509.0

157.5

666.5

2011

114.6

27.6

96.6

125.4

364.2

118.7

482.9

137.8

620.7

Total  assets  under  administration  at  December  31,  2012  increased  by 

EQ U IT Y BASI S

$45.8 billion from December 31, 2011:

>  Total  assets  under  administration  by  Lifeco  at  December  31,  2012 

increased  by  $43.8  billion  from  December  31,  2011.  Segregated  funds 

increased by approximately $8.3 billion and proprietary mutual funds and 

Under the equity basis presentation, Lifeco and IGM are accounted for by 

the Corporation using the equity method. This presentation has no impact 

on Power Financial’s shareholders’ equity and is intended to assist readers 

in isolating the contribution of Lifeco and IGM to the assets and liabilities 

institutional net assets increased by $9.2 billion, primarily as a result of 

of the Corporation.

lower government bond rates and, to a lesser extent, higher U.S. equity 

Cash and cash equivalents held by Power Financial amounted to $984 million 

market levels. Other assets under administration increased by $19.7 billion, 

at December 31, 2012, compared with $707 million at the end of December 2011 

primarily as a result of new plan sales and improved U.S. equity market 

(see “Cash Flows — Equity Basis” section below for details). The amount 

levels. Invested assets increased by approximately $5.4 billion, primarily 

of quarterly dividends declared by the Corporation but not yet paid was 

due to asset growth and an increase in bond fair values as a result of lower 

$278 million at December 31, 2012. The amount of dividends declared by IGM 

government bond rates.

but not yet received by the Corporation was $80 million at December 31, 2012.

>  IGM’s assets under management, at market value, were $120.7 billion at 

In  managing  its  own  cash  and  cash  equivalents,  Power  Financial  may 

December 31, 2012, compared with $118.7 billion at December 31, 2011. This 

hold cash balances or invest in short-term paper or equivalents, as well 

increase of $2.0 billion since December 31, 2011 represents market and 

as deposits, denominated in foreign currencies and thus be exposed to 

income gains of $7.6 billion less net redemptions of $5.6 billion.

fluctuations in exchange rates. In order to protect against such fluctuations, 

Power  Financial  may,  from  time  to  time,  enter  into  currency-hedging 

transactions with counterparties with high credit ratings. As at December 31, 

2012, approximately 90% of the $984 million of cash and cash equivalents 

was denominated in Canadian dollars or in foreign currencies with currency 

hedges in place.

The carrying value under the equity method of accounting of Power Financial’s investments in Lifeco, IGM and Parjointco increased to $13,613 million at 

December 31, 2012, compared with $13,369 million at December 31, 2011. This increase is explained as follows:

Carrying value, at the beginning

Share of operating earnings

Share of other items

Share of other comprehensive income (loss)

Dividends

Other, including effect of change in ownership

Carrying value, at the end

LIFECO

8,476

1,335

(95)

(67)

(797)

(6)

IGM

PARJOINTCO

TOTAL

2,671

433

7

(2)

(318)

(173)

2,222

106

28

(100)

(65)

(42)

13,369

1,874

(60)

(169)

(1,180)

(221)

8,846

2,618

2,149

13,613

37
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

EQ U IT Y

On  Februar y  23,  2012,  the  Corporation  issued  10,000,000  5.5%  Non-

Common shareholders’ equity was $11,774 million at December 31, 2012, 

Cumulative First Preferred Shares Series R for gross proceeds of $250 million.

compared with $11,516 million at December 31, 2011. This $258 million increase 

The Corporation filed a short-form base shelf prospectus dated November 23, 

was primarily due to:

2012, pursuant to which, for a period of 25 months thereafter, the Corporation 

>  A $405 million increase in retained earnings, reflecting mainly net earnings 

may issue up to an aggregate of $1.5 billion of First Preferred Shares, common 

of $1,743 million, less dividends declared of $1,109 million and a decrease of 

shares and unsecured debt securities, or any combination thereof. This 

$229 million representing:

>  The effect on equity of the repurchase by a subsidiary of common shares 

at a price in excess of the stated value of such shares and the issuance of 

common shares by subsidiaries in the amount of $167 million.

>  A negative amount of $55 million composed of the Corporation’s share 

of retained earnings adjustments in subsidiaries and Parjointco.

>  Share issue expenses of the Corporation for an amount of $7 million.

filing provides the Corporation with the flexibility to access debt and equity 

markets on a timely basis to make changes to the Corporation’s capital 

structure in response to changes in economic conditions and changes in its 

financial condition.

As noted under “Recent Developments”, on February 28, 2013, the Corporation 

issued 12,000,000 4.8% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares Series S for 

gross proceeds of $300 million.

>  A loss of $171 million, which represents essentially the Corporation’s share 

OUTSTAN DING N U M B ER OF COM MON SHARES

of other comprehensive income of its subsidiaries and Parjointco.

As  of  the  date  hereof,  there  were  709,104,080  common  shares  of  the 

There were 930,400 common shares issued by the Corporation in the twelve-

month  period  ended  December  31,  2012  pursuant  to  the  Corporation’s 

Employee Stock Option Plan for proceeds of $20 million.

As a result of the above, the book value per common share of the Corporation 

was $16.60 at December 31, 2012, compared with $16.26 at the end of 2011.

Corporation outstanding, compared with 708,173,680 as at December 31, 

2011. The increase in the number of outstanding common shares reflects the 

exercise of options under the Corporation’s Employee Stock Option Plan. As of 

the date hereof, options were outstanding to purchase up to an aggregate 

of 8,835,797 common shares of the Corporation under the Corporation’s 

Employee Stock Option Plan.

CASH FLOWS

CON DEN SED CON SOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Cash flow from operating activities

Cash flow from financing activities

Cash flow from investing activities

Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations

Cash and cash equivalents, at the beginning

Less: cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations – beginning of period

Cash and cash equivalents, at the end – continuing operations

2012

5,369

(561)

(4,872)

(8)

(72)

3,385

–

3,313

2011

5,505

(2,406)

(3,106)

24

17

3,656

(288)

3,385

On  a  consolidated  basis,  cash  and  cash  equivalents  from  continuing 

Cash flows from financing activities, which include dividends paid on the 

operations decreased by $72 million in the twelve-month period ended 

common and preferred shares of the Corporation, as well as dividends paid 

December  31,  2012,  compared  with  an  increase  of  $17  million  in  the 

by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests, resulted in a net outflow of 

corresponding period of 2011.

Operating activities produced a net inflow of $5,369 million in the twelve-

$561 million in the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012, compared 

with a net outflow of $2,406 million in the corresponding period of 2011.

month period ended December 31, 2012, compared with a net inflow of 

Financing activities during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 

$5,505 million in the corresponding period of 2011.

2012, compared to the same period in 2011, included:

Operating activities during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 

>  Dividends  paid  by  the  Corporation  and  by  its  subsidiaries  to  non-

2012, compared to the same period in 2011, included:

controlling interests of $1,764 million, compared with $1,735 million in the 

>  Lifeco’s cash flow from operations was a net inflow of $4,722 million, 

corresponding period of 2011.

compared with a net inflow of $4,844 million in the corresponding period 

>  Issuance  of  common  shares  of  the  Corporation  for  an  amount  of 

in 2011. Cash provided by operating activities is used by Lifeco primarily to 

$20 million, compared with $3 million in the corresponding period in 2011, 

pay policy benefits, policyholder dividends and claims, as well as operating 

pursuant to the Corporation’s Employee Stock Option Plan.

expenses and commissions. Cash flows generated by operations are 

mainly invested by Lifeco to support future liability cash requirements.

>  Issuance of common shares by subsidiaries of the Corporation for an 

amount of $44 million, compared with $61 million in the corresponding 

>  Operating  activities  of  IGM  which,  after  payment  of  commissions, 

period of 2011.

generated cash flows of $710 million, compared with $777 million in the 

corresponding period of 2011.

>  Issuance  of  preferred  shares  by  the  Corporation  for  an  amount  of 

$250 million, compared to no issuance in the corresponding period of 2011.

38
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE>  Issuance of preferred shares by subsidiaries of the Corporation for an 

>  Redemption  of  capital  trust  securities  by  subsidiaries  of  Lifeco  for 

amount of $650 million, compared to no issuance in the corresponding 

an  amount  of  $409  million,  compared  with  no  redemptions  in  the 

period of 2011.

corresponding period of 2011.

>  Repurchase for cancellation by subsidiaries of the Corporation of their 

Cash flows from investing activities resulted in a net outflow of $4,872 million 

common shares for an amount of $215 million, compared with $186 million 

in the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012, compared with a net 

in the corresponding period of 2011.

outflow of $3,106 million in the corresponding period of 2011.

>  No repayment of long-term debentures by IGM, compared with repayment 

Investing activities during the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012, 

of long-term debentures of $450 million in the corresponding period of 2011.

compared to the same period in 2011, included:

>  Net inflow of $874 million arising from obligations to securitization entities 

>  Investing activities at Lifeco resulted in a net outflow of $3,838 million, 

at IGM, compared with a net inflow of $319 million in the corresponding 

compared with a net outflow of $3,407 million in the corresponding 

period of 2011.

period of 2011.

>  Net payment of $2 million by IGM arising from obligations related to 

>  Investing activities at IGM resulted in a net outflow of $839 million, 

assets sold under repurchase agreements, compared to a net payment 

compared with a net inflow of $229 million in the corresponding period 

of $408 million in 2011. The net payment in 2011 included the settlement 

of 2011.

of $428 million in obligations related to the sale of $426 million in Canada 

Mortgage Bonds, which is reported in investing activities.

>  In addition, the Corporation increased its level of fixed income securities 

with  maturities  of  more  than  90  days,  resulting  in  a  net  outflow  of 

$195 million, compared with a reduction in the corresponding period 

of 2011 for a net inflow of $40 million.

CASH FLOWS — EQ U IT Y BASI S

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net earnings before dividends on perpetual preferred shares

Earnings from subsidiaries and Parjointco not received in cash

Other

CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Dividends paid on common and preferred shares

Issuance of perpetual preferred shares

Issuance of common shares

Other

CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Repayment of advance to Parjointco

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

2012

1,743

(634)

10

1,119

(1,105)

250

20

(7)

(842)

–

–

277

707

984

2011

1,826

(776)

4

1,054

(1,095)

–

3

–

(1,092)

32

32

(6)

713

707

Power Financial is a holding company. As such, corporate cash flows from 

Dividends declared by Lifeco and IGM during the twelve-month period ended 

operations, before payment of dividends on common shares and on preferred 

December 31, 2012 on their common shares amounted to $1.23 and $2.15 per 

shares, are principally made up of dividends received from its subsidiaries and 

share, respectively, compared with $1.23 and $2.10 per share, respectively, 

Parjointco and income from investments, less operating expenses, financing 

in the corresponding period in 2011. In the twelve-month period ended 

charges, and income taxes. The ability of Lifeco and IGM, which are also 

December 31, 2012, the Corporation recorded dividends from Lifeco and IGM of 

holding companies, to generally meet their obligations and pay dividends 

$1,115 million, compared with $1,108 million in the corresponding period of 2011.

depends in particular upon receipt of sufficient funds from their subsidiaries. 

The payment of interest and dividends by Lifeco’s principal subsidiaries is 

subject to restrictions set out in relevant corporate and insurance laws and 

regulations, which require that solvency and capital standards be maintained. 

As well, the capitalization of Lifeco’s principal subsidiaries takes into account 

Pargesa  pays  its  annual  dividends  in  the  second  quarter.  The  dividend 

paid by Pargesa to Parjointco in 2012 amounted to SF2.57 per bearer share 

(SF123 million), compared with SF2.72 (SF125 million) in 2011. The Corporation 

received from Parjointco dividends of SF60 million ($65 million) in 2012 (nil 

in 2011). In 2011, Parjointco reimbursed an advance from the Corporation of 

the views expressed by the various credit rating agencies that provide 

$32 million.

ratings related to financial strength and other measures relating to those 

companies. The payment of dividends by IGM’s principal subsidiaries is subject 

to corporate laws and regulations which require that solvency standards be 

maintained. In addition, certain subsidiaries of IGM must also comply with 

capital and liquidity requirements established by regulatory authorities.

In the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012, dividends declared on 

the Corporation’s common shares amounted to $1.40 per share, the same as 

in the corresponding period of 2011.

39
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

SUMMARY OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires 

>  Level 3 inputs utilize one or more significant inputs that are not based on 

management to adopt accounting policies and to make estimates and 

observable market inputs and include situations where there is little, if 

assumptions  that  affect  amounts  reported  in  the  Corporation’s  2012 

any, market activity for the asset or liability.

Consolidated Financial Statements. The major accounting policies and 

related critical accounting estimates underlying the Corporation’s 2012 

Consolidated Financial Statements are summarized below. In applying 

these policies, management makes subjective and complex judgments that 

frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. 

Many of these policies are common in the insurance and other financial 

services industries; others are specific to the Corporation’s businesses 

and operations. The significant accounting estimates and judgments are 

as follows:

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 has 

been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the 

fair value measurement in its entirety. The Corporation’s assessment of the 

significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety 

requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.

Refer to Note 26 to the Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements 

for  disclosure  of  the  Corporation’s  financial  instruments  fair  value 

IN SU R ANCE AN D INVESTM ENT CONTR ACT LIAB ILITIES

measurement as at December 31, 2012.

Insurance  and  investment  contract  liabilities  represent  the  amounts 

Fair values for bonds classified as fair value through profit or loss or available 

required,  in  addition  to  future  premiums  and  investment  income,  to 

for sale are determined using quoted market prices. Where prices are not 

provide for future benefit payments, policyholder dividends, commission 

quoted in a normally active market, fair values are determined by valuation 

and policy administrative expenses for all insurance and annuity policies in 

models  primarily  using  observable  market  data  inputs.  Fair  values  for 

force with Lifeco. The Appointed Actuaries of Lifeco’s subsidiary companies 

bonds and mortgages and other loans, classified as loans and receivables, 

are responsible for determining the amount of the liabilities to make 

are determined by discounting expected future cash flows using current 

appropriate  provisions  for  Lifeco’s  obligations  to  policyholders.  The 

market rates.

Appointed Actuaries determine the liabilities for insurance and investment 

contracts  using  generally  accepted  actuarial  practices,  according  to 

the standards established by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries. The 

valuation uses the Canadian Asset Liability Method. This method involves 

the projection of future events in order to determine the amount of assets 

that must be set aside currently to provide for all future obligations and 

involves a significant amount of judgment.

Fair values for public stocks are generally determined by the last bid price for 

the security from the exchange where it is principally traded. Fair values for 

stocks for which there is no active market are determined by discounting 

expected future cash flows based on expected dividends and where market 

value cannot be measured reliably, fair value is estimated to be equal to cost. 

Fair values for investment properties are determined using independent 

appraisal  services  and  include  management  adjustments  for  material 

In the computation of insurance contract liabilities, valuation assumptions 

changes in property cash flows, capital expenditures or general market 

have  been  made  regarding  rates  of  mortality/morbidity,  investment 

conditions in the interim period between appraisals.

returns,  levels  of  operating  expenses,  rates  of  policy  termination  and 

rates of utilization of elective policy options or provisions. The valuation 

assumptions  use  best  estimates  of  future  experience  together  with  a 

margin  for  adverse  deviation.  These  margins  are  necessary  to  provide 

for possibilities of misestimation and/or future deterioration in the best 

estimate assumptions and provide reasonable assurance that insurance 

contract liabilities cover a range of possible outcomes. Margins are reviewed 

periodically for continued appropriateness.

Additional detail regarding these estimates can be found in Note 2 to the 

Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements.

FAIR VALU E M EASU REM ENT

Financial and other instruments held by the Corporation and its subsidiaries 

include portfolio investments, various derivative financial instruments, and 

debentures and debt instruments.

Financial instrument carrying values reflect the prevailing market liquidity 

and the liquidity premiums embedded in the market pricing methods the 

Corporation relies upon.

In accordance with IFRS 7, Financial Instruments — Disclosure, the Corporation’s 

assets and liabilities recorded at fair value have been categorized based upon 

the following fair value hierarchy:

IM PAIRM ENT OF INVESTM ENTS

Investments are reviewed regularly on an individual basis to determine 

impairment  status.  The  Corporation  considers  various  factors  in  the 

impairment evaluation process, including, but not limited to, the financial 

condition of the issuer, specific adverse conditions affecting an industry 

or region, decline in fair value not related to interest rates, bankruptcy or 

defaults and delinquency in payments of interest or principal. Impairment 

losses on available-for-sale shares are recorded if the loss is significant or 

prolonged and subsequent losses are recorded in net earnings. Investments 

are deemed to be impaired when there is no longer reasonable assurance of 

timely collection of the full amount of the principal and interest due. The fair 

value of an investment is not a definitive indicator of impairment, as it may 

be significantly influenced by other factors, including the remaining term to 

maturity and liquidity of the asset. However, market price must be taken into 

consideration when evaluating impairment.

For impaired mortgages and other loans, and bonds classified as loans and 

receivables, provisions are established or impairments recorded to adjust 

the carrying value to the net realizable amount. Wherever possible, the fair 

value of collateral underlying the loans or observable market price is used to 

establish net realizable value. For impaired available-for-sale bonds, recorded 

at fair value, the accumulated loss recorded in investment revaluation 

>  Level 1 inputs utilize observable, quoted prices (unadjusted) in active 

reserves is reclassified to net investment income. Impairments on available-

markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Corporation has the 

for-sale debt instruments are reversed if there is objective evidence that a 

ability to access.

permanent recovery has occurred. All gains and losses on bonds classified 

>  Level 2 inputs utilize other-than-quoted prices included in Level 1 that are 

or designated as fair value through profit or loss are already recorded in 

observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.

earnings, therefore a reduction due to impairment of assets will be recorded 

in earnings. As well, when determined to be impaired, contractual interest is 

no longer accrued and previous interest accruals are reversed.

40
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEGOODWILL AN D INTANG IB LES IM PAIRM ENT TESTING

or liabilities and income tax expense. Therefore, there can be no assurance 

Goodwill and intangible assets are tested for impairment annually or more 

that taxes will be payable as anticipated and/or the amount and timing 

frequently if events indicate that impairment may have occurred. Intangible 

of receipt or use of the tax-related assets will be as currently expected. 

assets that were previously impaired are reviewed at each reporting date 

Management’s experience indicates the taxation authorities are more 

for evidence of reversal. In the event that certain conditions have been met, 

aggressively pursuing perceived tax issues and have increased the resources 

the Corporation would be required to reverse the impairment charge or a 

they put to these efforts.

portion thereof.

Goodwill has been allocated to cash generating units (CGU), representing the 

lowest level in which goodwill is monitored for internal reporting purposes. 

Goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing the carrying value of the CGU 

groups to the recoverable amount to which the goodwill has been allocated. 

Intangible assets are tested for impairment by comparing the asset’s carrying 

amount to its recoverable amount.

PEN SION PL AN S AN D OTH ER 
POST- EM PLOYM ENT B EN EFITS

The Corporation and its subsidiaries maintain defined benefit pension plans as 

well as defined contribution pension plans for eligible employees and advisors. 

The plans provide pensions based on length of service and final average 

earnings. Certain pension payments are indexed either on an ad hoc basis or 

a guaranteed basis. The defined contribution pension plans provide pension 

An  impairment  loss  is  recognized  for  the  amount  by  which  the  asset’s 

benefits based on accumulated employee and Corporation contributions. 

carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount 

The Corporation and its subsidiaries also provide certain post-employment 

is the higher of the asset’s fair value less cost to sell and value in use, which is 

healthcare, dental and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees, employees 

calculated using the present value of estimated future cash flows expected 

and advisors. For further information on the Corporation’s pension plans and 

to be generated.

INCOM E TA XES

The Corporation is subject to income tax laws in various jurisdictions. The 

Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ operations are complex and related tax 

interpretations, regulations and legislation that pertain to its activities are 

subject to continual change. Lifeco’s primary Canadian operating subsidiaries 

are subject to a regime of specialized rules prescribed under the Income Tax Act 

(Canada) for purposes of determining the amount of the companies’ income 

that will be subject to tax in Canada. Accordingly, the provision for income 

taxes represents the applicable corporation’s management’s interpretation 

of the relevant tax laws and its estimate of current and future income tax 

implications of the transactions and events during the period. Deferred tax 

assets and liabilities are recorded based on expected future tax rates and 

management’s assumptions regarding the expected timing of the reversal 

of temporary differences. The Corporation has substantial deferred income 

tax assets. The recognition of deferred tax assets depends on management’s 

assumption that future earnings will be sufficient to realize the deferred 

benefit. The amount of the asset recorded is based on management’s best 

estimate of the timing of the reversal of the asset.

other post-employment benefits refer to Note 24 to the Corporation’s 2012 

Consolidated Financial Statements.

Accounting  for  pension  and  other  post-employment  benefits  requires 

estimates  of  future  returns  on  plan  assets,  expected  increases  in 

compensation levels, trends in healthcare costs, and the period of time 

over which benefits will be paid, as well as the appropriate discount rate 

for accrued benefit obligations. These assumptions are determined by 

management using actuarial methods and are reviewed and approved 

annually. Emerging experience, which may differ from the assumptions, will 

be revealed in future valuations and will affect the future financial position 

of the plans and net periodic benefit costs.

DEFERRED SELLING COM M I S SION S

Commissions paid on the sale of certain mutual fund products are deferred 

and amortized over their useful lives, not exceeding a period of five years. IGM 

regularly reviews the carrying value of deferred selling commissions with 

respect to any events or circumstances that indicate impairment. Among 

the tests performed by IGM to assess recoverability is the comparison of 

the future economic benefits derived from the deferred selling commission 

asset in relation to its carrying value. At December 31, 2012, there were no 

The audit and review activities of the Canada Revenue Agency and other 

indications of impairment to deferred selling commissions.

jurisdictions’  tax  authorities  affect  the  ultimate  determination  of  the 

amounts of income taxes payable or receivable, future income tax assets 

FUTURE ACCOUNTING CHANGES

The Corporation continuously monitors the potential changes proposed by 

>  The elimination of the concept of an expected return on assets (EROA). 

the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and analyzes the effect 

Amended IAS 19 requires the use of the discount rate in the place of EROA in 

that changes in the standards may have on the Corporation’s consolidated 

the determination of the net interest component of the pension expense. 

financial statements when they become effective:

This discount rate is determined by reference to market yields at the end 

E FFEC TI V E FO R T H E CO R P O R ATI O N I N 2 01 3

IAS 19 — Employee Benefits  Effective on January 1, 2013, the Corporation 

adopted the amended IAS 19, Employee Benefits. The amended IAS 19 includes 

requirements for the measurement, presentation and disclosure for defined 

benefit plans. Amendments include:

>  The elimination of the deferral and amortization approach (corridor 

approach) for recognizing actuarial gains and losses in net earnings. 

Actuarial gains and losses will be recognized in other comprehensive 

income. Actuarial gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive 

income will not be reclassified to net earnings in subsequent periods.

of the reporting period on high-quality corporate bonds.

>  Changes  in  the  recognition  of  past  service  costs.  Past  service  costs 

resulting from plan amendments or curtailments will be recognized in 

net earnings in the period in which the plan amendments or curtailments 

occur, without regard to vesting.

In accordance with the transitional provisions in IAS 19, this change in 

IFRS will be applied retroactively and is anticipated to decrease equity 

by approximately $470 million at January 1, 2012 (decrease of $330 million 

in  shareholders’  equity,  and  $140  million  in  non-controlling  interests) 

with an additional decrease to equity of approximately $240 million at 

January 1, 2013 (decrease of $165 million in shareholders’ equity and $75 million 

41
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

in  non-controlling  interests).  Furthermore,  the  effect  of  applying  this 

standard retroactively will decrease earnings before tax by approximately 

E FFEC TI V E FO R T H E CO R P O R ATI O N 
S U B S EQ U E N T TO 2 01 3

$12 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.

IFRS 4 — Insurance Contracts  The IASB issued an exposure draft proposing 

IFRS 10 — Consolidated Financial Statements  Effective for the Corporation 

changes to the accounting standard for insurance contracts in July 2010. The 

on January 1, 2013, IFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements uses consolidation 

proposal would require an insurer to measure insurance liabilities using a 

principles based on a revised definition of control. The definition of control 

model focusing on the amount, timing, and uncertainty of future cash flows 

is dependent on the power of the investor to direct the activities of the 

associated with fulfilling its insurance contracts. This is vastly different from 

investee, the ability of the investor to derive variable returns from its holdings 

the connection between insurance assets and liabilities considered under the 

in the investee, and a direct link between the power to direct activities and 

Canadian Asset Liability Method (CALM) and may cause significant volatility 

receive benefits.

The IASB issued amendments to IFRS 10 and IFRS 12 in October 2012 that 

in the results of Lifeco. The exposure draft also proposes changes to the 

presentation and disclosure within the financial statements.

introduced an exception from consolidation for the controlled entities of 

Since the release of the exposure draft, there have been discussions within 

investment entities. Lifeco continues to review the financial reporting of 

the insurance industry and between accounting standards setters globally 

the segregated funds for the risk of policyholders presented within Lifeco’s 

recommending significant changes to the 2010 exposure draft. At this time 

financial statements to determine whether it would be different than the 

no new standard has been either re-exposed or released.

current reporting under IFRS.

Lifeco will continue to measure insurance contract liabilities using CALM until 

IFRS 11 — Joint Arrangements  Effective for the Corporation on January 1, 

such time when a new IFRS for insurance contract measurement is issued. 

2013, IFRS 11, Joint Arrangements separates jointly controlled entities between 

A final standard is not expected to be implemented for several years; Lifeco 

joint operations and joint ventures. The standard eliminates the option 

continues to actively monitor developments in this area.

of using proportionate consolidation in accounting for interests in joint 

IFRS 9 — Financial Instruments  Effective for the Corporation on January 1, 

ventures, requiring an entity to use the equity method of accounting. The 

2015, IFRS 9, Financial Instruments requires all financial assets to be classified 

standard is not expected to have a significant impact on the Corporation’s 

on initial recognition at amortized cost or fair value while eliminating 

financial position or results of operations.

the existing categories of available for sale, held to maturity, and loans 

IFRS  12 — Disclosure  of  Interest  in  Other  Entities  Effective  for  the 

and receivables.

Corporation on January 1, 2013, IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interest in Other Entities 

The new standard will also require:

provides new disclosure requirements for the interest an entity has in 

subsidiaries,  joint  arrangements,  associates,  and  structured  entities. 

The standard requires enhanced disclosure, including how control was 

determined and any restrictions that might exist on consolidated assets 

>  embedded derivatives to be assessed for classification together with their 

financial asset host;

>  an expected loss impairment method be used for financial assets; and

and liabilities presented within the financial statements. The standard is 

>  amendments  to  the  criteria  for  hedge  accounting  and  measuring 

expected to result in additional disclosures.

effectiveness.

IFRS  13 — Fair  Value  Measurement  Effective  for  the  Corporation  on 

The full impact of IFRS 9 on the Corporation will be evaluated after the 

January 1, 2013, IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement provides guidance to increase 

remaining stages of the IASB’s project to replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: 

consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related 

Recognition and Measurement — impairment methodology, hedge accounting, 

disclosures through a “fair value hierarchy”. The hierarchy categorizes the 

and asset and liability offsetting — are finalized. The current timetable for 

inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels. The hierarchy gives the 

adoption of IFRS 9, Financial Instruments is for the annual period beginning 

highest priority to (unadjusted) quoted prices in active markets for identical 

January 1, 2015; however, the Corporation continues to monitor this standard 

assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs.

in conjunction with developments to IFRS 4.

The standard relates primarily to disclosure and will not impact the financial 

IAS 32 — Financial Instruments: Presentation  Effective for the Corporation 

results of the Corporation.

IAS 1 — Presentation of Financial Statements  Effective for the Corporation 

on January 1, 2014, IAS 32, Financial Instruments: Presentation clarifies the 

existing requirements for offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities.

on  Januar y  1,  2013,  IAS  1,  Presentation  of  Financial  Statements  includes 

The Corporation is evaluating the impact this standard will have on the 

requirements that other comprehensive income be classified by nature and 

presentation of its financial statements.

E X P O S U R E D R A F T S N OT Y E T E FFEC TI V E

IAS  17 — Leases  The  IASB  issued  an  exposure  draft  proposing  a  new 

accounting model for leases where both lessees and lessors would record 

the assets and liabilities on the balance sheet at the present value of the lease 

payments arising from all lease contracts. The new classification would be 

the right-of-use model, replacing the operating and finance lease accounting 

models that currently exist.

The full impact of adoption of the proposed changes will be determined once 

the final leases standard is issued.

grouped between those items that will be classified subsequently to profit or 

loss (when specific conditions are met) and those that will not be reclassified.

This revised standard relates only to presentation and will not impact the 

financial results of the Corporation.

IFRS 7 — Financial Instruments: Disclosure  Effective for the Corporation 

on January 1, 2013, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 7 regarding disclosure 

of offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities. The amendments 

allow  users  of  financial  statements  to  improve  their  understanding  of 

transfer transactions of financial assets (for example, securitizations), 

including understanding the possible effects of any risks that may remain 

with the entity that transferred the assets. The amendments also require 

additional disclosures if a disproportionate amount of transfer transactions 

are undertaken near the end of a reporting period.

This revised standard relates only to disclosure and will not impact the 

financial results of the Corporation.

42
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEIAS 18 — Revenue  The IASB issued a second exposure draft in November 2011 

The full impact of adoption of the proposed changes will be determined 

which proposed a single revenue recognition standard to align the financial 

once the final revenue recognition standard is issued, which is targeted for 

reporting of revenue from contracts with customers and related costs. A 

release in 2013.

company would recognize revenue when it transfers goods or services to a 

customer in the amount of the consideration the company expects to receive 

from the customer.

RISK FACTORS

There are certain risks inherent in an investment in the securities of the 

performance of Power Financial and its subsidiaries. In recent years, global 

Corporation and in the activities of the Corporation, including the following 

financial conditions and market events have experienced increased volatility 

and others disclosed elsewhere in this document, which investors should 

and resulted in the tightening of credit that has reduced available liquidity 

carefully consider before investing in securities of the Corporation. This 

and overall economic activity. There can be no assurance that debt or equity 

description of risks does not include all possible risks, and there may be other 

financing will be available, or, together with internally generated funds, will 

risks of which the Corporation is not currently aware.

be sufficient to meet or satisfy Power Financial’s objectives or requirements 

Power  Financial  is  a  holding  company  that  holds  substantial  interests 

in the financial services sector through its controlling interest in each of 

Lifeco and IGM. As a result, investors in Power Financial are subject to the 

risks attributable to its status as a shareholder of its subsidiaries, including 

those that Power Financial has as the principal shareholder of each of Lifeco 

and IGM.

As a holding company, Power Financial’s ability to pay interest and other 

operating expenses and dividends, to meet its obligations and to complete 

current or desirable future enhancement opportunities or acquisitions 

generally depends upon receipt of sufficient dividends from its principal 

subsidiaries  and  other  investments  and  its  ability  to  raise  additional 

capital. The likelihood that shareholders of Power Financial will receive 

dividends will be dependent upon the operating performance, profitability, 

financial position and creditworthiness of the principal subsidiaries of 

Power Financial and on their ability to pay dividends to Power Financial. The 

payment of interest and dividends by certain of these principal subsidiaries 

to Power Financial is also subject to restrictions set forth in insurance, 

securities and corporate laws and regulations which require that solvency 

and capital standards be maintained by such companies. If required, the 

ability of Power Financial to arrange additional financing in the future will 

depend in part upon prevailing market conditions as well as the business 

or, if the foregoing are available to Power Financial, that they will be on terms 

acceptable to Power Financial. The inability of Power Financial to access 

sufficient capital on acceptable terms could have a material adverse effect 

on Power Financial’s business, prospects, dividend paying capability and 

financial condition, and further enhancement opportunities or acquisitions.

The market price for Power Financial’s securities may be volatile and subject 

to wide fluctuations in response to numerous factors, many of which are 

beyond  Power  Financial’s  control.  Economic  conditions  may  adversely 

affect Power Financial, including fluctuations in foreign exchange, inflation 

and interest rates, as well as monetary policies, business investment and 

the health of capital markets in Canada, the United States and Europe. 

In  recent  years,  financial  markets  have  experienced  significant  price 

and volume fluctuations that have affected the market prices of equity 

securities held by the Corporation and its subsidiaries and that have often 

been unrelated to the operating performance, underlying asset values or 

prospects of such companies. Additionally, these factors, as well as other 

related factors, may cause decreases in asset values that are deemed to be 

significant or prolonged, which may result in impairment losses. In periods 

of increased levels of volatility and related market turmoil, Power Financial’s 

subsidiaries’ operations could be adversely impacted and the trading price of 

Power Financial’s securities may be adversely affected.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

GUAR ANTEES

LET TERS OF CREDIT

In the normal course of their businesses, the Corporation and its subsidiaries 

In the normal course of their reinsurance business, Lifeco’s subsidiaries 

may enter into certain agreements, the nature of which precludes the 

provide letters of credit to other parties or beneficiaries. A beneficiary will 

possibility of making a reasonable estimate of the maximum potential 

typically hold a letter of credit as collateral in order to secure statutory credit 

amount the Corporation or subsidiary could be required to pay third parties, 

for reserves ceded to or amounts due from Lifeco’s subsidiaries. A letter of 

as some of these agreements do not specify a maximum amount and the 

credit may be drawn upon demand. If an amount is drawn on a letter of credit 

amounts are dependent on the outcome of future contingent events, the 

by a beneficiary, the bank issuing the letter of credit will make a payment to 

nature and likelihood of which cannot be determined.

the beneficiary for the amount drawn, and Lifeco’s subsidiaries will become 

obligated to repay this amount to the bank.

Lifeco, through certain of its operating subsidiaries, has provided letters of 

credit to both external and internal parties, which are described in Note 30 

to the Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements.

43
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

The Corporation and its subsidiaries are from time to time subject to legal actions, 

During the fourth quarter of 2011, in response to the Appeal Decision, Lifeco 

including arbitrations and class actions, arising in the normal course of business. 

re-evaluated and reduced the litigation provision established in the third quarter 

It is inherently difficult to predict the outcome of any of these proceedings with 

of 2010, which positively impacted common shareholder net earnings of Lifeco 

certainty, and it is possible that an adverse resolution could have a material 

in 2011 by $223 million after tax (Power Financial’s share — $158 million).

adverse effect on the consolidated financial position of the Corporation. However, 

based on information presently known, it is not expected that any of the existing 

legal actions, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse 

effect on the consolidated financial position of the Corporation.

During the subsequent event period, in response to the Ontario Superior 

Court of Justice decision on January 24, 2013, Lifeco established an incremental 

provision of $140 million after tax in the common shareholders account of Lifeco 

(Power Financial’s share — $99 million). Lifeco now holds $290 million in after-tax 

A subsidiary of Lifeco has declared a partial windup in respect of an Ontario 

provisions for these proceedings.

defined benefit pension plan which will not likely be completed for some time. 

The partial windup could involve the distribution of the amount of actuarial 

surplus, if any, attributable to the wound-up portion of the plan. In addition to 

the regulatory proceedings involving this partial windup, a related class action 

proceeding has been commenced in Ontario related to the partial windup and 

three potential partial windups under the plan. The class action also challenges 

the validity of charging expenses to the plan. The provisions for certain Canadian 

retirement plans in the amounts of $97 million after tax established by Lifeco’s 

subsidiaries in the third quarter of 2007 have been reduced to $34 million. Actual 

results could differ from these estimates.

The Court of Appeal for Ontario released a decision on November 3, 2011 in regard 

to the involvement of the participating accounts of Lifeco subsidiaries London 

Life and Great-West Life in the financing of the acquisition of London Insurance 

Group Inc. in 1997 (the Appeal Decision).

The Appeal Decision ruled Lifeco subsidiaries achieved substantial success and 

required that there be adjustments to the original trial judgment regarding 

amounts which were to be reallocated to the participating accounts going 

forward. Any monies to be reallocated to the participating accounts will be 

dealt with in accordance with Lifeco subsidiaries’ participating policyholder 

dividend policies in the ordinary course of business. No awards are to be paid 

out to individual class members. On May 24, 2012, the Supreme Court of Canada 

dismissed the plaintiff’s application for leave to appeal the Appeal Decision. 

The Appeal Decision directed the parties back to the trial judge to work out 

the remaining issues. On January 24, 2013 the Ontario Superior Court of Justice 

released a decision ordering that $285 million be reallocated to the participating 

account surplus. Lifeco will be appealing that decision.

Regardless of the ultimate outcome of this case, there will not be any impact 

on the capital position of Lifeco or on participating policy contract terms and 

conditions. Based on information presently known, this matter is not expected 

to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position of 

the Corporation.

In connection with the acquisition of its subsidiary Putnam, Lifeco has an 

indemnity from a third party against liabilities arising from certain litigation and 

regulatory actions involving Putnam. Putnam continues to have potential liability 

for these matters in the event the indemnity is not honoured. Lifeco expects the 

indemnity will continue to be honoured and that any liability of Putnam would 

not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position.

On October 17, 2012, a subsidiary of Lifeco received an administrative complaint 

from the Massachusetts Securities Division in relation to that subsidiary’s role as 

collateral manager of two collateralized debt obligations. The complaint is seeking 

certain remedies, including the disgorgement of fees, a civil administrative fine 

and a cease and desist order. In addition, that same subsidiary is a defendant in 

two civil litigation matters brought by institutions involved in those collateralized 

debt obligations. Based on information presently known, Lifeco believes these 

matters are without merit. The potential outcome of these matters is not 

yet determined.

Subsidiaries  of  Lifeco  have  an  investment  in  a  USA-based  private  equity 

partnership wherein a dispute arose over the terms of the partnership agreement. 

Lifeco established a provision in the fourth quarter of 2011 for $99 million after 

tax. The dispute was resolved on January 10, 2012, and as a result, Lifeco no longer 

holds the provision.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following table provides a summary of future consolidated contractual obligations.

PAYMENTS DUE BY PERIOD

Long-term debt [1]

Deposits and certificates

Obligations to securitization entities

Operating leases [2]

Purchase obligations [3]

Contractual commitments [4]

Total

Letters of credit [5]

TOTAL

5,858

163

4,701

733

83

516

LESS THAN
1 YEAR

1 – 5 YEARS

296

145

789

153

58

470

302

13

3,877

422

25

46

MORE THAN
5 YEARS

5,260

5

35

158

12,054

1,911

4,685

5,458

[1]  Please refer to Note 13 to the Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

[2]  Includes office space and certain equipment used in the normal course of business. Lease payments are charged to operations in the period of use.

[3]  Purchase obligations are commitments of Lifeco to acquire goods and services, essentially related to information services.

[4]  Represents commitments by Lifeco. These contractual commitments are essentially commitments of investment transactions made in the normal course of 

operations, in accordance with its policies and guidelines, which are to be disbursed upon fulfilment of certain contract conditions.

[5]  Please refer to Note 30 to the Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements.

44
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCEFINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

FAIR VALU E OF FINANCIAL IN STRU M ENTS

and are generally calculated using market conditions at a specific point in 

The following table presents the fair value of the Corporation’s financial 

time and may not reflect future fair values. The calculations are subjective 

instruments. Fair value represents the amount that would be exchanged in 

in nature, involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment (please 

an arm’s-length transaction between willing parties and is best evidenced by 

refer to Note 26 to the Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial Statements).

a quoted market price, if one exists. Fair values are management’s estimates 

AS AT DECEMBER 31

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

Investments (excluding investment properties)

Funds held by ceding insurers

Derivative financial instruments

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

LIABILITIES

Obligation to securitization entities

Debentures and debt instruments

Capital trust securities

Derivative financial instruments

Other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

CARRYING 
VALUE

2012

FAIR 
VALUE

CARRYING 
VALUE

2011

FAIR 
VALUE

3,313

3,313

3,385

3,385

120,062

122,805

113,841

116,170

10,537

10,537

1,060

4,212

1,060

4,212

9,923

1,056

3,539

9,923

1,056

3,539

139,184

141,927

131,744

134,073

4,701

5,858

119

413

4,923

16,014

4,787

6,830

171

413

4,925

17,126

3,827

5,888

533

427

3,930

6,502

577

427

4,509

4,510

15,184

15,946

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL IN STRU M ENTS

There were no major changes to the Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ policies 

In the course of their activities, the Corporation and its subsidiaries use 

and procedures with respect to the use of derivative instruments in the 

derivative financial instruments. When using such derivatives, they only act 

twelve-month period ended December 31, 2012. There has been an increase 

as limited end-users and not as market-makers in such derivatives.

in the notional amount outstanding ($16,888 million at December 31, 2012, 

The use of derivatives is monitored and reviewed on a regular basis by senior 

management of the companies. The Corporation and its subsidiaries have 

each established operating policies and processes relating to the use of 

derivative financial instruments, which in particular aim at:

>  prohibiting the use of derivative instruments for speculative purposes;

compared with $14,948 million at December 31, 2011) and an increase in the 

exposure to credit risk ($1,060 million at December 31, 2012, compared with 

$1,056 million at December 31, 2011) that represents the market value of those 

instruments, which are in a gain position. During the third quarter of 2012, 

Lifeco purchased equity put options with a notional amount of $849 million 

as a macro balance sheet credit hedge against a decline in European equity 

>  documenting  transactions  and  ensuring  their  consistency  with  risk 

market levels. See Note 25 to the Corporation’s 2012 Consolidated Financial 

management policies;

Statements  for  more  information  on  the  type  of  derivative  financial 

>  demonstrating the effectiveness of the hedging relationships; and

instruments used by the Corporation and its subsidiaries.

>  monitoring the hedging relationship.

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Based on their evaluations as of December 31, 2012, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Corporation’s disclosure 

controls and procedures were effective as at December 31, 2012.

INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Based on their evaluations as of December 31, 2012, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Corporation’s internal 

controls over financial reporting were effective as at December 31, 2012. During the fourth quarter of 2012, there have been no changes in the Corporation’s 

internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over 

financial reporting.

45
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

2012

2011

2010

32,412

32,433

32,559

1,686

2.38

1,626

2.30

2.28

–

–

–

1,626

2.30

2.28

1,729

2.44

1,722

2.43

2.41

38

0.05

0.05

1,684

2.38

2.36

1,625

2.30

1,468

2.08

2.06

1

–

–

1,467

2.08

2.06

268,593

252,678

244,644

16,014

5,858

14,029

16.60

709.1

15,184

5,888

13,521

16.26

708.2

17,748

6,313

12,811

15.26

708.0

1.4000

1.4000

1.4000

0.5250

0.5250

0.45238

1.3750

1.3125

1.4750

1.4375

1.5000

1.2375

1.2750

1.5000

1.4500

1.1000

0.9750

1.3750

1.3125

1.4750

1.4375

1.5000

0.5875

1.2375

1.2750

1.5000

1.4500

0.6487

1.3750

1.3125

1.4750

1.4375

1.5000

1.2375

1.2750

1.5000

1.4500

1.1000

1.2837

SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Total revenue including discontinued operations

Operating earnings attributable to common shareholders [1]

per share – basic

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders

per share – basic

per share – diluted

Earnings from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders

per share – basic

per share – diluted

Earnings from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders

per share – basic

per share – diluted

Consolidated assets

Total financial liabilities

Debentures and debt instruments

Shareholders’ equity

Book value per share

Number of common shares outstanding [millions]

Dividends per share [declared]

Common shares

First preferred shares

Series A

Series C [2]

Series D

Series E

Series F

Series H

Series I

Series J [3]

Series K

Series L

Series M

Series O

Series P [4]

Series R [5]

[1]  Operating earnings and operating earnings per share are non-IFRS financial measures.

[2]  Redeemed in October 2010.

[3]  Redeemed in July 2010.

[4]  Issued in June 2010.

[5]  Issued in February 2012.

46
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

REVIEW OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCECONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

DECEMBER 31
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS]

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents [Note 3]

Investments [Note 4]

Bonds

Mortgages and other loans

Shares

Investment properties

Loans to policyholders

Funds held by ceding insurers [Note 5]

Reinsurance assets [Note 11]

Investment in jointly controlled corporation [Note 6]

Owner-occupied properties and capital assets [Note 7]

Derivative financial instruments [Note 25]

Other assets [Note 8]

Deferred tax assets [Note 16]

Intangible assets [Note 9]

Goodwill [Note 9]

Investments on account of segregated fund policyholders [Note 10]

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Insurance contract liabilities [Note 11]

Investment contract liabilities [Note 11]

Obligation to securitization entities [Note 12]

Debentures and debt instruments [Note 13]

Capital trust securities [Note 14]

Derivative financial instruments [Note 25]

Other liabilities [Note 15]

Deferred tax liabilities [Note 16]

Investment and insurance contracts on account of segregated fund policyholders [Note 10]

Total liabilities

EQUITY

Stated capital [Note 17]

Perpetual preferred shares

Common shares

Retained earnings

Reserves

Total shareholders’ equity

Non-controlling interests [Note 19]

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

Approved by the Board of Directors

Signed,

Raymond Royer
Director

2012

3,313

83,387

22,797

6,796

3,525

7,082

123,587

10,537

2,064

2,149

791

1,060

5,368

1,170

4,933

8,673

104,948

268,593

2011

3,385

78,759

21,518

6,402

3,201

7,162

117,042

9,923

2,061

2,222

738

1,056

4,653

1,207

5,023

8,786

96,582

252,678

119,919

114,730

739

4,701

5,858

119

413

6,311

1,213

104,948

244,221

2,255

664

11,148

(38)

14,029

10,343

24,372

782

3,827

5,888

533

427

5,836

1,258

96,582

229,863

2,005

639

10,743

134

13,521

9,294

22,815

268,593

252,678

Signed,

R. Jeffrey Orr
Director

47
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS]

2012

2011

REVENUES

Premium income

Gross premiums written

Ceded premiums

Total net premiums

Net investment income [Note 4]

Regular net investment income

Change in fair value

Fee income

Total revenues

EXPENSES

Policyholder benefits

Insurance and investment contracts

Gross

Ceded

Policyholder dividends and experience refunds

Change in insurance and investment contract liabilities

Total paid or credited to policyholders

Commissions

Operating and administrative expenses [Note 22]

Financing charges [Note 23]

Total expenses

Share of earnings (losses) of investment in jointly controlled corporation [Note 6]

Earnings before income taxes – continuing operations

Income taxes [Note 16]

Net earnings – continuing operations

Net earnings – discontinued operations

Net earnings

Attributable to

Non-controlling interests [Note 19]

Perpetual preferred shareholders

Common shareholders

Earnings per common share [Note 28]

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders

 – Basic

 – Diluted

Net earnings from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders

 – Basic

 – Diluted

48
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

21,839

(3,019)

18,820

5,711

2,650

8,361

5,231

32,412

17,431

(1,457)

15,974

1,437

5,040

22,451

2,501

3,696

395

29,043

3,369

134

3,503

563

2,940

–

2,940

1,197

117

1,626

2,940

2.30

2.28

2.30

2.28

20,013

(2,720)

17,293

5,610

4,154

9,764

5,343

32,400

16,591

(1,217)

15,374

1,424

6,245

23,043

2,312

3,006

409

28,770

3,630

(20)

3,610

706

2,904

63

2,967

1,141

104

1,722

2,967

2.43

2.41

2.38

2.36

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS]

Net earnings

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale assets

Unrealized gains (losses)

Income tax (expense) benefit

Realized (gains) losses transferred to net earnings

Income tax expense (benefit)

Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges

Unrealized gains (losses)

Income tax (expense) benefit

Realized (gains) losses transferred to net earnings

Income tax expense (benefit)

Net unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses) on translation of foreign operations

Share of other comprehensive income of jointly controlled corporation

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Total comprehensive income

Attributable to

Non-controlling interests

Perpetual preferred shareholders

Common shareholders

2012

2,940

85

(25)

(126)

31

(35)

14

(5)

2

(1)

10

(78)

(100)

(203)

2,737

1,165

117

1,455

2,737

2011

2,967

226

(48)

(116)

30

92

(24)

10

2

(1)

(13)

214

(222)

71

3,038

1,269

104

1,665

3,038

49
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

STATED CAPITAL

RESERVES

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS]

PERPETUAL 
PREFERRED 
SHARES

COMMON 
SHARES

RETAINED 
EARNINGS

SHARE-BASED 
COMPENSATION

OTHER  
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME
[NOTE 27]

Balance, beginning of year

2,005

639

Net earnings

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Total comprehensive income

Issue of perpetual preferred shares

Dividends to shareholders

Perpetual preferred shares

Common shares

Dividends to non-controlling interests

Share-based compensation

Stock options exercised

Effects of changes in ownership and 

capital on non-controlling interests, 
and other

–

–

–

250

–

–

–

–

–

–

Balance, end of year

2,255

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

25

–

664

10,743

1,743

–

1,743

–

(117)

(992)

–

–

–

(229)

11,148

111

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

9

(10)

–

110

23

–

(171)

(171)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(148)

NON- 
CONTROLLING 
INTERESTS

9,294

1,197

(32)

1,165

–

–

–

(659)

4

(3)

TOTAL
EQUITY

22,815

2,940

(203)

2,737

250

(117)

(992)

(659)

13

12

542

313

10,343

24,372

TOTAL

134

–

(171)

(171)

–

–

–

–

9

(10)

–

(38)

STATED CAPITAL

RESERVES

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS]

PERPETUAL 
PREFERRED 
SHARES

COMMON 
SHARES

RETAINED 
EARNINGS

SHARE-BASED 
COMPENSATION

OTHER  
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME
[NOTE 27]

Balance, beginning of year

2,005

636

Net earnings

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Total comprehensive income

Dividends to shareholders

Perpetual preferred shares

Common shares

Dividends to non-controlling interests

Share-based compensation

Stock options exercised

Effects of changes in ownership and 

capital on non-controlling interests, 
and other

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3

–

9,982

1,826

–

1,826

(104)

(991)

–

–

–

30

Balance, end of year

2,005

639

10,743

108

–

–

–

–

–

–

8

(5)

–

111

80

–

(57)

(57)

–

–

–

–

–

–

23

NON- 
CONTROLLING 
INTERESTS

8,741

1,141

128

1,269

–

–

(640)

2

(2)

TOTAL

188

–

(57)

(57)

–

–

–

8

(5)

TOTAL
EQUITY

21,552

2,967

71

3,038

(104)

(991)

(640)

10

(4)

–

134

(76)

(46)

9,294

22,815

50
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS]

OPERATING ACTIVITIES — CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Earnings before income taxes – continuing operations

Income tax paid, net of refunds received

Adjusting items

Change in insurance and investment contract liabilities

Change in funds held by ceding insurers

Change in funds held under reinsurance contracts

Change in reinsurance assets

Change in fair value through profit or loss

Other

FINANCING ACTIVITIES — CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Dividends paid

By subsidiaries to non-controlling interests

Perpetual preferred shares

Common shares

Issue of common shares by the Corporation [Note 17]

Issue of common shares by subsidiaries

Issue of perpetual preferred shares by the Corporation [Note 17]

Issue of preferred shares by subsidiaries

Repurchase of common shares by subsidiaries

Changes in debt instruments

Repayment of debentures [Note 13]

Change in obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements

Change in obligations to securitization entities

Redemption of capital trust securities [Note 14]

Other

INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES — CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Bond sales and maturities

Mortgage loan repayments

Sale of shares

Change in loans to policyholders

Change in repurchase agreements

Investment in bonds

Investment in mortgage loans

Investment in shares

Proceeds on disposal of business

Investment in investment properties and other

Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

Less: Cash and cash equivalents – discontinued operations, beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents – continuing operations, end of year

NET CASH FROM CONTINUING OPERATING ACTIVITIES INCLUDES

Interest and dividends received

Interest paid

2012

3,503

(414)

5,034

205

201

45

(2,650)

(555)

5,369

(659)

(114)

(991)

(1,764)

20

44

250

650

(215)

(1)

–

(2)

874

(409)

(8)

(561)

24,516

2,071

2,152

(57)

(23)

(27,716)

(3,394)

(2,162)

–

(259)

(4,872)

(8)

(72)

3,385

–

3,313

5,062

492

2011

3,610

(4)

6,029

464

25

415

(4,182)

(852)

5,505

(640)

(104)

(991)

(1,735)

3

61

–

–

(186)

(6)

(450)

(408)

319

–

(4)

(2,406)

20,486

1,756

2,355

(198)

(1,053)

(20,510)

(3,361)

(2,643)

199

(137)

(3,106)

24

17

3,656

(288)

3,385

5,044

493

51
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

All tabular amounts are in millions of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise noted.

NOTE 1  CORPORATE INFORMATION

Power  Financial  Corporation  (Power  Financial  or  the  Corporation)  is  a 

companies based in Europe, active in the following industries: oil and gas and 

publicly listed company (TSX: PWF) incorporated and domiciled in Canada. 

alternative energies, electricity, energy and environmental services, water 

The registered address of the Corporation is 751 Victoria Square, Montréal, 

and waste management services, cement and other building materials, and 

Québec, Canada, H2Y 2J3.

wines and spirits.

Power Financial is a diversified international management and holding 

The  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  (f inancial  statements)  of 

company that holds interests, directly or indirectly, in companies in the 

Power Financial for the year ended December 31, 2012 were approved for issue 

financial services industry in Canada, the United States and Europe and, 

by the Board of Directors on March 13, 2013. The Corporation is controlled by 

through its indirect investment in Pargesa, has substantial holdings in 

171263 Canada Inc., which is wholly owned by Power Corporation of Canada.

NOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The financial statements of Power Financial at December 31, 2012 have 

have been used by management and its subsidiaries are further described 

been  prepared  in  accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting 

in the relevant accounting policies of this note and other notes throughout 

Standards (IFRS).

BASI S OF PRESENTATION

the financial statements. The reported amounts and note disclosures are 

determined using management of the Corporation and its subsidiaries’ 

best estimates.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Power Financial 

and  all  its  subsidiaries  on  a  consolidated  basis  after  elimination  of 

SIG N IFICANT J U DG M ENTS

intercompany transactions and balances. Subsidiaries of the Corporation 

In preparation of the financial statements, management of the Corporation 

are fully consolidated from the date of acquisition, being the date on which 

and its subsidiaries is required to make significant judgments that affect 

the Corporation obtains control, and continue to be consolidated until the 

the carrying amounts of certain assets and liabilities, and the reported 

date that such control ceases.

The principal subsidiaries of the Corporation are:

>  Great-West Lifeco Inc. (direct interest of 68.2% (2011 – 68.2%)), whose 

major operating subsidiary companies are The Great-West Life Assurance 

Company, Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company, London Life 

Insurance Company, The Canada Life Assurance Company, and Putnam 

Investments, LLC.

amounts of revenues and expenses recorded during the period. Significant 

judgments  have  been  made  in  the  following  areas  and  are  discussed 

throughout the notes of the financial statements: insurance and investment 

contract liabilities, classification and fair value of financial instruments, 

goodwill and intangible assets, pension plans and other post-employment 

benefits, income taxes, the determination of which financial assets should be 

derecognized, provisions, subsidiaries and special purpose entities, deferred 

acquisition costs, deferred income reserves, owner-occupied properties and 

>  IGM Financial Inc. (direct interest of 58.7% (2011 – 57.6%)), whose major 

fixed assets.

operating subsidiary companies are Investors Group Inc. and Mackenzie 

Financial Corporation.

>  IGM  Financial  Inc.  holds  4.0%  (2011 – 4.0%)  of  the  common  shares  of 

Great-West Lifeco Inc., and The Great-West Life Assurance Company holds 

3.7% (2011 – 3.6%) of the common shares of IGM Financial Inc.

The Corporation also holds a 50% (2011 – 50%) interest in Parjointco N.V. 

Parjointco holds a 55.6% (2011 – 56.5%) equity interest in Pargesa Holding 

SA. The Corporation accounts for its investment in Parjointco using the 

equity method.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires 

management of the Corporation and its subsidiaries to exercise judgment 

The results reflect judgments of management of the Corporation and its 

subsidiaries regarding the impact of prevailing global credit, equity and 

foreign  exchange  market  conditions.  The  estimation  of  insurance  and 

investment contract liabilities relies upon investment credit ratings. Lifeco’s 

practice is to use third-party independent credit ratings where available.

REVEN U E RECOG N ITION

For Lifeco, premiums for all types of insurance contracts and contracts with 

limited mortality or morbidity risk are generally recognized as revenue when 

due and collection is reasonably assured.

Interest income on bonds and mortgages is recognized and accrued using 

in the process of applying accounting policies and requires management to 

the effective yield method.

make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the 

Dividend  income  is  recognized  when  the  right  to  receive  payment  is 

financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ 

established.  This  is  the  dividend  date  for  listed  stocks  and  usually  the 

from these estimates.

notification date or date when the shareholders have approved the dividend 

USE OF ESTIMATES AN D AS SU M PTION S

In preparation of the financial statements, management of the Corporation 

and its subsidiaries are required to make estimates and assumptions that 

affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, net earnings and related 

disclosures.  Although  some  variability  is  inherent  in  these  estimates, 

management of the Corporation and its subsidiaries believe that the amounts 

recorded are reasonable. Key sources of estimation uncertainty include: 

valuation of insurance and investment contracts, determination of the fair 

value of financial instruments, carrying value of goodwill, intangible assets, 

deferred selling commissions, investment in a jointly controlled corporation, 

legal and other provisions, income taxes and pension plans and other post-

employment benefits. Areas where significant estimates and assumptions 

52
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

for private equity instruments.

Investment property income includes rents earned from tenants under lease 

agreements and property tax and operating cost recoveries. Rental income 

leases with contractual rent increases and rent-free periods are recognized 

on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

For Lifeco, fee income primarily includes fees earned from the management 

of segregated fund assets, proprietary mutual fund assets, fees earned on 

the administration of administrative services only Group health contracts 

and fees earned from management services. Fee income is recognized 

when  the  service  is  performed,  the  amount  is  collectible  and  can  be 

reasonably estimated.

NOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

For IGM, management fees are based on the net asset value of mutual fund 

Fair value measurement  Financial instrument carrying values necessarily 

assets under management and are recognized on an accrual basis as the 

reflect the prevailing market liquidity and the liquidity premiums embedded 

service is performed. Administration fees are also recognized on an accrual 

in the market pricing methods the Corporation relies upon.

basis as the service is performed. Distribution fees derived from mutual fund 

and securities transactions are recognized on a trade-date basis. Distribution 

fees derived from insurance and other financial services transactions are 

recognized on an accrual basis. These management, administration and 

distribution fees are included in fee income in the Consolidated Statements 

of Earnings (statements of earnings).

CASH AN D CASH EQ U IVALENTS

Cash  and  cash  equivalents  include  cash,  current  operating  accounts, 

overnight bank and term deposits with original maturities of three months 

or less, and fixed income securities with an original term to maturity of three 

months or less.

INVESTM ENTS

The following is a description of the methodologies used to value instruments 

carried at fair value:

Bonds at fair value through profit or loss and available for sale  Fair values for 

bonds classified as fair value through profit or loss or available for sale are 

determined with reference to quoted market bid prices primarily provided 

by third-party independent pricing sources. The Corporation obtains quoted 

prices in active markets, when available, for identical assets at the balance 

sheet date to measure bonds at fair value in its fair value through profit 

or loss and available-for-sale portfolios. Where prices are not quoted in a 

normally active market, fair values are determined by valuation models. 

The Corporation maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the 

use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.

The Corporation estimates the fair value of bonds not traded in active markets 

Investments include bonds, mortgages and other loans, shares, investment 

by referring to actively traded securities with similar attributes, dealer 

properties, and loans to policyholders. Investments are classified as either 

quotations, matrix pricing methodology, discounted cash flow analyses 

fair value through profit or loss, available for sale, held to maturity, loans 

and/or internal valuation models. This methodology considers such factors 

and receivables or as non-financial instruments, based on management’s 

as the issuer’s industry, the security’s rating, term, coupon rate and position 

intention relating to the purpose and nature for which the instruments were 

in the capital structure of the issuer, as well as yield curves, credit curves, 

acquired or the characteristics of the investments. The Corporation currently 

prepayment rates and other relevant factors. For bonds that are not traded 

has not classified any investments as held to maturity.

Investments in bonds and shares normally actively traded on a public market 

in active markets, valuations are adjusted to reflect illiquidity, and such 

adjustments are generally based on available market evidence. In the absence 

are either designated or classified as fair value through profit or loss or 

of such evidence, management’s best estimate is used.

classified as available for sale and are recorded on a trade-date basis. Fixed 

Shares at fair value through profit or loss and available for sale  Fair values for 

income securities are included in bonds on the Consolidated Balance Sheets 

publicly traded shares are generally determined by the last bid price for the 

(balance sheets). Fair value through profit or loss investments are recognized 

security from the exchange where it is principally traded. Fair values for shares 

at fair value on the balance sheets with realized and unrealized gains and 

for which there is no active market are determined by discounting expected 

losses reported in the statements of earnings. Available-for-sale investments 

future cash flows. The Corporation maximizes the use of observable inputs 

are recognized at fair value on the balance sheets with unrealized gains 

and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. 

and  losses  recorded  in  other  comprehensive  income.  Gains  and  losses 

The Corporation obtains quoted prices in active markets, when available, for 

are reclassified from other comprehensive income and recorded in the 

identical assets at the balance sheets dates to measure shares at fair value in 

statements of earnings when the available-for-sale investment is sold or 

its fair value through profit or loss and available-for-sale portfolios.

impaired. Interest income earned on both fair value through profit or loss 

and available-for-sale bonds is recorded as investment income earned in the 

statements of earnings.

Mortgages and other loans, and Bonds classified as loans and receivables  Fair 

values for bonds and mortgages and other loans, classified as loans and 

receivables, are determined by discounting expected future cash flows using 

Investments in shares where a fair value cannot be measured reliably are 

current market rates.

classified as available for sale and carried at cost.

Investment properties  Fair values for investment properties are determined 

Investments in mortgages and other loans and bonds not normally actively 

using independent appraisal services and include management adjustments 

traded  on  a  public  market  and  other  loans  are  classified  as  loans  and 

for material changes in property cash flows, capital expenditures or general 

receivables and are carried at amortized cost net of any allowance for credit 

market conditions in the interim period between appraisals.

losses. Interest income earned and realized gains and losses on the sale of 

investments classified as loans and receivables are recorded in net investment 

income in the statements of earnings.

Impairment 

Investments are reviewed regularly on an individual basis to 

determine impairment status. The Corporation considers various factors in 

the impairment evaluation process, including, but not limited to, the financial 

Investment properties are real estate held to earn rental income or for 

condition of the issuer, specific adverse conditions affecting an industry 

capital appreciation. Investment properties are initially measured at cost 

or region, decline in fair value not related to interest rates, bankruptcy or 

and subsequently carried at fair value on the balance sheets. All changes 

defaults, and delinquency in payments of interest or principal. Impairment 

in fair value are recorded as net investment income in the statements of 

losses on available-for-sale shares are recorded if the loss is significant or 

earnings. Properties held to earn rental income or for capital appreciation 

prolonged and subsequent losses are recorded in net earnings.

that have an insignificant portion that is owner occupied or where there is no 

intent to occupy on a long-term basis are classified as investment properties. 

Properties that do not meet these criteria are classified as owner-occupied 

properties. Property that is leased that would otherwise be classified as 

investment property if owned by the Corporation is also included with 

investment properties.

Investments are deemed to be impaired when there is no longer reasonable 

assurance of timely collection of the full amount of the principal and interest 

due. The fair value of an investment is not a definitive indicator of impairment, 

as it may be significantly influenced by other factors, including the remaining 

term to maturity and liquidity of the asset. However, market price must be 

taken into consideration when evaluating impairment.

53
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

For impaired mortgages and other loans, and bonds classified as loans and 

of the underlying reinsurance contract. Reinsurance assets are reviewed for 

receivables, provisions are established or impairments recorded to adjust 

impairment on a regular basis for any events that may trigger impairment. 

the carrying value to the net realizable amount. Wherever possible the fair 

Lifeco  considers  various  factors  in  the  impairment  evaluation  process, 

value of collateral underlying the loans or observable market price is used to 

including, but not limited to, collectability of amounts due under the terms 

establish net realizable value. For impaired available-for-sale bonds, recorded 

of the contract. The carrying amount of a reinsurance asset is adjusted 

at fair value, the accumulated loss recorded in the investment revaluation 

through an allowance account with any impairment loss being recorded in 

reserves is reclassified to net investment income. Impairments on available-

the statements of earnings.

for-sale debt instruments are reversed if there is objective evidence that a 

permanent recovery has occurred. All gains and losses on bonds classified or 

designated as fair value through profit or loss are already recorded in earnings, 

therefore, a reduction due to impairment of these assets will be recorded in 

earnings. As well, when determined to be impaired, contractual interest is 

no longer accrued and previous interest accruals are reversed.

Fair value movement on the assets supporting insurance contract liabilities 

is a major factor in the movement of insurance contract liabilities. Changes 

Any gains or losses on buying reinsurance are recognized in the statement of 

earnings immediately at the date of purchase and are not amortized.

Premiums and claims ceded for reinsurance are deducted from premiums 

earned and insurance and investment contract benefits. Assets and liabilities 

related to reinsurance are reported on a gross basis in the balance sheets. The 

amount of liabilities ceded to reinsurers is estimated in a manner consistent 

with the claim liability associated with reinsured risks.

in the fair value of bonds designated or classified as fair value through 

DERECOG N ITION

profit or loss that support insurance contract liabilities are largely offset by 

IGM enters into transactions where it transfers financial assets recognized 

corresponding changes in the fair value of liabilities except when the bond 

on its balance sheets. The determination of whether the financial assets 

has been deemed impaired.

TR AN SACTION COSTS

Transaction costs are expensed as incurred for financial instruments classified 

or designated as fair value through profit or loss. Transaction costs for 

financial assets classified as available for sale or loans and receivables are 

added to the value of the instrument at acquisition and taken into net 

earnings using the effective interest method. Transaction costs for financial 

liabilities classified as other than fair value through profit or loss are deducted 

are derecognized is based on the extent to which the risks and rewards of 

ownership are transferred.

If substantially all of the risks and rewards of a financial asset are not retained, 

IGM derecognizes the financial asset. The gains or losses and the servicing 

fee revenue for financial assets that are derecognized are reported in net 

investment income in the statements of earnings.

If all or substantially all risks and rewards are retained, the financial assets 

are not derecognized and the transactions are accounted for as secured 

from the value of the instrument issued and taken into net earnings using the 

financing transactions.

effective interest method.

OWN ER- OCCU PIED PROPERTIES AN D CAPITAL AS SETS

INVESTM ENT IN JOINTLY CONTROLLED CORPOR ATION

Capital  assets  and  property  held  for  own  use  are  carried  at  cost  less 

A jointly controlled corporation is any entity in which unanimous consent is 

required over the entity’s management and operating and financial policy. 

The investment in the jointly controlled corporation is accounted for using the 

equity method. The share in net earnings of the jointly controlled corporation 

accumulated depreciation and impairments. Depreciation is charged to write 

off the cost of assets, using the straight-line method, over their estimated 

useful lives, which vary from 3 to 50 years. Capital assets are tested for 

impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 

is recognized in the statement of earnings, the share in other comprehensive 

carrying amount may not be recoverable.

income of the jointly controlled corporation is recognized in the statement 

>  Building, owner-occupied properties, and components 

10 – 50 years

of other comprehensive income and the change in equity is recognized in the 

statement of changes in equity.

LOAN S TO POLICYHOLDERS

>  Equipment, furniture and fixtures 

>  Other capital assets 

3 – 10 years

3 – 10 years

Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at least 

Loans to policyholders are shown at their unpaid principal balance and are 

annually and adjusted if necessary.

fully secured by the cash surrender values of the policies. The carrying value 

of loans to policyholders approximates fair value.

OTH ER AS SETS

REIN SU R ANCE CONTR ACTS

Trading account assets consist of investments in Putnam-sponsored funds, 

which are carried at fair value based on the net asset value of these funds. 

Lifeco, in the normal course of business, is both a user and a provider of 

Investments in these assets are included in other assets on the balance sheet 

reinsurance in order to limit the potential for losses arising from certain 

with realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in the statements 

exposures. Assumed reinsurance refers to the acceptance of certain insurance 

of earnings.

risks by Lifeco underwritten by another company. Ceded reinsurance refers 

to the transfer of insurance risk, along with the respective premiums, to 

one or more reinsurers who will share the risks. To the extent that assuming 

reinsurers are unable to meet their obligations, Lifeco remains liable to its 

Also included in other assets are deferred acquisition costs relating to 

investment contracts. Deferred acquisition costs are recognized if the costs 

are incremental and incurred due to the contract being issued.

policyholders for the portion reinsured. Consequently, allowances are made 

GOODWILL AN D INTANG IB LE AS SETS

for reinsurance contracts which are deemed uncollectible.

Goodwill represents the excess of purchase consideration over the fair value 

Assumed reinsurance premiums, commissions and claim settlements, as 

of net assets acquired. Following recognition, goodwill is measured at cost 

well as the reinsurance assets associated with insurance and investment 

less any accumulated impairment losses.

contracts, are accounted for in accordance with the terms and conditions 

54
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

Intangible assets represent finite life and indefinite life intangible assets 

IN SU R ANCE AN D INVESTM ENT CONTR ACT LIAB ILITIES

acquired and software acquired or internally developed by the Corporation 

Contract classification  Lifeco’s products are classified at contract inception, 

and its subsidiaries. Finite life intangible assets include the value of software, 

for accounting purposes, as insurance contracts or investment contracts, 

some customer contracts, distribution channels, distribution contracts, 

depending on the existence of significant insurance risk. Significant insurance 

deferred selling commissions, property leases and technology. Finite life 

risk exists when Lifeco agrees to compensate policyholders or beneficiaries 

intangible assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes 

of the contract for specified uncertain future events that adversely affect the 

in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. 

policyholder and whose amount and timing is unknown.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over 

their estimated useful lives, not exceeding a period of 30 years.

When significant insurance risk exists, the contract is accounted for as an 

insurance contract in accordance with IFRS 4, Insurance Contracts (IFRS 4). 

Commissions paid by IGM on the sale of certain mutual funds are deferred and 

Refer to Note 21 for a discussion of insurance risk.

amortized over their estimated useful lives, not exceeding a period of seven 

years. Commissions paid on the sale of deposits are deferred and amortized 

over their estimated useful lives, not exceeding a period of five years. When 

a client redeems units in mutual funds that are subject to a deferred sales 

charge, a redemption fee is paid by the client and is recorded as revenue by 

IGM. Any unamortized deferred selling commission asset on the initial sale 

of these mutual fund units is recorded as a disposal. IGM regularly reviews 

the carrying value of deferred selling commissions with respect to any events 

or circumstances that indicate impairment. Among the tests performed 

by IGM to assess recoverability is the comparison of the future economic 

benefits derived from the deferred selling commission asset in relation to 

its carrying value.

Indefinite  life  intangible  assets  include  brands  and  trademarks,  some 

customer contracts, the shareholders’ portion of acquired future participating 

account profits, trade names and mutual fund management contracts. 

Amounts are classified as indefinite life intangible assets when based on an 

In the absence of significant insurance risk, the contract is classified as an 

investment or service contract. Investment contracts with discretionary 

participating features are accounted for in accordance with IFRS 4 and 

investment contracts without discretionary participating features are 

accounted for in accordance with IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and 

Measurement. Lifeco has not classified any contracts as investment contracts 

with discretionary participating features.

Investment  contracts  may  be  reclassified  as  insurance  contracts  after 

inception if insurance risk becomes significant. A contract that is classified 

as an insurance contract at contract inception remains as such until all rights 

and obligations under the contract are extinguished or expire.

Investment contracts are contracts that carry financial risk, which is the 

risk of a possible future change in one or more of the following: interest rate, 

commodity price, foreign exchange rate, or credit rating. Refer to Note 21 for 

a discussion on risk management.

analysis of all the relevant factors, and when there is no foreseeable limit 

Measurement 

Insurance  contract  liabilities  represent  the  amounts 

to the period over which the asset is expected to generate net cash inflows 

required, in addition to future premiums and investment income, to provide 

for the Corporation. The identification of indefinite life intangible assets is 

for future benefit payments, policyholder dividends, commission and policy 

made by reference to relevant factors such as product life cycles, potential 

administrative  expenses  for  all  insurance  and  annuity  policies  in  force 

obsolescence, industry stability and competitive position.

with Lifeco. The Appointed Actuaries of Lifeco’s subsidiary companies are 

Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are tested for impairment 

annually or more frequently if events indicate that impairment may have 

occurred. Intangible assets that were previously impaired are reviewed 

at each reporting date for evidence of reversal. In the event that certain 

conditions have been met, the Corporation would be required to reverse the 

impairment charge or a portion thereof.

Goodwill has been allocated to groups of cash generating units (CGU), 

representing the lowest level in which goodwill is monitored for internal 

reporting purposes. Goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing the 

carrying value of the groups of CGU to the recoverable amount to which the 

goodwill has been allocated. Intangible assets are tested for impairment by 

comparing the asset’s carrying amount to its recoverable amount.

An  impairment  loss  is  recognized  for  the  amount  by  which  the  asset’s 

carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount 

is the higher of the asset’s fair value less cost to sell or value in use, which is 

calculated using the present value of estimated future cash flows expected 

to be generated.

SEG REGATED FU N DS

Segregated fund assets and liabilities arise from contracts where all financial 

risks associated with the related assets are borne by policyholders and are 

presented separately in the balance sheets at fair value. Investment income 

and changes in fair value of the segregated fund assets are offset by a 

corresponding change in the segregated fund liabilities.

responsible for determining the amount of the liabilities to make appropriate 

provisions for Lifeco’s obligations to policyholders. The Appointed Actuaries 

determine the liabilities for insurance contracts and investment contracts 

using generally accepted actuarial practices, according to the standards 

established by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries. The valuation uses the 

Canadian Asset Liability Method (CALM). This method involves the projection 

of future events in order to determine the amount of assets that must be set 

aside currently to provide for all future obligations and involves a significant 

amount of judgment.

Insurance contract liabilities are computed with the result that benefits and 

expenses are matched with premium income. Under fair value accounting, 

movement in the fair value of the supporting assets is a major factor in the 

movement of insurance contract liabilities. Changes in the fair value of assets 

are largely offset by corresponding changes in the fair value of liabilities.

Investment contract liabilities are measured at fair value through profit and 

loss, except for certain annuity products measured at amortized cost.

DEFERRED INCOM E RESERVES

Included  in  other  liabilities  are  deferred  income  reser ves  relating  to 

investment contract liabilities. Deferred income reserves are amortized on 

a straight-line basis to recognize the initial policy fees over the policy term, 

not to exceed 20 years.

55
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

POLICYHOLDER B EN EFITS

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL IN STRU M ENTS

Policyholder benefits include benefits and claims on life insurance contracts, 

The  Corporation  and  its  subsidiaries  use  derivative  products  as  risk 

maturity payments, annuity payments and surrenders. Gross benefits and 

management instruments to hedge or manage asset, liability and capital 

claims for life insurance contracts include the cost of all claims arising during 

positions, including revenues. The Corporation’s policy guidelines prohibit 

the year and settlement of claims. Death claims and surrenders are recorded 

the use of derivative instruments for speculative trading purposes.

on the basis of notifications received. Maturities and annuity payments are 

recorded when due.

FINANCIAL LIAB ILITIES

Financial liabilities, other than insurance and investment contract liabilities, 

are classified as other liabilities. Debentures and debt instruments, capital 

trust securities and other liabilities are initially recorded on the balance 

sheets at fair value and subsequently carried at amortized cost using the 

effective interest rate method with amortization expense recorded in the 

statements of earnings.

EQ U IT Y

Financial instruments issued by the Corporation are classified as stated 

capital if they represent a residual interest in the assets of the Corporation. 

Preferred shares are classified as equity if they are non-redeemable, or 

retractable  only  at  the  Corporation’s  option  and  any  dividends  are 

discretionary. Incremental costs that are directly attributable to the issue 

of share capital are recognized as a deduction from equity, net of income tax.

Reser ves  are  composed  of  share-based  compensation  and  other 

comprehensive income. Share-based compensation represents the vesting 

of share options less share options exercised.

Other comprehensive income represents the total of the unrealized foreign 

exchange gains (losses) on translation of foreign operations, the unrealized 

gains (losses) on available-for-sale assets, the unrealized gains (losses) on 

cash flow hedges, and the share of other comprehensive income of the jointly 

controlled corporation.

Non-controlling  interest  represents  the  proportion  of  equity  that  is 

attributable to minority shareholders.

SHARE- BASED PAYM ENTS

The fair value-based method of accounting is used for the valuation of 

compensation expense for options granted to employees. Compensation 

expense  is  recognized  as  an  increase  to  operating  and  administrative 

expenses in the statements of earnings over the period that the stock 

options vest, with a corresponding increase in share-based compensation 

reserves. When the stock options are exercised, the proceeds, together with 

All derivatives are recorded at fair value on the balance sheets. The method 

of recognizing unrealized and realized fair value gains and losses depends 

on whether the derivatives are designated as hedging instruments. For 

derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments, unrealized 

and realized gains and losses are recorded in net investment income on the 

statements of earnings. For derivatives designated as hedging instruments, 

unrealized and realized gains and losses are recognized according to the 

nature of the hedged item.

Derivatives are valued using market transactions and other market evidence 

whenever possible, including market-based inputs to models, 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 contractual terms of, and specific risks 

inherent in the instrument, as well as the availability of pricing information 

in the market. The Corporation 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.

To  qualify  for  hedge  accounting,  the  relationship  between  the  hedged 

item and the hedging instrument must meet several strict conditions on 

documentation, probability of occurrence, hedge effectiveness and reliability 

of measurement. If these conditions are not met, then the relationship 

does not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and both the hedged item 

and the hedging instrument are reported independently, as if there was no 

hedging relationship.

Where a hedging relationship exists, the Corporation documents all relationships 

between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management 

objectives and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process 

includes linking derivatives that are used in hedging transactions to specific 

assets and liabilities on the balance sheets or to specific firm commitments or 

forecasted transactions. The Corporation also assesses, both at the hedge’s 

inception and on an ongoing basis, whether derivatives that are used in 

hedging transactions are effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash 

flows of hedged items. Hedge effectiveness is reviewed quarterly through 

correlation testing.

the amount recorded in share-based compensation reserves, are added to 

Fair value hedges  For fair value hedges, changes in fair value of both the 

the stated capital of the entity issuing the corresponding shares.

hedging instrument and the hedged item are recorded in net investment income 

Lifeco follows the liability method of accounting for share-based awards 

issued by its subsidiaries Putnam and PanAgora Asset Management, Inc. 

and consequently any ineffective portion of the hedge is recorded immediately 

in net investment income.

Compensation expense is recognized as an increase to operating expenses in 

Cash flow hedges  For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the changes 

the statements of earnings and a liability is recognized on the balance sheets 

in fair value of the hedging instrument is recorded in the same manner as the 

over the vesting period of the share-based awards. The liability is remeasured 

hedged item in either net investment income or other comprehensive income, 

at fair value at each reporting period with the change in the liability recorded 

while the ineffective portion is recognized immediately in net investment income. 

in operating expense and is settled in cash when the shares are purchased 

Gains and losses on cash flow hedges that accumulate in other comprehensive 

from employees.

REPU RCHASE AG REEM ENTS

income are recorded in net investment income in the same period the hedged 

item affects net earnings. Gains and losses on cash flow hedges are immediately 

reclassified from other comprehensive income to net investment income if and 

Lifeco enters into repurchase agreements with third-party broker-dealers in 

when it is probable that a forecasted transaction is no longer expected to occur.

which Lifeco sells securities and agrees to repurchase substantially similar 

securities at a specified date and price. As substantially all of the risks and 

rewards of ownership of assets are retained, Lifeco does not derecognize 

the assets. Such agreements are accounted for as investment financings.

56
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

Net investment hedges  Foreign exchange forward contracts may be used 

The Corporation and its subsidiaries also have unfunded supplementary 

to hedge net investment in foreign operations. Changes in the fair value of 

pension plans for certain employees. Pension expense related to current 

these hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income. Hedge accounting 

services is charged to earnings in the period during which the services 

is discontinued when the hedging no longer qualifies for hedge accounting.

are rendered.

EM B EDDED DERIVATIVES

An embedded derivative is a component of a host contract that modifies 

the cash flows of the host contract in a manner similar to a derivative, 

according to a specified interest rate, financial instrument price, foreign 

exchange rate, underlying index or other variable. Embedded derivatives are 

treated as separate contracts and are recorded at fair value if their economic 

characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contract 

and the host contract is not itself recorded at fair value through the statement 

of earnings. Embedded derivatives that meet the definition of an insurance 

contract are accounted for and measured as an insurance contract.

FOREIG N CU RRENCY TR AN SL ATION

In  addition,  the  Corporation  and  its  subsidiaries  provide  certain  post-

employment healthcare, dental, and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees, 

employees and advisors. The current cost of post-employment health, dental 

and life benefits is charged to earnings using the projected unit credit method 

pro-rated on services.

FU N DS H ELD BY CEDING IN SU RERS /   
FU N DS H ELD U N DER REIN SU R ANCE CONTR ACTS

Under certain forms of reinsurance contracts, it is customary for the ceding 

insurer to retain possession of the assets supporting the liabilities ceded. 

Lifeco records an amount receivable from the ceding insurer or payable to 

the reinsurer representing the premium due. Investment revenue on these 

funds withheld is credited by the ceding insurer.

The  Corporation  and  its  subsidiaries  operate  with  multiple  functional 

currencies. The Corporation’s financial statements are prepared in Canadian 

INCOM E TA XES

dollars, which is the functional and presentation currency of the Corporation.

The income tax expense for the period represents the sum of current income 

For the purpose of presenting financial statements, assets and liabilities are 

tax and deferred income tax. Income tax is recognized as an expense or 

translated into Canadian dollars at the rate of exchange prevailing at the 

income in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to items that are 

balance sheet dates and all income and expenses are translated at an average 

recognized outside profit or loss (whether in other comprehensive income 

of daily rates. Unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses on the 

or directly in equity), in which case the income tax is also recognized outside 

Corporation’s net investment in its foreign operations and a jointly controlled 

profit or loss.

corporation are presented separately as a component of other comprehensive 

income. Unrealized gains and losses are recognized in earnings when there 

has been a disposal of a foreign operation or a jointly controlled corporation.

Current income tax  Current income tax is based on taxable income for 

the year. Current tax liabilities (assets) for the current and prior periods are 

measured at the amount expected to be paid to (recovered from) the taxation 

All other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated 

authorities using the rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted 

into each entity’s functional currency at exchange rates prevailing at the 

at the balance sheet date. Current tax assets and current income tax liabilities 

balance sheet dates for monetary items and at exchange rates prevailing 

are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to offset the recognized amounts 

at the transaction dates for non-monetary items. Realized and unrealized 

and the entity intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realize the assets 

exchange gains and losses are included in net investment income and are not 

and settle the liability simultaneously.

material to the financial statements of the Corporation.

PEN SION PL AN S AN D OTH ER 
POST- EM PLOYM ENT B EN EFITS

The Corporation and its subsidiaries maintain defined benefit pension plans as 

well as defined contribution pension plans for eligible employees and advisors.

Deferred income tax  Deferred income tax is the tax expected to be payable 

or recoverable on tax loss carry forwards and on differences arising between 

the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and 

the corresponding bases used in the computation of taxable income and is 

accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities 

are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax 

The plans provide pension based on length of service and final average 

assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be 

earnings. The benefit obligation is actuarially determined and accrued 

available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilized. Such 

using the projected benefit method pro-rated on service. Pension expense 

assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary difference arises from 

consists of the aggregate of the actuarially computed cost of pension benefits 

the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business 

provided in respect of the current year’s service, and imputed interest on the 

combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor 

accrued benefit obligation, less expected returns on plan assets, which are 

taxable profit or loss.

valued at market value. Past service costs are amortized on a straight-line 

basis over the average period until the benefits become vested. Vested past 

service costs are recognized immediately in pension expense. For the defined 

benefit plans, actuarial gains and losses are amortized into the statements of 

earnings using the straight-line method over the average remaining working 

life of employees covered by the plan to the extent that the net cumulative 

unrecognized actuarial gains and losses at the end of the previous reporting 

period exceed corridor limits. The corridor is defined as ten per cent of the 

greater of the present value of the defined benefit obligation or the fair value 

of plan assets. The amortization charge is reassessed at the beginning of each 

year. The cost of pension benefits is charged to earnings using the projected 

benefit method pro-rated on services.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates expected to apply 

in the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on tax rates 

(and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance 

sheet date. Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally 

enforceable right exists to net current tax assets against current income tax 

liabilities and the deferred income taxes relate to the same taxable entity and 

the same taxation authority.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date 

and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable 

profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilized. 

57
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

Unrecognized deferred tax assets are reassessed at each balance sheet date and 

In accordance with the transitional provisions in IAS 19, this change in 

are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit 

IFRS will be applied retroactively and is anticipated to decrease equity by 

will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

approximately $470 million at January 1, 2012 (decrease of $330 million in 

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on 

investments in the subsidiaries and a jointly controlled corporation, except where 

the group controls the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is 

probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Under the balance sheet liability method, a provision for tax uncertainties which 

meet the probable threshold for recognition is measured. Measurement of the 

provision is based on the probability weighted average approach.

LEASES

shareholders’ equity and $140 million in non-controlling interests) with an 

additional decrease to equity by approximately $240 million at January 1, 2013 

(decrease of $165 million in shareholders’ equity and $75 million in non-

controlling interests). Furthermore, the effect of applying this standard 

retroactively will decrease earnings before tax by approximately $12 million 

for the year ended December 31, 2012.

IFRS 10 — Consolidated Financial Statements  Effective for the Corporation 

on January 1, 2013, IFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements uses consolidation 

principles based on a revised definition of control. The definition of control 

Leases  that  do  not  transfer  substantially  all  the  risks  and  rewards  of 

is dependent on the power of the investor to direct the activities of the 

ownership are classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating 

investee, the ability of the investor to derive variable returns from its holdings 

leases, where the Corporation is the lessee, are charged to net earnings over 

in the investee, and a direct link between the power to direct activities and 

the period of use.

receive benefits.

Where  the  Corporation  is  the  lessor  under  an  operating  lease  for  its 

The IASB issued amendments to IFRS 10 and IFRS 12 in October 2012 that 

investment  property,  the  assets  subject  to  the  lease  arrangement  are 

introduced an exception from consolidation for the controlled entities of 

presented within the balance sheets. Income from these leases is recognized 

investment entities. Lifeco continues to review the financial reporting of 

in the statements of earnings on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

the segregated funds for the risk of policyholders presented within Lifeco’s 

financial statements to determine whether it would be different than the 

EARN ING S PER SHARE

current reporting under IFRS.

Basic earnings per share is determined by dividing net earnings available to 

common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares 

outstanding for the year. Diluted earnings per share is determined using the 

same method as basic earnings per share, except that the weighted average 

number of common shares outstanding includes the potential dilutive effect 

of outstanding stock options granted by the Corporation and its subsidiaries, 

as determined by the treasury stock method.

FUTU RE ACCOU NTING CHANG ES

The Corporation continuously monitors the potential changes proposed by 

the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and analyzes the effect 

that changes in the standards may have on the Corporation’s consolidated 

financial statements when they become effective.

IFRS 11 — Joint Arrangements  Effective for the Corporation on January 1, 

2013, IFRS 11, Joint Arrangements separates jointly controlled entities between 

joint operations and joint ventures. The standard eliminates the option 

of using proportionate consolidation in accounting for interests in joint 

ventures, requiring an entity to use the equity method of accounting. The 

standard is not expected to have a significant impact on the Corporation’s 

financial position or results of operations.

IFRS  12 — Disclosure  of  Interest  in  Other  Entities  Effective  for  the 

Corporation on January 1, 2013, IFRS 12, Disclosure of Interest in Other Entities 

proposes new disclosure requirements for the interest an entity has in 

subsidiaries,  joint  arrangements,  associates,  and  structured  entities. 

The standard requires enhanced disclosure, including how control was 

determined and any restrictions that might exist on consolidated assets and 

E FFEC TI V E FO R T H E CO R P O R ATI O N I N 2 01 3

liabilities presented within the financial statements. The standard is expected 

IAS 19 — Employee Benefits  Effective on January 1, 2013, the Corporation 

to result in additional disclosures.

adopted the amended IAS 19, Employee Benefits. The amended IAS 19 includes 

IFRS  13 — Fair  Value  Measurement  Effective  for  the  Corporation  on 

requirements for the measurement, presentation and disclosure for defined 

January 1, 2013, IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement provides guidance to increase 

benefit plans. Amendments include:

>  The elimination of the deferral and amortization approach (corridor 

approach) for recognizing actuarial gains and losses in net earnings. 

Actuarial gains and losses will be recognized in other comprehensive 

income. Actuarial gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive 

consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related 

disclosures through a “fair value hierarchy”. The hierarchy categorizes the 

inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels. The hierarchy gives the 

highest priority to (unadjusted) quoted prices in active markets for identical 

assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs.

income will not be reclassified to net earnings in subsequent periods.

This standard relates primarily to disclosure and will not impact the financial 

>  The elimination of the concept of an expected return on assets (EROA). 

results of the Corporation.

Amended IAS 19 requires the use of the discount rate in the place of EROA 

IAS 1 — Presentation of Financial Statements  Effective for the Corporation 

in the determination of the net interest component of the pension expense. 

on  Januar y  1,  2013,  IAS  1,  Presentation  of  Financial  Statements  includes 

This discount rate is determined by reference to market yields at the end 

requirements that other comprehensive income be classified by nature and 

of the reporting period on high-quality corporate bonds.

grouped between those items that will be classified subsequently to profit or 

>  Changes  in  the  recognition  of  past  service  costs.  Past  service  costs 

loss (when specific conditions are met) and those that will not be reclassified.

resulting from plan amendments or curtailments will be recognized in 

This revised standard relates only to presentation and will not impact the 

net earnings in the period in which the plan amendments or curtailments 

financial results of the Corporation.

occur, without regard to vesting.

58
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 2  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

IFRS 7 — Financial Instruments: Disclosure  Effective for the Corporation 

The new standard also requires:

on January 1, 2013, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 7 regarding disclosure 

of offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities. The amendments 

will allow users of financial statements to improve their understanding 

of transfer transactions of financial assets (for example, securitizations), 

including understanding the possible effects of any risks that may remain 

>  embedded derivatives to be assessed for classification together with their 

financial asset host;

>  an expected loss impairment method be used for financial assets; and

>  amendments  to  the  criteria  for  hedge  accounting  and  measuring 

with the entity that transferred the assets. The amendments also require 

effectiveness.

additional disclosures if a disproportionate amount of transfer transactions 

The full impact of IFRS 9 on the Corporation will be evaluated after the remaining 

are undertaken near the end of a reporting period.

This revised standard relates only to disclosure and will not impact the 

financial results of the Corporation.

E FFEC TI V E FO R T H E CO R P O R ATI O N 
S U B S EQ U E N T TO 2 01 3

IFRS 4 — Insurance Contracts  The IASB issued an exposure draft proposing 

changes to the accounting standard for insurance contracts in July 2010. The 

proposal would require an insurer to measure insurance liabilities using a model 

focusing on the amount, timing, and uncertainty of future cash flows associated 

with fulfilling its insurance contracts. This is vastly different from the connection 

between insurance assets and liabilities considered under the Canadian Asset 

Liability Method (CALM) and may cause significant volatility in the results 

of Lifeco. The exposure draft also proposes changes to the presentation and 

disclosure within the financial statements.

Since the release of the exposure draft, there have been discussions within 

the insurance industry and between accounting standards setters globally 

recommending significant changes to the 2010 exposure draft. At this time no 

stages of the IASB’s project to replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition 

and Measurement — impairment methodology, hedge accounting, and asset 

and liability offsetting — are finalized. The current timetable for adoption of 

IFRS 9, Financial Instruments is for the annual period beginning January 1, 2015; 

however, the Corporation continues to monitor this standard in conjunction 

with developments to IFRS 4.

IAS 32 — Financial Instruments: Presentation  Effective for the Corporation 

on January 1, 2014, IAS 32, Financial Instruments: Presentation clarifies the existing 

requirements for offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities.

The  Corporation  is  evaluating  the  impact  this  standard  will  have  on  the 

presentation of its financial statements.

E X P O S U R E D R A F T S N OT Y E T E FFEC TI V E

IAS  17 — Leases  The  IASB  issued  an  exposure  draft  proposing  a  new 

accounting model for leases where both lessees and lessors would record 

the assets and liabilities on the balance sheet at the present value of the lease 

payments arising from all lease contracts. The new classification would be 

the right-of-use model, replacing the operating and finance lease accounting 

new standard has been either re-exposed or released.

models that currently exist.

Lifeco will continue to measure insurance contract liabilities using the Canadian 

The full impact of adoption of the proposed changes will be determined once 

Asset Liability Method until such time when a new IFRS for insurance contract 

the final leases standard is issued.

measurement is issued. A final standard is not expected to be implemented for 

several years; Lifeco continues to actively monitor developments in this area.

IFRS 9 — Financial Instruments  Effective for the Corporation on January 1, 

2015, IFRS 9, Financial Instruments requires all financial assets to be classified on 

initial recognition at amortized cost or fair value while eliminating the existing 

IAS 18 — Revenue  The IASB issued a second exposure draft in November 2011 

which proposed a single revenue recognition standard to align the financial 

reporting of revenue from contracts with customers and related costs. 

A company would recognize revenue when it transfers goods or services 

to a customer in the amount of the consideration the company expects to 

categories of available for sale, held to maturity, and loans and receivables.

receive from the customer.

The full impact of adoption of the proposed changes will be determined 

once the final revenue recognition standard is issued, which is targeted for 

release in 2013.

NOTE 3  CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

DECEMBER 31

Cash

Cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents

2012

1,152

2,161

3,313

2011

912

2,473

3,385

59
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 4  INVESTMENTS

CARRYING VALU ES AN D FAIR VALU ES

Carrying values and estimated fair values of investments are as follows:

DECEMBER 31

Bonds

Designated as fair value through profit or loss [1]

Classified as fair value through profit or loss [1]

Available for sale

Loans and receivables

Mortgages and other loans

Loans and receivables

Designated as fair value through profit or loss [1]

Shares

Designated as fair value through profit or loss [1]

Available for sale

Investment properties

Loans to policyholders

CARRYING 
VALUE

2012

FAIR 
VALUE

CARRYING 
VALUE

2011

FAIR 
VALUE

62,963

62,963

60,112

60,112

2,113

7,377

10,934

83,387

2,113

7,377

12,438

84,891

1,853

7,050

9,744

78,759

1,853

7,050

10,785

79,800

22,548

23,787

21,226

22,514

249

249

292

292

22,797

24,036

21,518

22,806

5,971

825

6,796

3,525

7,082

5,971

825

6,796

3,525

7,082

5,502

900

6,402

3,201

7,162

5,502

900

6,402

3,201

7,162

123,587

126,330

117,042

119,371

[1]  Investments can be categorized as fair value through profit or loss in two ways: designated as fair value through profit or loss at the option of management, or 

classified as fair value through profit or loss if they are actively traded for the purpose of earning investment income.

BON DS AN D MORTGAG ES

Carrying value of bonds and mortgages due over the current and non-current term are as follows:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Bonds

Mortgage loans

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Bonds

Mortgage loans

1 YEAR OR LESS

8,351

2,057

10,408

1 YEAR OR LESS

7,627

2,042

9,669

1–5 YEARS

16,899

10,069

26,968

1–5 YEARS

17,450

8,916

26,366

TERM TO MATURIT Y

OVER 5 YEARS

57,744

10,401

68,145

TERM TO MATURIT Y

OVER 5 YEARS

53,367

10,249

63,616

CARRYING VALUE

TOTAL

82,994

22,527

105,521

CARRYING VALUE

TOTAL

78,444

21,207

99,651

The above table excludes the carrying value of impaired bonds and mortgages, as the ultimate timing of collectability is uncertain.

60
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 4  INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)

IM PAIRED INVESTM ENTS , ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOS SES , INVESTM ENTS WITH RESTRUCTU RED TERM S

Carrying amount of impaired investments

DECEMBER 31

Impaired amounts by type

Fair value through profit or loss

Available for sale

Loans and receivables

Total

2012

365

27

41

433

2011

290

51

36

377

The allowance for credit losses and changes in the allowance for credit losses related to investments classified as loans and receivables are as follows:

Balance, beginning of year

Net provision (recovery) for credit losses

Write-offs, net of recoveries

Other (including foreign exchange rate changes)

Balance, end of year

2012

37

(9)

(5)

(1)

22

2011

68

(13)

(15)

(3)

37

The allowance for credit losses is supplemented by the provision for future credit losses included in insurance contract liabilities.

N ET INVESTM ENT INCOM E

2012

Regular net investment income:

Investment income earned

Net realized gains (losses) (available for sale)

Net realized gains (losses) (other classifications)

Net recovery (provision) for credit losses (loans and receivables)

Other income (expenses)

Changes in fair value on fair value through profit or loss assets:

Net realized/unrealized gains (losses) (classified fair value through 

profit or loss)

Net realized/unrealized gains (losses) (designated fair value 

through profit or loss)

Net investment income

BONDS

3,698

124

10

1

–

3,833

22

2,196

2,218

6,051

MORTGAGE 
AND OTHER
LOANS

SHARES

INVESTMENT 
PROPERTIES

OTHER

TOTAL

230

255

532

946

–

46

8

(12)

988

5

–

5

993

2

2

–

–

234

–

389

389

623

–

–

–

(63)

192

–

104

104

296

–

1

–

(69)

464

5,661

126

59

9

(144)

5,711

2

29

(68)

(66)

398

2,621

2,650

8,361

61
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 4  INVESTMENTS (CONTINUED)

2011

Regular net investment income:

Investment income earned

Net realized gains (losses) (available for sale)

Net realized gains (losses) (other classifications)

Net recovery (provision) for credit losses (loans and receivables)

Other income (expenses)

Changes in fair value on fair value through profit or loss assets:

Net realized/unrealized gains (losses) (classified fair value through 

profit or loss)

Net realized/unrealized gains (losses) (designated fair value 

through profit or loss)

Net investment income

MORTGAGE 
AND OTHER
LOANS

SHARES

INVESTMENT 
PROPERTIES

OTHER

TOTAL

940

190

254

396

BONDS

3,780

119

11

20

–

–

33

(7)

(2)

7

–

–

–

3,930

964

197

74

4,166

4,240

8,170

–

(7)

(7)

957

–

(280)

(280)

(83)

–

–

–

(65)

189

–

143

143

332

–

–

–

(66)

330

–

58

58

388

5,560

126

44

13

(133)

5,610

74

4,080

4,154

9,764

Investment  income  earned  comprises  income  from  investments  that 

distributions. Investment properties income includes rental income earned 

are classified as available for sale, loans and receivables and classified or 

on investment properties, ground rent income earned on leased and sub-

designated as fair value through profit or loss. Investment income from 

leased land, fee recoveries, lease cancellation income, and interest and other 

bonds and mortgages and other loans includes interest income and premium 

investment income earned on investment properties.

and discount amortization. Income from shares includes dividends and 

INVESTM ENT PROPERTIES

The carrying value of investment properties and changes in the carrying value of investment properties are as follows:

Balance, beginning of year

Additions

Change in fair value through profit or loss

Disposals

Foreign exchange rate changes

Balance, end of year

2012

3,201

166

104

–

54

3,525

2011

2,957

161

143

(99)

39

3,201

TR AN SFERRED FINANCIAL AS SETS

or refunds additional collateral as the fair value of the loaned securities 

Lifeco engages in securities lending to generate additional income. Lifeco’s 

fluctuates. Included in the collateral deposited with Lifeco’s lending agent is 

securities custodians are used as lending agents. Collateral, which exceeds 

cash collateral of $141 million as at December 31, 2012. In addition, the securities 

the market value of the loaned securities, is deposited by the borrower 

lending agent indemnifies Lifeco against borrower risk, meaning that the 

with Lifeco’s lending agent and maintained by the lending agent until the 

lending agent agrees contractually to replace securities not returned due 

underlying security has been returned. The market value of the loaned 

to a borrower default. As at December 31, 2012, Lifeco had loaned securities 

securities is monitored on a daily basis by the lending agent, who obtains 

(which are included in invested assets) with a market value of $5,930 million.

62
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 5  FUNDS HELD BY CEDING INSURERS

Included in funds held by ceding insurers of $10,537 million at December 31, 2012 

on the portfolio of assets included in the amounts on deposit. These amounts 

($9,923 million at December 31, 2011) is an agreement with Standard Life 

on deposit are included in funds held by ceding insurers on the balance 

Assurance Limited (Standard Life). During 2008, Canada Life International Re 

sheets. Income and expenses arising from the agreement are included in net 

Limited (CLIRE), Lifeco’s indirect wholly owned Irish reinsurance subsidiary, 

investment income on the statements of earnings.

signed an agreement with Standard Life, a U.K.-based provider of life, pension 

and investment products, to assume by way of indemnity reinsurance a large 

block of payout annuities. Under the agreement, CLIRE is required to put 

amounts on deposit with Standard Life and CLIRE has assumed the credit risk 

At  December  31,  2012  CLIRE  had  amounts  on  deposit  of  $9,951  million 

($9,411 million at December 31, 2011).

The details of the funds on deposit and related credit risk on the funds are 

as follows:

Carrying values and estimated fair values:

DECEMBER 31

Cash and cash equivalents

Bonds

Other assets

Supporting:

Reinsurance liabilities

Surplus

CARRYING 
VALUE

120

9,655

176

9,951

9,406

545

9,951

The following table provides details of the carrying value of bonds included in the funds on deposit by industry sector:

DECEMBER 31

Bonds issued or guaranteed by:

Canadian federal government

Provincial, state and municipal governments

U.S. treasury and other U.S. agencies

Other foreign governments

Government-related

Supranationals

Asset-backed securities

Residential mortgage-backed securities

Banks

Other financial institutions

Basic materials

Communications

Consumer products

Industrial products/services

Natural resources

Real estate

Transportation

Utilities

Miscellaneous

Total bonds

CARRYING 
VALUE

49

9,182

180

9,411

9,082

329

9,411

2012

FAIR 
VALUE

120

9,655

176

9,951

9,406

545

9,951

2012

71

16

16

2,455

443

172

258

87

2,070

1,007

58

224

617

31

320

475

145

1,119

71

9,655

2011

FAIR 
VALUE

49

9,182

180

9,411

9,082

329

9,411

2011

–

88

–

3,074

369

128

242

73

1,807

747

21

239

404

26

220

381

117

1,135

111

9,182

63
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 5  FUNDS HELD BY CEDING INSURERS (CONTINUED)

The following table provides details of the carrying value of bonds by asset quality:

BOND PORTFOLIO QUALIT Y
DECEMBER 31

AAA

AA

A

BBB

BB and lower

Total bonds

 2012

3,103

2,183

3,539

507

323

9,655

NOTE 6  INVESTMENT IN JOINTLY CONTROLLED CORPORATION

As at December 31, 2012, Parjointco, 50% held by the Corporation, held a 55.6% equity interest in Pargesa (56.5% as at December 31, 2011).

Pargesa’s financial information as at December 31, 2012 can be obtained in its publicly available information.

Carrying value of the investment in a jointly controlled corporation is as follows:

Carrying value, beginning of year

Share of earnings (losses)

Share of other comprehensive income (loss)

Dividends

Other

Carrying value, end of year

2012

2,222

134

(100)

(65)

(42)

2,149

 2011

3,520

1,819

3,116

468

259

9,182

2011

2,448

(20)

(222)

–

16

2,222

During 2012, Pargesa recorded an impairment charge on its investment in 

led to determining a value in use below the existing carrying value. The 

GDF Suez. The Corporation’s net share of this charge was $48 million.

impairment recorded results in a reduction of the carrying value of Lafarge. 

During 2011, Pargesa recorded an impairment charge on its investment in 

The Corporation’s share of this charge was $133 million.

Lafarge SA. An impairment test was performed as Lafarge’s share price 

The fair value of the Corporation’s indirect interest in Pargesa is approximately 

has persistently been at a level significantly below its carrying value. In 

$2,300 million as at December 31, 2012. The carrying value of the investment 

2011, the test was renewed in a weakened economic environment, and 

in Pargesa, adjusted for investment revaluation reserve, is $1,700 million.

64
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 7  OWNER-OCCUPIED PROPERTIES AND CAPITAL ASSETS

The carrying value of owner-occupied properties and capital assets and the changes in the carrying value of owner-occupied properties and capital assets 

are as follows:

DECEMBER 31

Cost, beginning of year

Additions

Disposal

Change in foreign exchange rates

Cost, end of year

Accumulated amortization, beginning of year

Amortization

Disposal

Change in foreign exchange rates

Accumulated amortization, end of year

Carrying value, end of year

OWNER-
OCCUPIED 
PROPERTIES

577

33

–

(3)

607

(36)

(7)

–

–

(43)

564

2012

CAPITAL 
ASSETS

846

93

(32)

–

907

(649)

(52)

24

(3)

(680)

227

OWNER-
OCCUPIED 
PROPERTIES

521

52

–

4

577

(32)

(4)

–

–

(36)

541

The following table provides details of the carrying value of owner-occupied properties and capital assets by geographic location:

DECEMBER 31

Canada

United States

Europe

NOTE 8  OTHER ASSETS

DECEMBER 31

Accounts receivable

Interest due and accrued

Income taxes receivable

Premiums in course of collection

Deferred acquisition costs

Trading account assets

Prepaid expenses

Accrued benefit asset [Note 24]

Other

2012

589

172

30

791

2012

1,285

1,096

204

484

541

313

120

495

830

2011

CAPITAL 
ASSETS

802

77

(16)

(17)

846

(626)

(52)

11

18

(649)

197

2011

536

175

27

738

2011

1,095

1,106

181

422

529

207

129

456

528

It is expected that $4,248 million of other assets will be realized within 12 months from the reporting date.

Changes in deferred acquisition costs for investment contracts are as follows:

Balance, beginning of year

Additions

Amortization

Foreign exchange

Disposals

Balance, end of year

5,368

4,653

2012

529

120

(69)

9

(48)

541

2011

508

123

(71)

6

(37)

529

65
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 9  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

GOODWILL

The carrying value of the goodwill and changes in the carrying value of the goodwill are as follows:

DECEMBER 31

Balance, beginning of year

Change in foreign exchange rates

Other

Balance, end of year

INTANG IB LE AS SETS

2012

2011

COST

ACCUMUL ATED 
IMPAIRMENT

CARRYING 
VALUE

COST

ACCUMUL ATED 
IMPAIRMENT

CARRYING 
VALUE

9,703

(31)

(109)

9,563

(917)

8,786

9,607

27

–

(4)

(109)

31

65

(890)

(27)

–

8,717

4

65

(890)

8,673

9,703

(917)

8,786

The carrying value of the intangible assets and changes in the carrying value of the intangible assets are as follows:

I N D E FI N IT E LI FE I N TA N G I B LE A S S E T S

BRANDS AND 
TRADEMARKS

CUSTOMER 
CONTRACT-
RELATED

SHAREHOLDER 
PORTION OF 
ACQUIRED 
FUTURE 
 PARTICIPATING 
ACCOUNT PROFIT

TRADE NAMES

MUTUAL FUND 
MANAGEMENT 
CONTRACTS

2,321

(57)

2,264

(825)

23

(802)

354

–

354

–

–

–

285

–

285

–

–

–

740

–

740

–

–

–

1,462

354

285

740

3,467

BRANDS AND 
TRADEMARKS

CUSTOMER 
CONTRACT-
RELATED

SHAREHOLDER 
PORTION OF 
ACQUIRED 
FUTURE 
 PARTICIPATING 
ACCOUNT PROFIT

TRADE NAMES

MUTUAL FUND 
MANAGEMENT 
CONTRACTS

2,264

57

2,321

(801)

(24)

(825)

354

–

354

–

–

–

285

–

285

–

–

–

740

–

740

–

–

–

1,496

354

285

740

3,507

TOTAL

4,426

(66)

4,360

(919)

26

(893)

TOTAL

4,357

69

4,426

(892)

(27)

(919)

726

(9)

717

(94)

3

(91)

626

714

12

726

(91)

(3)

(94)

632

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Cost, beginning of year

Change in foreign exchange rates

Cost, end of year

Accumulated impairment, beginning of year

Change in foreign exchange rates

Accumulated impairment, end of year

Carrying value, end of year

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Cost, beginning of year

Change in foreign exchange rates

Cost, end of year

Accumulated impairment, beginning of year

Change in foreign exchange rates

Accumulated impairment, end of year

Carrying value, end of year

66
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 9  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (CONTINUED)

FI N IT E LI FE I N TA N G I B LE A S S E T S

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Cost, beginning of year

Additions

Disposal/redemption

Change in foreign exchange rates

Other, including write-off of assets fully amortized

Cost, end of year

Accumulated amortization, beginning of year

Amortization

Disposal/redemption

Other, including write-off of assets fully amortized

Accumulated amortization, end of year

Carrying value, end of year

CUSTOMER 
CONTRACT-
RELATED

DISTRIBUTION 
CHANNELS

DISTRIBUTION 
CONTRAC TS

TECHNOLOGY 
AND  
PROPERT Y 
LEASES

SOFT WARE

DEFERRED 
SELLING 
COMMISSIONS

TOTAL

571

100

107

–

–

(7)

–

564

(204)

(31)

–

–

(235)

329

–

–

3

–

103

(29)

(5)

–

–

(34)

69

3

–

–

–

110

(33)

(8)

–

–

(41)

69

25

–

–

–

–

25

(22)

(3)

–

–

(25)

–

545

105

(19)

(3)

27

655

(295)

(72)

15

–

(352)

303

1,551

2,899

212

(103)

–

(212)

320

(122)

(7)

(185)

1,448

2,905

(800)

(223)

59

212

(752)

696

(1,383)

(342)

74

212

(1,439)

1,466

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Cost, beginning of year

Additions

Disposal/redemption

Change in foreign exchange rates

Other, including write-off of assets fully amortized

Cost, end of year

Accumulated amortization, beginning of year

Amortization

Impairment

Disposal/redemption

Change in foreign exchange rates

Other, including write-off of assets fully amortized

Accumulated amortization, end of year

Carrying value, end of year

CUSTOMER 
CONTRACT-
RELATED

DISTRIBUTION 
CHANNELS

DISTRIBUTION 
CONTRAC TS

TECHNOLOGY 
AND  
PROPERT Y 
LEASES

SOFT WARE

DEFERRED 
SELLING 
COMMISSIONS

TOTAL

564

100

103

–

–

7

–

571

(169)

(34)

–

–

(1)

–

(204)

367

–

–

–

–

100

(24)

(4)

–

–

(1)

–

(29)

71

4

–

–

–

107

(26)

(7)

–

–

–

–

(33)

74

25

–

–

–

–

25

(17)

(5)

–

–

–

–

(22)

3

449

1,623

2,864

38

(1)

5

54

545

(240)

(61)

(4)

–

(3)

13

(295)

250

238

(104)

–

(206)

1,551

(829)

(237)

–

60

–

206

(800)

751

280

(105)

12

(152)

2,899

(1,305)

(348)

(4)

60

(5)

219

(1,383)

1,516

RECOVER AB LE AMOU NT

For Lifeco, the key assumptions used for the discounted cash flow calculations 

The recoverable amount of all cash generating units is determined as the 

are based on past experience and external sources of information. The key 

higher of fair value less cost to sell and value-in-use. Fair value is determined 

assumptions are as follows:

using  a  combination  of  commonly  accepted  valuation  methodologies, 

namely comparable trading multiples, comparable transaction multiples and 

discounted cash flow analysis. Comparable trading and transaction multiples 

methodologies calculate value by applying multiples observed in the market 

against  historical  results  or  projections  approved  by  management,  as 

applicable. Value calculated by discounted cash flow analysis uses cash flow 

projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering 

an initial period (typically four or five years). Value beyond the initial period is 

derived from applying a terminal value multiple to the final year of the initial 

>  Risk-adjusted discount rates used for the calculation of present value are 

based on Lifeco’s weighted average cost of capital.

>  Economic assumptions are based on market yields on risk-free interest 

rates at the end of each reporting period.

>  Terminal  growth  rate  represents  the  rate  used  to  extrapolate  new 

business contributions beyond the business plan period, and is based on 

management’s estimate of future growth; it ranges between 0% and 3.0%, 

depending on the nature of the business.

projection period. The terminal value multiple is a function of the discount 

For IGM, the valuation models used to assess fair value utilized assumptions 

rate and the estimated terminal growth rate. The estimated terminal growth 

that include levels of growth in assets under management from net sales and 

rate is not to exceed the long-term average growth rate (inflation rate) of the 

market pricing and margin changes, synergies achieved, discount rates, and 

markets in which the subsidiaries of the Corporation operate.

observable data from comparable transactions.

67
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 9  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (CONTINUED)

The fair value less cost to sell was compared with the carrying amount of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets and it was determined there was no 

impairment in the value of these assets.

ALLOCATION TO CASH G EN ER ATING U N ITS

Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets have been assigned to cash generating units as follows:

DECEMBER 31

LIFECO

Canada

Group

Individual insurance / wealth management

Europe

Insurance and annuities

Reinsurance

United States

Financial services

Asset management

IGM

Investors Group

Mackenzie

Other and corporate

GOODWILL

INTANGIBLES

TOTAL

GOODWILL

INTANGIBLES

2012

2011

TOTAL

1,142

3,028

1,563

1

123

–

1,443

1,250

123

8,673

–

973

1,142

4,001

1,142

3,028

–

973

1,142

4,001

109

1,672

1,563

107

1,670

–

–

1,360

–

1,003

22

1

123

1,360

1,443

2,253

145

3,467

12,140

1

127

–

1,500

1,302

123

8,786

–

–

1,402

–

1,003

22

1

127

1,402

1,500

2,305

145

3,507

12,293

NOTE 10  SEGREGATED FUNDS

INVESTM ENTS ON ACCOU NT OF SEG REGATED FU N D POLICYHOLDERS

DECEMBER 31

Cash and cash equivalents

Bonds

Mortgage loans

Shares

Investment properties

Accrued income

Other liabilities

2012

4,837

24,070

2,303

69,254

6,149

239

(1,904)

104,948

2011

5,334

21,594

2,303

63,885

5,457

287

(2,278)

96,582

68
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 10  SEGREGATED FUNDS (CONTINUED)

INVESTM ENT AN D IN SU R ANCE CONTR ACTS ON ACCOU NT OF SEG REGATED FU N D POLICYHOLDERS

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31

Balance, beginning of year

Additions (deductions):

Policyholder deposits

Net investment income

Net realized capital gains (losses) on investments

Net unrealized capital gains (losses) on investments

Unrealized gains (losses) due to changes in foreign exchange rates

Policyholder withdrawals

Net transfer from General Fund

Balance, end of year

NOTE 11  INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES

IN SU R ANCE AN D INVESTM ENT CONTR ACT LIAB ILITIES

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Insurance contract liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Insurance contract liabilities

Investment contract liabilities

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

119,919

739

120,658

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

114,730

782

115,512

2012

96,582

13,819

1,189

1,094

4,316

(213)

(11,831)

(8)

8,366

104,948

REINSURANCE
ASSETS

2,064

–

2,064

REINSURANCE
ASSETS

2,061

–

2,061

COM POSITION OF IN SU R ANCE AN D INVESTM ENT CONTR ACT LIAB ILITIES AN D REL ATED SU PPORTING AS SETS

The composition of insurance and investment contract liabilities of Lifeco is as follows:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Participating

Canada

United States

Europe

Non-participating

Canada

United States

Europe

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

27,851

8,942

1,241

27,283

17,356

37,985

120,658

REINSURANCE
ASSETS

(88)

14

–

746

241

1,151

2,064

2011

94,827

13,462

755

1,048

(3,539)

887

(10,876)

18

1,755

96,582

NET

117,855

739

118,594

NET

112,669

782

113,451

NET

27,939

8,928

1,241

26,537

17,115

36,834

118,594

69
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 11  INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Participating

Canada

United States

Europe

Non-participating

Canada

United States

Europe

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

26,470

8,639

1,230

27,099

16,657

35,417

115,512

REINSURANCE
ASSETS

(50)

18

–

919

276

898

2,061

NET

26,520

8,621

1,230

26,180

16,381

34,519

113,451

The composition of the assets supporting liabilities and equity of Lifeco is as follows:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Carrying value

Participating liabilities

Canada

United States

Europe

Non-participating liabilities

Canada

United States

Europe

Other

Total equity

Total carrying value

Fair value

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Carrying value

Participating liabilities

Canada

United States

Europe

Non-participating liabilities

Canada

United States

Europe

Other

Total equity

Total carrying value

Fair value

BONDS

MORTGAGE
LOANS

SHARES

INVESTMENT 
PROPERTIES

OTHER

TOTAL

12,818

4,307

874

17,519

14,280

22,420

6,507

3,811

82,536

84,040

6,903

4,221

188

40

4,428

2,464

2,827

493

532

17,875

19,067

–

162

1,565

–

127

–

1,023

7,098

7,136

932

–

19

3

–

2,977

4,447

146

3,768

612

2,173

10,438

27,851

8,942

1,241

27,283

17,356

37,985

4

394

3,525

3,525

108,470

115,474

11,826

17,586

142,684

253,718

142,684

256,452

BONDS

MORTGAGE
LOANS

SHARES

INVESTMENT 
PROPERTIES

OTHER

TOTAL

11,862

6,686

3,864

4,059

855

16,674

13,523

20,449

6,563

4,088

78,073

79,114

152

56

4,738

2,369

2,506

484

441

17,432

18,662

–

176

1,329

–

119

–

1,216

6,704

6,772

507

–

22

20

–

3,551

4,428

121

4,338

765

2,092

10,251

26,470

8,639

1,230

27,099

16,657

35,417

6

554

3,201

3,201

100,099

107,152

9,805

16,104

133,358

238,768

133,358

241,107

Cash flows of assets supporting insurance and investment contract liabilities 

Changes in the fair values of assets backing capital and surplus, less related 

are matched within reasonable limits. Changes in the fair values of these 

income taxes, would result in a corresponding change in surplus over time 

assets are essentially offset by changes in the fair value of insurance and 

in accordance with investment accounting policies.

investment contract liabilities.

70
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 11  INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

CHANG ES IN IN SU R ANCE CONTR ACT LIAB ILITIES

The change in insurance contract liabilities during the year was the result of the following business activities and changes in actuarial estimates:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Balance, beginning of year

Impact of new business

Normal change in force

Management action and changes in assumptions

Business movement from/to external parties

Impact of foreign exchange rate changes

Impact of Crown amalgamation

PARTICIPATING

NON-PARTICIPATING

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

REINSURANCE 
ASSETS

NET

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

REINSURANCE
ASSETS

NET

TOTAL
NET

36,303

(32)

36,335

72

1,621

(260)

–

(262)

529

–

(6)

(34)

–

(2)

–

72

1,627

(226)

–

(260)

529

78,427

4,664

(528)

(380)

(48)

310

(529)

2,093

76,334

112,669

326

35

(306)

(7)

(3)

–

4,338

(563)

(74)

(41)

313

(529)

4,410

1,064

(300)

(41)

53

–

Balance, end of year

38,003

(74)

38,077

81,916

2,138

79,778

117,855

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Balance, beginning of year

Crown Ancillary reclassification

Impact of new business

Normal change in force

Management action and changes in assumptions

Impact of foreign exchange rate changes

Balance, end of year

PARTICIPATING

NON-PARTICIPATING

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

REINSURANCE 
ASSETS

NET

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

REINSURANCE
ASSETS

NET

TOTAL
NET

34,398

(89)

133

1,719

(139)

281

36,303

25

–

–

(14)

(45)

2

(32)

34,373

73,007

2,508

70,499

104,872

(89)

133

1,733

(94)

279

89

3,088

1,910

(806)

1,139

–

(329)

476

(583)

21

89

3,417

1,434

(223)

1,118

–

3,550

3,167

(317)

1,397

36,335

78,427

2,093

76,334

112,669

Under fair value accounting, movement in the fair value of the supporting 

The decrease in the United States was primarily due to updated life mortality 

assets is a major factor in the movement of insurance contract liabilities. 

($33 million decrease), updated longevity assumptions ($3 million decrease), 

Changes in the fair value of assets are largely offset by corresponding changes 

decrease in provisions for policyholder behaviour ($3 million decrease) and 

in the fair value of liabilities. The change in the value of the insurance contract 

updated expenses and taxes ($1 million decrease), partially offset by provisions 

liabilities associated with the change in the value of the supporting assets is 

for asset and mismatch risk ($7 million increase).

included in the normal change in force above.

Net participating insurance contract liabilities decreased by $226 million 

In 2012, the major contributors to the increase in net insurance contract 

in 2012 due to management actions and assumption changes. The decrease 

liabilities were the impact of new business ($4,410 million increase) and the 

was primarily due to decreases in the provision for future policyholder 

normal change in the in-force business ($1,064 million increase), primarily 

dividends  ($2,078  million  decrease),  improved  Individual  Life  mortality 

due to the change in fair value.

Lifeco’s net non-participating insurance contract liabilities decreased by 

$74 million in 2012 due to management actions and assumption changes 

including a $138 million decrease in Canada, a $97 million increase in Europe 

and a $33 million decrease in the United States.

The decrease in Canada was primarily due to updated life insurance mortality 

($79 million decrease), updated expenses and taxes ($75 million decrease), 

modelling refinements across the Canadian segment ($71 million decrease), 

updated longevity assumptions ($21 million decrease) and updated morbidity 

($124 million decrease), updated expenses and taxes ($92 million decrease) 

and modelling refinements in Canada ($10 million decrease), partially offset 

by lower investment returns ($2,056 million increase), increased provisions 

for policyholder behaviour ($19 million increase) and updated morbidity 

assumptions ($3 million increase).

In 2011, the major contributors to the increase in net insurance contract 

liabilities were the impact of new business ($3,550 million increase) and the 

normal change in the in-force business ($3,167 million increase) primarily due 

to the change in fair value.

assumptions ($9 million decrease), partially offset by provisions for asset and 

Net non-participating insurance contract liabilities decreased by $223 million 

mismatch risk ($66 million increase) and increased provisions for policyholder 

in 2011 due to management actions and assumption changes, including 

behaviour in individual insurance ($41 million increase).

a $68 million decrease in Canada, a $132 million decrease in Europe and a 

The increase in Europe was primarily due to updated longevity improvement 

$23 million decrease in the United States.

assumptions ($348 million increase), increased provisions for policyholder 

Lifeco adopted the revised Actuarial Standards of Practice for subsection 2350 

behaviour in reinsurance ($109 million increase), increase in provision for 

relating to future mortality improvement in insurance contract liabilities for 

expenses and taxes ($36 million increase), modelling refinements ($32 million 

life insurance and annuities. The resulting decrease in net non-participating 

increase), increased provisions for asset and mismatch risk ($15 million 

insurance contract liabilities for life insurance was $446 million, including a 

increase) and updated morbidity assumptions ($3 million increase), partially 

$182 million decrease in Canada, a $242 million decrease in Europe (primarily 

offset by updated base longevity assumptions ($358 million decrease) and 

reinsurance) and a $22 million decrease in the United States. The resulting 

updated life insurance mortality ($85 million decrease).

71
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 11  INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

change in net insurance contract liabilities for annuities was a $47 million 

assumptions ($15 million increase), partially offset by modelling refinements 

increase, including a $53 million increase in Canada, a $58 million decrease 

in the U.K. and Reinsurance segments ($69 million decrease), updated base 

in Europe and a $52 million increase in the U.S.

annuity mortality ($42 million decrease), and reduced provisions for asset 

The remaining increase in Canada was primarily due to increased provisions 

liability matching ($16 million decrease).

for policyholder behaviour in Individual Insurance ($172 million increase), 

The remaining decrease in the United States was primarily due to updated 

provision  for  asset  liability  matching  ($147  million  increase),  updated 

base annuity mortality ($28 million decrease) and updated base life insurance 

base  annuity  mortality  ($43  million  increase)  and  a  reclassification 

mortality ($23 million decrease).

from  miscellaneous  liabilities  ($29  million  increase),  partially  offset  by 

updated expenses and taxes ($137 million decrease), updated morbidity 

assumptions ($101 million decrease), updated base life insurance mortality 

($38 million decrease), modelling refinements across the Canadian segment 

($40  million  decrease)  and  reinsurance-related  management  actions 

($16 million decrease).

Net participating insurance contract liabilities decreased by $94 million in 2011 

due to management actions and assumption changes. The decrease was 

primarily due to decreases in the provision for future policyholder dividends 

($1,556 million decrease), modelling refinements in Canada ($256 million 

decrease), improved Individual Life mortality ($256 million decrease, including 

$27 million from the Standards of Practice revision) and updated expenses 

The remaining increase in Europe was primarily due to increased provisions 

and taxes ($15 million decrease), partially offset by lower investment returns 

for policyholder behaviour in reinsurance ($227 million increase), updated 

($1,952 million increase), and increased provisions for policyholder behaviour 

base life insurance mortality ($50 million increase) and updated morbidity 

($40 million increase).

CHANG ES IN INVESTM ENT CONTR ACT LIAB ILITIES M EASU RED AT FAIR VALU E

DECEMBER 31

Balance, beginning of year

Normal change in-force business

Investment experience

Impact of foreign exchange rate changes

Balance, end of year

2012

782

(87)

51

(7)

739

2011

791

(54)

35

10

782

The carrying value of investment contract liabilities approximates their fair 

Annuitant  mortality  is  also  studied  regularly  and  the  results  are  used 

value. No investment contract liabilities have been reinsured.

to  modify  established  industry  experience  annuitant  mortality  tables. 

Mortality improvement has been projected to occur throughout future 

CANADIAN U N IVERSAL LIFE EM B EDDED DERIVATIVES

years for annuitants.

Lifeco bifurcated the index-linked component of the universal life contracts 

as this embedded derivative is not closely related to the insurance host and 

is not itself an insurance contract. The forward contracts are contractual 

agreements in which the policyholder is entitled to the performance of the 

underlying index. The policyholder may select one or more indices from a 

list of major indices.

ACTUARIAL AS SU M PTION S

In the computation of insurance contract liabilities, valuation assumptions 

have  been  made  regarding  rates  of  mortality/morbidity,  investment 

returns,  levels  of  operating  expenses,  rates  of  policy  termination  and 

rates of utilization of elective policy options or provisions. The valuation 

assumptions  use  best  estimates  of  future  experience  together  with 

a margin for adverse deviation. These margins are necessary to provide 

for possibilities of misestimation and/or future deterioration in the best 

estimate assumptions and provide reasonable assurance that insurance 

contract liabilities cover a range of possible outcomes. Margins are reviewed 

periodically for continued appropriateness.

The methods for arriving at these valuation assumptions are outlined below:

Mortality  A life insurance mortality study is carried out annually for each 

major block of insurance business. The results of each study are used to update 

Lifeco’s experience valuation mortality tables for that business. When there 

is insufficient data, use is made of the latest industry experience to derive an 

appropriate valuation mortality assumption. The actuarial standards were 

amended to remove the requirement that, for life insurance, any reduction 

in liabilities due to mortality improvement assumption be offset by an equal 

amount of provision for adverse deviation. Appropriate provisions have been 

made for future mortality deterioration on term insurance.

Morbidity  Lifeco uses industry-developed experience tables modified to 

reflect emerging Lifeco experience. Both claim incidence and termination 

are  monitored  regularly  and  emerging  experience  is  factored  into  the 

current valuation.

Property  and  casualty  reinsurance 

Insurance contract liabilities for 

property and casualty reinsurance written by London Reinsurance Group Inc. 

(LRG), a subsidiary of London Life, are determined using accepted actuarial 

practices for property and casualty insurers in Canada. The insurance contract 

liabilities  have  been  established  using  cash  flow  valuation  techniques, 

including  discounting.  The  insurance  contract  liabilities  are  based  on 

cession statements provided by ceding companies. In certain instances, LRG 

management adjusts cession statement amounts to reflect management’s 

interpretation of the treaty. Differences will be resolved via audits and 

other loss mitigation activities. In addition, insurance contract liabilities 

also include an amount for incurred but not reported losses which may 

differ significantly from the ultimate loss development. The estimates 

and underlying methodology are continually reviewed and updated, and 

adjustments  to  estimates  are  reflected  in  earnings.  LRG  analyses  the 

emergence of claims experience against expected assumptions for each 

reinsurance contract separately and at the portfolio level. If necessary, a more 

in-depth analysis is undertaken of the cedant experience.

Investment returns  The assets which correspond to the different liability 

categories are segmented. For each segment, projected cash flows from 

the current assets and liabilities are used in the Canadian Asset Liability 

Method to determine insurance contract liabilities. Cash flows from assets 

are reduced to provide for asset default losses. Testing under several interest 

rate and equity scenarios (including increasing and decreasing rates) is done 

to provide for reinvestment risk (refer to Note 21).

72
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 11  INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

Expenses  Contractual policy expenses (e.g., sales commissions) and tax 

Policyholder  dividends  and  adjustable  policy  features  Future 

expenses are reflected on a best estimate basis. Expense studies for indirect 

policyholder dividends and other adjustable policy features are included 

operating expenses are updated regularly to determine an appropriate 

in the determination of insurance contract liabilities with the assumption 

estimate of future operating expenses for the liability type being valued. 

that policyholder dividends or adjustable benefits will change in the future 

Improvements in unit operating expenses are not projected. An inflation 

in response to the relevant experience. The dividend and policy adjustments 

assumption is incorporated in the estimate of future operating expenses 

are determined consistent with policyholders’ reasonable expectations, such 

consistent with the interest rate scenarios projected under the Canadian 

expectations being influenced by the participating policyholder dividend 

Asset Liability Method as inflation is assumed to be correlated with new 

policies and/or policyholder communications, marketing material and past 

money interest rates.

Policy termination  Studies to determine rates of policy termination are 

updated regularly to form the basis of this estimate. Industry data is also 

available and is useful where Lifeco has no experience with specific types of 

policies or its exposure is limited. Lifeco has significant exposures in respect 

of the T-100 and Level Cost of Insurance Universal Life products in Canada and 

policy termination rates at the renewal period for renewable term policies in 

Canada and Reinsurance. Industry experience has guided Lifeco’s persistency 

assumption for these products as Lifeco’s own experience is very limited.

Utilization of elective policy options  There are a wide range of elective 

options embedded in the policies issued by Lifeco. Examples include term 

renewals, conversion to whole life insurance (term insurance), settlement 

annuity purchase at guaranteed rates (deposit annuities) and guarantee 

resets  (segregated  fund  maturity  guarantees).  The  assumed  rates  of 

utilization are based on Lifeco or industry experience when it exists and, 

when not, on judgment considering incentives to utilize the option. Generally, 

whenever it is clearly in the best interests of an informed policyholder to 

utilize an option, then it is assumed to be elected.

practice. It is Lifeco’s expectation that changes will occur in policyholder 

dividend scales or adjustable benefits for participating or adjustable business 

respectively, corresponding to changes in the best estimate assumptions, 

resulting in an immaterial net change in insurance contract liabilities. Where 

underlying guarantees may limit the ability to pass all of this experience 

back to the policyholder, the impact of this non-adjustability impacting 

shareholder earnings is reflected in the impact of changes in best estimate 

assumptions above.

RI SK MANAG EM ENT

Insurance risk 

Insurance risk is the risk that the insured event occurs 

and that there are large deviations between expected and actual actuarial 

assumptions, including mortality, persistency, longevity, morbidity, expense 

variations and investment returns.

As an insurance company, Lifeco is in the business of accepting risk associated 

with insurance contract liabilities. Lifeco’s objective is to mitigate its exposure 

to risk arising from these contracts through product design, product and 

geographical diversification, the implementation of its underwriting strategy 

guidelines, and through the use of reinsurance arrangements.

The following table provides information about Lifeco’s insurance contract liabilities’ sensitivities to management’s best estimate of the approximate impact 

as a result of changes in assumptions used to determine Lifeco’s liability associated with these contracts.

Mortality (increase)

Annuitant mortality (decrease)

Morbidity (adverse change)

Investment returns

Parallel shift in yield curve

Increase

Decrease

Change in equity markets

Increase

Decrease

Change in best estimate returns for equities

Increase

Decrease

Expenses (increase)

Policy termination (adverse change)

2012

2011

CHANGES IN 
ASSUMPTIONS

IMPAC T ON
LIFECO PROFIT 
OR LOSS

POWER 
FINANCIAL’S 
SHARE

CHANGES IN 
ASSUMPTIONS

IMPAC T ON
LIFECO PROFIT
OR LOSS

POWER 
FINANCIAL’S 
SHARE

2%

2%

5%

1%

1%

10%

10%

1%

1%

5%

10%

(208)

(274)

(188)

121

(504)

18

(96)

342

(376)

(56)

(473)

(147)

(194)

(133)

85

(356)

13

(68)

242

(266)

(40)

(334)

2%

2%

5%

1%

1%

10%

10%

1%

1%

5%

10%

(188)

(176)

(181)

123

(511)

21

(57)

292

(316)

(55)

(435)

(133)

(124)

(128)

87

(361)

15

(40)

206

(223)

(39)

(307)

73
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 11  INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT CONTRACT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

Concentration risk may arise from geographic regions, accumulation of risks and market risks. The concentration of insurance risk before and after reinsurance 

by geographic region is described below.

DECEMBER 31

Canada

United States

Europe

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

REINSURANCE 
ASSETS

55,134

26,298

39,226

120,658

658

255

1,151

2,064

2012

NET

54,476

26,043

38,075

GROSS
LIABILIT Y

REINSURANCE 
ASSETS

53,569

25,296

36,647

869

294

898

2011

NET

52,700

25,002

35,749

118,594

115,512

2,061

113,451

Reinsurance risk  Maximum limits per insured life benefit amount (which 

Reinsurance  contracts  do  not  relieve  Lifeco  from  its  obligations  to 

vary by line of business) are established for life and health insurance and 

policyholders. Failure of reinsurers to honour their obligations could result 

reinsurance is purchased for amounts in excess of those limits.

in losses to Lifeco. Lifeco evaluates the financial condition of its reinsurers 

Reinsurance costs and recoveries as defined by the reinsurance agreement are 

to minimize its exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvencies.

reflected in the valuation with these costs and recoveries being appropriately 

Certain of the reinsurance contracts are on a funds withheld basis where 

calibrated to the direct assumptions.

Lifeco  retains  the  assets  supporting  the  reinsured  insurance  contract 

liabilities, thus minimizing the exposure to significant losses from reinsurer 

insolvency on those contracts.

NOTE 12  OBLIGATION TO SECURITIZATION ENTITIES

IGM securitizes residential mortgages through the Canada Mortgage and 

mortgage principal. A component of this swap, related to the obligation 

Housing Corporation (CMHC)-sponsored National Housing Act Mortgage-

to pay CMB coupons and receive investment returns on repaid mortgage 

Backed Securities (NHA MBS) Program and Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) 

principal, is recorded as a derivative and had a negative fair value of $56 million 

Program and through Canadian bank-sponsored asset-backed commercial 

at December 31, 2012.

paper (ABCP) programs. These transactions do not meet the requirements 

for derecognition as IGM retains prepayment risk and certain elements of 

credit risk. Accordingly, IGM has retained these mortgages on its balance 

sheets and has recorded an offsetting liability for the net proceeds received 

as obligations to securitization entities which is carried at amortized cost.

Under the NHA MBS and CMB Programs, IGM has an obligation to make 

timely payments to security holders regardless of whether amounts are 

received from mortgagors. All mortgages securitized under the NHA MBS and 

CMB Programs are insured by CMHC or another approved insurer under the 

program. As part of the ABCP transactions, IGM has provided cash reserves 

IGM earns interest on the mortgages and pays interest on the obligations 

for credit enhancement which are carried at cost. Credit risk is limited to 

to securitization entities. As part of the CMB transactions, IGM enters 

these cash reserves and future net interest income as the ABCP Trusts have no 

into a swap transaction whereby IGM pays coupons on CMBs and receives 

recourse to IGM’s other assets for failure to make payments when due. Credit 

investment  returns  on  the  NHA  MBS  and  the  reinvestment  of  repaid 

risk is further limited to the extent these mortgages are insured.

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Carrying value

NHA MBS and CMB Programs

Bank-sponsored ABCP

Total

Fair value

SECURITIZED
MORTGAGES

OBLIGATIONS TO 
SECURITIZATION ENTITIES

3,285

1,354

4,639

4,685

3,312

1,389

4,701

4,787

NET

(27)

(35)

(62)

(102)

The carrying value of obligations to securitization entities, which is recorded net of issue costs, includes principal payments received on securitized mortgages 

that are not due to be settled until after the reporting period. Issue costs are amortized over the life of the obligation on an effective interest rate basis.

74
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 13  DEBENTURES AND DEBT INSTRUMENTS

DECEMBER 31

DEBT INSTRUMENTS

GREAT-WEST LIFECO INC.

Commercial paper and other short-term debt instruments with interest rates from 0.27% 

to 0.35% (0.20% to 0.39% in 2011)

Revolving credit facility with interest equal to LIBOR rate plus 1% or U.S. prime rate loan 

(US$200 million)

Term note due October 18, 2015, bearing an interest rate of LIBOR plus 0.75% 

(US$304 million), unsecured

Notes payable with interest rate of 8.0% due May 6, 2014, unsecured

TOTAL DEBT INSTRUMENTS

DEBENTURES

POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION

6.90% debentures, due March 11, 2033, unsecured

GREAT-WEST LIFECO INC.

6.14% debentures due March 21, 2018, unsecured

4.65% debentures due August 13, 2020, unsecured

6.40% subordinated debentures due December 11, 2028, unsecured

6.74% debentures due November 24, 2031, unsecured

6.67% debentures due March 21, 2033, unsecured

6.625% deferrable debentures due November 15, 2034, unsecured (US$175 million)

5.998% debentures due November 16, 2039, unsecured

Subordinated debentures due May 16, 2046, bearing an interest rate of 7.153% until May 16, 2016 
and, thereafter, a rate of 2.538% plus the 3-month LIBOR rate, unsecured (US$300 million)

Subordinated debentures due June 21, 2067, bearing an interest rate of 5.691% until June 21, 2017 

and, thereafter, at a rate equal to the Canadian 90-day bankers’ acceptance rate plus 
1.49%, unsecured

Subordinated debentures due June 26, 2068, bearing an interest rate of 7.127% until 

June 26, 2018 and, thereafter, at a rate equal to the Canadian 90-day bankers’ acceptance 
rate plus 3.78%, unsecured

IGM FINANCIAL INC.

6.58% debentures 2003 Series, due March 7, 2018, unsecured

7.35% debentures 2009 Series, due April 8, 2019, unsecured

6.65% debentures 1997 Series, due December 13, 2027, unsecured

7.45% debentures 2001 Series, due May 9, 2031, unsecured

7.00% debentures 2002 Series, due December 31, 2032, unsecured

7.11% debentures 2003 Series, due March 7, 2033, unsecured

6.00% debentures 2010 Series, due December 10, 2040, unsecured

TOTAL DEBENTURES

On May 9, 2011, IGM repaid the $450 million 2001 Series 6.75% debentures which had matured.

The principal payments on debentures and debt instruments in each of the next five years is as follows:

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

Thereafter

CARRYING 
VALUE

2012

FAIR
VALUE

CARRYING
VALUE

2011

FAIR
VALUE

97

198

301

2

598

250

199

498

100

191

397

170

342

296

97

198

301

2

598

324

234

557

117

256

512

176

431

307

100

204

304

3

611

250

199

497

100

190

397

175

343

310

100

204

308

3

615

295

229

522

115

237

472

170

383

298

995

1,097

994

1,028

497

150

375

125

150

175

150

200

592

176

466

151

194

220

190

232

497

150

375

125

150

175

150

200

551

175

457

148

189

213

185

220

5,260

5,858

6,232

6,830

5,277

5,888

5,887

6,502

296

1

301

–

–

5,260

75
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 14  CAPITAL TRUST SECURITIES

DECEMBER 31

GREAT-WEST LIFE CAPITAL TRUST

5.995% capital trust securities due December 31, 2052, unsecured

CANADA LIFE CAPITAL TRUST

6.679% capital trust securities due June 30, 2052, unsecured

7.529% capital trust securities due June 30, 2052, unsecured

Acquisition-related fair value adjustment

Trust securities held by subsidiaries of Lifeco as investments

Trust securities held by Lifeco as investments

CARRYING
VALUE

–

–

150

150

14

(45)

–

119

2012

FAIR
VALUE

–

–

216

216

–

(45)

–

171

CARRYING
VALUE

350

300

150

800

15

(44)

(238)

533

2011

FAIR
VALUE

363

307

197

867

–

(44)

(246)

577

Canada Life Capital Trust (CLCT) redeemed all of its outstanding $300 million 

CLCT, a trust established by Canada Life, had issued $150 million of Canada 

principal amount Canada Life Capital Securities — Series A (CLiCS — Series A) on 

Life Capital Securities — Series B (CLiCS — Series B), the proceeds of which 

June 29, 2012 at par. Lifeco previously held $122 million of these CLiCS — Series A 

were used by CLCT to purchase Canada Life senior debentures in the amount 

as a long-term investment.

of $150 million.

Great-West Life Capital Trust redeemed all of its outstanding $350 million 

Distributions and interest on the capital trust securities are classified as 

principal amount Great-West Life Capital Trust Securities — Series A on 

financing charges on the statements of earnings (see Note 23). The fair value 

December 31, 2012 at par. Lifeco previously held $116 million of these capital 

for capital trust securities is determined by the bid-ask price.

trust securities as a long-term investment.

Subject to regulatory approval, CLCT may redeem the CLiCS — Series B, in 

whole or in part, at any time.

NOTE 15  OTHER LIABILITIES

DECEMBER 31

Bank overdraft

Accounts payable

Dividends and interest payable

Income taxes payable

Repurchase agreements

Deferred income reserves

Deposits and certificates

Funds held under reinsurance contracts

Accrued benefit liability [Note 24]

Other

It is expected that $4,205 million of other liabilities will be settled within 12 months from the reporting date.

2012

448

1,842

332

684

225

427

163

335

920

935

2011

437

1,760

330

513

250

406

151

169

867

953

6,311

5,836

76
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 15  OTHER LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

DEFERRED INCOM E RESERVES

Changes in deferred income reserves are as follows:

Balance, beginning of year

Additions

Amortization

Foreign exchange

Disposals

Balance, end of year

2012

406

103

(42)

8

(48)

427

2011

377

97

(38)

5

(35)

406

DEPOSITS AN D CERTIFICATES

Included in assets on the balance sheets are cash and cash equivalents, shares, loans, and accounts and other receivables amounting to $163 million ($151 million 

at December 31, 2011) related to deposits and certificates.

TERM TO MATURIT Y

DEMAND

1 YEAR OR LESS

1 – 5 YEARS

OVER 5 YEARS

DECEMBER 31, 
2012
TOTAL

DECEMBER 31, 
2011
TOTAL

136

–

136

9

–

9

12

1

13

2

3

5

159

4

163

147

4

151

Deposits

Certificates

NOTE 16  INCOME TAXES

EFFECTIVE INCOM E TA X R ATE

The Corporation’s effective income tax rate is derived as follows:

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Combined basic Canadian federal and provincial tax rates

Increase (decrease) in the income tax rate resulting from:

Non-taxable investment income

Lower effective tax rates on income not subject to tax in Canada

Earnings of investment in jointly controlled corporation

Impact of rate changes on deferred income taxes

Loss consolidation transaction

Other

Effective income tax rate

As of January 1, 2012, the federal corporate tax rate decreased from 16.5% to 15.0%.

INCOM E TA X EXPEN SE

The components of income tax expense on continuing operations recognized in net earnings are:

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Current income taxes

Deferred income taxes

2012

%

26.5

(5.4)

(2.0)

(1.0)

(0.1)

–

(1.9)

16.1

2012

603

(40)

563

2011

%

28.0

(3.4)

(2.5)

0.2

(0.2)

(0.4)

(2.1)

19.6

2011

519

187

706

77
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 16  INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)

DEFERRED INCOM E TA XES

Deferred income taxes consist of the following taxable temporary differences on:

DECEMBER 31

Insurance and investment contract liabilities

Loss carry forwards

Investments

Deferred selling commissions

Intangible assets

Other

Classified on the balance sheets as:

Deferred income tax assets

Deferred income tax liabilities

2012

(272)

1,184

(839)

(186)

77

(7)

(43)

1,170

(1,213)

(43)

2011

(321)

1,007

(788)

(197)

162

86

(51)

1,207

(1,258)

(51)

A deferred income tax asset is recognized for deductible temporary difference 

that the subsidiary and other historically profitable subsidiaries with which 

and unused losses and carry forwards only to the extent that realization of 

it files or intends to file a consolidated United States income tax return will 

the related income tax benefit through future taxable profits is probable.

generate sufficient taxable income against which the unused United States 

Recognition is based on the fact that it is probable that the entity will have 

taxable profits and/or tax planning opportunities available to allow the 

deferred income tax asset to be utilized. Changes in circumstances in future 

periods may adversely impact the assessment of the recoverability. The 

uncertainty of the recoverability is taken into account in establishing the 

deferred income tax assets.

Management  of  the  Corporation  and  its  subsidiaries  assesses  the 

recoverability of the deferred income tax asset carrying values based on 

future years’ taxable income projections and believes the carrying values 

of the deferred income tax assets as of December 31, 2012 are recoverable.

At December 31, 2012 Lifeco had tax loss carry forwards totalling $3,600 million 

($3,013 million in 2011). Of this amount, $3,471 million expires between 2013 and 

2032, while $129 million has no expiry date. Lifeco will realize this benefit in 

future years through a reduction in current income taxes payable.

One of Lifeco’s subsidiaries has had a history of recent losses. The subsidiary 

has a net deferred tax asset balance of $1,088 million (US$1,088 million) as at 

December 31, 2012 composed principally of net operating losses and future 

deductions related to goodwill which has been previously impaired for book 

accounting purposes. Management of Lifeco has concluded that it is probable 

losses and deductions will be utilized. Certain state net operating losses in 

the amount of $46 million (US$46 million) which were incurred before 2012, 

other state temporary differences of $99 million (US$100 million) and federal 

charitable contributions of $9 million (US$9 million) have been excluded from 

the deferred tax assets.

A deferred income tax liability has not been recognized in respect of the 

temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches 

and a jointly controlled corporation as the Corporation and its subsidiaries 

are able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences, 

and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the 

foreseeable future.

As at December 31, 2012, the Corporation and its subsidiaries have non-capital 

losses of $288 million ($311 million in 2011) available to reduce future taxable 

income for which the benefits have not been recognized. These losses expire 

at various dates to 2032. In addition, the Corporation and its subsidiaries have 

capital loss carry forwards that can be used indefinitely to offset future capital 

gains of approximately $96 million ($96 million in 2011) for which the benefits 

have not been recognized.

78
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 17  STATED CAPITAL

AUTHORIZED

Unlimited number of first preferred shares, issuable in series; of second preferred shares, issuable in series; and of common shares.

I S SU ED AN D OUTSTAN DING

DECEMBER 31

First Preferred Shares (perpetual)

Series A [i]

Series D [ii]

Series E [iii]

Series F [iv]

Series H [v]

Series I [vi]

Series K [vii]

Series L [viii]

Series M [ix]

Series O [x]

Series P [xi]

Series R [xii]

COMMON SHARES [xiii]

COMMON SHARES

Balance, beginning of year

Issued under Stock Option Plan

Balance, end of year

NUMBER  
OF SHARES

4,000,000

6,000,000

8,000,000

6,000,000

6,000,000

8,000,000

10,000,000

8,000,000

7,000,000

6,000,000

11,200,000

10,000,000

2012

STATED 
CAPITAL

100

150

200

150

150

200

250

200

175

150

280

250

2,255

NUMBER  
OF SHARES

4,000,000

6,000,000

8,000,000

6,000,000

6,000,000

8,000,000

10,000,000

8,000,000

7,000,000

6,000,000

11,200,000

–

709,104,080

664

708,173,680

708,173,680

930,400

709,104,080

639

708,013,680

25

160,000

664

708,173,680

2011

STATED 
CAPITAL

100

150

200

150

150

200

250

200

175

150

280

–

2,005

639

636

3

639

[i]  The Series A First Preferred Shares are entitled to an annual cumulative 

[vi]  The 6.00% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series I are entitled 

dividend at a floating rate equal to 70% of the prime rate of two major 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

Canadian chartered banks and are redeemable, at the Corporation’s 

$1.50 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

option, at $25.00 per share.

[ii]  The 5.50% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series D are entitled 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

Series I First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

option, at $25.00 per share, together with all declared and unpaid 

dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

$1.375 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

[vii]  The 4.95% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series K are entitled 

Series D First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

option, at $25.00 per share, together with all declared and unpaid 

$1.2375 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

Series K First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

[iii]  The 5.25% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series E are entitled 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

$1.3125 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

Series E First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

option,  at  $25.50  per  share  if  redeemed  prior  to  October  31,  2013, 

$25.25 per share if redeemed thereafter and prior to October 31, 2014, and 

$25.00 per share if redeemed thereafter, in each case together with all 

declared and unpaid dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

option, at $25.00 per share, together with all declared and unpaid 

[viii] The 5.10% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series L are entitled 

dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

[iv]  The 5.90% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series F are entitled 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

$1.475 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

Series F First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

option, at $25.00 per share, together with all declared and unpaid 

dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

[v]  The 5.75% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series H are entitled 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

$1.4375 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

Series H First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

option, at $25.00 per share, together with all declared and unpaid 

dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

$1.2750 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

Series L First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

option,  at  $25.75  per  share  if  redeemed  prior  to  October  31,  2013, 

$25.50 per share if redeemed thereafter and prior to October 31, 2014, 

$25.25 per share if redeemed thereafter and prior to October 31, 2015, and 

$25.00 per share if redeemed thereafter, in each case together with all 

declared and unpaid dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

[ix]  The 6.00% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series M are entitled 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

$1.50 per share per annum. On January 31, 2014 and on January 31 every 

five years thereafter, the Corporation may redeem for cash the Series M 

First Preferred shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s option, at 

79
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 17  STATED CAPITAL (CONTINUED)

$25.00 per share plus all declared and unpaid dividends to the date fixed 

to Non-Cumulative Floating Rate First Preferred Shares, Series Q, at 

for redemption, or the Series M First Preferred Shares are convertible 

the option of the holders on January 31, 2016 or on January 31 every five 

to Non-Cumulative Floating Rate First Preferred Shares, Series N, at 

years thereafter.

the option of the holders on January 31, 2014 or on January 31 every five 

years thereafter.

[xii]  In 2012, the Corporation issued 10,000,000 5.50% Non-Cumulative First 

Preferred Shares, Series R for cash proceeds of $250 million. The 5.50% 

[x]  The 5.80% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series O are entitled 

Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series R are entitled to fixed 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to $1.375 per 

$1.45 per share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the 

share per annum. The Corporation may redeem for cash the Series R 

Series O First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s 

First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s option, 

option,  at  $26.00  per  share  if  redeemed  prior  to  October  31,  2015, 

at $26.00 per share if redeemed prior to April 30, 2018, $25.75 per share 

$25.75 per share if redeemed thereafter and prior to October 31, 2016, 

if redeemed thereafter and prior to April 30, 2019, $25.50 per share 

$25.50 per share if redeemed thereafter and prior to October 31, 2017, 

if redeemed thereafter and prior to April 30, 2020, $25.25 per share if 

$25.25 per share if redeemed thereafter and prior to October 31, 2018, and 

redeemed thereafter and prior to April 30, 2021 and $25.00 per share if 

$25.00 per share if redeemed thereafter, in each case together with all 

redeemed thereafter, in each case together with all declared and unpaid 

declared and unpaid dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

dividends to, but excluding, the date of redemption. Share issue costs 

[xi]  The 4.40% Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series P are entitled 

to fixed non-cumulative preferential cash dividends at a rate equal to 

of $7 million in connection with the Series R First Preferred Shares were 

charged to retained earnings.

$1.10 per share per annum. On January 31, 2016 and on January 31 every 

[xiii] During the year, 930,400 common shares (160,000 in 2011) were issued 

five years thereafter, the Corporation may redeem for cash the Series P 

under the Corporation’s Employee Stock Option Plan for a consideration 

First Preferred Shares in whole or in part, at the Corporation’s option, at 

of $20 million ($3 million in 2011).

$25.00 per share plus all declared and unpaid dividends to the date fixed 

for redemption, or the Series P First Preferred Shares are convertible 

For the year ended December 31, 2012, dividends declared on the Corporation’s 

common shares amounted to $1.40 per share ($1.40 per share in 2011).

NOTE 18  SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

DEFERRED SHARE U N IT PL AN

EM PLOYEE SHARE PU RCHASE PROG R AM

On October 1, 2000, the Corporation established a Deferred Share Unit 

Effective May 1, 2000, an Employee Share Purchase Program was implemented, 

Plan for the Directors of the Corporation to promote a greater alignment 

giving employees the opportunity to subscribe for up to 6% of their gross 

of interests between Directors and shareholders of the Corporation. Under 

salary to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares of Power Corporation of 

this plan, each Director may elect to receive his or her annual retainer and 

Canada on the open market and to have the Corporation invest, on the 

attendance fees entirely in the form of deferred share units, entirely in 

employee’s behalf, up to an equal amount. The amount paid on behalf of 

cash, or equally in cash and deferred share units. The number of deferred 

employees was $0.1 million in 2012 ($0.1 million in 2011).

share units granted is determined by dividing the amount of remuneration 

payable by the five-day-average closing price on the Toronto Stock Exchange 

STOCK OPTION PL AN

of the Common Shares of the Corporation on the last five days of the fiscal 

Compensation  expense  is  recorded  for  options  granted  under  the 

quarter (the value of a deferred share unit). A Director who has elected to 

Corporation’s and its subsidiaries’ stock option plans based on the fair value 

receive deferred share units will receive additional deferred share units in 

of the options at the grant date, amortized over the vesting period.

respect of dividends payable on the Common Shares, based on the value of a 

During the year ended December 31, 2012, 668,579 options (777,503 options 

deferred share unit at that time. A deferred share unit is payable, at the time a 

in 2011) were granted under the Corporation’s Employee Stock Option Plan. 

Director’s membership on the Board is terminated or in the event of the death 

The fair value of these options was estimated using the Black-Scholes option-

of a Director, by a lump sum cash payment, based on the value of a deferred 

pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

share unit at that time. At December 31, 2012, the value of the deferred share 

units outstanding was $13 million ($10 million in 2011). Alternatively, Directors 

may participate in the Directors Share Purchase Plan.

Dividend yield

Expected volatility

Risk-free interest rate

Expected life (years)

Fair value per stock option ($/option)

Weighted-average exercise price ($/option)

80
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

2012

4.8%

18.7%

1.7%

9

$2.08

$25.31

2011

4.9%

19.2%

2.3%

9

$2.47

$26.54

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 18  SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (CONTINUED)

Expected volatility has been estimated based on the historical volatility 

in 2008 which vest equally over a period of five years beginning in 2009; grants 

of the Corporation’s share price over nine years which is reflective of the 

of 19,039 options in 2010 which vest as follows: the first 50% three years from 

expected option life.

For the year ended December 31, 2012, compensation expense relating to the 

stock options granted by the Corporation and its subsidiaries amounted to 

$13 million ($10 million in 2011).

Under the Corporation’s Employee Stock Option Plan, 16,491,200 additional 

shares are reserved for issuance. The plan requires that the exercise price 

under the option must not be less than the market value of a share on the date 

of the grant of the option. Generally, options granted vest on a delayed basis 

over periods beginning no earlier than one year from date of grant and no later 

than five years from date of grant. Options recently granted, which are not 

fully vested, have the following vesting conditions: grants of 830,980 options 

the date of grant, and the remaining 50% four years from the date of grant; 

a grant of 679,525 options in 2010 which vest equally over a period of five 

years beginning in 2011; grants of 743,080 options in 2011 which vest equally 

over a period of five years beginning in 2012; grants of 21,537 in 2011 options 

which vest as follows: the first 50% three years from the date of grant, and 

the remaining 50% four years from the date of grant; grants of 598,325 in 2012 

options which vest equally over a period of five years beginning in 2013; grants 

of 70,254 in 2012 options which vest as follows: the first 50% three years from 

the date of grant, and the remaining 50% four years from the date of grant.

A summary of the status of the Corporation’s Employee Stock Option Plan as 

at December 31, 2012 and 2011, and changes during the years ended on those 

dates is as follows:

OPTIONS

WEIGHTED-AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICE

OPTIONS

WEIGHTED-AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICE

2012

2011

Outstanding at beginning of year

Granted

Exercised

Outstanding at end of year

Options exercisable at end of year

9,097,618

668,579

(930,400)

8,835,797

6,958,267

$

27.85

25.31

21.65

28.32

28.73

8,480,115

777,503

(160,000)

9,097,618

7,267,535

$

27.77

26.54

16.87

27.85

27.82

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2012:

RANGE OF EXERCISE PRICES

$

21.65

25.07 – 28.13

29.05 – 30.18

31.59 – 32.46

34.46 – 37.13

OPTIONS OUTSTANDING

OPTIONS EXERCISABLE

WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE
REMAINING LIFE

WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICE

WEIGHTED-
AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICE

OPTIONS

OPTIONS

2,069,600

2,254,992

887,777

2,567,777

1,055,651

8,835,797

(YRS)

0.6

8.3

5.7

3.1

5.2

4.4

$

21.65

2,069,600

26.55

29.63

606,608

677,670

32.11

2,548,738

34.81

1,055,651

28.32

6,958,267

$

21.65

27.17

29.61

32.11

34.81

28.73

EQ U IT Y INCENTIVE PL AN OF PUTNAM

Lifeco uses the fair-value based method to account for restricted Class B 

Ef fec tive  September  2 5,  2007,  Putnam  sponsored  the  Putnam 

Shares and options on Class B Shares granted to employees under the 

Investments, LLC Equity Incentive Plan (the EIP). Under the terms of the EIP, 

EIP.  The  fair  value  of  restricted  Class  B  Shares  and  options  on  Class  B 

Putnam is authorized to grant or sell Class B Shares of Putnam (the Putnam 

Shares is determined on each grant date. During 2012, Putnam granted 

Class B Shares), subject to certain restrictions and to grant options to 

1,789,000 (1,189,169 in 2011) restricted Class B common shares and no options 

purchase Putnam Class B Shares (collectively, the Awards) to certain senior 

in 2012 or 2011 to certain members of senior management and key employees.

management and key employees of Putnam at fair value at the time of the 

award. Fair value is determined under the valuation methodology outlined 

in the EIP. Awards vest over a period of up to five years and are specified in the 

individual’s award letter. Holders of Putnam Class B Shares are not entitled 

to vote other than in respect of certain matters in regards to the EIP and 

have no rights to convert their shares into any other securities. The number 

of Putnam Class B Shares that may be subject to Awards under the EIP is 

limited to 10,000,000. The share-based payments awarded under the EIP 

are cash-settled and included within other liabilities on the balance sheets.

Compensation expense recorded for the year ended December 31, 2012 related 

to restricted Class B common shares and Class B stock options earned was 

$22 million ($3 million in 2011) and is recorded in operating and administrative 

expenses in the statements of earnings. At December 31, 2012, the carrying 

value and intrinsic value of the restricted Class B Share and stock option 

liability was $99 million ($101 million in 2011).

81
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 19  NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS

DECEMBER 31

Non-controlling interests include:

Participating account surplus in subsidiaries

Preferred shareholders of subsidiaries

Common shareholders of subsidiaries

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Earnings attributable to non-controlling interests include:

Earnings attributable to common shareholders of subsidiaries

Dividends to preferred shareholders of subsidiaries

Earnings attributable to participating account surplus in subsidiaries

2012

2,505

2,694

5,144

10,343

2012

797

124

276

1,197

2011

2,227

2,044

5,023

9,294

2011

916

105

120

1,141

NOTE 20  CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

As a holding company, Power Financial’s objectives in managing its capital 

>  At December 31, 2012, the Risk-Based Capital ratio (RBC) of Great-West Life 

are to:

>  provide sufficient financial flexibility to pursue its growth strategy and 

support its group companies and other investments.

>  maintain an appropriate credit rating to achieve access to the capital 

markets at the lowest overall cost of capital.

>  provide attractive long-term returns to shareholders of the Corporation.

The Corporation manages its capital taking into consideration the risk 

characteristics and liquidity of its holdings. In order to maintain or adjust its 

capital structure, the Corporation may adjust the amount of dividends paid 

to shareholders, return capital to shareholders or issue new forms of capital.

& Annuity, Lifeco’s regulated U.S. operating company, was estimated to 

be 440% of the Company Action Level set by the National Association of 

Insurance Commissioners. Great-West Life & Annuity reports its RBC ratio 

annually to U.S. insurance regulators.

>  In  the  United  Kingdom,  Canada  Life  UK  is  required  to  satisfy  the 

capital resources requirements set out in the Integrated Prudential 

Sourcebook, part of the Financial Services Authority Handbook. The 

capital requirements are prescribed by a formulaic capital requirement 

(Pillar 1) and an individual capital adequacy framework which requires 

an entity to self-assess an appropriate amount of capital it should hold, 

based on the risks encountered from its business activities. At the end of 

The  capital  structure  of  the  Corporation  consists  of  preferred  shares, 

2012, Canada Life UK complied with the capital resource requirements in 

debentures and equity composed of stated capital, retained earnings and 

the United Kingdom.

non-controlling interests in the equity of subsidiaries of the Corporation. 

The Corporation utilizes perpetual preferred shares as a permanent and cost-

effective source of capital. The Corporation considers itself to be a long-term 

investor and as such holds positions in long-term investments as well as cash 

and short-term investments for liquidity purposes.

>  Other foreign operations and foreign subsidiaries of Lifeco are required 

to comply with local capital or solvency requirements in their respective 

jurisdictions. At December 31, 2012 and 2011 Lifeco maintained capital levels 

above the minimum local regulatory requirements in each of its other 

foreign operations. One of the foreign operations is in discussions with 

The  Corporation  is  not  subject  to  externally  imposed  regulator y 

its regulator regarding the admissibility of certain assets for the purpose 

capital requirements.

of calculating such local regulatory requirements.

The Corporation’s major operating subsidiaries are subject to regulatory 

IGM  subsidiaries  subject  to  regulator y  capital  requirements  include 

capital requirements along with capital standards set by rating agencies.

investment dealers, mutual fund dealers, exempt market dealers, portfolio 

managers, investment fund managers and a trust company. IGM subsidiaries 

are required to maintain minimum levels of capital based on either working 

capital, liquidity or shareholders’ equity. IGM subsidiaries have complied with 

all regulatory capital requirements.

Lifeco’s subsidiaries Great-West Life and Great-West Life & Annuity are 

subject to minimum regulatory capital requirements. Lifeco’s practice is to 

maintain the capitalization of its regulated operating subsidiaries at a level 

that will exceed the relevant minimum regulatory capital requirements in 

the jurisdictions in which they operate:

>  In Canada, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions 

has  established  a  capital  adequacy  measurement  for  life  insurance 

companies incorporated under the Insurance Companies Act (Canada) and 

their subsidiaries, known as the Minimum Continuing Capital and Surplus 

Requirements (MCCSR). As at December 31, 2012, the MCCSR ratio for 

Great-West Life was 207%.

82
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT

Power Financial and its subsidiaries have policies relating to the identification, 

Principal payments on debentures (other than those of Lifeco and IGM 

measurement, monitoring, mitigating and controlling of risks associated 

discussed below) of $250 million due after five years, represent the only 

with financial instruments. The key risks related to financial instruments 

significant contractual liquidity requirement of Power Financial.

are liquidity risk, credit risk and market risk (currency, interest rate and 

Power Financial’s liquidity position and its management of liquidity risk have 

equity price).

not changed materially since December 31, 2011.

The Corporation and its subsidiaries have also established policies, guidelines 

For Lifeco, the following policies and procedures are in place to manage 

or procedures designed to identify, measure and report all material risks. 

liquidity risk:

Management is responsible for establishing capital management procedures 

for implementing and monitoring the capital plan. The Board of Directors of 

the Corporation and the boards of directors of its subsidiaries review and 

approve all capital transactions undertaken by management.

LIQ U IDIT Y RI SK

>  Lifeco closely manages operating liquidity through cash flow matching 

of assets and liabilities and forecasting earned and required yields, to 

ensure consistency between policyholder requirements and the yield 

of assets. Approximately 70% (72% in 2011) of insurance and investment 

contract liabilities are non-cashable prior to maturity or subject to market 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Corporation and its subsidiaries will not be 

value adjustments.

able to meet all cash outflow obligations as they come due.

>  Management of Lifeco monitors the use of lines of credit on a regular basis, 

Power Financial is a holding company. As such, corporate cash flows from 

operations, before payment of dividends to its common and preferred 

and assesses the ongoing availability of these and alternative forms of 

operating credit.

shareholders,  are  principally  made  up  of  dividends  received  from  its 

>  Management of Lifeco closely monitors the solvency and capital positions 

subsidiaries and jointly controlled corporation, and income from investments, 

of its principal subsidiaries opposite liquidity requirements at the holding 

less operating expenses, financing charges and income taxes. The ability of 

company. Additional liquidity is available through established lines of 

Lifeco and IGM, which are also holding companies, to meet their obligations 

credit or the capital markets. Lifeco maintains a $200 million committed 

and pay dividends depends in particular upon receipt of sufficient funds from 

line of credit with a Canadian chartered bank. As well, Putnam maintains 

their own subsidiaries.

Power Financial seeks to maintain a sufficient level of liquidity to meet all its 

cash flow requirements. In addition, Power Financial and its parent, Power 

a US$500 million revolving credit agreement with a consortium of banks 

and on October 18, 2012, Lifeco renewed a US$304 million Putnam non-

revolving term loan facility, guaranteed by Lifeco, for three years.

Corporation of Canada, jointly have a $100 million uncommitted line of credit 

In the normal course of business, Lifeco enters into contracts that give rise 

with a Canadian chartered bank. Power Corporation and Power Financial 

to commitments of future minimum payments that impact short-term and 

never accessed the uncommitted line of credit in the past; however, any 

long-term liquidity. The following table summarizes the principal repayment 

advances made by the bank under the uncommitted line would be at the 

schedule of certain of Lifeco’s financial liabilities.

bank’s sole discretion.

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Debentures and debt instruments

Capital trust securities[1]

Purchase obligations

Pension contributions

PAYMENTS DUE BY PERIOD

1 YEAR

296

–

58

133

487

2 YEARS

3 YEARS

4 YEARS

5 YEARS

1

–

13

–

14

301

–

10

–

311

–

–

2

–

2

–

–

–

–

–

AFTER
5 YEARS

3,714

150

–

–

TOTAL

4,312

150

83

133

3,864

4,678

[1]  Payments due have not been reduced to reflect that Lifeco held capital trust securities of $37 million principal amount ($45 million carrying value).

IGM’s  liquidity  management  practices  include:  controls  over  liquidity 

>  third parties, including Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation 

management processes; stress testing of various operating scenarios; and 

(CMHC) or Canadian bank-sponsored securitization trusts;

oversight over liquidity management by committees of the board of directors 

> 

institutional investors through private placements.

of IGM.

A key liquidity requirement for IGM is the funding of commissions paid on the 

sale of mutual funds. Commissions on the sale of mutual funds continue to 

be paid from operating cash flows.

Certain subsidiaries of IGM are approved issuers of National Housing Act 

Mortgage-Backed  Securities  (NHA  MBS)  and  approved  sellers  into  the 

Canada Mortgage Bond Program (CMB Program). This issuer and seller status 

provides IGM with additional funding sources for residential mortgages. 

IGM  also  maintains  sufficient  liquidity  to  fund  and  temporarily  hold 

IGM’s continued ability to fund residential mortgages through Canadian 

mortgages. Through its mortgage banking operations, residential mortgages 

bank-sponsored  securitization  trusts  and  NHA  MBS  is  dependent  on 

are sold or securitized to:

>  Investors Mortgage and Short Term Income Fund and Investors Canadian 

Corporate Bond Fund;

securitization market conditions that are subject to change. A condition of 

the NHA MBS and CMB Programs is that securitized loans be insured by an 

insurer that is approved by CMHC. The availability of mortgage insurance is 

dependent upon market conditions that are subject to change.

83
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

IGM’s contractual obligations were as follows:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Repurchase agreements

Derivative financial instruments

Deposits and certificates

Obligations to securitization entities

Long-term debt

Operation leases

Total contractual obligations

DEMAND

LESS THAN 
1 YEAR

1 – 5 YEARS

AFTER 
5 YEARS

–

–

136

–

–

–

225

23

9

789

–

53

–

45

13

3,877

–

152

136

1,099

4,087

–

3

5

35

1,325

79

1,447

TOTAL

225

71

163

4,701

1,325

284

6,769

In addition to IGM’s current balance of cash and cash equivalents, liquidity 

Derivatives or derivatives not designated as hedges continue to be utilized 

is available through IGM’s operating lines of credit. IGM’s operating lines of 

on a basis consistent with the risk management policies of the Corporation 

credit with various Schedule I Canadian chartered banks totalled $525 million 

and are monitored by the Corporation for effectiveness as economic hedges 

as at December 31, 2012, compared to $325 million as at December 31, 2011. On 

even if specific hedge accounting requirements are not met. The Corporation 

October 26, 2012, IGM entered into an additional $200 million committed 

regularly  reviews  the  credit  ratings  of  derivative  financial  instrument 

line  of  credit  to  provide  financing  for  IGM’s  mortgage  operations.  The 

counterparties. Derivative contracts are over-the-counter traded with 

operating lines of credit as at December 31, 2012 consisted of committed 

counterparties that are highly rated financial institutions. The exposure to 

lines of $350 million ($150 million in 2011) and uncommitted lines of $175 million 

credit risk of these derivatives is limited to their fair values which were nil at 

($175 million in 2011). IGM has accessed its uncommitted operating lines 

December 31, 2012.

of credit in the past; however, any advances made by the banks under 

For Lifeco, the following policies and procedures are in place to manage 

the uncommitted operating lines are at the banks’ sole discretion. As at 

credit risk:

December 31, 2012 and 2011, IGM was not utilizing its committed lines of credit 

or its uncommitted operating lines of credit.

IGM  accessed  capital  markets  most  recently  in  December  2010;  IGM’s 

ability to access capital markets to raise funds in future is dependent on 

market conditions.

>  Investment guidelines are in place that require only the purchase of 

investment-grade assets and minimize undue concentration of assets in 

any single geographic area, industry and company.

>  Investment guidelines specify minimum and maximum limits for each 

asset class. Credit ratings are determined by recognized external credit 

IGM’s liquidity position and its management of liquidity risk have not changed 

rating agencies and/or internal credit review.

materially since December 31, 2011.

CREDIT RI SK

>  Investment guidelines also specify collateral requirements.

>  Portfolios are monitored continuously, and reviewed regularly with the 

Credit risk is the potential for financial loss to the Corporation and its 

board of directors of Lifeco or the investment committee of the board of 

subsidiaries if a counterparty in a transaction fails to meet its obligations.

directors of Lifeco.

For Power Financial, cash and cash equivalents, fixed income securities, and 

>  Credit risk associated with derivative instruments is evaluated quarterly 

derivatives are subject to credit risk. The Corporation continuously monitors 

based on conditions that existed at the balance sheet date, using practices 

its credit risk.

that are at least as conservative as those recommended by regulators.

Cash and cash equivalents amounting to $359 million and fixed income 

>  Lifeco is exposed to credit risk relating to premiums due from policyholders 

securities  amounting  to  $625  million  consist  primarily  of  highly  liquid 

during the grace period specified by the insurance policy or until the policy 

temporary deposits with Canadian chartered banks as well as bankers’ 

is paid up or terminated. Commissions paid to agents and brokers are 

acceptances  and  short-term  securities  guaranteed  by  the  Canadian 

netted against amounts receivable, if any.

government. The Corporation regularly reviews the credit ratings of its 

counterparties. The maximum exposure to credit risk on these financial 

instruments is their carrying value. The Corporation mitigates credit risk 

on these financial instruments by adhering to its Investment Policy which 

>  Reinsurance is placed with counterparties that have a good credit rating 

and concentration of credit risk is managed by following policy guidelines 

set each year by the board of directors of Lifeco. Management of Lifeco 

continuously monitors and performs an assessment of creditworthiness 

outlines credit risk parameters and concentration limits.

of reinsurers.

Maximum  Exposure  to  Credit  Risk  for  Lifeco  The  following  table 

summarizes Lifeco’s maximum exposure to credit risk related to financial 

instruments. The maximum credit exposure is the carrying value of the asset 

net of any allowances for losses.

84
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

DECEMBER 31

Cash and cash equivalents

Bonds

Fair value through profit or loss

Available for sale

Loans and receivables

Mortgage loans

Loans to policyholders

Funds held by ceding insurers[1]

Reinsurance assets

Interest due and accrued

Accounts receivable

Premiums in course of collection

Trading account assets

Other financial assets[2]

Derivative assets

2012

1,895

64,850

6,752

10,934

17,875

7,082

10,537

2,064

1,098

977

484

313

973

997

2011

2,056

61,709

6,620

9,744

17,432

7,162

9,923

2,061

1,108

813

422

207

685

968

Total balance sheet maximum credit exposure

126,831

120,910

[1]  Includes $9,951 million ($9,411 million at December 31, 2011) of funds held by ceding insurers where Lifeco retains the credit risk of the assets supporting the liabilities 

ceded (see Note 5).

[2]  Includes items such as current income taxes receivable and miscellaneous other assets of Lifeco.

Credit risk is also mitigated by entering into collateral agreements. The 

Concentration of Credit Risk for Lifeco  Concentrations of credit risk arise 

amount and type of collateral required depends on an assessment of the 

from exposures to a single debtor, a group of related debtors or groups of 

credit  risk  of  the  counterparty.  Guidelines  are  implemented  regarding 

debtors that have similar credit risk characteristics in that they operate in 

the  acceptability  of  types  of  collateral  and  the  valuation  parameters. 

the same geographic region or in similar industries. The characteristics are 

Management  of  Lifeco  monitors  the  value  of  the  collateral,  requests 

similar in that changes in economic or political environments may impact 

additional collateral when needed and performs an impairment valuation 

their ability to meet obligations as they come due.

when applicable. Lifeco has $25 million of collateral received in 2012 ($21 million 

The following table provides details of the carrying value of bonds of Lifeco 

at December 31, 2011) relating to derivative assets.

by industry sector and geographic distribution:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Bonds issued or guaranteed by:

Canadian federal government

Provincial, state and municipal governments

U.S. Treasury and other U.S. agencies

Other foreign governments

Government-related

Supranationals

Asset-backed securities

Residential mortgage-backed securities

Banks

Other financial institutions

Basic materials

Communications

Consumer products

Industrial products/services

Natural resources

Real estate

Transportation

Utilities

Miscellaneous

Total long-term bonds

Short-term bonds

CANADA

UNITED STATES

EUROPE

TOTAL

4,873

6,454

305

151

1,584

453

2,587

16

2,140

801

252

499

1,903

873

1,100

850

1,747

4,257

2,317

3

1,881

3,421

29

–

11

3,117

452

359

1,578

724

181

43

61

976

8,044

1,205

289

830

165

2,317

1,964

231

553

1,975

1,867

984

665

–

696

3,317

856

323

565

1,739

598

3,342

312

33,162

2,388

35,550

20,249

25,424

358

955

20,607

26,379

4,919

8,396

4,702

8,224

2,789

753

6,534

633

4,816

4,343

1,207

1,233

5,745

2,180

2,330

2,589

3,041

10,916

3,485

78,835

3,701

82,536

85
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Bonds issued or guaranteed by:

Canadian federal government

Provincial, state and municipal governments

U.S. Treasury and other U.S. agencies

Other foreign governments

Government-related

Supranationals

Asset-backed securities

Residential mortgage-backed securities

Banks

Other financial institutions

Basic materials

Communications

Consumer products

Industrial products/services

Natural resources

Real estate

Transportation

Utilities

Miscellaneous

Total long-term bonds

Short-term bonds

CANADA

UNITED STATES

EUROPE

TOTAL

4,328

6,430

271

185

1,293

443

2,696

26

2,168

855

233

508

1,848

695

1,127

608

1,721

3,792

2,024

2

1,980

2,857

25

–

12

3,401

638

416

1,449

748

221

42

53

1,006

8,216

955

211

803

146

1,858

1,615

214

501

1,813

1,771

825

560

–

672

2,689

814

212

554

1,610

624

3,158

277

4,372

8,463

4,134

8,426

2,248

666

6,900

810

4,442

3,919

1,195

1,230

5,432

1,732

2,241

2,218

3,017

9,639

3,115

31,251

2,980

34,231

19,122

23,826

323

571

19,445

24,397

74,199

3,874

78,073

The following table provides details of the carrying value of mortgage loans of Lifeco by geographic location:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Canada

United States

Europe

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Canada

United States

Europe

Asset Quality

BOND PORTFOLIO QUALIT Y
DECEMBER 31

AAA

AA

A

BBB

BB and lower

Total

86
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL

MULTI-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

TOTAL

1,676

3,250

–

–

921

187

6,982

2,139

2,720

11,908

3,060

2,907

1,676

4,358

11,841

17,875

SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL

MULTI-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

TOTAL

1,591

3,407

–

79

811

108

7,022

1,999

2,415

12,020

2,810

2,602

1,670

4,326

11,436

17,432

2012

29,302

13,463

23,767

14,662

1,342

82,536

2011

29,612

12,525

22,435

12,399

1,102

78,073

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

DERIVATIVE PORTFOLIO QUALIT Y
DECEMBER 31

Over-the-counter contracts (counterparty ratings):

AAA

AA

A

Total

2012

9

106

882

997

2011

12

361

595

968

Loans of Lifeco Past Due, but not Impaired  Loans that are past due but not considered impaired are loans for which scheduled payments have not been 

received, but management of Lifeco has reasonable assurance of collection of the full amount of principal and interest due. The following table provides 

carrying values of the loans past due, but not impaired:

DECEMBER 31

Less than 30 days

30 – 90 days

Greater than 90 days

Total

2012

12

–

4

16

2011

3

1

1

5

The following outlines the future asset credit losses provided for in insurance and investment contract liabilities. These amounts are in addition to the 

allowance for asset losses included with assets:

DECEMBER 31

Participating

Non-participating

2012

892

1,667

2,559

2011

852

1,648

2,500

For IGM, cash and cash equivalents, securities holdings, mortgage and 

>  Sold  to  securitization  programs  which  are  classified  as  loans  and 

investment loan portfolios, and derivatives are subject to credit risk. IGM 

receivables and totalled $4.6 billion compared to $3.8 billion at December 31, 

monitors its credit risk management practices continuously to evaluate 

2011. An offsetting liability, obligations to securitization entities, has 

their effectiveness.

been recorded and totalled $4.7 billion at December 31, 2012, compared to 

With respect to IGM, at December 31, 2012, cash and cash equivalents of 

$3.8 billion at December 31, 2011.

$1,059 million ($1,052 million in 2011) consisted of cash balances of $101 million 

>  Related to IGM’s mortgage banking operations which are classified 

($97 million in 2011) on deposit with Canadian chartered banks and cash 

as held for trading and totalled $249 million, compared to $292 million 

equivalents  of  $958  million  ($955  million  in  2011).  Cash  equivalents  are 

at  December  31,  2011.  These  loans  are  held  by  IGM  pending  sale  or 

composed of Government of Canada treasury bills totalling $233 million 

securitization.

($521 million in 2011), provincial government and government-guaranteed 

commercial  paper  of  $473  million  ($340  million  in  2011)  and  bankers’ 

acceptances issued by Canadian chartered banks of $253 million ($94 million 

in 2011). IGM regularly reviews the credit ratings of its counterparties. The 

maximum exposure to credit risk on these financial instruments is their 

carrying value. IGM manages credit risk related to cash and cash equivalents 

by adhering to its Investment Policy that outlines credit risk parameters and 

concentration limits.

Fair value through profit or loss securities include Canada Mortgage Bonds 

with a fair value of $226 million ($227 million in 2011). The fair value represents 

the maximum exposure to credit risk of IGM at December 31, 2012.

IGM regularly reviews the credit quality of the mortgage portfolios related 

to IGM’s mortgage banking operations and its intermediary operations, 

as well as the adequacy of the collective allowance. As at December 31, 

2012, mortgages totalled $4.9 billion ($4.1 billion in 2011) and consisted of 

residential mortgages:

>  Related to IGM’s intermediary operations which are classified as loans 

and receivables and totalled $35 million at December 31, 2012, compared 

to $31 million at December 31, 2011.

As at December 31, 2012, the mortgage portfolios related to IGM’s intermediary 

operations were geographically diverse, 100% residential (100% in 2011) and 

86.2% insured (99.4% in 2011). As at December 31, 2012, impaired mortgages 

over 90 days were nil, unchanged from December 31, 2011. Uninsured non-

performing mortgages over 90 days were nil, unchanged from December 31, 

2011.  The  characteristics  of  the  mortgage  portfolios  have  not  changed 

significantly during 2012.

IGM purchases portfolio insurance from CMHC on newly funded qualifying 

conventional mortgages. Under the NHA MBS and CMB Programs, it is a 

requirement that securitized mortgages be insured against default by an 

approved insurer, and IGM has also insured substantially all loans securitized 

through ABCP programs. At December 31, 2012, 88.3% of the securitized 

portfolio and the residential mortgages classified as held for trading were 

insured, compared to 93.0% at December 31, 2011. As at December 31, 2012, 

impaired mortgages on these portfolios were $1 million, unchanged from 

December 31, 2011. Uninsured non-performing mortgages over 90 days on 

these portfolios were $1 million at December 31, 2012, compared to nil at 

December 31, 2011.

87
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

IGM  retains  certain  elements  of  credit  risk  on  securitized  loans.  At 

reinvestment and interest rate risk, with an outstanding notional amount of 

December 31, 2012, 90.2% of securitized loans were insured against credit 

$2.4 billion ($1.7 billion in 2011) and having a fair value of $3 million ($7 million 

losses  compared  to  96.2%  at  December  31,  2011.  IGM’s  credit  risk  on  its 

in 2011), are reflected on the balance sheet. The exposure to credit risk, which 

securitization activities is limited to retained interest. The fair value of IGM’s 

is limited to the fair value of swaps in a gain position, totalled $63 million at 

retained interests in securitized mortgages was $69 million at December 31, 

December 31, 2012, compared to $87 million at December 31, 2011.

2012, compared to $24 million at December 31, 2011. Retained interests include:

IGM utilizes interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk associated with 

>  Cash reserve accounts and rights to future net interest income–which were 

mortgages securitized through Canadian bank-sponsored ABCP programs. 

$24 million and $102 million, respectively, at December 31, 2012. Cash 

The  negative  fair  value  of  these  interest  rate  swaps  totalled  $5  million 

reserve accounts are reflected on the balance sheet, whereas rights to 

($23 million in 2011) on an outstanding notional amount of $435 million at 

future net interest income are not reflected on the balance sheet and will 

December 31, 2012 ($1.0 billion in 2011). The exposure to credit risk, which is 

be recorded over the life of the mortgages.

limited to the fair value of swaps in a gain position, totalled $0.2 million at 

The portion of this amount pertaining to Canadian bank-sponsored 

December 31, 2012, compared to $0.6 million at December 31, 2011.

securitization trusts of $55 million ($45 million in 2011) is subordinated 

IGM also utilizes interest rate swaps to hedge interest rate risk associated 

to the interests of the trust and represents the maximum exposure to 

with  its  investments  in  Canada  Mortgage  Bonds.  The  negative  fair 

credit risk for any failure of the borrowers to pay when due. Credit risk on 

value of these interest rate swaps totalled $5 million ($7 million in 2011) 

these mortgages is mitigated by any insurance on these mortgages, as 

on an outstanding notional amount of $200 million at December 31, 2012 

previously discussed, and IGM’s credit risk on insured loans is to the insurer.

($200 million in 2011). The exposure to credit risk, which is limited to the 

Rights  to  future  net  interest  income  under  the  NHA  MBS  and  CMB 

Programs totalled $70 million ($56 million in 2011). Under the NHA MBS 

fair value of the interest rate swaps which are in a gain position, was nil at 

December 31, 2012, unchanged from December 31, 2011.

and CMB Programs, IGM has an obligation to make timely payments 

IGM enters into other derivative contracts which consist primarily of interest 

to security holders regardless of whether amounts are received from 

rate swaps utilized to hedge interest rate risk related to mortgages held 

mortgagors. All mortgages securitized under the NHA MBS and CMB 

pending sale, or committed to, by IGM as well as total return swaps and 

Programs are insured by CMHC or another approved insurer under the 

forward agreements on IGM’s common shares utilized to hedge deferred 

programs. Outstanding mortgages securitized under these programs are 

compensation arrangements. The fair value of interest rate swaps, total 

$3.3 billion ($2.7 billion in 2011).

>  Fair value of principal reinvestment account swaps–had a negative fair value of 

$56 million at December 31, 2012 ($77 million in 2011) and is reflected on the 

balance sheet. These swaps represent the component of a swap entered 

into under the CMB Program whereby IGM pays coupons on Canada 

Mortgage Bonds and receives investment returns on the reinvestment 

return swaps and forward agreements was $0.1 million on an outstanding 

notional amount of $125 million at December 31, 2012, compared to a fair 

value of nil on an outstanding notional amount of $76 million at December 31, 

2011. The exposure to credit risk, which is limited to the fair value of those 

instruments which are in a gain position, was $2 million at December 31, 2012, 

compared to $1 million as at December 31, 2011.

of repaid mortgage principal. The notional amount of these swaps was 

The  aggregate  credit  risk  exposure  related  to  derivatives  that  are  in  a 

$932 million ($556 million in 2011) at December 31, 2012.

gain position of $65 million ($89 million in 2011) does not give effect to any 

IGM’s exposure to and management of credit risk related to cash and cash 

equivalents, fixed income securities and mortgage portfolios have not 

changed materially since December 31, 2011.

IGM utilizes over-the-counter derivatives to hedge interest rate risk and 

reinvestment risk associated with its mortgage banking and securitization 

activities, as well as market risk related to certain stock-based compensation 

arrangements. To the extent that the fair value of the derivatives is in a gain 

netting agreements or collateral arrangements. The exposure to credit 

risk, considering netting agreements and collateral arrangements, was nil 

at December 31, 2012 ($0.3 million in 2011). Counterparties are all Canadian 

Schedule  I  chartered  banks  and,  as  a  result,  management  of  IGM  has 

determined that IGM’s overall credit risk related to derivatives was not 

significant at December 31, 2012. Management of credit risk at IGM has not 

changed materially since December 31, 2011.

position, IGM is exposed to the credit risk that its counterparties fail to fulfill 

MARKET RI SK

their obligations under these arrangements.

Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial 

IGM participates in the CMB Program by entering into back-to-back swaps 

instrument will fluctuate as a result of changes in market factors. Market 

whereby  Canadian  Schedule  I  chartered  banks  designated  by  IGM  are 

factors include three types of risks: currency risk, interest rate risk and equity 

between IGM and the Canadian Housing Trust. IGM receives coupons on 

price risk.

NHA MBS and eligible principal reinvestments and pays coupons on the 

Canada Mortgage Bonds. IGM also enters into offsetting interest rate swaps 

with the same bank counterparties to hedge interest rate and reinvestment 

risk associated with the CMB Program. The negative fair value of these 

swaps totalled $27 million at December 31, 2012 ($26 million in 2011) and the 

outstanding notional amount was $5.7 billion ($4.4 billion in 2011). Certain 

of these swaps relate to securitized mortgages that have been recorded on 

IGM’s balance sheet with an associated obligation. Accordingly, these swaps, 

with an outstanding notional amount of $3.3 billion ($2.7 billion in 2011) and 

having a negative fair value of $29 million ($33 million in 2011), are not reflected 

on the balance sheet. Principal reinvestment account swaps and hedges of 

Caution related to risk sensitivities  The consolidated financial statements 

of the Corporation include estimates of sensitivities and risk exposure 

measures for certain risks, such as the sensitivity due to specific changes 

in interest rate levels projected and market prices at the valuation date. 

Actual results can differ significantly from these estimates for a variety of 

reasons, including:

>  assessment  of  the  circumstances  that  led  to  the  scenario  may  lead 

to changes in (re)investment approaches and interest rate scenarios 

considered;

88
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

>  changes in actuarial, investment return and future investment activity 

IGM’s financial instruments are generally denominated in Canadian dollars, 

assumptions;

and do not have significant exposure to changes in foreign exchange rates.

>  actual experience differing from the assumptions;

Interest rate risk 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value of future 

>  changes in business mix, effective tax rates and other market factors;

cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in the 

> 

interactions among these factors and assumptions when more than one 

market interest rates.

changes; and

>  the general limitations of internal models.

Power  Financial’s  financial  instruments  are  essentially  cash  and  cash 

equivalents, fixed income securities, and long-term debt that do not have 

For these reasons, the sensitivities should only be viewed as directional 

significant exposure to interest rate risk.

estimates of the underlying sensitivities for the respective factors based on 

For Lifeco, the following policies and procedures are in place to mitigate 

the assumptions outlined below. Given the nature of these calculations, the 

exposure to interest rate risk:

Corporation cannot provide assurance that the actual impact on net earnings 

attributed to shareholders will be as indicated.

>  Lifeco utilizes a formal process for managing the matching of assets and 

liabilities. This involves grouping general fund assets and liabilities into 

Currency risk  Currency risk relates to the Corporation, its subsidiaries 

segments. Assets in each segment are managed in relation to the liabilities 

and its jointly controlled corporation operating in different currencies and 

in the segment.

converting non-Canadian earnings at different points in time at different 

>  Interest rate risk is managed by investing in assets that are suitable for 

foreign exchange levels when adverse changes in foreign currency exchange 

the products sold.

rates occur.

Power Financial is exposed through Parjointco to foreign exchange risk as 

a result of Parjointco’s investment in Pargesa, a company whose functional 

currency is the Swiss franc.

>  Where  these  products  have  benefit  or  expense  payments  that  are 

dependent  on  inflation  (inflation-indexed  annuities,  pensions  and 

disability claims), Lifeco generally invests in real return instruments to 

hedge its real dollar liability cash flows. Some protection against changes 

Power Financial’s financial assets are essentially cash and cash equivalents 

in the inflation index is achieved as any related change in the fair value 

and fixed income securities. In managing its own cash and cash equivalents, 

of the assets will be largely offset by a similar change in the fair value of 

Power Financial may hold cash balances denominated in foreign currencies 

the liabilities.

and thus be exposed to fluctuations in exchange rates. In order to protect 

against such fluctuations, Power Financial may from time to time enter 

into currency-hedging transactions with highly rated financial institutions. 

As at December 31, 2012, essentially all of Power Financial’s cash and cash 

equivalents were denominated in Canadian dollars or in foreign currencies 

with currency hedges in place.

>  For  products  with  fixed  and  highly  predictable  benefit  payments, 

investments are made in fixed income assets or real estate whose cash 

flows closely match the liability product cash flows. Where assets are 

not available to match certain cash flows, such as long-tail cash flows, a 

portion of these are invested in equities and the rest are duration matched. 

Hedging instruments are employed where necessary when there is a lack 

For Lifeco, if the assets backing insurance and investment contract liabilities 

of suitable permanent investments to minimize loss exposure to interest 

are not matched by currency, changes in foreign exchange rates can expose 

rate changes. To the extent these cash flows are matched, protection 

Lifeco to the risk of foreign exchange losses not offset by liability decreases. 

against interest rate change is achieved and any change in the fair value of 

Lifeco has net investments in foreign operations. In addition, Lifeco’s debt 

the assets will be offset by a similar change in the fair value of the liabilities.

obligations are mainly denominated in Canadian dollars. In accordance with 

IFRS, foreign currency translation gains and losses from net investments 

in foreign operations, net of related hedging activities and tax effects, are 

recorded in other comprehensive income. Strengthening or weakening of the 

Canadian dollar spot rate compared to the U.S. dollar, British pound and euro 

spot rates impacts Lifeco’s total share capital and surplus. Correspondingly, 

Lifeco’s book value per share and capital ratios monitored by rating agencies 

are also impacted. The following policies and procedures are in place to 

mitigate Lifeco’s exposure to currency risk:

>  Lifeco uses financial measures such as constant currency calculations to 

monitor the effect of currency translation fluctuations.

>  Investments are normally made in the same currency as the liabilities 

supported by those investments. Segmented investment guidelines 

include maximum tolerances for unhedged currency mismatch exposures.

>  Foreign currency assets acquired to back liabilities are normally converted 

back to the currency of the liability using foreign exchange contracts.

>  For  products  with  less  predictable  timing  of  benefit  payments, 

investments are made in fixed income assets with cash flows of a shorter 

duration than the anticipated timing of benefit payments or equities, as 

described below.

>  The risks associated with the mismatch in portfolio duration and cash 

flow, asset prepayment exposure and the pace of asset acquisition are 

quantified and reviewed regularly.

Projected cash flows from the current assets and liabilities are used in 

the  Canadian  Asset  Liability  Method  to  determine  insurance  contract 

liabilities. Valuation assumptions have been made regarding rates of returns 

on supporting assets, fixed income, equity and inflation. The valuation 

assumptions use best estimates of future reinvestment rates and inflation 

assumptions with an assumed correlation together with margins for adverse 

deviation set in accordance with professional standards. These margins 

are necessary to provide for possibilities of misestimation and/or future 

deterioration in the best estimate assumptions and provide reasonable 

>  A 10% weakening of the Canadian dollar against foreign currencies would 

assurance  that  insurance  contract  liabilities  cover  a  range  of  possible 

be expected to increase non-participating insurance and investment 

outcomes. Margins are reviewed periodically for continued appropriateness.

contract liabilities and their supporting assets by approximately the 

same amount, resulting in an immaterial change to net earnings. A 10% 

strengthening of the Canadian dollar against foreign currencies would 

be expected to decrease non-participating insurance and investment 

contract liabilities and their supporting assets by approximately the same 

amount, resulting in an immaterial change in net earnings.

89
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

Projected cash flows from fixed income assets used in actuarial calculations 

>  IGM is also exposed to the impact that changes in interest rates may have 

are reduced to provide for potential asset default losses. The net effective yield 

on the value of mortgages held, or committed to, by IGM. IGM may enter 

rate reduction averaged 0.18% (0.19% in 2011). The calculation for future credit 

into interest rate swaps to hedge this risk.

losses on assets is based on the credit quality of the underlying asset portfolio.

As at December 31, 2012, the impact to annual net earnings of IGM of a 

Testing  under  several  interest  rate  scenarios  (including  increasing  and 

100-basis-point change in interest rates would have been approximately 

decreasing rates) is done to assess reinvestment risk.

$5 million (Power Financial’s share — $3 million). IGM’s exposure to and 

One way of measuring the interest rate risk associated with this assumption 

is to determine the effect on the insurance and investment contract liabilities 

management  of  interest  rate  risk  has  not  changed  materially  since 

December 31, 2011.

impacting the shareholder earnings of Lifeco of a 1% immediate parallel shift 

Equity price risk  Equity price risk is the uncertainty associated with the 

in the yield curve. These interest rate changes will impact the projected 

valuation of assets arising from changes in equity markets. To mitigate 

cash flows.

>  The effect of an immediate 1% parallel increase in the yield curve would 

be to decrease these insurance and investment contract liabilities by 

equity price risk, the Corporation and its subsidiaries have investment policy 

guidelines in place that provide for prudent investment in equity markets 

within clearly defined limits.

approximately $181 million, causing an increase in net earnings of Lifeco of 

Power  Financial’s  financial  instruments  are  essentially  cash  and  cash 

approximately $121 million (Power Financial’s share — $85 million).

equivalents, fixed income securities, and long-term debt that do not have 

>  The effect of an immediate 1% parallel decrease in the yield curve would 

exposure to equity price risk.

be to increase these insurance and investment contract liabilities by 

Pargesa indirectly holds substantial investments classified as available 

approximately $715 million, causing a decrease in net earnings of Lifeco 

for sale, therefore unrealized gains and losses on these investments are 

of approximately $504 million (Power Financial’s share — $356 million).

recorded in other comprehensive income until realized. These investments 

In addition to the above, if this change in the yield curve persisted for an 

extended period the range of the tested scenarios might change. The effect 

are reviewed periodically to determine whether there is objective evidence 

of an impairment in value.

of an immediate 1% parallel decrease or increase in the yield curve persisting 

For Lifeco, the risks associated with segregated fund guarantees have been 

for a year would have immaterial additional effects on the reported insurance 

mitigated through a hedging program for lifetime Guaranteed Minimum 

and investment contract liabilities.

IGM  is  exposed  to  interest  rate  risk  on  its  loan  portfolio,  fixed  income 

securities, Canada Mortgage Bonds and on certain of the derivative financial 

instruments used in IGM’s mortgage banking and intermediary operations.

The objective of IGM’s asset and liability management is to control interest 

rate risk related to its intermediary operations by actively managing its 

interest rate exposure. As at December 31, 2012, the total gap between deposit 

assets and liabilities was within IGM’s trust subsidiaries’ stated guidelines.

IGM utilizes interest rate swaps with Canadian Schedule I chartered bank 

counterparties in order to reduce the impact of fluctuating interest rates on 

its mortgage banking operations, as follows:

>  IGM  has  funded  fixed  rate  mor tgages  with  ABCP  as  par t  of  the 

securitization transactions with bank-sponsored securitization trusts. 

IGM enters into interest rate swaps with Canadian Schedule I chartered 

banks to hedge the risk that ABCP rates rise. However, IGM remains 

Withdrawal Benefit guarantees using equity futures, currency forwards, 

and interest rate derivatives. For policies with segregated fund guarantees, 

Lifeco generally determines insurance contract liabilities at a conditional tail 

expectation of 75 (CTE75) level.

Some  insurance  and  investment  contract  liabilities  are  supported  by 

investment properties, common stocks and private equities, for example, 

segregated fund products and products with long-tail cash flows. Generally 

these liabilities will fluctuate in line with equity market values. There will 

be additional impacts on these liabilities as equity market values fluctuate. 

A  10%  increase  in  equity  markets  would  be  expected  to  additionally 

decrease non-participating insurance and investment contract liabilities 

by approximately $22 million, causing an increase in net earnings of Lifeco 

of approximately $18 million (Power Financial’s share — $13 million). A 10% 

decrease in equity markets would be expected to additionally increase non-

participating insurance and investment contract liabilities by approximately 

$128 million, causing a decrease in net earnings of Lifeco of approximately 

exposed to the basis risk that ABCP rates are greater than the bankers’ 

$96 million (Power Financial’s share — $68 million).

acceptance rates that it receives on its hedges.

>  IGM has in certain instances funded floating rate mortgages with fixed rate 

Canada Mortgage Bonds as part of the securitization transactions under 

the CMB Program. IGM enters into interest rate swaps with Canadian 

Schedule I chartered banks to hedge the risk that the interest rates earned 

on floating rate mortgages decline. As previously discussed, as part of the 

CMB Program, IGM also is entitled to investment returns on reinvestment 

of principal repayments of securitized mortgages and is obligated to pay 

Canada Mortgage Bond coupons that are generally fixed rate. IGM hedges 

the risk that reinvestment returns decline by entering into interest rate 

The  best  estimate  return  assumptions  for  equities  are  primarily  based 

on long-term historical averages. Changes in the current market could 

result in changes to these assumptions and will impact both asset and 

liability cash flows. A 1% increase in the best estimate assumption would 

be expected to decrease non-participating insurance contract liabilities by 

approximately $443 million, causing an increase in net earnings of Lifeco 

of approximately $342 million (Power Financial’s share — $242 million). A 1% 

decrease in the best estimate assumption would be expected to increase 

non-participating insurance contract liabilities by approximately $492 million, 

causing a decrease in net earnings of Lifeco of approximately $376 million 

swaps with Canadian Schedule I chartered bank counterparties.

(Power Financial’s share — $266 million).

>  IGM is exposed to the impact that changes in interest rates may have 

on the value of its investments in Canada Mortgage Bonds. IGM enters 

into  interest  rate  swaps  with  Canadian  Schedule  I  chartered  bank 

counterparties to hedge interest rate risk on these bonds.

90
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 21  RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

Lifeco offers retail segregated fund products, unitized with profits products 

value of these funds could increase Lifeco’s liability exposure for providing 

and variable annuity products that provide for certain guarantees that are 

these guarantees. Lifeco’s exposure to these guarantees at the balance 

tied to the fair values of the investment funds. A significant decline in the fair 

sheet date was:

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Canada

United States

Europe

Total

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Canada

United States

Europe

Total

INVESTMENT DEFICIENCY BY BENEFIT T YPE

FAIR VALUE

INCOME

MATURIT Y

24,192

7,272

3,665

35,129

–

–

552

552

29

–

40

69

DEATH

181

59

71

311

TOTAL

[1]

181

59

624

864

INVESTMENT DEFICIENCY BY BENEFIT T YPE

FAIR VALUE

INCOME

MATURIT Y

DEATH

22,837

7,041

3,232

33,110

–

1

641

642

39

–

124

163

301

79

174

554

TOTAL

[1]

301

80

817

1,198

[1]  A policy can only receive a payout from one of the three trigger events (income election, maturity or death). Total deficiency measures the point-in-time exposure 

assuming the most costly trigger event for each policy occurred on December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.

IGM is exposed to equity price risk on its proprietary investment funds which 

IGM sponsors a number of deferred compensation arrangements where 

are classified as available-for-sale securities and its equity securities which 

payments to participants are linked to the performance of the common 

are classified as fair value through profit or loss. Unrealized gains and losses 

shares of IGM Financial Inc. IGM hedges this risk through the use of forward 

on available-for-sale securities are recorded in other comprehensive income 

agreements and total return swaps.

until they are realized or until management of IGM determines there is 

objective evidence of impairment in value, at which time they are recorded 

in the statements of earnings.

NOTE 22  OPERATING AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Salaries and other employee benefits

Amortization, depreciation and impairment

Premium taxes

Other [1]

2012

2,178

178

293

1,047

3,696

2011

2,019

171

264

552

3,006

[1]  Other reflects adjustment from Lifeco for the court decision on November 3, 2011 that any monies to be reallocated to the participating accounts will be dealt with 
in accordance with the participating policyholder dividend policies in the ordinary course of business. No awards are to be paid out to individual class members (refer 
to Note 29).

NOTE 23  FINANCING CHARGES

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Interest on debentures and debt instruments

Net interest on capital trust securities

Other

2012

341

27

27

395

2011

351

33

25

409

91
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 24  PENSION PLANS AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

The Corporation and its subsidiaries maintain funded defined benefit pension 

Effective January 1, 2013, the Great-West Life Assurance Company Canadian 

plans for certain employees and advisors as well as unfunded supplementary 

Employees’ Pension Plan and the London Life Staff Pension Plan added a 

employee retirement plans (SERP) for certain employees. The Corporation’s 

defined contribution provision to their plans. All new hires after this date are 

subsidiaries also maintain defined contribution pension plans for eligible 

eligible only for defined contribution benefits. This change will reduce Lifeco’s 

employees and advisors. The Corporation and its subsidiaries provide post-

defined benefit plan exposure in future years.

employment health, dental and life insurance benefits to eligible retirees 

and advisors.

Subsidiaries of Lifeco have declared partial windups in respect of certain 

defined pension plans, the impact of which has not been reflected in the 

Effective July 1, 2012, the defined benefit pension plan of IGM was closed and 

pension plan accounts.

will only accept members hired prior to July 1, 2012. For all eligible employees 

hired after July 1, 2012, IGM introduced a registered defined contribution 

pension plan.

PL AN AS SETS , B EN EFIT OB LIGATION S AN D FU N DED STATUS

CHANGE IN FAIR VALUE OF PLAN ASSETS

Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year

Expected return on plan assets

Employee contributions

Employer contributions

Actuarial gains (losses)

Benefits paid

Foreign exchange and other

Fair value of plan assets, end of year

CHANGE IN DEFINED BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS

Defined benefit obligation, beginning of year

Employer current service cost

Employee contributions

Interest on defined obligations

Actuarial (gains) losses

Benefits paid

Past service cost

Foreign exchange and other

Defined benefit obligation, end of year

FUNDED STATUS

Fund surplus (deficit)

Unamortized past service costs

Unamortized net actuarial losses

Unrecognized amount due to limit on asset

Accrued benefit asset (liability)

The aggregate accrued benefit obligations of plan assets are as follows:

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31

Wholly or partly funded plans

Wholly unfunded plans

2012

2011

PENSION 
PL ANS

OTHER POST-
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

PENSION 
PL ANS

OTHER POST-
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

3,359

191

20

102

82

(185)

(22)

3,547

–

–

–

19

–

(19)

–

–

3,363

208

20

101

(153)

(193)

13

3,359

–

–

–

18

–

(18)

–

–

3,868

449

3,548

442

89

20

194

428

(185)

1

(26)

3

–

22

15

77

20

194

197

(19)

(193)

–

–

6

19

3

–

24

(2)

(18)

–

–

4,389

470

3,868

449

(842)

5

890

(41)

12

(470)

(25)

58

–

(437)

2012

3,975

414

(509)

5

599

(71)

24

(449)

(33)

47

–

(435)

2011

3,491

377

The Corporation and its subsidiaries expect to contribute $137 million to their funded and unfunded defined benefit pension and other post-employment 

benefit plans in 2013.

92
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 24  PENSION PLANS AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (CONTINUED)

The net accrued benefit asset (liability) shown above is presented in these financial statements as follows:

DECEMBER 31

Accrued benefit asset [Note 8]

Accrued benefit liability [Note 15]

Accrued benefit asset (liability)

PENSION 
PL ANS

OTHER POST-
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

495

(483)

12

–

(437)

(437)

2012

TOTAL

495

(920)

(425)

PENSION 
PL ANS

OTHER POST-
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

456

(432)

24

–

(435)

(435)

2011

TOTAL

456

(867)

(411)

PEN SION AN D OTH ER POST- EM PLOYM ENT B EN EFIT EXPEN SE

2012

2011

PENSION 
PL ANS

OTHER POST-
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

PENSION 
PL ANS

OTHER POST-
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

Amounts arising from events in the period

Defined benefit current service cost

Employee contributions

Past service cost recognized

Interest on defined benefit obligations

Actuarial (gain) loss recognized

Expected return on plan assets

Amount recognized due to limit on asset

Defined contribution current service cost

109

(20)

89

2

194

54

(191)

(30)

27

145

3

–

3

(8)

22

4

–

–

–

21

97

(20)

77

3

194

–

(208)

8

29

103

AS SET ALLOCATION BY MAJOR CATEGORY WEIG HTED BY PL AN AS SETS — DEFIN ED B EN EFIT PEN SION PL AN S

Equity securities

Debt securities

All other assets

2012

%

52

38

10

100

3

–

3

(8)

24

1

–

–

–

20

2011

%

47

41

12

100

No plan assets are directly invested in the Corporation’s or subsidiaries’ securities. With respect to Lifeco, plan assets include investments in segregated 

funds managed by subsidiaries of Lifeco of $1,523 million ($1,430 million in 2011). Plan assets do not include any property occupied or other assets used by Lifeco.

93
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 24  PENSION PLANS AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (CONTINUED)

SIG N IFICANT AS SU M PTION S

%

WEIGHTED AVERAGE ASSUMPTIONS USED TO DETERMINE BENEFIT COST

Discount rate

Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets

Rate of compensation increase

WEIGHTED AVERAGE ASSUMPTIONS USED TO DETERMINE ACCRUED BENEFIT OBLIGATION

Discount rate

Rate of compensation increase

WEIGHTED AVERAGE HEALTHCARE TREND RATES

Initial healthcare trend rate

Ultimate healthcare trend rate

Year ultimate trend rate is reached

DEFINED BENEFIT  
PENSION PL ANS

OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT  
BENEFITS

2012

2011

2012

2011

5.1

5.8

3.6

4.4

3.2

5.5

6.2

3.7

5.1

3.6

5.1

–

–

4.2

–

6.5

4.5

2024

5.5

–

–

5.1

–

6.7

4.5

2024

The overall expected rate of return on plan assets for the year is determined 

the defined benefit obligation for defined benefit plans. The mortality 

based on long-term market expectations prevailing at the beginning of the 

assumptions  applied  by  the  Corporation  and  its  subsidiaries  take  into 

year for each asset class, weighted by portfolio allocation, less an allowance 

consideration average life expectancy, including allowances for future 

in respect to all expenses expected to be charged to the fund. Anticipated 

mortality improvement as appropriate, and reflect variations in such factors 

future long-term performance of individual asset categories is considered, 

as age, gender and geographic location. The assumptions also take into 

reflecting management’s best estimates of expected future inflation and 

consideration an estimation of future improvements in longevity. This 

expected real yields on fixed income securities and equities. Since the prior 

estimate is subject to considerable uncertainty and judgment is required in 

year-end there have been no changes in the method used to determine the 

establishing this assumption.

overall expected rate of return. In 2012, the actual return on plan assets was 

$273 million ($55 million in 2011).

The mortality tables are reviewed at least annually, and assumptions are 

in accordance with accepted actuarial practice in Canada. Emerging plan 

The period of time over which benefits are assumed to be paid is based 

experience is reviewed and considered in establishing the best estimate for 

on best estimates of future mortality, including allowances for mortality 

future mortality.

improvements.  Mortality  assumptions  are  significant  in  measuring 

IM PACT OF CHANG ES TO AS SU M ED H EALTHCARE R ATES — OTH ER POST- EM PLOYM ENT B EN EFITS

IMPAC T ON END-OF-YEAR 
ACCRUED POST-EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFIT OBLIGATION

IMPAC T ON POST- 
EMPLOYMENT  BENEFIT SERVICE  
AND INTEREST COST

2012

2011

2012

2011

44

(37)

46

(38)

2

(2)

2

(2)

DEFINED BENEFIT  
PENSION PL ANS

OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT  
BENEFITS

2012

(4,389)

3,547

(842)

(428)

82

2011

(3,868)

3,359

(509)

(197)

(153)

2012

(470)

–

(470)

(15)

–

2011

(449)

–

(449)

2

–

1% increase in assumed healthcare cost trend rate

1% decrease in assumed healthcare cost trend rate

SU M MARIZED PL AN IN FORMATION

Defined benefit obligation

Fair value of plan assets

Funded status of plan (deficit)

Experience adjustment on plan liabilities

Experience adjustment on plan assets

94
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 25  DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

In the normal course of managing exposure to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and to market risks, the Corporation and its subsidiaries 

are end-users of various derivative financial instruments. Contracts are either exchange traded or over-the-counter traded with counterparties that are 

credit-worthy financial intermediaries.

The following table summarizes the portfolio of derivative financial instruments of the Corporation and its subsidiaries at December 31:

2012

DERIVATIVES NOT DESIGNATED AS ACCOUNTING HEDGES

NOTIONAL AMOUNT

1 YEAR
OR LESS

1 – 5
YEARS

OVER
5 YEARS

TOTAL

MA XIMUM 
CREDIT RISK

TOTAL 
ESTIMATED
FAIR VALUE

Interest rate contracts

Futures – long

Futures – short

Swaps

Options purchased

Foreign exchange contracts

Forward contracts

Cross-currency swaps

Other derivative contracts

Equity contracts

Futures – long

Futures – short

CASH FLOW HEDGES

Interest rate contracts

Swaps

Foreign exchange contracts

Cross-currency swaps

FAIR VALUE HEDGES

Interest rate contracts

Swaps

9

71

1,844

257

2,181

300

205

505

900

7

224

1,131

3,817

–

3

3

–

–

–

–

2,613

513

3,126

–

2,001

2,001

4

–

–

4

–

–

1,348

87

1,435

–

4,772

4,772

–

–

–

–

5,131

6,207

–

1,018

1,018

58

58

30

500

530

124

124

9

71

5,805

857

6,742

300

6,978

7,278

904

7

224

1,135

15,155

30

1,521

1,551

182

182

–

–

410

46

456

1

565

566

8

–

–

8

–

–

318

46

364

–

290

290

(5)

–

(4)

(9)

1,030

645

14

16

30

–

–

13

(10)

3

(1)

(1)

647

3,820

6,207

6,861

16,888

1,060

95
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 25  DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

2011

DERIVATIVES NOT DESIGNATED AS ACCOUNTING HEDGES

Interest rate contracts

Futures – long

Futures – short

Swaps

Options purchased

Foreign exchange contracts

Forward contracts

Cross-currency swaps

Other derivative contracts

Equity contracts

Futures – long

Futures – short

CASH FLOW HEDGES

Interest rate contracts

Swaps

Foreign exchange contracts

Cross-currency swaps

FAIR VALUE HEDGES

Interest rate contracts

Swaps

NOTIONAL AMOUNT

1 YEAR
OR LESS

1 – 5
YEARS

OVER
5 YEARS

TOTAL

MA XIMUM 
CREDIT RISK

TOTAL 
ESTIMATED
FAIR VALUE

55

5

1,021

233

1,314

224

43

267

40

7

146

193

–

–

2,940

760

3,700

–

1,540

1,540

18

–

2

20

–

–

1,495

114

1,609

–

4,662

4,662

–

–

–

–

55

5

5,456

1,107

6,623

224

6,245

6,469

58

7

148

213

–

–

434

54

488

–

551

551

–

–

–

–

1,774

5,260

6,271

13,305

1,039

–

–

–

–

–

–

10

10

10

10

31

31

1,500

1,531

1,510

1,541

92

92

102

102

11

6

17

–

–

1,774

5,280

7,894

14,948

1,056

–

–

294

53

347

(1)

314

313

(16)

–

(1)

(17)

643

11

(23)

(12)

(2)

(2)

629

The amount subject to credit risk is limited to the current fair value of the 

FOREIG N EXCHANG E CONTR ACTS

instruments which are in a gain position. The credit risk is presented without 

Cross-currency swaps are used in combination with other investments to 

giving effect to any netting agreements or collateral arrangements and does not 

manage foreign currency risk associated with investment activities and 

reflect actual or expected losses. The total estimated fair value represents the 

insurance and investment contract liabilities. Under these swaps, principal 

total amount that the Corporation and its subsidiaries would receive (or pay) to 

amounts and fixed and floating interest payments may be exchanged in 

terminate all agreements at year-end. However, this would not result in a gain 

different currencies. The Corporation and its subsidiaries may also enter 

or loss to the Corporation and its subsidiaries as the derivative instruments 

into certain foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge certain product 

which correlate to certain assets and liabilities provide offsetting gains or losses.

liabilities, certain cash and cash equivalents and certain cash flows.

INTEREST R ATE CONTR ACTS

OTH ER DERIVATIVE CONTR ACTS

Interest rate swaps, futures and options are used as part of a portfolio of 

Equity index swaps, futures and options are used to hedge certain product 

assets to manage interest rate risk associated with investment activities 

liabilities. Equity index swaps are also used as substitutes for cash instruments 

and insurance and investment contract liabilities and to reduce the impact 

and are used to periodically hedge the market risk associated with certain fee 

of  fluctuating  interest  rates  on  the  mortgage  banking  operations  and 

income. Equity put options are used to manage potential credit risk impact 

intermediary operations. Interest rate swap agreements require the periodic 

of significant declines in certain equity markets.

exchange of payments without the exchange of the notional principal 

amount on which payments are based. Changes in fair value are recorded in 

net investment income in the statements of earnings.

IGM also enters into total return swaps and forward agreements to manage 

its exposure to fluctuations in the total return of its common shares related 

to deferred compensation arrangements. Total return swap and forward 

Call options grant the Corporation and its subsidiaries the right to enter into 

agreements require the exchange of net contractual payments periodically or 

a swap with predetermined fixed-rate payments over a predetermined time 

at maturity without the exchange of the notional principal amounts on which 

period on the exercise date. Call options are used to manage the variability in 

the payments are based. Certain of these instruments are not designated 

future interest payments due to a change in credited interest rates and the 

as hedges. Changes in fair value are recorded in operating expenses in the 

related potential change in cash flows due to surrenders. Call options are also 

statements of earnings for those instruments not designated as hedges.

used to hedge minimum rate guarantees.

96
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 26  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The following table presents the fair value of the Corporation’s financial instruments using the valuation methods and assumptions described below. Fair 

values are management’s estimates and are generally calculated using market conditions at a specific point in time and may not reflect future fair values. 

The calculations are subjective in nature, involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment.

DECEMBER 31

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

Investments (excluding investment properties)

Funds held by ceding insurers

Derivative financial instruments

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

LIABILITIES

Obligation to securitization entities

Debentures and debt instruments

Capital trust securities

Derivative financial instruments

Other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

CARRYING 
VALUE

2012

FAIR 
VALUE

CARRYING 
VALUE

2011

FAIR 
VALUE

3,313

3,313

3,385

3,385

120,062

122,805

113,841

116,170

10,537

10,537

1,060

4,212

1,060

4,212

9,923

1,056

3,539

9,923

1,056

3,539

139,184

141,927

131,744

134,073

4,701

5,858

119

413

4,923

16,014

4,787

6,830

171

413

4,925

17,126

3,827

5,888

533

427

3,930

6,502

577

427

4,509

4,510

15,184

15,946

Fair value is determined using the following methods and assumptions:

include actively exchange-traded equity securities, exchange-traded 

>  The fair value of short-term financial instruments approximates carrying 

value due to their short-term maturities. These include cash and cash 

equivalents, dividends, interest and accounts receivables, income tax 

receivable, premiums in course of collection, accounts payable, repurchase 

agreements, dividends payable, interest payable and income tax payable.

>  Shares and bonds are valued at quoted market prices, when available. 

When a quoted market price is not readily available, alternative valuation 

methods may be used. For mortgage and other loans, bonds, loans and 

other receivables, the fair value is determined by discounting the expected 

future cash flows at market interest rates for loans with similar credit risks 

and maturities (refer to Note 2).

>  Deposits and certificates (included in other financial liabilities) are valued 

by discounting the contractual cash flows using market interest rates 

currently offered for deposits with similar terms and credit risks.

>  Obligations  to  securitization  entities  are  valued  by  discounting  the 

expected future cash flows by prevailing market yields for securities issued 

by these securitization entities having like maturities and characteristics.

futures, and mutual and segregated funds which have available prices in an 

active market with no redemption restrictions. Level 1 assets also include 

liquid, exchange-traded equity securities, liquid open-end investment 

fund units, and investments in Government of Canada Bonds and Canada 

Mortgage Bonds in instances where there are quoted prices available from 

active markets.

>  Level 2 inputs utilize other-than-quoted prices included in Level 1 that 

are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 

2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active 

markets, and inputs other-than-quoted prices that are observable for the 

asset or liability, such as interest rate and yield curves that are observable 

at commonly quoted intervals. The fair values for some Level 2 securities 

were obtained from a pricing service. The pricing service inputs include, 

but are not limited to, benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer 

quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, offers 

and reference data. Level 2 securities include those priced using a matrix 

which is based on credit quality and average life, government and agency 

securities,  restricted  stock,  some  private  bonds  and  equities,  most 

>  Debentures and debt instruments are determined by reference to current 

investment-grade and high-yield corporate bonds, most asset-backed 

market prices for debt with similar terms, risks and maturities.

securities and most over-the-counter derivatives.

>  Derivative financial instruments’ fair values are based on quoted market 

>  Level 3 inputs utilize one or more significant inputs that are not based on 

prices, where available, prevailing market rates for instruments with 

observable market inputs and include situations where there is little, if any, 

similar characteristics and maturities, or discounted cash flow analysis.

market activity for the asset or liability. The values of the majority of Level 

In accordance with IFRS 7, Financial Instruments — Disclosures, the Corporation’s 

assets and liabilities recorded at fair value have been categorized based upon 

the following fair value hierarchy:

>  Level 1 inputs utilize observable, quoted prices (unadjusted) in active 

markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Corporation has the 

ability to access. Financial assets and liabilities utilizing Level 1 inputs 

3 securities were obtained from single-broker quotes and internal pricing 

models. Financial assets and liabilities utilizing Level 3 inputs include 

certain bonds, certain asset-backed securities, some private equities and 

investments in mutual and segregated funds where there are redemption 

restrictions, certain over-the-counter derivatives and restructured notes 

of the master asset vehicle.

97
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 26  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

The following table presents information about the Corporation’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of 

December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011:

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

TOTAL

145

5,952

–

225

–

–

6,322

4

–

4

5

7

7,350

64,577

249

1,060

73,248

353

–

353

1

12

27

274

–

–

151

5,971

7,377

65,076

249

1,060

314

79,884

56

21

77

413

21

434

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

TOTAL

132

5,485

–

227

–

–

7

3

7,010

61,406

292

1,056

1

14

40

332

–

–

140

5,502

7,050

61,965

292

1,056

5,844

69,774

387

76,005

–

–

–

350

–

350

77

26

103

427

26

453

DECEMBER 31, 2012

ASSETS

Shares

Available for sale

Fair value through profit or loss

Bonds

Available for sale

Fair value through profit or loss

Mortgage and other loans

Fair value through profit or loss

Derivatives

LIABILITIES

Derivatives

Other liabilities

DECEMBER 31, 2011

ASSETS

Shares

Available for sale

Fair value through profit or loss

Bonds

Available for sale

Fair value through profit or loss

Mortgage and other loans

Fair value through profit or loss

Derivatives

LIABILITIES

Derivatives

Other liabilities

98
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 26  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

The following table presents additional information about assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which the Corporation has 

utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Balance, beginning of year

Total gains (losses)

In net earnings

In other comprehensive income

Purchases

Sales

Settlements

Transfers out of Level 3

Balance, end of year

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Balance, beginning of year

Total gains (losses)

In net earnings

In other comprehensive income

Purchases

Sales

Settlements

Transfers out of Level 3

Balance, end of year

SHARES

BONDS

AVAIL ABLE
FOR SALE

FAIR VALUE 
THROUGH 
PROFIT OR LOSS

AVAIL ABLE
FOR SALE

FAIR VALUE 
THROUGH 
PROFIT OR LOSS

DERIVATIVES, 
NET

OTHER
ASSETS 
(LIABILITIES)

40

332

(77)

(26)

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

1

14

(2)

–

3

–

–

(3)

12

–

3

–

(4)

(5)

(7)

27

48

–

–

(1)

(97)

(8)

274

10

–

(3)

–

14

–

(56)

(4)

–

(1)

–

10

–

(21)

237

SHARES

BONDS

AVAIL ABLE
FOR SALE

FAIR VALUE 
THROUGH 
PROFIT OR LOSS

AVAIL ABLE
FOR SALE

FAIR VALUE 
THROUGH 
PROFIT OR LOSS

DERIVATIVES,
NET

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

1

417

42

340

35

–

65

(6)

–

(497)

14

1

2

–

–

(5)

–

40

54

–

–

(4)

(58)

–

332

(26)

(62)

–

–

–

11

–

(77)

OTHER
ASSETS 
(LIABILITIES)

(18)

(5)

–

(3)

–

–

–

(26)

NOTE 27  OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012

Balance, beginning of year

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Balance, end of year

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011

Balance, beginning of year

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Balance, end of year

INVESTMENT 
REVALUATION 
AND CASH FLOW 
HEDGES

FOREIGN 
CURRENCY 
TRANSL ATION

SHARE OF 
JOINTLY 
CONTROLLED 
CORPORATION

96

(18)

78

(249)

(53)

(302)

176

(100)

76

INVESTMENT 
REVALUATION 
AND CASH FLOW 
HEDGES

FOREIGN 
CURRENCY 
TRANSL ATION

SHARE OF 
JOINTLY 
CONTROLLED 
CORPORATION

81

15

96

(399)

150

(249)

398

(222)

176

TOTAL

284

52

3

(1)

(5)

(78)

(18)

TOTAL

756

23

2

62

(10)

(52)

(497)

284

TOTAL

23

(171)

(148)

TOTAL

80

(57)

23

99
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 28  EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators used in the computations of earnings per share:

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Net earnings attributable to shareholders

Dividends on perpetual preferred shares

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders

Dilutive effect of subsidiaries

Diluted net earnings attributable to common shareholders

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (millions)

 – Basic

Exercise of stock options

Shares assumed to be repurchased with proceeds from exercise of stock options

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (millions)

 – Diluted

2012

1,743

(117)

1,626

(8)

1,618

708.3

3.6

(3.2)

708.7

2011

1,826

(104)

1,722

(12)

1,710

708.1

3.0

(2.3)

708.8

For 2012, 5,190,730 stock options (6,097,618 in 2011) have been excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share as the exercise price was higher 

than the market price.

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Basic earnings per common share ($)

From continuing operations

From discontinued operations

Diluted earnings per common share ($)

From continuing operations

From discontinued operations

2012

2.30

–

2.30

2.28

–

2.28

2011

2.38

0.05

2.43

2.36

0.05

2.41

NOTE 29  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

The Corporation and its subsidiaries are from time to time subject to legal 

The Court of Appeal for Ontario released a decision on November 3, 2011 in 

actions, including arbitrations and class actions, arising in the normal course 

regard to the involvement of the participating accounts of Lifeco subsidiaries 

of business. It is inherently difficult to predict the outcome of any of these 

London Life and Great-West Life in the financing of the acquisition of London 

proceedings with certainty, and it is possible that an adverse resolution 

Insurance Group Inc. in 1997 (the “Appeal Decision”).

could have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position of 

the Corporation. However, based on information presently known, it is not 

expected that any of the existing legal actions, either individually or in the 

aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial 

position of the Corporation.

The Appeal Decision ruled Lifeco subsidiaries achieved substantial success and 

required that there be adjustments to the original trial judgment regarding 

amounts which were to be reallocated to the participating accounts going 

forward. Any monies to be reallocated to the participating accounts will be 

dealt with in accordance with Lifeco subsidiaries participating policyholder 

A subsidiary of Lifeco has declared a partial windup in respect of an Ontario 

dividend policies in the ordinary course of business. No awards are to be 

defined benefit pension plan which will not likely be completed for some time. 

paid out to individual class members. On May 24, 2012, the Supreme Court of 

The partial windup could involve the distribution of the amount of actuarial 

Canada dismissed the plaintiff ’s application for leave to appeal the Appeal 

surplus, if any, attributable to the wound-up portion of the plan. In addition 

Decision. The Appeal Decision directed the parties back to the trial judge 

to the regulatory proceedings involving this partial windup, a related class 

to work out the remaining issues. On January 24, 2013 the Ontario Superior 

action proceeding has been commenced in Ontario related to the partial 

Court of Justice released a decision ordering that $285 million be reallocated 

windup and three potential partial windups under the plan. The class action 

to the participating account surplus. Lifeco will be appealing that decision.

also challenges the validity of charging expenses to the plan. The provisions 

for certain Canadian retirement plans in the amounts of $97 million after tax 

established by Lifeco’s subsidiaries in the third quarter of 2007 have been 

reduced to $34 million. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

During the fourth quarter of 2011, in response to the Appeal Decision, Lifeco 

re-evaluated and reduced the litigation provision established in the third 

quarter of 2010, which positively impacted common shareholder net earnings 

of Lifeco in 2011 by $223 million after tax (Power Financial’s share — $158 million).

100
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 29  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

During the subsequent event period, in response to the Ontario Superior 

On  October  17,  2012,  a  subsidiary  of  Lifeco  received  an  administrative 

Court of Justice decision on January 24, 2013, Lifeco established an incremental 

complaint from the Massachusetts Securities Division in relation to that 

provision of $140 million after tax (Power Financial’s share — $99 million). 

subsidiary’s role as collateral manager of two collateralized debt obligations. 

Lifeco now holds $290 million in after-tax provisions for these proceedings.

The complaint is seeking certain remedies including the disgorgement of fees, 

Regardless of the ultimate outcome of this case, there will not be any impact 

on the capital position of Lifeco or on participating policy contract terms 

and conditions. Based on information presently known, this matter is not 

expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial 

position of the Corporation.

In connection with the acquisition of its subsidiary Putnam, Lifeco has an 

indemnity from a third party against liabilities arising from certain litigation 

and regulatory actions involving Putnam. Putnam continues to have potential 

liability for these matters in the event the indemnity is not honoured. Lifeco 

expects the indemnity will continue to be honoured and that any liability 

of Putnam would not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated 

financial position.

NOTE 30  COMMITMENTS AND GUARANTEES

a civil administrative fine and a cease and desist order. In addition, that same 

subsidiary is a defendant in two civil litigation matters brought by institutions 

involved in those collateralized debt obligations. Based on information 

presently known, Lifeco believes these matters are without merit. The 

potential outcome of these matters is not yet determined.

Subsidiaries of Lifeco have an investment in a U.S.-based private equity 

partnership wherein a dispute arose over the terms of the partnership 

agreement. Lifeco established a provision in the fourth quarter of 2011 for 

$99 million after tax. The dispute was resolved on January 10, 2012, and as a 

result, Lifeco no longer holds the provision.

GUAR ANTEES

INVESTM ENT COM M ITM ENTS

In the normal course of operations, the Corporation and its subsidiaries 

With respect to Lifeco, commitments to investment transactions made in 

execute agreements that provide for indemnifications to third parties in 

the normal course of operations in accordance with policies and guidelines 

transactions such as business dispositions, business acquisitions, loans and 

and that are to be disbursed upon fulfilment of certain contract conditions 

securitization transactions. The Corporation and its subsidiaries have also 

were $516 million as at December 31, 2012 ($675 million as at December 31, 2011). 

agreed to indemnify their directors and certain of their officers. The nature of 

At December 31, 2012, $470 million will mature within one year ($555 million 

these agreements precludes the possibility of making a reasonable estimate 

at December 31, 2011), $46 million will mature in one to two years ($79 million 

of the maximum potential amount the Corporation and its subsidiaries 

at December 31, 2011) and no commitments will mature in a period over two 

could be required to pay third parties as the agreements often do not specify 

years ($41 million in two to three years at December 31, 2011).

a maximum amount and the amounts are dependent on the outcome of 

future contingent events, the nature and likelihood of which cannot be 

determined. Historically, the Corporation has not made any payments under 

such indemnification agreements. No amounts have been accrued related 

to these agreements.

LET TERS OF CREDIT

Letters of credit are written commitments provided by a bank. For Lifeco, 

the total amount of letter of credit facilities is US$3.0 billion, of which 

US$2.7 billion is currently issued.

The Reinsurance operation from time to time uses letters of credit provided 

mainly as collateral under certain reinsurance contracts for on-balance sheet 

policy liabilities.

COM M ITM ENTS

INVESTED AS SETS ON DEPOSIT FOR 
REIN SU R ANCE AG REEM ENTS

Lifeco has $606 million ($577 million in 2011) of invested assets maintained on 

deposit in respect of certain reinsurance agreements. Lifeco retains all rights 

to the cash flows on these assets, however, the investment policies for these 

assets are governed by the terms of the reinsurance agreements.

The Corporation and its subsidiaries enter into operating leases for office space and certain equipment used in the normal course of operations. Lease payments 

are charged to operations over the period of use. The future minimum lease payments in aggregate and by year are as follows:

Future lease payments

2013

153

2014

135

2015

115

2016

95

2017

77

2018 AND
THEREAFTER

158

TOTAL

733

101
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 31  RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

PRINCIPAL SU B SIDIARIES

The financial statements of the Corporation include the operations of the following subsidiaries:

CORPORATION

Great-West Lifeco Inc.

The Great-West Life Assurance Company

London Life Insurance Company

The Canada Life Assurance Company

INCORPORATED IN

PRIMARY BUSINESS OPERATION

CANADA

CANADA

CANADA

CANADA

FINANCIAL SERVICES HOLDING COMPANY

INSURANCE AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT

INSURANCE AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT

INSURANCE AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company

UNITED STATES

INSURANCE AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Putnam Investments, LLC

IGM Financial Inc.

Investors Group Inc.

Mackenzie Financial Corporation

Parjointco N.V.

Pargesa Holding SA

UNITED STATES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

CANADA

CANADA

CANADA

FINANCIAL SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

NETHERL ANDS

HOLDING COMPANY

SWITZERL AND

HOLDING COMPANY

% HELD

68.2%

100%

100%

100%

100%

95.6%

58.7%

100%

100%

50%

55.6%

Balances and transactions between the Corporation and its subsidiaries, 

During 2012, IGM sold residential mortgage loans to Great-West Life and 

which are related parties of the Corporation, have been eliminated on 

London Life for $232 million ($202 million in 2011).

consolidation and are not disclosed in this note. Details of transactions 

between the Corporation and other related parties are disclosed below.

KEY MANAG EM ENT COM PEN SATION

TR AN SACTION S WITH REL ATED PARTIES

Key  management  personnel  are  those  persons  having  authority  and 

responsibility  for  planning,  directing  and  controlling  the  activities  of 

In  the  normal  course  of  business,  Great-West  Life  enters  into  various 

the Corporation, directly or indirectly. The persons included in the key 

transactions with related companies which include providing insurance 

management personnel are the members of the Board of Directors of the 

benefits to other companies within the Power Financial Corporation group 

Corporation, as well as certain management executives of the Corporation 

of companies. In all cases, transactions are at market terms and conditions.

and subsidiaries.

The following table describes all compensation paid to, awarded to, or earned by each of the key management personnel for services rendered in all capacities 

to the Corporation and its subsidiaries:

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31

Compensation and employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Share-based payment

2012

16

7

9

32

2011

15

4

9

28

102
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 32  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

ACQ U I SITION OF IRI SH LIFE G ROU P LIM ITED

additional consideration. Power Financial and IGM completed the purchase 

On February 19, 2013, Lifeco announced that it had reached an agreement 

of subscription receipts by private placements concurrently with the closing 

with the Government of Ireland to acquire, through its subsidiary Canada Life 

of the bought deal public offering of Lifeco’s subscription receipts. The public 

Limited, all of the shares of Irish Life Group Limited (Irish Life) for $1.75 billion 

offering and private placements of subscription receipts are at the same price 

(€1.3 billion). Established in 1939, Irish Life is the largest life and pensions group 

of $25.70 per subscription receipt.

and investment manager in Ireland.

Should the subscription receipts be converted into common shares of Lifeco, 

Lifeco  also  announced  a  $1.25  billion  offering  of  subscription  receipts 

Power Financial will hold, directly and indirectly, a 69.4% economic interest 

exchangeable into Lifeco common shares by way of a $650 million bought 

in Lifeco.

deal public offering as well as concurrent private placements of subscription 

receipts to Power Financial and IGM for an aggregate amount of $600 million.

The acquisition is expected to close in July of 2013, and is subject to customary 

regulatory approvals, including approvals from the European Commission 

On  March  12,  2013,  Power  Financial  purchased  $550  million  of  Lifeco 

under the EU Merger Regulation, and certain closing conditions.

subscription receipts. On that date, IGM also purchased $50 million of 

Lifeco subscription receipts. Each subscription receipt entitles the holder to 

receive one common share of Lifeco upon closing of the acquisition of Irish 

Life, without any action on the part of the holder and without payment of 

PREFERRED SHARE I S SU E

On  Februar y  28,  2013,  the  Corporation  issued  12,000,000  4.80%  Non-

Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series S for gross proceeds of $300 million.

NOTE 33  SEGMENTED INFORMATION

The following strategic business units constitute the Corporation’s reportable 

>  Parjointco holds the Corporation’s interest in Pargesa, a holding company 

operating segments:

>  Lifeco offers, in Canada, the United States and Europe, a wide range of life 

insurance, retirement and investment products, as well as reinsurance and 

which holds diversified interests in companies based in Europe active 

in various sectors, including specialty minerals, cement and building 

materials, water, waste services, energy, and wines and spirits.

specialty general insurance products, to individuals, businesses and other 

>  The segment entitled Other is made up of corporate activities of the 

private and public organizations.

Corporation and also includes consolidation elimination entries.

>  IGM offers a comprehensive package of financial planning services and 

The accounting policies of the operating segments are those described in 

investment products to its client base. IGM derives its revenues from 

Note 2 — Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

a range of sources, but primarily from management fees, which are 

of the financial statements. The Corporation evaluates the performance 

charged to its mutual funds for investment advisory and management 

based on the operating segment’s contribution to consolidated net earnings. 

services. IGM also earns revenue from fees charged to its mutual funds 

Revenues  and  assets  are  attributed  to  geographic  areas  based  on  the 

for administrative services.

point of origin of revenues and the location of assets. The contribution to 

consolidated net earnings of each segment is calculated after taking into 

account the investment Lifeco and IGM have in each other.

103
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTE 33  SEGMENTED INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

IN FORMATION ON PROFIT M EASU RE

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012

LIFECO

IGM

PARJOINTCO

OTHER

TOTAL

REVENUES

Premium income, net

Investment income, net

Fee income

EXPENSES

Total paid or credited to policyholders

Commissions

Operating and administrative expenses

Financing charges

Share of earnings (losses) of investment in jointly controlled corporation

Earnings before income taxes – continuing operations

Income taxes

Contribution to net earnings – continuing operations

Contribution to net earnings – discontinued operations

Contribution to net earnings

Attributable to

Non-controlling interests

Perpetual preferred shareholders

Common shareholders

IN FORMATION ON AS SETS AN D LIAB ILITIES M EASU RE

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Goodwill

Total assets

Total liabilities

G EOG R APH IC IN FORMATION

DECEMBER 31, 2012

Invested assets (including cash and cash equivalents)

Investment in jointly controlled corporation

Investments on account of segregated fund policyholders

Other assets

Goodwill and intangible assets

Total assets

Total revenues

18,820

8,296

2,945

30,061

22,451

1,781

2,968

285

27,485

2,576

–

2,576

368

2,208

–

2,208

969

–

1,239

2,208

–

153

2,425

2,578

–

858

671

92

1,621

957

–

957

190

767

–

767

327

–

440

767

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

134

134

–

134

–

134

–

–

134

134

–

18,820

(88)

(139)

(227)

8,361

5,231

32,412

–

22,451

(138)

57

18

(63)

(164)

–

(164)

5

(169)

–

2,501

3,696

395

29,043

3,369

134

3,503

563

2,940

–

(169)

2,940

(99)

117

(187)

(169)

1,197

117

1,626

2,940

LIFECO

5,857

253,833

236,132

IGM

PARJOINTCO

OTHER

TOTAL

2,816

11,609

7,503

–

–

8,673

2,149

1,002

268,593

–

586

244,221

CANADA

UNITED STATES

EUROPE

TOTAL

65,068

28,722

33,110

126,900

–

54,341

4,176

10,129

133,714

16,221

–

23,809

3,311

1,721

57,563

6,401

2,149

26,798

13,503

1,756

2,149

104,948

20,990

13,606

77,316

268,593

9,790

32,412

104
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTE 33  SEGMENTED INFORMATION (CONTINUED)

IN FORMATION ON PROFIT M EASU RE

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011

LIFECO

IGM

PARJOINTCO

OTHER

TOTAL

REVENUES

Premium income, net

Investment income, net

Fee income

EXPENSES

Total paid or credited to policyholders

Commissions

Operating and administrative expenses

Financing charges

Share of earnings (losses) of investment in jointly controlled corporation

Earnings before income taxes – continuing operations

Income taxes

Contribution to net earnings – continuing operations

Contribution to net earnings – discontinued operations

Contribution to net earnings

Attributable to

Non-controlling interests

Perpetual preferred shareholders

Common shareholders

IN FORMATION ON AS SETS AN D LIAB ILITIES M EASU RE

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Goodwill

Total assets

Total liabilities

G EOG R APH IC IN FORMATION

DECEMBER 31, 2011

Invested assets (including cash and cash equivalents)

Investment in jointly controlled corporation

Investments on account of segregated fund policyholders

Other assets

Goodwill and intangible assets

Total assets

Total revenues

17,293

9,702

2,903

29,898

23,043

1,548

2,314

289

27,194

2,704

–

2,704

465

2,239

–

2,239

855

–

1,384

2,239

–

161

2,571

2,732

–

895

638

103

1,636

1,096

–

1,096

250

846

63

909

392

–

517

909

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(20)

(20)

–

(20)

–

(20)

–

–

(20)

(20)

–

(99)

(131)

(230)

17,293

9,764

5,343

32,400

–

23,043

(131)

54

17

(60)

(170)

–

(170)

(9)

(161)

–

(161)

(106)

104

(159)

(161)

2,312

3,006

409

28,770

3,630

(20)

3,610

706

2,904

63

2,967

1,141

104

1,722

2,967

LIFECO

5,861

238,552

222,664

IGM

PARJOINTCO

OTHER

TOTAL

2,925

10,839

6,625

–

2,222

–

–

1,065

574

8,786

252,678

229,863

CANADA

UNITED STATES

EUROPE

TOTAL

61,960

27,403

31,064

120,427

–

49,622

4,087

10,280

–

22,359

3,050

1,769

2,222

24,601

12,501

1,760

2,222

96,582

19,638

13,809

125,949

54,581

72,148

252,678

17,064

6,123

9,213

32,400

105
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

TO TH E SHAREHOLDERS OF POWER FINANCIAL CORPOR ATION

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Power Financial Corporation, which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as 

at December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, and the consolidated statements of earnings, statements of comprehensive income, statements of changes in 

equity and statements of cash flows for the years then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial 

Reporting Standards, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements 

that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with 

Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audits to 

obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures 

selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether 

due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of 

the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing 

an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the 

reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Power Financial Corporation as at 

December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International Financial 

Reporting Standards.

Signed
Deloitte LLP

1

March 13, 2013 

Montréal, Québec

1 CPA auditor, CA, public accountancy permit No. A104630

106
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION

FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

DECEMBER 31
[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS] (UNAUDITED)

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

PREVIOUS CANADIAN GA AP

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Shareholders’ equity

Consolidated assets and assets under management

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

REVENUES

Premium income, net

Investment income, net

Fee income

EXPENSES

Total paid or credited to policyholders

Commissions

Operating and administrative expenses

Intangible and goodwill impairment

Financing charges

Share of earnings (losses) of investment in jointly controlled corporation

Income taxes

Net earnings – continuing operations

Net earnings – discontinued operations

Net earnings

Attributable to

Non-controlling interests

Perpetual preferred shareholders

Common shareholders

PER SHARE

Operating earnings before other items

Net earnings from discontinued operations

Net earnings

Dividends

Book value at year-end

MARKET PRICE (COMMON SHARES)

High

Low

Year-end

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

[IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLL ARS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS]
(UNAUDITED)

2012

First quarter

Second quarter

Third quarter

Fourth quarter

2011

First quarter

Second quarter

Third quarter

Fourth quarter

3,313

3,385

3,656

4,855

4,689

268,593

252,678

244,644

140,231

141,546

14,029

13,521

12,811

13,207

13,419

523,885

496,781

500,181

471,775

452,158

18,820

8,361

5,231

17,293

9,764

5,343

17,748

9,600

5,174

18,033

30,007

9,678

4,998

1,163

5,540

32,412

32,400

32,522

32,709

36,710

22,451

23,043

23,225

23,809

26,774

2,501

3,696
–

395

29,043

3,369

134

563

2,940

–

2,940

1,197

117

1,626

2,940

2.38

–

2.30

1.4000

16.60

30.15

24.06

27.24

2,312

3,006
–

409

28,770

3,630

(20)

706

2,904

63

2,967

1,141

104

1,722

2,967

2.44

0.05

2.43

1.4000

16.26

31.98

23.62

25.54

2,216

3,837
–

432

29,710

2,812

121

523

2,410

2

2,412

845

99

1,468

2,412

2.30

–

2.08

1.4000

15.26

34.23

27.00

30.73

2,088

3,607
–

494

29,998

2,711

71

565

2,217

–

2,217

778

88

1,351

2,217

2.05

–

1.92

1.4000

16.27

31.99

14.66

31.08

2,172

3,675
2,178

438

35,237

1,473

(181)

16

1,276

692

1,968

631

74

1,263

1,968

1.98

0.71

1.79

1.3325

16.80

40.94

20.33

23.90

TOTAL
REVENUES

NET  
EARNINGS

EARNINGS  
PER SHARE 
— BASIC

EARNINGS 
PER SHARE 
— DILUTED

7,110

8,374

9,217
7,711

6,919

7,784

9,126

8,571

712

695

813
720

616

803

593

955

0.64

0.61

0.65
0.39

0.52

0.72

0.44

0.75

0.64

0.60

0.65
0.38

0.52

0.71

0.44

0.75

107
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MARC A . BIBEAU [2]
President and Chief Executive Officer, 

Beauward Shopping Centres Ltd.

ANDRÉ DESMARAIS, O.C., O.Q. [1, 5]
Co-Chairman of the Corporation 

R. JEFFREY ORR [1]
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation

LOUISE ROY, O.C., O.Q.
Invited Fellow and Chair of the Board, 

Centre interuniversitaire de recherche en analyse 

and Deputy Chairman, President and 

des organisations 

Co-Chief Executive Officer,

Power Corporation of Canada 

THE HONOURABLE 

PAUL DESMARAIS, P.C., C.C., O.Q. [1, 5]
Chairman of the Executive Committee,

Power Corporation of Canada

PAUL DESMARAIS, JR.,  O.C., O.Q. [1, 5]
Co-Chairman of the Corporation and 

Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer, 

Power Corporation of Canada 

GÉRALD FRÈRE [3, 4]
Managing Director, Frère-Bourgeois S.A.

ANTHONY R. GRAHAM, LL.D. [5]
President, Wittington Investments, Limited

ROBERT GRATTON
Deputy Chairman, 

Power Corporation of Canada 

V. PETER HARDER, LL.D. [3, 4]
Senior Policy Adviser, 

Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP

RAYMOND ROYER, O.C., O.Q., FCA [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Company Director

T. TIMOTHY RYAN, JR.*
Managing Director,  

Global Head of Regulatory Strategy and Policy,  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

EMŐKE J.E. SZATHMÁRY, C.M., O.M., PH.D., FRSC [2]
President Emeritus,  

University of Manitoba

DIRECTORS EMERITUS

JAMES W. BURNS, O.C., O.M.

THE HONOURABLE P. MICHAEL PITFIELD, P.C., Q.C. 

[1]  MEMBER OF THE E XECUTIVE COMMIT TEE

[2]  MEMBER OF THE AUDIT COMMIT TEE

[3]  MEMBER OF THE COMPENSATION COMMIT TEE

[4]  MEMBER OF THE REL ATED PART Y AND  

CONDUC T RE VIE W COMMIT TEE

[5]  MEMBER OF THE GOVERNANCE AND  

NOMINATING COMMIT TEE

* 

NOT STANDING FOR RE‑ELEC TION

108
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

 
OFFICERS

PAUL DESMARAIS, JR., O.C., O.Q.
Co-Chairman

ANDRÉ DESMARAIS, O.C., O.Q.
Co-Chairman

R. JEFFREY ORR
President and Chief Executive Officer

RAYMOND L . MCFEETORS
Vice-Chairman

MICHEL PLESSIS -BÉLAIR, FCA
Vice-Chairman

HENRI-PAUL ROUSSEAU, PH.D.
Vice-Chairman

AMAURY DE SEZE
Vice-Chairman

GREGORY D. TRETIAK, FCA
Executive Vice-President 

and Chief Financial Officer

ARNAUD VIAL
Senior Vice-President

JOCELYN LEFEBVRE, C. A .
Managing Director, 

Power Financial Europe B.V.

DENIS LE VASSEUR, C. A .
Vice-President and Controller

STÉPHANE LEMAY
Vice-President, 

General Counsel and Secretary

RICHARD PAN
Vice-President

LUC RENY, CFA
Vice-President

ISABELLE MORIN, C. A .
Treasurer

109
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

CORPORATE INFORMATION

Additional copies of this Annual Report, as well as copies 

of the annual report of Power Corporation of Canada, are 

TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
Computershare Investor Services Inc. 

available from the Secretary:

Offices in: 

POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION

751 Victoria Square   or 

Suite 2600, Richardson Building

Montréal, Québec  
Canada  H2Y 2J3 

1 Lombard Place

Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada  R3B 0X5

STOCK LISTINGS
Shares of Power Financial Corporation are listed on the 

Toronto Stock Exchange:

COMMON SHARES: PWF

Montréal, Québec; Toronto, Ontario

www.computershare.com 

SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
Shareholders with questions relating to the payment of 

dividends, change of address and share certificates should 

contact the Transfer Agent:

Computershare Investor Services Inc. 

Shareholder Services 

100 University Avenue, 9th Floor 

Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1 

FIRST PREFERRED SHARES: 

Telephone: 1-800-564-6253 (toll-free in Canada and the U.S.) 

Series A:  PWF.PR.A

Series L:  PWF.PR.L

or 514-982-7555 

Series D:  PWF.PR.E

Series M:  PWF.PR.M

www.computershare.com

Series E:  PWF.PR.F

Series O:  PWF.PR.O

Series F:  PWF.PR.G

Series P:  PWF.PR.P

Series H:  PWF.PR.H

Series R:  PWF.PR.R

Si vous préférez recevoir ce rapport annuel en français, 

Series I:  PWF.PR.I

Series S:  PWF.PR.S

veuillez vous adresser au secrétaire : 

Series K:  PWF.PR.K

WEBSITE
www.powerfinancial.com

CORPORATION FINANCIÈRE POWER

751, square Victoria  ou  Bureau 2600, Richardson Building

Montréal (Québec) 
Canada  H2Y 2J3 

1 Lombard Place 

Winnipeg (Manitoba)
Canada  R3B 0X5

The trademarks contained in this report are owned by 

Power Financial Corporation or a member of the Power Corporation 

group of companies™. Trademarks that are not owned by 

Power  Financial  Corporation are used with permission.

110
POWER FINANCIAL CORPORATION  2012 ANNUAL REPORT

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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