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Royal Bank of Canada

ry · TSX Financial Services
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Ticker ry
Exchange TSX
Sector Financial Services
Industry Banks - Diversified
Employees 10,000+
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FY2007 Annual Report · Royal Bank of Canada
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Royal Bank of Canada  
2007 Annual Report

Finding  
better ways

Royal Bank of Canada (RY on TSX and NYSE) and its 
subsidiaries operate under the master brand name of RBC 
and may be referred to in this text as RBC. We are Canada’s 
largest bank as measured by assets and market capitalization 
and one of North America’s leading diversified financial 
services companies. We provide personal and commercial 
banking, wealth management services, insurance, corporate 
and investment banking and transaction processing services 

on a global basis. Our Global Technology and Operations 
and Global Functions teams enable business growth with 
expert professional advice and state-of-the-art processes 
and technology. We employ more than 70,000 full- and part-
time employees who serve more than 15 million personal, 
business, public sector and institutional clients through  
offices in Canada, the U.S. and 36 other countries. 

181  Glossary
183  Directors and executive  

officers

184  Principal subsidiaries
185  Shareholder information

 IFC  Corporate profile
  2 
  4 
  6 
  8 
 10 

Better for our clients
Better for our shareholders
Better for our employees
Better for our communities
Chief Executive Officer’s 
message
Performance compared to 
objectives
Business discussion
Chairman’s message
Corporate governance
Corporate responsibility

 15 

 16 
 21 
 22 
 24 

33  Management’s Discussion 

110  Consolidated Financial  

and Analysis

Statements

34  Overview
39 

Accounting and control 
matters
Financial performance

43 
50  Quarterly financial 
information
Business segment results
52 
Financial condition
71 
80 
Risk management 
102  Additional risks that may 
affect future results 
104  Additional financial 
information

111  Management’s responsibility 
for financial reporting

111  Report of Independent 
Registered Chartered 
Accountants

112  Management’s report on 

internal control over financial 
reporting

112  Report of Independent 
Registered Chartered 
Accountants

113  Consolidated Balance Sheets
114  Consolidated Statements of 

Income

115  Consolidated Statements of 
Comprehensive Income and 
Changes in Shareholders’ 
Equity 

116  Consolidated Statements of  

Cash Flows

117  Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements

This is a carbon neutral publication. Net carbon dioxide equivalent emissions  
associated with the production and distribution of this report have been neutralized 
through Zerofootprint using ISO 14064-2 reforestation carbon offsets. 

Form #XXXXX (12/2007)

This report is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. FSC fibre used in the  
manufacture of the paper stock comes from well-managed forests independently  
certified by SmartWood according to Forest Stewardship Council rules.

 V ision

  Values

  Strategic  goals

•  Always earning the right to 
be our clients’ first choice

•  Excellent service to clients  

•  To be the undisputed leader  

and each other

•  Working together to succeed
•  Personal responsibility for  

high performance

•  Diversity for growth and 

innovation

•  Trust through integrity in 

everything we do

in financial services in 
Canada

•  To build on our strengths 

in banking, wealth 
management and capital 
markets in the United States
•  To be a premier provider of 
selected global financial 
services

This annual report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the “safe harbour”  
provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation.  
We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of important factors could cause our actual results to 
differ materially from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. Additional information about these factors can 
be found under “Caution regarding forward-looking statements” on page 33.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
R
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Royal Bank of Canada  
2007 Annual Report

Finding  
better ways

Royal Bank of Canada (RY on TSX and NYSE) and its 
subsidiaries operate under the master brand name of RBC 
and may be referred to in this text as RBC. We are Canada’s 
largest bank as measured by assets and market capitalization 
and one of North America’s leading diversified financial 
services companies. We provide personal and commercial 
banking, wealth management services, insurance, corporate 
and investment banking and transaction processing services 

on a global basis. Our Global Technology and Operations 
and Global Functions teams enable business growth with 
expert professional advice and state-of-the-art processes 
and technology. We employ more than 70,000 full- and part-
time employees who serve more than 15 million personal, 
business, public sector and institutional clients through  
offices in Canada, the U.S. and 36 other countries. 

 Fold  Financial highlights
Better for our clients
  2 
Better for our shareholders
  4 
Better for our employees
  6 
Better for our communities
  8 
Chief Executive Officer’s 
 10 
message
Performance compared to 
objectives
Business discussion
Chairman’s message
Corporate governance
Corporate responsibility

 16 
 21 
 22 
 24 

 15 

33  Management’s Discussion 

110  Consolidated Financial  

and Analysis

Statements

177  Supplementary  
information

34  Overview
38 

43 
51 

Accounting and control 
matters
Financial performance
Quarterly financial 
information
Business segment results
53 
Financial condition
71 
80 
Risk management 
102  Additional risks that may 
affect future results 
104  Additional financial 
information

111  Management’s responsibility 
for financial reporting

181  Glossary
183  Directors and executive  

officers

184  Principal subsidiaries
185  Shareholder information

111  Report of Independent 
Registered Chartered 
Accountants

112  Management’s report on 

internal control over financial 
reporting

112  Report of Independent 
Registered Chartered 
Accountants

113  Consolidated Balance Sheets
114  Consolidated Statements of 

Income

115  Consolidated Statements of 
Comprehensive Income 
115  Consolidated Statements of 

Changes in Shareholders’ 
Equity 

116  Consolidated Statements of  

Cash Flows

117  Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements

This is a carbon neutral publication. Net carbon dioxide equivalent emissions  
associated with the production and distribution of this report have been neutralized 
through Zerofootprint using ISO 14064-2 reforestation carbon offsets. 

Form #81104 (12/2007)

This report is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. FSC fibre used in the  
manufacture of the paper stock comes from well-managed forests independently  
certified by SmartWood according to Forest Stewardship Council rules.

 V ision

  Values

  Strategic  goals

•  Always earning the right to 
be our clients’ first choice

•  Excellent service to clients  

•  To be the undisputed leader  

and each other

•  Working together to succeed
•  Personal responsibility for  

high performance

•  Diversity for growth and 

innovation

•  Trust through integrity in 

everything we do

in financial services in 
Canada

•  To build on our strengths 

in banking, wealth 
management and capital 
markets in the United States
•  To be a premier provider of 
selected global financial 
services

This annual report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the “safe harbour”  
provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation.  
We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of important factors could cause our actual results to 
differ materially from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. Additional information about these factors can 
be found under “Caution regarding forward-looking statements” on page 33.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial 
highlights

(C$ millions, except per share 

  and percentage amounts) 

  operating performance
  Total revenue  
  Provision for credit losses 
  Non-interest expense  
  Net income 
  Return on common equity (ROE)  
  Earnings per share (EPS) – diluted 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2007 vs. 2006 
increase (decrease)

$  22,462 
791 
12,473 
5,492 
24.6% 
4.19 

$ 

$  20,637  
 429  
 11,495  
 4,728  
23.5% 
3.59  

$ 

$  19,184 
455  
 11,357 
 3,387 
18.0% 
2.57  

$ 

$ 

 $  

9%
1,825 
84%
362 
9%
978 
16%
764 
n.m.  110 bps
17%

.60 

	 Capital
  Tier 1 capital ratio 
  Total capital ratio 
  Risk-adjusted assets 

9.4% 
11.5% 
$  247,635 

9.6% 
11.9% 
$  223,709  

9.6% 
13.1% 
$  197,004 

 n.m. 
n.m. 
$  23,926  

(20)bps
(40)bps
11%

	 Key	drivers
  Total loans (before allowance for  

  loan losses) 
  Total deposits 
  Total assets 
  Assets under management 
  Assets under administration – RBC 

	 Common	share	information
  Share price (RY on the TSX)

    High 
    Low 
    Close 

  Dividends per share  
  Book value per share 
  Market capitalization (C$ millions) 

n.m.  not meaningful

$  239,429 
  365,205 
  600,346 
  161,500 
  548,200 

$  209,939  
 343,523  
 536,780  
 143,100  
  525,800  

$  191,914  
   306,860  
 469,521  
 118,800  
  417,100  

$  29,490 
21,682 
63,566 
18,400 
22,400 

14%
6% 
12%
13%
4%

$ 

61.08 
49.50 
56.04 
1.82 
17.58 
71,522 

$ 

51.49  
41.29  
49.80  
1.44  
16.52  
 63,788  

$ 

43.34 
30.45 
41.67 
1.18 
14.89 
 53,894 

 $  

9.59 
8.21 
6.24 
.38 
1.06 
7,734 

19%
20%
13%
26%
6%
12%

Note: All data in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.
(1) 
(2) 

TSR – Total shareholder return is price appreciation plus dividends reinvested, annualized.
Five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

2007 vs. 2006  5-year CAGR (2)

16% 

19%

2007 vs. 2006  5-year CAGR (2)

17% 

14% 

Shareholder information

Corporate headquarters
Street address:
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M5J 2J5
Tel: (416) 974-5151
Fax: (416) 955-7800

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 1
Royal Bank Plaza
Toronto, Ontario 
Canada  M5J 2J5

website:
rbc.com

Transfer Agent 
and Registrar

Main Agent
Computershare Trust 
Company of Canada

1500 University Street 
Suite 700
Montreal, Quebec  
Canada  H3A 3S8
Tel: (514) 982-7555, or
1-866-586-7635
Fax: (514) 982-7635

website:
computershare.com

Co-Transfer Agent (U.S.) 
Computershare Trust  
Company, N.A.
350 Indiana Street  
Suite 800
Golden, Colorado  
U.S.A.  80401
Tel: 1-800-962-4284

Co-Transfer Agent 
(United Kingdom)
Computershare Investor  
Services PLC
Securities Services – Registrars 
P.O. Box No. 82, The Pavilions 
Bridgwater Road, Bristol
BS99 7NH  England

Stock exchange listings
(Symbol: RY)

Common shares are listed on:
Canada
Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) 
U.S.
New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) 
Switzerland
Swiss Exchange (SWX) 

All preferred shares are listed  
on the Toronto Stock Exchange. 

Valuation Day price
For capital gains purposes, the 
Valuation Day (December 22, 
1971) cost base for our common 
shares is $7.38 per share. This 
amount has been adjusted to 
reflect the two-for-one share split 
of March 1981 and the two-for-one 
share split of February 1990. The 
one-for-one share divi dend paid  
in October 2000 and April 2006 
did not affect the Valuation Day 
value for our common shares.

Shareholder contact
For information about stock  
transfers, address changes,  
dividends, lost stock certificates, 
tax forms, estate transfers,  
contact: Computershare Trust 
Company of Canada
100 University Avenue, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1
Tel: (514) 982-7555 or  
1-866-586-7635

For other shareholder inquiries, 
contact: Shareholder Relations
Royal Bank of Canada 
200 Bay Street, 9th Floor 
South Tower 
Toronto, Ontario
Canada  M5J 2J5
Tel: (416) 955-7806
Fax: (416) 974-3535

For financial information  
inquiries, contact: 
Investor Relations
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street 
14th Floor, South Tower  
Toronto, Ontario 
Canada  M5J 2J5  
Tel: (416) 955-7802
Fax: (416) 955-7800 or  
visit our website at  
rbc.com/investorrelations

dividends.” Unless stated other-
wise, all dividends (and deemed 
dividends) paid by us hereafter 
are designated as “eligible  
dividends” for the purposes of  
such rules.

Common share repurchases
We are engaged in a Normal 
Course Issuer Bid through the 
facilities of the Toronto Stock 
Exchange. During the one-year 
period commencing November 1, 
2007, we may repurchase up to 
20 million common shares in the 
open market at market prices. We 
determine the amount and timing 
of the purchases.

A copy of our Notice of Intention 
to file a Normal Course Issuer Bid 
may be obtained, without charge, 
by contacting RBC’s Secretary at 
our Toronto mailing address.

2008 Annual Meeting
Our Annual Meeting of Common 
Shareholders will be held at  
9:00 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time) 
on Friday, February 29, 2008, at 
the Metro Toronto Convention 
Centre, North Building,  
255 Front Street West, Toronto, 
Ontario, Canada.

2008 Quarterly earnings  
release dates
First quarter 
Second quarter 
Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

February 29 
May 29 
August 28 
December 5

Direct deposit service
Shareholders in Canada and 
the U.S. may have their divi-
dends deposited by electronic 
funds transfer. To arrange for 
this service, please contact our 
Transfer Agent and Registrar, 
Computershare Trust Company  
of Canada.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Our Dividend Reinvest ment Plan 
provides our registered common  
shareholders residing in Canada 
and the United States with the 
means to purchase additional  
RBC common shares through the 
automatic reinvestment of their 
cash dividends.

For more information on  
participation in the Dividend 
Reinvestment Plan, please  
contact our Plan Agent:

Computershare Trust Company  
of Canada
Attn: Dividend Reinvestment Dept.
100 University Avenue, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1
Tel: 1-866-586-7635 (Canada  
and U.S.) or (514) 982-7555
Fax: (416) 263-9394 or 
1-888-453-0330
e-mail:  
service@computershare.com

Eligible Dividend Designation
For purposes of the enhanced 
dividend tax credit rules contained 
in the Income Tax Act (Canada) 
and any corresponding provincial 
and territorial tax legislation, all 
dividends (and deemed dividends) 
paid by us to Canadian residents 
on our common and preferred 
shares after December 31, 2005, 
are designated as “eligible 

Dividend dates for 2008
Subject to approval by the Board of Directors

Common and preferred 
shares series N, W, AA, AB, AC, 
AD, AE, AF and AG 

La Banque Royale publie aussi son  
Rapport annuel en français.

Legal Deposit, fourth quarter, 2007
Bibliothèque nationale du Québec

Record dates 

Payment dates

January 24 
April 24 
July 24 
October 27 

February 22
May 23
August 22
November 24

Printed in Canada
This annual report is printed on acid-free 
paper and the entire book is recyclable.

Information contained in or otherwise accessible through the websites mentioned in this report to shareholders does not form a part of this report. All references in this report to shareholders to 
websites are inactive textual references and are for your information only.

EQuAl EMPloyMEnT oPPoRTuniTy: As required by our Code of Conduct, which applies to all RBC companies and applies equally to employees, we are committed to providing equal opportunity in all  
dealings with employees, clients, suppliers and others. In the U.S., our subsidiaries are committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunity in compliance with relevant U.S. federal legislation and 
regulations (EEO rules) to all employees and applicants for employment. Consistent with this commitment, all employment decisions of our U.S. subsidiaries are based upon skill and performance with-
out regard to race, colour, national origin or ancestry, religion, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, status as a veteran or any other factors or characteristics protected by law. Our U.S. subsidiaries 
are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with U.S. federal, state and municipal employment laws, including regulations applicable to federal contractors. Disclosure in our 2007 Annual Report to 
Shareholders about our U.S. subsidiaries’ Equal Employment Opportunity practices is required pursuant to EEO rules.

Trademarks used in this annual report include the LION & GLOBE Symbol, ROYAL BANK OF CANADA, ROYAL BANK, RBC, RBC ROYAL BANK OF CANADA, RBC BLUEPRINT FOR DOING BETTER, RBC 
BLUE WATER PROJECT, RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, RBC CAPITAL TRUST, RBC CARLIN, RBC CENTURA, RBC COMMUNITY BLUEPRINT, RBC DAIN RAUSCHER, RBC DANIELS, RBC DOMINION SECURITIES, 
RBC ENVIRONMENTAL BLUEPRINT, RBC FOUNDATION, RBC HEDGE 250 INDEX, RBC HOMELINE, RBC INSURANCE, RBC MORTGAGE, RBC NEXT GREAT INNOVATOR CHALLENGE, RBC REWARDS, RBC 
SUBORDINATED NOTES TRUST, RBC TSNs and RBC TruCs which are trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada used by Royal Bank of Canada and/or by its subsidiaries under license. All other trademarks 
mentioned in this report, which are not the property of Royal Bank of Canada, are owned by their respective holders. RBC Dexia IS and affiliated Dexia companies are licensed users of the RBC trademark.

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16.7%15.6%18.0%23.5%24.6%$2.20$2.11$2.57$3.59$4.1920032004200520062007200320042005200620072003200420052006200720032004200520062007$2,968$2,803$3,387$4,728$5,492$120$124$168$207$240Return on equity (ROE)Diluted earnings per share (EPS)Net income Total shareholder return (TSR) (on a $100 investment on November 1, 2002) (1)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial 
highlights

(C$ millions, except per share 

  and percentage amounts) 

  operating performance
  Total revenue  
  Provision for credit losses 
  Non-interest expense  
  Net income 
  Return on common equity (ROE)  
  Earnings per share (EPS) – diluted 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2007 vs. 2006 
increase (decrease)

$  22,462 
791 
12,473 
5,492 
24.6% 
4.19 

$ 

$  20,637  
 429  
 11,495  
 4,728  
23.5% 
3.59  

$ 

$  19,184 
455  
 11,357 
 3,387 
18.0% 
2.57  

$ 

$ 

 $  

9%
1,825 
84%
362 
9%
978 
16%
764 
n.m.  110 bps
17%

.60 

	 Capital
  Tier 1 capital ratio 
  Total capital ratio 
  Risk-adjusted assets 

9.4% 
11.5% 
247.6 

$ 

9.6% 
11.9% 
223.7  

$ 

9.6% 
13.1% 
197.0  

$ 

 n.m. 
n.m. 
23.9  

(20)bps
(40)bps
11%

$ 

	 Key	drivers
  Total loans (before allowance for  

  loan losses) 
  Total deposits 
  Total assets 
  Assets under management 
  Assets under administration (1) 

	 Common	share	information
  Share price (RY on the TSX)

    High 
    Low 
    Close 

  Dividends per share  
  Book value per share 
  Market capitalization (C$ millions) 

$  239,429 
  365,205 
  600,346 
  161,500 
  548,200 

$  209,939  
 343,523  
 536,780  
 143,100  
  525,800  

$  191,914  
   306,860  
 469,521  
 118,800  
  417,100  

$  29,490 
21,682 
63,566 
18,400 
22,400 

14%
6% 
12%
13%
4%

$ 

61.08 
49.50 
56.04 
1.82 
17.58 
71,522 

$ 

51.49  
41.29  
49.80  
1.44  
16.52  
 63,788  

$ 

43.34 
30.45 
41.67 
1.18 
14.89 
 53,894 

 $  

9.59 
8.21 
6.24 
.38 
1.06 
7,734 

19%
20%
13%
26%
6%
12%

Excluding Institutional & Investor Services (IIS) assets that were contributed to the joint venture, RBC Dexia Investor Services.

(1)  
n.m.  not meaningful

Note: All data in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.
(1) 
(2) 

TSR – Total shareholder return is price appreciation plus dividends reinvested, annualized.
Five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

2007 vs. 2006  5-year CAGR (2)

16% 

19%

2007 vs. 2006  5-year CAGR (2)

17% 

14% 

Shareholder information

Corporate headquarters
Street address:
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M5J 2J5
Tel: (416) 974-5151
Fax: (416) 955-7800

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 1
Royal Bank Plaza
Toronto, Ontario 
Canada  M5J 2J5

website:
rbc.com

Transfer Agent 
and Registrar

Main Agent
Computershare Trust 
Company of Canada

1500 University Street 
Suite 700
Montreal, Quebec  
Canada  H3A 3S8
Tel: (514) 982-7555, or
1-866-586-7635
Fax: (514) 982-7635

website:
computershare.com

Co-Transfer Agent (U.S.) 
Computershare Trust  
Company, N.A.
350 Indiana Street  
Suite 800
Golden, Colorado  
U.S.A.  80401
Tel: 1-800-962-4284

Co-Transfer Agent 
(United Kingdom)
Computershare Investor  
Services PLC
Securities Services – Registrars 
P.O. Box No. 82, The Pavilions 
Bridgwater Road, Bristol
BS99 7NH  England

Stock exchange listings
(Symbol: RY)

Common shares are listed on:
Canada
Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) 
U.S.
New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) 
Switzerland
Swiss Exchange (SWX) 

All preferred shares are listed  
on the Toronto Stock Exchange. 

Valuation Day price
For capital gains purposes, the 
Valuation Day (December 22, 
1971) cost base for our common 
shares is $7.38 per share. This 
amount has been adjusted to 
reflect the two-for-one share split 
of March 1981 and the two-for-one 
share split of February 1990. The 
one-for-one share divi dend paid  
in October 2000 and April 2006 
did not affect the Valuation Day 
value for our common shares.

Shareholder contact
For information about stock  
transfers, address changes,  
dividends, lost stock certificates, 
tax forms, estate transfers,  
contact: Computershare Trust 
Company of Canada
100 University Avenue, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1
Tel: (514) 982-7555 or  
1-866-586-7635

For other shareholder inquiries, 
contact: Shareholder Relations
Royal Bank of Canada 
200 Bay Street, 9th Floor 
South Tower 
Toronto, Ontario
Canada  M5J 2J5
Tel: (416) 955-7806
Fax: (416) 974-3535

For financial information  
inquiries, contact: 
Investor Relations
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street 
14th Floor, South Tower  
Toronto, Ontario 
Canada  M5J 2J5  
Tel: (416) 955-7802
Fax: (416) 955-7800 or  
visit our website at  
rbc.com/investorrelations

dividends.” Unless stated other-
wise, all dividends (and deemed 
dividends) paid by us hereafter 
are designated as “eligible divi-
dends” for the purposes of such 
rules.

Common share repurchases
We are engaged in a Normal 
Course Issuer Bid through the 
facilities of the Toronto Stock 
Exchange. During the one-year 
period commencing November 1, 
2007, we may repurchase up to 
20 million common shares in the 
open market at market prices. We 
determine the amount and timing 
of the purchases.

A copy of our Notice of Intention 
to file a Normal Course Issuer Bid 
may be obtained, without charge, 
by contacting RBC’s Secretary at 
our Toronto mailing address.

2008 Annual Meeting
Our Annual Meeting of Common 
Shareholders will be held at  
9:00 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time) 
on Friday, February 29, 2008, at 
the Metro Toronto Convention 
Centre, North Building,  
255 Front Street West, Toronto, 
Ontario, Canada.

2008 Quarterly earnings  
release dates
First quarter 
Second quarter 
Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

February 29 
May 29 
August 28 
December 5

Direct deposit service
Shareholders in Canada and 
the U.S. may have their divi-
dends deposited by electronic 
funds transfer. To arrange for 
this service, please contact our 
Transfer Agent and Registrar, 
Computershare Trust Company  
of Canada.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Our Dividend Reinvest ment Plan 
provides our registered common  
shareholders residing in Canada 
and the United States with the 
means to purchase additional  
RBC common shares through the 
automatic reinvestment of their 
cash dividends.

For more information on  
participation in the Dividend 
Reinvestment Plan, please  
contact our Plan Agent:

Computershare Trust Company  
of Canada
Attn: Dividend Reinvestment Dept.
100 University Avenue, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1
Tel: 1-866-586-7635 (Canada  
and U.S.) or (514) 982-7555
Fax: (416) 263-9394 or 
1-888-453-0330
e-mail:  
service@computershare.com

Eligible Dividend Designation
For purposes of the enhanced 
dividend tax credit rules contained 
in the Income Tax Act (Canada) 
and any corresponding provincial 
and territorial tax legislation, all 
dividends (and deemed dividends) 
paid by us to Canadian residents 
on our common and preferred 
shares after December 31, 2005, 
are designated as “eligible 

Dividend dates for 2008
Subject to approval by the Board of Directors

Common and preferred 
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Information contained in or otherwise accessible through the websites mentioned in this report to shareholders does not form a part of this report. All references in this report to shareholders to 
websites are inactive textual references and are for your information only.

EQuAl EMPloyMEnT oPPoRTuniTy: As required by our Code of Conduct, which applies to all RBC companies and applies equally to employees, we are committed to providing equal opportunity in all  
dealings with employees, clients, suppliers and others. In the U.S., our subsidiaries are committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunity in compliance with relevant U.S. federal legislation and 
regulations (EEO rules) to all employees and applicants for employment. Consistent with this commitment, all employment decisions of our U.S. subsidiaries are based upon skill and performance with-
out regard to race, colour, national origin or ancestry, religion, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, status as a veteran or any other factors or characteristics protected by law. Our U.S. subsidiaries 
are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with U.S. federal, state and municipal employment laws, including regulations applicable to federal contractors. Disclosure in our 2007 Annual Report to 
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Trademarks used in this report include the LION & GLOBE Symbol, ROYAL BANK OF CANADA, RBC, RBC CENTURA, RBC MORTGAGE, CANADIAN BANKING, WEALTH MANAGEMENT, U.S. & INTERNATIONAL 
BANKING, CAPITAL MARKETS, RBC ASSET MANAGEMENT, RBC CARLIN, RBC DANIELS, RBC DOMINION SECURITIES and RBC TRUST SUBORDINATED NOTES which are trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada 
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holders. RBC Dexia IS and affiliated RBC Dexia IS companies are licensed users of the RBC trademark.

d
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I

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Shareholder information

185

16.7%15.6%18.0%23.5%24.6%$2.20$2.11$2.57$3.59$4.1920032004200520062007200320042005200620072003200420052006200720032004200520062007$2,968$2,803$3,387$4,728$5,492$120$124$168$207$240Return on equity (ROE)Diluted earnings per share (EPS)Net income Total shareholder return (TSR) (on a $100 investment on November 1, 2002) (1)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We are continually striving to do 
better for our shareholders by  
delivering value to our clients, 
providing opportunities to our 
employees and making a positive 
impact within our communities.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007

1

Clients

Better 
means  
deeper 
relationships.

Whether it is a family seeking their first mortgage, 
a small business owner looking to expand  
or a multinational corporation exporting to new 
markets, we continually seek ways to better 
understand our clients’ aspirations and goals. 

We understand that our clients take different 
paths to success but know that we can play a vital  
role in guiding their journey. Our relentless focus 
on communicating and building relationships 
based on trust and insight ensures we deliver 
value and remain relevant to the people we serve.

2

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007 
Chief Executive Officer’s message

Our Client First philosophy demands that all 
aspects of our operations ultimately benefit  
our clients. Hiring more talented and qualified 
people, developing simpler processes, and 
creating innovative products and services are a 
few ways we make it easier for our clients to do 
business with us.

Our clients do not stand still and neither can we. 
While we take heart in our current success,  
we know we must always do better.

3

Shareholders

Better  
means  
increased
confidence.

We recognize people and institutions have a 
choice of where they invest their money.  
The competition for capital is global and their 
investment decisions reflect whether they  
have confidence in our ability to deliver returns 
that are superior to others.

While our owners range from multi-billion 
dollar mutual funds and pension funds to the 
individual long-term investor, they all demand we 
demonstrate sound strategy and risk discipline, 
strong management, as well as excellent and 
ethical execution. We know there is little tolerance 
for missteps and we are proud of our long track 
record of enviable financial performance. 

4

Of all our assets, our integrity is one of our most 
valued. As a complex, global financial services 
company, we recognize that our shareholders 
define return on investment in terms broader 
than dollars and cents. They expect us to act 
responsibly and make a positive contribution 
to the issues confronting society. We remain 
accountable to all our shareholders by providing 

them with transparent financial and non-financial 
reporting and comprehensive disclosure.  
Our reputation for leading corporate governance 
practices is cited among the world’s best.

We are committed to always working hard to 
ensure we reward our investors’ confidence with 
superior returns and more reasons to trust their 
capital with us. 

5

Employees

Better  
means  
greater
opportunities.

We believe our people ultimately determine  
our success. 

We believe in enabling performance rather 

than simply managing it, and we continually 
work to create engaging environments where our 
people can perform their best. Active coaching 

and feedback are essential to building productive 
partnerships between our managers and 
employees. Knowledge sharing is encouraged,  
and listening to and learning from each other 
is simply made easier with tools such as blogs, 
online newsletters, surveys and polls.

6

Providing comprehensive total rewards,  
which includes competitive pay and benefits, 
training, career opportunities, and flexible work 
options, helps enable us to attract and retain 
talented people. 

Creating a positive environment means 
recognizing and unleashing the power of diversity. 
At RBC, we know our strength comes from the 
sum of the things we have in common – our shared 
values and purpose – and the things that make 
each of us different and unique.  

7

Communities

Better  
means  
broader
impact.

We share in the common responsibility to 
make our communities better. We contribute to 
their economic prosperity as an employer, as a 
purchaser of goods and services, as a lender to 
small and local businesses, and as a supporter  
of community economic development initiatives 
and local entrepreneurship.

We help our communities by working with 
organizations and people who inspire others.  
The RBC Olympians Program is one example: 
Athletes, including four-time Canadian Paralympic 
champion Andrea Holmes (shown), act as 
community ambassadors and share their past 
experiences and current Olympic dreams with 
kids, community groups, clients and employees.  
They also work to create awareness and support 

8

for amateur sport in Canada and inspire the  
next generation to be physically fit and participate 
in sports at any level.

Through the RBC Foundation, our donations 
help create social and economic opportunities that 
strengthen the communities where we operate. 
We are committed to making a lasting social 
impact through inspired, responsible giving and 

by building strong partnerships with the  
charitable sector. 

We are privileged to be operating in 
communities around the world that are full of 
opportunity and potential. We are proud that we 
can contribute to their success by supporting the 
people, programs and agencies that make our 
communities richer places for all.

9

Chief Executive Officer’s message

Finding 
better ways

At RBC, we spend significant time and energy advancing  
our vision of “Always earning the right to be our clients’  
first choice.” Over several years, we have made dramatic 
changes to all aspects of our operations to make it easier for 
clients to do business with us. We have worked together to 
make our processes simpler and geared toward helping our 
clients. We set stringent financial goals and embedded a 
high-performance culture to drive top quartile performance 
for our shareholders. Our efforts have been met with tremen-
dous success on all fronts, but like many great organizations, 
we know that it is not enough. Ours is a fiercely competitive 
business and we recognize that as a leader, the contest 
for clients, capital and talent never weakens and we must 
always pursue higher standards of growth and achievement. 
Indeed, we are always finding better ways to exceed the 
expectations of our shareholders, our clients and ourselves.

In 2007, our shareholders benefited from solid financial 
results that reflected our leadership position in core busi-
nesses in Canada and our expansion and growth in the 
U.S. and internationally. Across RBC, we have succeeded in 
numerous growth initiatives, and have taken advantage of 
opportunities in the Canadian and international markets.  
During 2007, we continued to return capital to our share-
holders through dividend increases and share buybacks, 
delivering a total shareholder return of 16 per cent.

Our management depth and operational discipline have 
helped us weather the turbulent market conditions that 
surfaced in the middle of 2007. As issues in the U.S. subprime 
market spilled into other sectors, including high-quality  
debt markets, they prompted increased volatility, wider 
credit spreads and reduced liquidity in the capital markets. 

10

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Chief Executive Officer’s message

We have not been immune to these general market condi-
tions since we are active in the debt and equity markets, 
largely through our capital markets businesses, and our  
U.S. banking operations have some exposure to the U.S.  
real estate market. 

Overall, I am pleased with how we have managed our  
businesses throughout 2007. The diversity of our busi-
nesses across multiple products, markets and geographies 
is a significant competitive advantage and it enabled RBC 
to deliver solid results in the face of this market disruption. 
Throughout this period, our strong risk management  
practices and our solid capital position not only allowed  
us to maintain our high credit ratings, but served to assure 
investors and bolster their confidence in us. Underpinned by 
the continued strength of our balance sheet, I am proud  
that we have again been recognized as the safest Canadian 
bank and the third-safest bank in North America (Global 
Finance magazine).

I have confidence in the capabilities of our organization, our 
management team and our people to continue to respond 
and react in the interests of our shareholders and clients. 
As a result of our efforts and investments made during the 
past several years, we are looking to the future from a posi-
tion of strength. Our financial performance is strong, we are 
continuing to make investments necessary for future growth, 
and we are trusted and respected as a financial services 
provider, an employer and a corporate citizen.

I believe that our ability today to serve the needs of 
our clients in every market is as strong as ever and I am 
committed to ensuring that our people and our businesses 
have the resources to maintain this standard. Our foundation 

Janice R. Fukakusa, Chief Financial Officer; Charles M. Winograd, Group Head,  
Capital Markets; Barbara Stymiest, Chief Operating Officer; Martin J. Lippert,  
Group Head, Global Technology and Operations; Gordon M. Nixon, President  
and Chief Executive Officer; W. James Westlake, Group Head, Canadian Banking;  
Peter Armenio, Group Head, U.S. and International Banking; M. George Lewis,  
Group Head, Wealth Management. 

11

Our efforts have been met with tremendous success on all fronts,  
but like many great organizations, we know that it is not enough.  
We must always pursue higher standards of growth and achievement.

for future growth is made stronger by a backbone of central-
ized technology, operations and corporate functions teams 
that allows us to gain economies of scale and foster innova-
tion. Our brand, which was again recognized as the most 
valuable in Canada (Brand Finance, BrandZ), is an asset that 
we know will be vital to our growth plans. We will be building 
our brand further through targeted advertising and sponsor-
ships in the U.S. and U.K., and through several global initia-
tives, including the RBC Environmental Blueprint™ discussed 
on page 30 of this report. In addition, we are taking steps  
to develop a robust global talent pool as we are mindful  
that more of our growth will increasingly come from interna-
tional markets. 

2007 Strategic goals
In 2007, our people remained focused on our strategic goals:
•  To be the undisputed leader in financial services in Canada 
•  To build on our strengths in banking, wealth management 

and capital markets in the United States

•  To be a premier provider of selected global financial 

services.

In the pages of this report, you will read the highlights of our 
progress toward each of these goals through a variety of 
initiatives, each with the common objective of serving our 
clients to the best of our abilities.

In Canada, we work hard to be a leader in a fiercely competi-
tive marketplace. Spurred by our Client First philosophy and 
favourable economic conditions for much of the first half 
of 2007, all our retail Canadian businesses benefited from 
significant volume growth. Our Canadian retail businesses –  
banking, insurance and wealth management – demonstrated 
leadership throughout the year, setting an excellent founda-
tion for future growth. In Canadian Banking, we grew lending  
volumes by 11 per cent and deposit balances by 6 per cent. 
Canadian Wealth Management continued its strong perfor-
mance, improving revenue by 13 per cent. And as the 
Canadian industry leader in net sales of long-term mutual 
funds for 16 consecutive calendar quarters, Global Asset 
Management revenues grew 17 per cent from last year. 

We have the broadest national retail presence in Canada –  
with more branches and automated teller machines (ATMs) 
than any other competitor across the country – and we have 

12

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007 
Chief Executive Officer’s message

worked hard to attain top three market shares in all products 
and regions. Despite our leadership position and reflective 
of our competitive environment, we continue to make invest-
ments that will pay dividends in the years ahead. I believe 
it is important that we not rest on past success, but use our 
resources to further improve service by renewing our branch 
network and re-energizing our people. Our clients are not the 
only ones who see the difference: In 2007, Synovate recog-
nized us as the best among our largest domestic competitors 
for the service we provide clients in our branches and the 
value we give them. 

Our diverse and broad-based capital markets businesses 
continued to lead in most elements of the Canadian market, 
and we were again named Dealmaker of the Year by the 
Financial Post for providing services to Canada’s leading  
corporate, government and institutional clients. We 
continued to differentiate our capital markets business from 
our Canadian peers by leveraging our expertise globally in 
fixed income distribution, energy, mining and metals, the 
Canadian dollar, and cross-border mergers and acquisitions. 

Our second and third strategic goals describe our ambitions  
outside our home market. Over time we expect to continue to 
grow our international business to account for approximately 
half of our overall earnings and we continue to invest to help 
make this possible. Our commitment to growing our interna-
tional business lines is underscored by the fact that we have 
completed or announced a total of nine international acquisi-
tions worth more than US$4.5 billion since October 2006.

Our progress in the U.S. continues. One source of our 
strength in the U.S. is our ability to differentiate ourselves in 
the banking and wealth management markets by providing 
our clients with the benefit of RBC’s global resources, but 
also stressing the autonomy and decision-making power of 
local management. 

While our U.S. banking business must manage the effects of 
the recent downturn in the U.S. real estate market, we are 
committed to our long-term strategy of building a strong 
retail banking operation in the U.S. Southeast focused on 
serving businesses, business owners and professionals. The 
substantial investments that we have made in our operational  
infrastructure over the past couple of years will enable 

further expansion in the region and result in scale and oper-
ating efficiencies over time. In 2007, we made great strides 
toward building a targeted banking client base of businesses, 
business owners and professionals. Loans and deposits were 
higher in our U.S. banking operations in 2007, and I am encour-
aged by the work done to build the foundation for future 
growth especially in the face of today’s demanding conditions.

We have 350 branches in high-growth markets in the  
U.S. Southeast, with 103 branches to be added following 
the expected close of our acquisition of Alabama National 
BanCorporation (ANB) that was announced in September. In 
total, we have used acquisitions and de novo branch openings  
to expand our current number of branches in the U.S.  
by 24 per cent over 2006 with more than 900 additional 
employees dedicated to serving our U.S. banking clients.  
We are continuing to pursue investments that will grow our 
retail banking business in high-growth markets in the  
U.S. Southeast. 

In the U.S. wealth management market, we are the seventh 
largest full service brokerage, as measured by number of 
financial consultants (FCs). We continued to build scale by 
enabling our clients to grow their assets by attracting high-
producing FCs, and acquiring J.B. Hanauer & Co. Finally, in 
our U.S. capital markets businesses, we have leveraged our 
bulge bracket position in Canada to provide expertise and 
product breadth to U.S. mid-market companies. We have 
used acquisitions to expand our capabilities and expertise, 
remaining a leader in municipal finance, and gaining strength 
in both U.S. mid-market issues and the K–12 education 
finance sector. 

The most notable development outside Canada in 2007 
was the announcement of our agreement to acquire RBTT 
Financial Group (RBTT), which will create one of the most 
expansive banking networks in the Caribbean with a  
presence in 18 countries and territories across the region. 
This will be a truly transformational acquisition for us in the 
region and will extend our reach into many important new 
markets, notably Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and the 
Dutch Caribbean. Unquestionably, pending a successful 
close, acquiring RBTT significantly advances us towards our 
objective to grow outside Canada. 

Our core strength in international trust services is helping  
to drive our success as a top 20 global private bank, and  
we continued to expand our presence by opening several 
new offices during the year. Through our 50 per cent owner-
ship in RBC Dexia Investor Services (RBC Dexia IS), we now 
operate in 15 countries and have been ranked as the top 
global custodian by Global Investor magazine and R&M 
Consultants for four and three consecutive years, respec-
tively. Finally, in Capital Markets, we are a leading player 
in select niche businesses. For example, we are a leader in 
alternative currencies and are a top-tier player in infrastruc-
ture finance. In addition, we are leveraging our domestic 
expertise to expand our global mining and energy practices. 

2007 Financial results 
Long-term shareholders will not be surprised that we must 
leverage our ongoing financial success to cultivate new long-
term growth opportunities for our businesses. For several 
years, we have made it a management priority to ensure 
current success was reinvested to fund future growth. This 
approach allowed us to deliver relatively solid shareholder 
returns in 2007 while returning capital through increased 
dividends and share buybacks. We raised dividends twice in 
2007 for a total increase of 26 per cent, and we repurchased 
11.8 million common shares. Our capital position is strong 
with a Tier 1 capital ratio of 9.4 per cent, comfortably above 
our target of greater than 8 per cent. 

Our diluted EPS growth of 17 per cent, ROE of 24.6 per cent 
and dividend payout ratio of 43 per cent compared favour-
ably to our annual objectives, largely reflecting strong 
performance across most of our businesses. Our defined 
operating leverage of 2.6 per cent (as shown on page 15) 
was below our annual objective of greater than 3 per cent 
reflecting higher costs in support of our growing business  
and investments in future growth initiatives, including  
acquisitions.

Our total shareholder return was 16 per cent for the year 
ended October 31, and our three-, five- and 10-year total 
shareholder returns were 25 per cent, 19 per cent and  
15 per cent, respectively. Relative to our peer group, we deliv-
ered top quartile shareholder returns over the past three and 
10 years, and second quartile returns over the past five years.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Chief Executive Officer’s message

13

Our success means finding better ways 
While the past year has proved relatively successful by many, 
if not all, measures, RBC’s advantage is our unwillingness to 
be satisfied with the status quo. Especially in difficult  
environments, strong players like RBC have the opportunity 
to build on their position of strength to gain clients, increase 
market share and grow quality assets by truly differentiating 
themselves. Our long-term investors will see clearly that we 
have changed significantly over the past several years in 
order to better serve our clients. 

Our past record of strong performance is the result of our 
constantly asking how we can improve: I fully expect that 
our future performance will reflect our reaction to the same 
question. All our people at RBC are engaged in the response 
to this challenge, and I am proud that they are always finding 
better ways to gain our clients’ business and their trust. 
Their continued work leads us to achieve our aggressive 
goals and, in turn, should provide our shareholders with 
confidence and superior returns. 

I sincerely thank all our clients for their continued business 
and our more than 70,000 employees for their relentless 
focus on delivering value for our shareholders and clients 
around the world.

Gordon M. Nixon
President and Chief Executive Officer

How we will measure ourselves in 2008 
We look ahead with some caution, understanding that 
current market volatility and uncertainty will impact financial 
performance. Nevertheless, we remain committed to  
generating top quartile total shareholder return in relation to 
our Canadian and U.S. peer group over the medium term. 

On page 15, we show our 2008 financial objectives,  
which are based on our three strategic goals and economic 
outlook and are intended to generate strong returns for our 
shareholders.

Objectives for our defined operating leverage, ROE, Tier 1 
capital ratio and dividend payout ratio remain unchanged, 
reflecting our continued commitment to strong revenue 
growth, cost containment, as well as sound and effective 
management of capital resources. Our 2008 objective for 
diluted EPS growth is 7 to 10 per cent. Our objectives factor 
in the effect of our pending acquisitions of ANB and RBTT – 
which will be funded partly through issuance of our common 
shares – and related integration costs. The ANB acquisition 
is expected to close in early 2008 and the RBTT acquisition 
is expected to close in the middle of the year. We expect 
our provision for credit loss ratio to trend upward toward 
historical averages, in line with our view of the overall credit 
environment. 

While Canada’s economy expanded in the first half of 
2007, our outlook is based on slower economic growth 
going forward as a result of weakening credit markets and 
the sharp rise in the Canadian dollar. We expect the U.S. 
economy to grow in 2008 at the same pace as 2007 as a 
result of rising business investment, strong export growth 
boosted by the depreciation of the U.S. dollar and continued 
consumer spending. We anticipate that financial market 
volatility will persist into early 2008 as lenders and inves-
tors remain cautious. In other global economies, we expect 
growth to ease moderately in 2008 with China and emerging 
Asian countries leading the way.

14

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007 
Chief Executive Officer’s message

 
 
 
 
2007 Performance review

The table below shows our 2007 performance compared to our objectives for the year.

2007 Objectives 

2007 Performance

  1. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) growth 
  2.  Defined operating leverage (1) 
  3.  Return on common equity (ROE) 
  4.  Tier 1 capital ratio (2) 
  5.  Dividend payout ratio 

10%+ 
>3% 
20%+ 
8%+ 
40–50%  

17%  

2.6% 

24.6% 

9.4%

43% 

(1) 

(2) 

Our defined operating leverage refers to the difference between our revenue growth rate (as adjusted) and non-interest expense growth rate (as adjusted). Revenue is based on a  
taxable equivalent basis and excludes consolidated variable interest entities (VIEs), accounting adjustments related to the new financial instruments accounting standards and Global 
Insurance revenue. Non-interest expense excludes Global Insurance expense. This is a non-GAAP measure. For further information, including reconciliation, refer to the Key performance 
and non-GAAP measures section.
Calculated using guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI).

2008 Objectives

  1.  Diluted earnings per share (EPS) growth 
  2. Defined operating leverage (1) 
  3.  Return on common equity (ROE) 
  4.  Tier 1 capital ratio (2) 
  5. Dividend payout ratio 

Objectives

7–10%
 >3%
20%+

8%+

40–50%

(1) 
(2) 

See note (1) above.
Calculated using guidelines issued by the OSFI under the new Basel II framework, which changes the methodology for the determination of Risk-Adjusted Assets (RAA) and  
regulatory capital.

Medium-term objective 

Objective 

3-year TSR 

5-year TSR

2007 Performance

  1. Total shareholder return (TSR) (1) 

Top quartile 

Top quartile  

Second quartile

(1) 

Calculated for period ended October 31, 2007, based on share price appreciation plus reinvested dividend income versus the TSR of seven Canadian financial institutions (Manulife 
Financial Corporation, Bank of Nova Scotia, Toronto-Dominion Bank, Bank of Montreal, Sun Life Financial Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and National Bank of Canada)  
and TSR (in U.S. dollars) of 13 U.S. financial institutions (Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Wells Fargo & Company, Wachovia Corporation, US Bancorp, Sun Trust Banks, Inc.,  
The Bank of New York Mellon, BB&T Corporation, Fifth Third Bancorp, National City Corporation, The PNC Financial Services Group, KeyCorp and Northern Trust Corporation).

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Performance compared to objectives
Chief Executive Officer’s message

15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(C$ millions, except 
percentage amounts) 

2007 

2006 

2005  Increase (decrease)

2007 vs. 2006

Total revenue 
Net income  
Average loans and acceptances  
Average deposits 

2,987    

$  12,521   $  11,696  $  10,998   $ 
2,426 
  200,000     179,700 
  147,100     139,200    

2,007    
  160,700    
 132,500 

825 
561 
20,300  
7,900  

7%
23%
11%
6%

Key highlights

•  We continued to extend our leading market shares during the year across multiple 
product categories including personal loans, residential mortgages, personal 
investments, business deposits and loans, and creditor, disability and travel insurance. 
This growth was achieved while exercising disciplined pricing and prudent risk 
management.

•  We grew our deposit base through the introduction of a new personal banking suite 

that included several client-centric features, such as multi-product rebates, and a new 
high-interest online savings account.

•  We continued to expand our distribution strength by adding new bank branches, 

insurance offices and ATMs, particularly in high-growth markets, and we renovated and 
redesigned many of our existing bank branches to continue to better serve the needs  
of our clients.

•  We deepened our client relationships as reflected by the increasing number of clients 

who have multiple products with RBC.

Achievements in 2007

•  We were ranked first among Canada’s major banks for “Branch Service” and “Value for 

Money” by Synovate for our efforts in improving the client experience. 

•  We gave new clients even more reasons to bank with us as we launched new and 

innovative products such as a high-interest online savings account, improved packages 
for students and seniors as well as our RBC Rewards® card loyalty program.

•  We introduced incentives, including charitable environmental donations, rebates 

and discounts, to encourage clients to conduct home energy audits, switch to online 
eStatements, and purchase renewable energy and hybrid vehicles.

•  We introduced more convenient and efficient credit and account opening processes for 
the business banking market segment while also launching a new flat-fee account and 
an account selector tool.

•  We won the Bank Insurance Securities Association Award of Excellence for innovation 
and leadership in providing our clients with insurance advice, choice and solutions.

2008 and beyond

•  We will focus on delivering a superior client experience and helping clients achieve 

financial success, allowing us to retain and grow their business.

•  We will focus on continuing to improve our processes and revise our business models 

to make it easier for our clients and employees to do business at RBC.

•  We will focus on delivering relevant advice and solutions to attract new clients to RBC.

Canadian 
Banking

Canadian Banking provides personal and 
business financial services in Canada 
and insurance products and services 
internationally. With our leading national 
distribution network and the most 
valuable brand in Canada, we serve 
approximately 14 million clients through 
the country’s most extensive branch 
and ATM network, our proprietary and 
specialized sales forces, online channels 
and call centres.

2007 Revenue contribution

Personal Financial Services
Business Financial Services
Cards and Payment Solutions
Global Insurance

41%
18%
16%
25%

16

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Canadian Banking

 
 
 
 
 
 
Wealth
Management

(C$ millions, except 
percentage amounts) 

Total revenue 
Net income  
Assets under administration 
Assets under management 

2007 

2006 

2005  Increase (decrease)

2007 vs. 2006

$ 

3,992  $ 
762    

  488,500 
  161,200 

3,487  $ 
604 
  476,500 
  142,800 

3,151  $ 
502 
  380,700 
  118,500    

505 
158  
12,000  
18,400  

14%
26%
3%
13%

Wealth Management comprises businesses 
that directly serve the growing wealth 
management needs of affluent and high 
net worth clients in Canada, the U.S. and 
outside North America, and businesses 
that provide asset management and 
trust products through RBC and external 
partners. We are a market leader in 
Canadian wealth and asset management, 
and have strong and growing businesses 
in the U.S. and internationally. Our 
3,300 financial consultants, advisors, 
private bankers and trust officers provide 
investment advisory and discretionary 
services, banking, credit and estate and 
trust services to affluent and high net worth 
clients. We have a network of 300 offices in 
20 countries around the world.

2007 Revenue contribution

Canadian Wealth Management
U.S. & International
     Wealth Management
Global Asset Management

36%

50%
14%

Key highlights

•  We realigned our businesses in February 2007 to create a separate Wealth Management 
segment to focus on extending our leadership position in Canada and aggressively 
growing in the U.S. and international markets.

•  In 2007 we continued to increase our proportion of fee-based revenue, to 53 per cent  

of all Wealth Management revenue from 50 per cent in 2006.

•  The fastest growing segment in our Canadian wealth management business continues 
to be high net worth clients (households with more than $1 million in investable assets).

•  We continued to lead the Canadian mutual fund industry in both sales and performance, 

outpacing the industry in net sales of long-term funds for the last 16 consecutive 
calendar quarters. By continuing to leverage our broad retail distribution network in 
Canada and by expanding our third-party distribution, our mutual fund assets under 
management increased by $13.1 billion, or 19 per cent, over the prior year. 

•  We continued to build scale in the U.S. and internationally for future growth through 
organic expansion and acquisitions. We offered client solutions from across our 
businesses including extending more than US$1 billion in credit provided by international 
wealth management to high net worth clients of our U.S. wealth management business.

•  We continued to lead the Canadian asset management industry in the development 
of innovative products. We were the first major Canadian bank to launch a socially 
responsible mutual fund family through our partnership with Jantzi Research Inc. 
and the first Canadian financial institution to introduce mutual funds with reduced 
management fees for self-directed investors.

Achievements in 2007

•  We were the first in the Canadian full service brokerage industry to surpass $150 billion 

in client assets under administration through our Canadian full service broker.

•  We continued to lead the Canadian mutual fund industry in net sales, more than  

75 per cent ahead of the second-place fund company.

•  We received the Lipper Award for the “Best Overall Fund Group” in Canada in 

recognition of our strong investment performance.

•  We acquired J.B. Hanauer & Co., a financial services firm specializing in retail fixed 
income and wealth management services, expanding our presence in strategic and 
desirable New Jersey, Florida and Pennsylvania markets.

•  We continued to expand our international wealth management business focused on 

high net worth clients, opening offices in several cities, including Mexico City, Beijing 
and Santiago. 

2008 and beyond

•  We will continue extending our lead in the Canadian wealth and asset management 

markets.

•  We will pursue strong organic and acquisitive growth in our existing U.S. wealth 

management businesses that serve individual clients and advisors.

•  We will focus on expanding our high net worth international wealth management 

business in select markets as well as through “bolt-on” acquisitions to complement our 
existing operations.

•  We plan to expand our asset management business globally, initially through 

acquisitions with a focus on U.S. opportunities.

•  We will work to continue attracting and retaining experienced advisors, private bankers 

and other client facing professionals across all our businesses. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Wealth Management

17

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
U.S. & 
International 
Banking

(C$ millions, except 
percentage amounts) 

2007 

2006 

2005  Increase (decrease)

2007 vs. 2006

Total revenue 
Net income 
Average loans and acceptances 
Average deposits 
Assets under administration –  
  RBC Dexia IS (1)  

$ 

1,915   $ 
242    
22,300    
34,200 

1,628  $ 
261 
18,500 
28,700 

1,577  $ 
256     
17,200     
21,200 

287  
(19)  

 3,800 
5,500  

18%
(7)%
21%
19%

  2,713,100     2,421,100    

–  

292,000  

12%

(1) 

RBC Dexia IS represents the total assets under administration as at September 30, 2007, of the joint venture  
established January 2, 2006, of which we have a 50% ownership interest.

Key highlights

•  We continued to expand our banking footprint in key growth areas in the U.S. Southeast 

through targeted acquisitions and de novo branch openings such as:

–  We announced our intention to acquire ANB, which would better position us to serve 
the banking needs of businesses, business owners and professionals in the key 
markets of Alabama, Florida and Georgia in the U.S. Southeast

–  We acquired 39 branches in Alabama that were owned by AmSouth Bancorporation

–  We added 17 branches in Georgia when we acquired Flag Financial Corporation.

•  We took steps to dramatically grow our banking operation in the Caribbean by 

announcing our intention in October to acquire RBTT. This transformational acquisition 
extends our reach into many important regional markets, notably Trinidad and Tobago, 
Jamaica, and the Dutch Caribbean, and provides the platform for additional growth both 
within and outside the region. The acquisition would create one of the most expansive 
banking networks in the Caribbean in 18 countries and territories across the region.

•  We realized 12 per cent growth in assets under administration with RBC Dexia IS 
underpinned by both new and existing client growth. RBC Dexia IS surpassed  
$2.7 trillion in assets under administration.

•  Loans and deposits in our U.S. banking operations rose 14 per cent and 8 per cent  

(18 per cent and 12 per cent in U.S. dollars), respectively, as a result of acquisitions and 
organic growth.

•  Loans and deposits in our Caribbean banking operations rose 10 per cent and  

4 per cent (14 per cent and 8 per cent in U.S. dollars), respectively, as a result of  
growth initiatives and favourable business conditions in the region.

Achievements in 2007

•  We made significant investments in our U.S. & International Banking operations, 

successfully pursuing strategically important acquisitions in the U.S. Southeast and 
Caribbean that complement our strategy.

•  We added a real estate lending team to our Caribbean operations, giving us the 

expertise to better serve clients across the region. In addition, we formed a Small 
Business Unit to serve this growing client segment.

•  RBC Dexia IS continues to be ranked the world’s number one global custodian in 

two leading industry surveys (Global Investor, R&M Consultants) and we achieved 
significant new business wins and retentions, including Claymore Investments,  
First State Investments (UK) Limited, Guardian Capital Group, HSBC Bank Canada, 
Manulife Financial, Swiss Reinsurance Company (Swiss Re) and Université du Québec.

2008 and beyond

•  We will continue to implement our long-term strategy to become the pre-eminent bank 

for business, business owners and professionals in the U.S. Southeast.

•  We will focus on efficiently integrating, pending successful close, the ANB acquisition 

while retaining and growing our client base.

•  We will focus on successfully integrating, pending successful close, RBTT and our 

Caribbean retail banking operations to create the leading bank in the region.

•  We will focus on pursuing growth strategies with RBC Dexia IS that include 

strengthening our global client franchise, building new value-added products and 
expanding our presence in high-potential markets.

We provide personal and business banking 
solutions to individuals, businesses, 
business owners and professionals through 
350 banking centres in the U.S. Southeast. 
The announced acquisition of Alabama 
National BanCorporation (ANB), expected to 
close in early 2008 pending shareholder and 
regulatory approvals, will add 103 branches 
focused in high-growth U.S. Southeast 
markets. 

Our Caribbean operations provide banking 
solutions to individuals and businesses 
throughout our network of 44 branches in 
eight Caribbean countries and territories. 
The announced acquisition of RBTT, which 
is expected to close in mid-2008 pending 
shareholder and regulatory approvals, will 
add more than 84 branches to our network 
throughout the Caribbean. 

We have a 50 per cent ownership in RBC 
Dexia IS, which offers a complete range of 
investor services, such as custody and fund 
administration, to institutions worldwide.

2007 Revenue contribution

Banking
RBC Dexia IS

60%
40%

18

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
U.S. & International Banking

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Capital 
Markets

(C$ millions, except 
percentage amounts) 

Total revenue (1) 
Net income  
Trading revenue (1) 
Average assets 

(1)  

Taxable equivalent basis.

2007 

2006 

2005  Increase (decrease)

2007 vs. 2006

$ 

4,389   $ 
1,292    
2,021    

4,136  $ 
1,355 
2,143 
  260,600 

3,562  $ 
686 
1,684    
  229,100    

253  
(63)  
(122) 
 50,600 

6%
(5)%
(6)%
19%

  311,200 

Our diverse capital markets businesses 
provide corporate and institutional 
clients with advice, capital, access to the 
world’s financial markets and innovative 
products to help them achieve their growth 
objectives. By leveraging our leadership 
position in Canada, we have built a strong 
and growing U.S. mid-market capital 
markets franchise. Outside North America, 
we have established ourselves as a leading 
provider of global financial services. 
Notable areas of strength include global 
fixed income distribution capabilities, 
structuring and trading, foreign exchange, 
and infrastructure finance, as well as 
broad capabilities in global mining 
and energy. 

2007 Revenue contribution

Global Markets
Global Investment Banking
     and Equity Markets
Other

56%

38%
6%

Key highlights

•  We completed three acquisitions to expand our client base and enhance our capabilities: 

–  Carlin Financial Group, which provides our clients with a best-in-class North American 

electronic trade execution platform

–  Daniels & Associates, L.P., a U.S. merger and acquisition advisory firm specializing in 

the communications, media and entertainment, and technology sectors

–  Seasongood & Mayer, LLC, strengthening our franchise as one of the leading 

municipal finance platforms in the U.S.

•  We expanded our global infrastructure finance platform and completed significant 

transactions in North America, Europe and Australia to be regarded as a top-tier player 
in the global infrastructure finance business.

•  We expanded our base metals capabilities, enabling new and innovative transactions, 

such as a copper derivative with a notional value of US$1 billion.

•  We continued to extend our business in selected markets around the world, including 
asset-based lending in Canada, fixed income and structured product distribution in 
Asia, and investment banking in the U.S. 

Achievements in 2007

•  We remain the leading Canadian investment bank. We were named:

–  Dealmaker of the Year in Canada for four of the last five years (Financial Post) 

–  Best Investment Bank in Canada (Global Finance magazine)

–  Best Canadian Debt House (Euromoney Magazine, 2007)

–  Number One Foreign Exchange Dealer in Canadian dollars (Euromoney  

Magazine, 2007).

•  We continued to hold the leading market share in the Canadian fixed income market and 
remain a global leader. We led an $8.1 billion global bond issue, one of the largest to date.

•  We extended our leadership position in Australian and New Zealand dollar denomination 

bond issuances and retained our premier position in the Alternative Dollar market.

•  We launched the RBC Hedge 250 Index® on the London Stock Exchange as a joint 

venture with New Star Asset Management.

2008 and beyond

•  We will strive to remain the Canadian wholesale client’s first choice for all financial 

products and services.

•  We will leverage our success and continue to diversify into new and complementary 

areas where we can show competitive strength such as:

–  Exporting our infrastructure and project finance expertise from the U.K. to other markets

–  Growing our investment banking and municipal finance business in the U.S. 

–  Investing in our alternative assets and structured products businesses and 

expanding our distribution capabilities

–  Extending our global energy and mining capabilities

–  Leveraging the Carlin acquisition to build out our electronic trading capabilities.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Capital Markets

19

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate  
Support

Global Technology and Operations 
and Global Functions
More than 18,000 employees in Global 
Technology and Operations (GTO) 
provide the essential information 
technology and operations capabilities 
necessary to support our diverse 
business activities. In partnership 
with our businesses, GTO provides 
processing and fulfillment support, 
direct customer sales and service 
through its contact centres and 
technology that enables the delivery of a 
secure, flexible, reliable and convenient 
client experience. 

Our Global Functions support business 
growth by providing the mission critical 
control management systems, training 
and expertise necessary to meet our 
regulatory, financial reporting, balance 
sheet management and corporate 
funding requirements. Global Functions 
also provide leadership related to 
critical enterprise assets, including  
our people and our brand and contribute 
to the development of the enterprise 
strategy.

20

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Corporate Support

Achievements in 2007
In partnership with our businesses:

•  GTO delivered on more than 319 million ATM transactions, 132 million client calls,  
105 million online banking transactions, 2.7 billion point-of-sale transactions and  
100 million equity trades. 

•  GTO focused on enhancing the client experience through improved service levels 
and Interactive Voice Recognition changes in our contact centres, redesigning key 
processes using Lean Six Sigma techniques, eliminating top client irritants, and 
creating an end-to-end client services commitments framework.

•  Global Functions contributed to our financial performance by effectively managing 
capital, employing innovative strategies to diversify funding sources, enhancing 
the productivity and engagement of the workforce, developing successful cost 
management initiatives, supporting the businesses in maintaining credit quality and 
our risk profile, and effectively managing our tax position.

•  Global Functions supported enterprise M&A activity by conducting comprehensive 
due diligence and negotiations and managing stakeholder relations in all major 
transactions, including six international acquisitions.

•  In November 2007, Global Functions launched the first covered bond program by a 

Canadian issuer, further enhancing our liquidity position and diversifying our access to 
wholesale funding.

2008 and beyond

•  GTO will enable business strategies by driving innovative process and technology 
improvements that simultaneously deliver a differentiated client experience and 
increased defined operating leverage. 

•  Global Functions will contribute to our financial performance by working to maintain 
a solid balance sheet, sound credit quality and capital ratios, effectively manage our 
tax position, and implement cost-saving initiatives while improving the alignment of 
business strategies and risk exposures.

•  By collaborating with our businesses:

–  GTO will work to make it easier for clients to do business with us while enhancing 

client services, executing against our risk and compliance objectives, and ensuring 
the safety and soundness of our infrastructure

–  Global Functions will support business growth by attracting, retaining and 

motivating talented employees and maintaining a strong governance and compliance 
regime, a relevant and customer-centric brand strategy, enterprise strategy 
development, proactive enterprise compliance, and solid relationships with 
investors, credit rating agencies, regulators and other stakeholders.

Chairman’s 
message

Investor confidence is a key element of RBC’s success and your Board of Directors  
works hard to earn it. We act as the stewards of the organization, exercising independent 
judgment in supervising management and safeguarding the interests of shareholders. 
In fulfilling our role, we foster a corporate environment built on integrity and provide 
management with guidance in pursuit of our shared goal: maximizing long-term 
shareholder value.

RBC’s enterprise is complex, spanning multiple businesses and geographies. Our board’s  
diversity of thought and experience enhances our ability to oversee the strategic develop-
ment of a successful global enterprise, understanding and assessing RBC’s competitive 
environment, and anticipating the business possibilities and challenges of tomorrow. 

The board reviews aspects of RBC’s strategy at every meeting, taking into account the 
opportunities and risks of the businesses. We contribute a forward-looking perspective 
by participating actively with management in an annual session dedicated to strategic 
planning. In reviewing the implementation and success of approved strategic  
and operating plans, we regularly monitor RBC’s performance against strategic goals, 
approving capital expenditures and major transactions that align with our plan.

We take seriously our responsibility to oversee policies and processes to identify the 
principal risks to RBC’s businesses and the systems implemented to manage them. 
The board reviews strategies for identifying, prioritizing and managing risk, and for 
clearly defining roles and responsibilities. We seek to ensure that management’s plans 
and activities are prudent and focused on generating shareholder value within an 
appropriate and comprehensive policy framework. 

All our efforts are marked by an emphasis on trust and integrity. Our goal is to nurture 
the positive values that are already well entrenched in RBC’s corporate culture and to 
reinforce the ethical principles on which its reputation and success are founded. In the 
board’s view, these are critical to RBC’s long-term success. 

RBC’s Board of Directors has long been proactive in adopting leading corporate 
governance practices. We remain firmly committed to continuous improvement of  
RBC’s strong and effective governance standards. Again this year our approach received 
high marks, earning recognition from the Conference Board of Canada, IR Magazine and 
The Globe and Mail’s corporate governance rankings.

My goal as non-executive Chairman is to provide independent leadership that will 
empower the board to add value. This involves keeping the board focused on its 
objectives, cultivating a team approach and encouraging effective participation to 
draw the greatest advantage from each director’s individual strengths. One of my 
key responsibilities is to ensure that the board is independent-minded and evaluates 
matters through a shareholder’s lens. Another ongoing focus is overseeing board 
assessment and peer review, as well as our board development program, which further 
enhances the board’s understanding of the evolving complexity of financial services 
and the financial literacy of all directors. Over the past year, the board participated in 
sessions dealing with specialized and complex aspects of RBC’s business operations, 
accounting and financial instruments standards, methodologies used in assessing and 
controlling risk and the implications of the Basel II Capital Accord. 

Your Board of Directors is proud to actively participate in the achievements of Royal Bank 
of Canada. On behalf of the board I would like to thank management and all employees 
for their strong contribution to RBC’s performance over the past year.

David P. O’Brien 
Chairman of the Board

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007 
Chairman’s message

21

 
 
 
 
Corporate  
governance

Beyond compliance 
At RBC, sound corporate governance has 
long been recognized as an essential 
element in developing investor confidence. 
Our approach looks beyond regulatory 
compliance and builds on our strong 
governance fundamentals by incorporating 
best practices to support the Board of 
Directors’ ability to supervise and advise 
management with the goal of enhancing 
long-term shareholder value. 

Transparency is a key aspect of good 
governance and the board takes 
seriously RBC’s commitment to clear and 
comprehensive disclosure. Our practices 
and policies fully comply with guidelines 
established by Canadian securities 
regulators, as well as applicable provisions 
of the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
and requirements of the New York Stock 
Exchange and the U.S. Securities and 
Exchange Commission applicable to foreign 
private issuers. 

22

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Corporate governance

Building on our tradition of excellence
To maintain our high standards, we continuously review and assess our corporate 
governance system. The Board of Directors’ dynamic approach to governance anticipates 
best practices as they evolve. Over the past few years RBC has adopted many significant 
leading governance practices:

•  A policy requiring directors to tender their resignations following the Annual Meeting  

if they fail to receive majority shareholder support

•  Increased minimum share ownership guideline for directors to $500,000 from the 
previous level of $300,000, to strengthen alignment of their interests with those  
of shareholders

•  Increased minimum share ownership requirements for executive officers to further 

align management and shareholder interests. The President and Chief Executive Officer 
(CEO) must have shareholdings worth at least eight times the last three years’ average 
base salary. The standard for other members of Group Executive is six times the last 
three years’ average base salary, except the Head of Capital Markets, who must hold 
shares worth at least two times the last three years’ average salary plus bonus

•  A Performance Deferred Share Program to strengthen the alignment of the interests  

of management with shareholders by tying senior management’s rewards to  
the performance of RBC relative to a North American peer group of competing  
financial institutions

•  Limited share dilution resulting from the reduction in the number of stock option grants 

awarded to management by approximately 70 per cent since 2003.

In addition: 

•  Our comprehensive Director Independence Policy has continued to evolve in response 
to best practices and regulatory refinements. Under this policy, 15 of the 16 currently 
serving directors are independent

•  Meetings of independent directors are held regularly

•  All members of every committee of the Board of Directors are independent: the Audit 
Committee, Human Resources Committee, Corporate Governance and Public Policy 
Committee, and Conduct Review and Risk Policy Committee

•  For the Audit Committee, more stringent independence criteria have been 

implemented, four individuals have been designated as audit committee financial 
experts, financial literacy requirements have been defined and a policy limiting the 
service of our Audit Committee members on the audit committees of other companies 
has been approved

•  The Audit, Human Resources, and Corporate Governance and Public Policy committees 
have sole authority to retain and approve the fees of independent, external advisors. 
The Human Resources Committee retains an independent compensation consultant

•  Board and director evaluation procedures have been enhanced, with written peer 

reviews added to complement the established peer assessment practice of one-on-one 
interviews with the Chairman

•  The process of selecting individuals for nomination as directors has been formalized 

to ensure that the strengths of potential candidates are weighed against the 
competencies and skills that the board as a whole requires.

“ Our approach looks beyond regulatory compliance and builds on our 
strong governance fundamentals by incorporating best practices to  
support the Board of Directors’ ability to supervise and advise  
management with the goal of enhancing long-term shareholder value.” 

David P. O’Brien, Chairman of the Board

2008 Annual Meeting
Shareholders are invited to attend our Annual 
Meeting at 9 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time) 
on Friday, February 29, 2008, at the Metro 
Toronto Convention Centre, North Building, 
255 Front Street West, Toronto.

Demonstrating leadership
These measures build on our previous governance initiatives, which include, among 
many others:

•  Ensuring independent leadership of the Board of Directors by being first among our peer 
companies to separate the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2001

•  Adopting a policy limiting interlocking directorships of board members in 2002

•  Permanently discontinuing grants under the Director Stock Option Plan in 2002

•  Being among the first major Canadian companies to expense stock options in financial 

statements, which we have done since 2003

•  Providing continuous educational material, presentations and programs to directors 
so they remain knowledgeable and informed about the ever-changing business and 
regulatory environment and the specialized and complex aspects of finance and our 
business operations.

Enhancing our disclosure 
In keeping with our goals of continuously improving governance and providing greater 
transparency and simplicity in our communications, in recent years we have enhanced 
disclosure in our Management Proxy Circular, including:

•  More detail on the compensation paid to individual directors and their share ownership

•  Greater clarity on senior officers’ compensation relative to fiscal year performance

•  Three-year, easy-to-read overviews of named executive officers’ compensation

•  Aggregate compensation of top executives as a percentage of market capitalization 

and a percentage of net income after-tax

•  Comprehensive description of how the President and CEO’s compensation is 

determined, including performance metrics and weighting

•  Details of comparator companies used for benchmarking of both corporate 

performance and executive pay

•  Increased disclosure regarding executive pensions, including the impact of changes in 
interest rates, annual service cost, accrued obligation and value of retirement plans for 
top executives.

Important information about our governance practices
The following additional information on our governance practices is available at  
rbc.com/governance:

•  Our Statement of Corporate Governance Practices and Guidelines

•  Our Code of Conduct

•  The charters of our Board of Directors and each of its committees

•  Our Director Independence Policy

•  Position descriptions for the Chairman of the Board, the chairs of committees of the 

board, and the President and CEO

•  A summary of significant differences between the NYSE rules applicable to U.S.-listed 

companies and our governance practices as a non-U.S. issuer

•  Our Corporate Responsibility Report and Public Accountability Statement.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Corporate governance

23

Corporate 
responsibility

At RBC, we believe our first duty is to 
operate with integrity at all times so 
that we can continue to ensure the 
present and future well-being of our 
stakeholders: clients, employees, investors, 
suppliers, governments, communities 
and non-governmental organizations. 
Our strategic approach to corporate 
responsibility and the suite of programs  
and practices described here serve as the  
RBC Blueprint for Doing Better™.

For more information, visit  
rbc.com/responsibility/approach

24

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Corporate responsibility

Corporate  
Responsibility  
Principles:
RBC Blueprint for  
Doing Better™

Economic impact

Marketplace

•  Provide strong returns to 

shareholders

•  Pay fair share of taxes
•  Support small business  

and community economic  
development

•  Foster innovation and  

entrepreneurship

•  Purchase goods and services 

responsibly

•  Develop and provide  
products responsibly 
•  Provide access to basic 

banking services
•  Protect and educate  

consumers

Workplace 

Environment

Community

•  Respect diversity
•  Foster a culture of employee 

engagement

•  Provide competitive compen-

sation and total rewards
•  Provide opportunities for 
training and development

•  Reduce intensity of  
operational footprint 
•  Promote environmentally 

resonsible business  
activities

•  Offer environmental  
products and services

•  Provide donations with  
a lasting social impact
•  Sponsor key community  

initiatives

•  Encourage employees  

to contribute

Recognition
In 2007, RBC was honoured with a number of global awards and recognition for our 
corporate responsibility efforts and performance. 

Awards

•  RBC scored first place in the 2007 Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada ranking, 

according to Corporate Knights magazine.

•  RBC was named one of the world’s top 100 sustainable companies, according to the 

third annual “Global 100” ranking announced in BusinessWeek magazine. Companies 
on the list were selected from a universe of 1,800 publicly traded companies.

Socially responsible investment indices 
RBC is listed on a number of significant Canadian and international indices that help 
guide the investment decisions of socially responsible investors, including Dow Jones 
Sustainability World Index, the DJSI North America Index, the FTSE4Good Index and 
the Jantzi Social Index. Companies on these indices meet stringent social, ethical and 
environmental criteria.

Reporting
Increasingly, companies are expected to report on their environmental, social and 
governance practices, in addition to their financial results. A range of stakeholders are 
asking for this information, yet there are significant differences of opinion about what 
companies should disclose, as well as the appropriate degree and manner of disclosure. 

RBC has adopted a multi-pronged approach to sustainability reporting. While we follow 
the guidelines suggested by the Global Reporting Initiative, we do not produce a single 
printed report covering everything for all stakeholders. Instead, we provide reporting 
geared to various stakeholder groups, with an appropriate level of detail for each.  
Our external website (rbc.com) is our primary reporting mechanism, where our annual 
Corporate Responsibility Report and Public Accountability Statement can be found. 

Code of Conduct

All RBC employees worldwide are governed by our Code of Conduct, which was first established 
more than 20 years ago. The Code is reviewed regularly and was updated in 2007, with clarification 
of our process for approving and disclosing waivers, increased confidentiality protection 
provisions, additional guidelines for conflicts of interest, and updated standards for maintaining 
respectful workplaces. All employees are required to take a web-based learning program so that 
they know and understand the Code’s principles and compliance elements. The program includes 
an online course and a test, which all employees must complete within 30 days of joining RBC and 
at least once every two years thereafter. The company’s most senior officers and select others 
must complete the program annually.

Policies
RBC has enterprise-wide compliance policies and processes to support the assessment 
and management of risks, including policies to address issues such as economic 
sanctions, lending to political parties, money laundering, terrorism financing and 
conflicts of interest. Policies and controls are reviewed regularly to ensure continued 
effectiveness and alignment with relevant laws and regulations.

Anti-money laundering policy 
RBC is strongly committed to preventing the use of our financial services for money 
laundering or terrorist financing purposes. In 2007, every RBC employee worldwide, 
regardless of their role in the organization, took an anti-money laundering/anti-terrorism 
financing course and exam. The course was tailored for each business, function and 
geography with material specific to the laws of 38 countries and jurisdictions in which  
we operate. Our Global Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Group develops and 
maintains policies, guidelines, training and risk assessment tools and models and 
other controls to help our employees protect RBC and our clients, and to ensure we are 
managing ever-evolving money laundering and terrorism financing risks. Our controls  
in this area incorporate Know Your Client rules established by various regulators to 
ensure we properly identify our clients and protect against the illegal use of our products 
and services.

Crisis management
RBC utilizes a best-in-class Business Continuity Management program to ensure that our 
businesses or units are adequately prepared to deal with any disruption of service to its 
clients. Risk assessments of all areas are conducted annually and further supported with 
contingency plans and periodic testing. 

The RBC Enterprise Crisis Management team, consisting of senior executives from 
across the organization, is responsible for ensuring continued service to our clients. It is 
supported by a global network of regional, business-line and local incident management 
teams. These teams are on call around the clock to address any situation that may pose 
material risk to staff, corporate reputation or our ability to deliver service to clients. 
Regular crisis simulations are conducted to test the readiness and timely response to all 
emergency situations. 

The RBC Business Emergency Information Line is our link to employees to provide 
current updates in the event of a crisis or external situation affecting their ability to 
access RBC offices or serve our clients. 

Reporting suspected irregularities
RBC has long-established processes that enable employees around the world to report 
suspected breaches of our Code of Conduct, other irregularities and dishonesty directly 
to our Ombudsman. Employees can report anonymously, confidentially and without fear 
of retaliation.

Specific to financial reporting practices, the RBC Reporting Hotline was established 
so employees and third parties around the world can anonymously, confidentially and 
without fear of retaliation, report suspected irregularities or wrongdoing relating to 
accounting, auditing or internal accounting controls directly to the RBC Ombudsman.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Ethics

25

Ethics

A truly sustainable company must have 
ethical business practices. At RBC, one 
of our key values is to operate with trust 
through integrity in everything we do.  
Our blueprint for ethical behaviour 
includes a strong foundation of principles, 
codes and formal policies designed to 
protect consumers, combat corruption, 
ensure business continuity, and facilitate 
reporting of breaches or concerns.

For more information, visit  
rbc.com/responsibility/governance

2007 Highlights

•  Incurred taxes of $2.09 billion worldwide
•  Purchased goods and services totalling $4.4 billion from international, national, regional and local 

suppliers of all sizes

•  Served more than half a million small business clients in Canada, the United States and  

the Caribbean

•  Promoted innovation, a key driver of the economy, through investments in early-stage technology 

companies and support for research-based initiatives

Economic development
RBC invests in sustainable economic development, and we are committed to contributing  
to the success of people and businesses in the communities where we operate. We support:

•  Economic growth in communities where we do business
•  Initiatives that help build well-being, wealth and capacity in Aboriginal communities
•  Resources to promote economic self-sufficiency
•  Financial literacy programs
•  Programs that address basic needs, such as food banks.

RBC also promotes economic growth through industry partnerships. For example, we  
are a member of the Canadian American Business Council, raising awareness of the 
value of the Canada-U.S. trade relationship and enhancing the overall competitiveness 
of North American economies.

Small business
Small business is an important engine driving economic growth. We are the market  
leader in Canada, serving almost one in four small business owners. We have over half a 
million small business clients in Canada, the U.S. and the Caribbean. 

Financing is essential for many small businesses to start, operate or grow, and  
RBC offers a host of credit solutions tailored to meet the needs of diverse businesses 
at various stages. We also strive to provide the best possible products, advice and 
expertise to help this sector prosper.

Innovation
RBC takes a leadership role in supporting innovation and the commercialization of 
research, and we support projects and organizations that promote learning, innovation 
and entrepreneurship, such as:

•  The Medical and Related Sciences (MaRS) project, facilitating research and 

development, and its commercialization in Ontario

•  The Council for Entrepreneurial Development, promoting high-growth, high-impact 

entrepreneurial companies in North Carolina’s Research Triangle region

•  Georgia Tech’s Advanced Technology Development Center, a recognized science and 
technology incubator that helps entrepreneurs from the U.S. state of Georgia launch 
and build successful companies

•  The RBC Next Great Innovator Challenge™, which rewards college and university 
students from across Canada for innovative ideas related to financial services.

Since 1969, we have brought investment dollars as well as our knowledge and expertise 
to budding software and technology companies serving the financial services and other 
sectors. We currently have approximately $250 million dedicated to directly invest in 
emerging technology companies.

Purchasing
Our procurement policies are inclusive and aim to promote sustainable business 
practices and economic development where possible and appropriate. To maintain the 
highest standards, we review our purchasing policies annually. 

We promote fair purchasing practices and strive to support, whenever possible, the 
communities in which we operate. We are a founding member of the Canadian Aboriginal 
and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC). RBC has been a member of CAMSC’s U.S. 
affiliate, the National Minority Supplier Development Council, since 2002.

Economic impact

Companies both large and small can  
help shape the economies of the 
communities and countries in which 
they do business, simply through their 
day-to-day business decisions and 
actions. RBC aims to have a positive 
economic impact by providing attractive 
returns to shareholders, creating 
employment, supporting small business 
and economic development, fostering 
innovation and entrepreneurship  
and purchasing responsibly.

For more information, visit 
rbc.com/responsibility/economic

26

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Economic impact

2007 Highlights

•  Provided employment to more than 70,000 people worldwide, with $7.9 billion in compensation 

and benefits

•  Invested $54 million in formal training and development initiatives
•  The vast majority of employees are RBC shareholders

Building mutually rewarding relationships with employees 
RBC provides a flexible and competitive Total Rewards program based on an 
understanding of what employees value and need. This comprehensive approach 
rewards people for their skills and contribution and includes compensation, benefits 
and a positive work environment, along with career and learning opportunities. 

As our business and workforce continue to grow and become more diverse, offering 
choice and flexibility through Total Rewards is even more critical to our success. 

Continuous employee growth and development helps ensure we meet current and 
future client needs. Employees have access to the training resources and opportunities 
they need to learn and grow as professionals. This includes developing employees  
to be leaders through the use of key job-related experiences.

The employee savings and share ownership plans that are part of our rewards program 
help align employee, investor and company objectives. The vast majority of employees 
are RBC shareholders through these programs. 

Well-informed employees are more likely to align their actions with company goals.  
Our senior management team regularly meets with employees to discuss the company’s 
goals, strategies and progress. Employees have access to company information via 
intranet sites, electronic news magazines, e-mail bulletins and other communication 
channels, and are encouraged to provide feedback and comments in a variety of ways. 

RBC has a long history of listening and responding to employee feedback, with  
employee opinion surveys dating back to 1981. By understanding employees’ views, 
RBC can take action to address their needs and the company’s priorities, which results  
in high levels of employee engagement and a strong commitment to clients. 

In 2007, we again gathered employee input on our progress in key areas including talent 
management, performance enablement, employee engagement and workplace culture.

Diversity for growth and innovation
Diversity is one of our core values. We believe that leveraging diversity for growth 
and innovation is both a sound business imperative and the right thing to do for our 
employees, clients and the communities we serve. 

RBC is a leader in promoting diversity. We regularly sponsor research studies, awards 
and public discourse that promote understanding and draw attention to diversity issues. 
Our annual Diversity Progress Report is available at rbc.com/uniquecareers/diversity/
progress_reports.html. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Workplace

27

Workplace

A talented and highly motivated 
workforce is a key element in our blueprint 
for building a sustainable and successful 
future. Consistently ranked as one of  
the top employers in Canada, RBC strives 
to strengthen our reputation as a quality 
employer in all countries in which we  
do business.

RBC employment worldwide
Fiscal year (ended October 31, 2007)

Canada

54,960

48,837

United States
12,181
11,663

Other international

4,619
4,545

Total

71,760

65,045

Number of employees
Full-time equivalent positions (FTE)

For more information, visit  
rbc.com/responsibility/workplace

Responding to feedback
Every year, RBC businesses track client satisfaction and use client feedback to make 
improvements. For instance, in 2007, client research helped provide direction for these 
new initiatives in our Canadian retail banking operations:

•  Environmentally responsible product options
•  A simplified line-up of savings and chequing accounts with enhanced customer benefits
•  High-interest online savings account
•  Business banking packages for small businesses
•  Enhanced marketing and communication materials for greater relevance.

Product responsibility
Responsible development of products and services
RBC follows a defined, rigorous process before launching any new product or 
significantly changing an existing one. We evaluate products for a range of risks and 
ensure they align with client needs, our Code of Conduct, laws and regulations, and 
voluntary consumer protection codes that we have signed. Approval levels within RBC 
correspond to the level of risk identified for a particular product or service.

Low-carbon banking for consumers
One of our priorities is to provide products and services that help our clients mitigate 
their environmental impact. This includes online banking, and electronic statements 
and bill payment. In Canada, RBC introduced new financial options and incentives for 
our environmentally conscious clients in 2007, including incentives to switch off paper 
statements, have a home energy audit, buy a lower-emission car, and switch to green 
power. We encourage our clients to use electronic solutions that replace the carbon-
intense activities involved in retail banking such as travel and paper. 

Socially responsible investing (SRI)
Increasingly, investors are becoming interested in putting their money where their 
values are. In 2007, RBC became the first major Canadian bank to offer investors 
this option with the launch of the RBC Jantzi Funds, three funds that are screened for 
environmental, social and governance factors. Clients in Canada and the U.S. also have 
access to other SRI funds through our network of advisors. 

Responsible lending
RBC provides credit and banking services to companies in many industries. Our policies 
cover areas of concern, including environmental issues. For instance, RBC will not 
support or finance transactions that are directly related to trade in or manufacturing of 
material for nuclear, chemical, and biological warfare or landmines.

RBC has a number of anti-corruption policies which require us to apply appropriate 
scrutiny and monitoring measures to high-risk clients whose business activities are 
known to be susceptible to criminal activity or have been designated as high-risk for 
money laundering.

Marketplace

It’s been said that corporate responsibility 
isn’t so much about how a company 
spends its money, but how a company 
makes its money. At RBC, our blueprint 
for building sustainable, long-term 
relationships with our clients includes 
responsible practices in the marketplace, 
such as soliciting and acting on client 
feedback, providing responsibly 
developed financial products, maintaining 
vigilant consumer protection measures 
and ensuring access to financial services. 

Responding to feedback
Clients surveyed (thousands)

492

415

2007

135

2006

97

2005

150

98

Canada
United States

28

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Marketplace

2007 Highlights

•  Introduced new, low-carbon banking options for consumers
•  Launched the RBC Jantzi Funds, three funds that are screened for environmental, social and 

governance factors

•  Ranked among the most trusted companies for privacy in Canada by the Ponemon Institute’s  

2007 survey

Consumer protection
Privacy and information security 
RBC is dedicated to safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of personal, business, 
financial and other information. In fact, it is one of our highest priorities and remains 
a cornerstone of our commitment to our clients, employees and other stakeholders. 
We have had a formal Privacy Code since 1991, overseen by our Chief Privacy Officer, 
and we use vigorous security safeguards and internal controls to ensure the privacy 
and security of information entrusted to us. In 2007, we developed a broader, more 
holistic framework for managing privacy, information risk, security and records/content 
management. RBC ranked among the most trusted companies for privacy in Canada in 
the Ponemon Institute’s 2007 survey. 

Fraud prevention
RBC has stringent security policies and practices, backed up by around-the-clock 
resources to prevent, detect and investigate potential fraud. Online security is a priority, 
and our security guarantees help protect online banking and self-directed brokerage 
clients from unauthorized transactions. In 2007, we centralized our claims process for 
unauthorized transactions, resulting in quicker reimbursement to clients. We upgraded 
most of our retail and branch lobby ATMs with anti-skimming devices in 2007. These 
devices deter would-be criminals from placing fraudulent skimming devices over the 
ATM card slot. We have developed a number of fraud-education initiatives including 
up-to-date tips and alerts, brochures and client presentations. 

Voluntary codes of conduct 
The Canadian banking industry has developed a number of voluntary commitments  
and codes to protect consumers, to which RBC has committed. These are listed at  
rbc.com/voluntary-codes-public-commitments. 

Know Your Client rules
Know Your Client rules are key to investment and banking clients’ protection. Our 
employees are required to make all necessary efforts to understand a client’s profile, 
financial and personal objectives before making recommendations relevant to their 
needs. Our due diligence also covers compliance with applicable securities, consumer 
protection, anti-money laundering, anti-terrorism and economic sanctions legislation. 

Client complaint process
Our formal process for handling client concerns is outlined on our website and in our 
Straight Talk brochures. If clients believe an issue to be unresolved following receipt of  
a response from the RBC representative dealing with their concern, they may appeal to 
the Office of the Ombudsman, which examines decisions made by RBC companies and 
reviews their compliance with proper business procedures. The Office ensures customers 
get a fair and impartial hearing and are treated with consideration and respect. 
We also respect the dignity and privacy of all parties involved in the proceedings.  
Certain disputes that remain unresolved after being reviewed by the Ombudsman may 
be directed to a number of agencies and regulators listed on our website and in our 
Straight Talk brochures.

Access to banking services
RBC is committed to providing banking access through customized products and 
services to a host of groups who were traditionally underserved. 

For more information, visit  
rbc.com/responsibility/marketplace

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Marketplace

29

2007 Highlights

RBC continued to make progress on how we manage environmental issues through our priority 
activities. Highlights include: 
•  Release of the RBC Environmental Blueprint™, outlining our environmental policy, priorities and 

commitments for the next several years

•  Launch of our pilot EnergySmart Program designed to enlist employees in reducing energy 

consumption in our owned and leased premises

Policy
The RBC Environmental Policy was first developed in 1991 and, since then, periodically 
updated to reflect the changing environmental priorities of our company and our 
stakeholders. In 2007, our policy was substantially revised. It now more comprehensively 
addresses environmental matters pertaining to operations, business activities, products 
and services, employees, compliance, reporting and transparency and partnership. 

Priorities
To effectively carry out our environmental sustainability mandate, we prioritized our 
key environmental issues and activities in 2007 as part of the RBC Environmental 
Blueprint™. In selecting our priorities, we considered our potential exposure to, and 
influence over, the issue or activity, as well as its importance to our complete array 
of stakeholders. 

Climate change, biodiversity (including issues related to forests and indigenous 
peoples) and water were selected as our priority environmental issues. 

Climate change
Climate change presents environmental, social and financial challenges to the global 
economy, human health and to our own businesses and operations. The two causes of 
climate change are natural systems and human activity, most notably greenhouse gas 
emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels, and large-scale removal of forests and 
vegetation. We believe that it is of vital importance that we all contribute to efforts to 
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and effectively adapt to the unavoidable impacts of 
climate change.

Biodiversity
Biodiversity, or “biological diversity,” refers to the variety of different species, the 
genetic variability of each species and the variety of different ecosystems that they 
form. Environmental degradation resulting from human activity and the forces of climate 
change is disrupting the natural biodiversity of habitats and ecosystems. Critical natural 
systems and the abundant biodiversity they support must be preserved in order to 
maintain healthy communities, cultural values and shareholder value.

Forests help moderate the climate, provide diverse habitats for species and purify water. 
We believe that we must play a part in protecting the integrity of the boreal forests of 
Canada and rainforests around the world by supporting sustainable forestry practices.

RBC recognizes that the identity, cultural beliefs and economies of some indigenous 
peoples are intrinsically tied to their region’s history, biodiversity and natural landscapes. 
We believe that industries operating in these natural areas must consider the effects of their 
operations on affected communities, and particularly communities of indigenous peoples.

Water
Water is the most important natural resource on earth, and without it, all life would 
cease. Access to clean fresh water, the preservation and management of watersheds 
and water conservation are becoming increasingly urgent environmental concerns, both 
globally and in many of the regions in which we operate. Climate change, pollution and 
inefficient water usage are factors contributing to a growing water crisis. In 2007, we 
launched the RBC Blue Water Project, a 10-year, $50 million charitable grant program to 
help find global solutions to this crisis and we are exploring opportunities to contribute 
solutions through financial products and services as well. 

Environment

RBC is committed to environmental 
sustainability. We believe that this 
commitment has enhanced our 
capacity to conduct business and the 
RBC Environmental Blueprint™ will 
allow us to continue delivering short- 
and long-term benefits for our clients, 
employees and the communities in 
which we live and conduct business.

30

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Environment

2007 Highlights (continued)

•  Launch of environmental banking options for clients, helping them make a contribution to the 
environment through RBC Homeline®, eStatements, hybrid car financing and green power
•  Recognition by Newsweek as the company most capable globally of addressing the risks and 

opportunities of climate change

•  Recognition by the Carbon Disclosure Project as a leader in understanding and managing  

the financial risks and opportunities of climate change

We intend to direct our environmental efforts toward three priority activities that are 
important to RBC and our stakeholders:

•  Reducing the intensity of our environmental footprint
•  Promoting environmentally responsible business activities
•  Offering environmental products and services.

Reducing the intensity of our environmental footprint
RBC is committed to continuing to reduce the intensity of our energy use, paper 
consumption, employee travel, water use and procurement activities on a per employee 
or per square metre basis. In 2007, we improved operating efficiencies through 
strategic management of our environmental footprint and realized positive financial 
and environmental impact. For example, retrofit lighting in our branch network and the 
provision of electronic statements for clients has reduced our consumption of energy, 
paper, operational costs and our indirect greenhouse gas emissions. 

Responsible business activities
At RBC, we work with our clients and the companies we invest in to mitigate environmental 
risks and support environmentally responsible business models. Comprehensive 
environmental risk management policies and procedures facilitate the environmental 
review of transactions, and we regularly update these policies and procedures to address 
regulatory changes, emerging and evolving issues and international best practices. 
For example, our Policy on Social and Environmental Review in Project Finance, which 
enables us to meet our commitment to the Equator Principles, was amended in 2007 to 
reflect new requirements under the revised Principles.

In our lending activities, and as appropriate, environmental issues are assessed 
at the following levels: industry, borrower and transaction. Policies require that, 
where warranted, transactions are reviewed by internal or third-party environmental 
specialists to ensure that environmental risks are appropriately identified and 
addressed. Our internal team of environmental experts provides support and expertise 
to business and operational units throughout the organization. 

Financial products and services
RBC seeks to offer an expanding array of products and services that provide environmental 
benefits, are clearly distinguishable from comparable non-environmentally focused 
products, and empower clients to reduce their environmental footprint at little or no 
additional cost.

We view environmental markets – including renewable energy, clean technology, and 
emissions trading – as an emerging business area for RBC. We participate in and are 
watching these markets closely for future opportunities. For example, in collaboration 
with several U.S. and Canadian banks and the UN Environment Programme Finance 
Initiative, RBC commissioned a report on global best practices in environmental 
financial products and services. The report was published online in August 2007, and 
in September, RBC hosted a workshop for North American banks to learn more about 
opportunities in green financial products and services. 

For more information, see the  
Risk management section of the  
MD&A or visit rbc.com/responsibility  
and rbc.com/environment

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Environment

31

Community

The RBC Community Blueprint™ contains 
a broad suite of programs and initiatives 
to help build stronger, more sustainable 
and prosperous communities around the 
world. Our employees and pensioners 
also make enormous contributions 
as volunteers, sharing their financial 
and business knowledge, time and 
enthusiasm with thousands of community 
groups worldwide.

2007 Highlights

•  RBC contributed more than $82.8 million to community causes worldwide through donations of 
more than $47.7 million and an additional $35.1 million in the sponsorship of community events 
and national organizations

•  Employees and pensioners worldwide contributed countless hours in volunteer activities and 
funds to not for profit groups through payroll deductions, direct giving and special events
•  As part of the RBC Environmental Blueprint we announced the RBC Blue Water Project™, a  

$50 million philanthropic commitment over 10 years to support programs to enhance access to 
clean drinking water, watershed management and water conservation

Donations
Donations are a cornerstone of our community programs, with a tradition of philanthropy 
dating back to our roots. In fact, we have donations on record as far back as 1891.  
We are one of Canada’s largest corporate donors, and contribute to communities across 
North America and around the world. We are committed to making a lasting social 
impact through inspired, responsible giving and by building strong partnerships with the 
charitable sector. Our priority areas for funding include: 

•  Helping keep kids in school
•  Supporting community health care through children’s mental health programs
•  Providing for emerging artist programs
•  Encouraging employee volunteerism
•  Helping find global solutions for the preservation and conservation of and access to  

fresh water.

Employee contributions
Our Employee Volunteer Grants Program was launched in 1999 to support and encourage 
community involvement. Employees and pensioners who volunteer a minimum of  
40 hours a year to a registered charity are eligible for a $500 grant to the organization  
in their honour. Since 1999, RBC has made over 12,488 grants and donated more than  
$6.24 million to celebrate our employees’ volunteer efforts. 

Sponsorships 
RBC is committed to supporting opportunities that are important to our clients and 
our communities. As part of this commitment, we sponsor numerous Canadian and 
international programs as well as community and cultural events in the neighbourhoods 
where we do business. By leveraging our strategic partnerships, we can truly 
differentiate RBC as a leading company committed to enabling the success of our  
clients and our communities.

Our sponsorships focus on two major platforms: amateur sports and visual arts.  
We support the development of amateur athletes through sponsorship of grassroots 
events in local communities and national sport associations. We are the longest 
standing supporter of Canada’s Olympic Team, dating back to 1947, and a Premier 
National Partner of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver. 

We also believe that healthy, vibrant communities are a direct result of investing in 
creative vision and artistic talent. We proudly support community events, art exhibitions 
and theatre performances. Celebrating its ninth year, the RBC Canadian Painting 
Competition recognizes the talent of emerging professional visual artists in Canada.

2007 Worldwide RBC donations 
by geography
(C$ millions)

2007 RBC donations 
in Canada by cause

For more information, visit  
rbc.com/responsibility/community

32

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Community

Canada 
$ 40.7
International  $   7.0
$ 47.7
Total 

Social services 
Arts and culture 
Civic 
Health 
Education 

22.7%
  8.8%
 8.0%
28.4%
32.1%

Management’s 
Discussion 
and Analysis 

Management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) is provided to enable a reader to assess our results of operations and financial condition for the fiscal year ended 
October 31, 2007, compared to the preceding two years. This MD&A should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes and 
is dated November 29, 2007. All amounts are in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise specified, and are based on financial statements prepared in accordance with 
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Effective October 31, 2006, RBC Mortgage Company disposed of substantially all of its remaining assets 
and obligations and we no longer separately classify its results in our Consolidated Financial Statements. Results reported on a total consolidated basis are compa-
rable to results reported from continuing operations for the corresponding prior periods.

Additional information about us, including our 2007 Annual Information Form, is available free of charge on our website at rbc.com/investorrelations, on the Canadian 
Securities Administrators’ website at sedar.com and on the EDGAR section of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) website at sec.gov.

34  Overview

34  About Royal Bank of Canada 
34  Vision and strategic goals 
35  Selected financial and other highlights
36  Overview of 2007
38  Outlook and objectives for 2008

38  Accounting and control matters

38  Critical accounting policies and estimates
Future changes in accounting policies
42 

 4
43 

 4

2  Controls and procedures

Financial performance
43  Overview 
45  Total revenue
46  Net interest income and margin
7  Change in net interest income

47  Non-interest expense 
48  Provision for credit losses
48 

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims  
and acquisition expense

49  Taxes
50  Results by geographic segment 
50  Related party transactions

1  Results and trend analysis 
2 

51  Quarterly financial information
 5
 5
53  Business segment results 
 5

4 

Fourth quarter 2007 performance

 How we measure and report our 
business segments
Impact of foreign exchange rates 
on our business segments

5 

5  Key performance and non-GAAP  

measures

57  Canadian Banking
61  Wealth Management
64  U.S. & International Banking
67  Capital Markets
70  Corporate Support
Financial condition
71  Balance sheet
71  Capital management 
77  Off-balance sheet arrangements

 5

 5

71 

80  Risk management
 8

Liquidity and funding risk

0  Overview
83  Credit risk
92  Market risk
95  Operational risk
96 
99  Reputation risk
99  Regulatory and legal risk
100  Environmental risk
101  Insurance risk
 101  Strategic risk
 102  Competitive risk
 102  Systemic risk

102  Additional risks that may affect future results
104  Additional financial information

See our Glossary for definitions of terms used  
throughout this document

Caution regarding forward-looking statements
From time to time, we make written or oral forward-looking statements 
within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the “safe 
harbour” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation 
Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation. 
We may make forward-looking statements in this document, in other 
filings with Canadian regulators or the United States Securities and 
Exchange Commission, in reports to shareholders and in other com-
munications. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited 
to, statements relating to our medium-term and 2008 objectives, our 
strategic goals and priorities and the economic and business outlook 
for us, for each of our business segments and for the Canadian, United 
States and international economies. Forward-looking statements are 
typically identified by words such as “believe,” “expect,” “forecast,” 
“anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “plan” and “project” and similar 
expressions of future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “may,” 
“should,” “could,” or “would.”

By their very nature, forward-looking statements require us to 
make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertain-
ties, which give rise to the possibility that our predictions, forecasts, 
projections, expectations or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, 
that our assumptions may not be correct and that our objectives, 
strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. We caution read-
ers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of 
important factors could cause our actual results to differ materially 
from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. 
These factors include credit, market, operational, liquidity and funding 
risks, and other risks discussed in our 2007 management’s discussion 
and analysis; general business and economic conditions in Canada, 
the United States and other countries in which we conduct business, 
including the impact from the continuing volatility in the U.S. subprime  

and related markets and lack of liquidity in various of the financial 
markets; the impact of the movement of the Canadian dollar relative to 
other currencies, particularly the U.S. dollar, British pound and Euro; 
the effects of changes in government monetary and other policies; the 
effects of competition in the markets in which we operate; the impact 
of changes in laws and regulations; judicial or regulatory judgments 
and legal proceedings; the accuracy and completeness of information 
concerning our clients and counterparties; our ability to success-
fully execute our strategies and to complete and integrate strategic 
acquisitions and joint ventures successfully; changes in accounting 
standards, policies and estimates, including changes in our estimates 
of provisions and allowances; and our ability to attract and retain key 
employees and executives. 

We caution that the foregoing list of important factors is not 
exhaustive and other factors could also adversely affect our results. 
When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions 
with respect to us, investors and others should carefully consider the 
foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Unless 
required by law, we do not undertake to update any forward-looking 
statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time 
by us or on our behalf.

Additional information about these and other factors can be  
found under the Risk management section that may affect future 
results section and the Additional risks that may affect future results 
section.

Information contained in or otherwise accessible through the websites 
mentioned does not form part of this document. All references in this 
document to websites are inactive textual references and are for your 
information only. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

33
33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Overview

About Royal Bank of Canada

Royal Bank of Canada (RY on TSX and NYSE) and its subsidiaries oper-
ate under the master brand name of RBC. We are Canada’s largest bank 
as measured by assets and market capitalization and one of North 
America’s leading diversified financial services companies. We provide 
personal and commercial banking, wealth management services, insur-
ance, corporate and investment banking and transaction processing 
services on a global basis. We employ more than 70,000 full- and part-
time employees who serve more than 15 million personal, business, 
public sector and institutional clients through offices in Canada, the U.S. 
and 36 other countries. 

Effective February 7, 2007, our previous three business segments 

(RBC Canadian Personal and Business, RBC U.S. and International 
Personal and Business, and RBC Capital Markets) were reorganized 
into four business segments:

Canadian Banking comprises our domestic personal and busi-
ness banking operations, certain retail investment businesses and our 
global insurance operations.

Wealth Management comprises businesses that directly serve 

the growing wealth management needs of affluent and high net worth 
clients in Canada, the U.S. and outside North America, and businesses 
that provide asset management and trust products through RBC and 
external partners.

U.S. & International Banking comprises our banking businesses 

outside Canada, including our banking operations in the U.S. and  

Caribbean. In addition, this segment includes our 50% ownership in 
RBC Dexia Investor Services (RBC Dexia IS). 

Capital Markets comprises our global wholesale banking busi-

ness, which provides a wide range of corporate and investment 
banking, sales and trading, research and related products and services 
to corporations, public sector and institutional clients in North America, 
and specialized products and services in select global markets. 

Our business segments are supported by our Corporate Support 
team, which consists of Global Technology and Operations (GTO) and 
Global Functions. GTO provides the operational and technological 
foundation required to effectively deliver products and services to our 
clients. It also leads innovative process and technology improvements 
intended to maintain the safety and soundness of our operations, 
while keeping our capabilities ahead of the competition. Our Global 
Functions team of professionals provides sound governance and 
advice in the areas of risk, compliance, law, finance, tax and communi-
cations. This team also manages the capital, and liquidity and funding 
positions of the enterprise to ensure that we meet regulatory require-
ments, while ensuring effective funding management and allocation 
of capital. In addition, the Global Functions team provides support to 
our people and manages relationships with external stakeholders, 
including investors, credit rating agencies and regulators, as well as 
supports strategic business decisions.

Royal Bank of Canada

Canadian Banking

Wealth Management

U.S. & International Banking

Capital Markets

•  Personal Financial Services
•  Business Financial Services
•  Cards and Payment Solutions
•  Global Insurance

•  Canadian Wealth Management
•  U.S. & International Wealth 
  Management
•  Global Asset Management

•  Banking
•  RBC Dexia IS

•  Global Markets
•  Global Investment Banking and 
  Equity Markets
•  Other

•  Global Technology and Operations

•  Global Functions

Corporate Support

Vision and strategic goals

Our business strategies and actions are guided by our vision of 
“Always earning the right to be our clients’ first choice.” We believe 
that this client-focused approach to our business is critical to achieving  
our strategic as well as our financial performance goals. Our Client 
First philosophy is exhibited in all of our activities, including how  
we deal with our clients, develop our products and services, and  
collaborate across businesses and functions. We maintain our focus 
on enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty by continually striving 
to understand and meet the evolving needs and expectations of our 
clients. We believe that pursuing our vision will generate strong, stable 
revenue and earnings growth that will result in top quartile total share-
holder return compared to our North American peer group. 

The Canadian market continues to provide us with significant 

avenues for growth in both the retail and wholesale sectors. Our 
trusted brand, together with our broad expertise and leading posi-
tions in diverse financial products and services, provides us with the 
foundation and resources to expand internationally. The U.S., with its 
geographic proximity, cultural similarities and close trade relationships 
with Canada, will continue to be a focus of future growth as we build on 
our strong market positions in selected businesses. In addition, we will 
continue to expand outside North America in markets where our experi-
ence and expertise provide us with the ability to compete effectively.
For 2008, our strategic goals are to remain focused on growing 
our domestic franchise, while continuing to expand internationally  
by leveraging our core capabilities and by building on our portfolio  
of international businesses. We expect to achieve these goals by  

34

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

maintaining our focus on meeting the needs of clients through  
ongoing innovation and by collaborating effectively across our many 
businesses and functions. 
• 

In Canada, our goal is to be the undisputed leader in financial  
services. We are strengthening the RBC brand by delivering a 
superior client experience with a comprehensive suite of quality 
financial products and services for all our clients. In banking, we 
continue to leverage our extensive distribution capabilities to  
grow market share across products and markets, while expanding  
and enhancing our distribution network to meet the needs of 
our clients. We are also developing innovative solutions and 
simplifying processes for our clients to make it easier for them 
to do business with us. In wealth management, we continue to 
extend our lead in wealth and asset management markets and to 
attract and retain experienced advisors. In capital markets, we 
continue to focus on maintaining our leadership position across 
all businesses and remain our wholesale clients’ first choice for all 
financial products and services. 
In the United States, our goal is to build on our strengths in bank-
ing, wealth management and capital markets. In banking, we are 
focused on meeting the needs of businesses, business owners 
and professionals. We continue to expand our U.S. Southeast 
footprint in key high-growth markets through targeted de novo 
branch openings and strategic acquisitions. In wealth manage-
ment, we continue to expand our business through organic 
growth and strategic acquisitions, and provide our advisors with 

• 

 
• 

customized support for investment, advisory and wealth man-
agement practices by utilizing our global resources. In capital 
markets, we continue to deepen the penetration of our existing 
client base through diverse product offerings and leveraging the 
strengths of recent acquisitions, and enhancing our origination 
capabilities to expand our client base. 
Outside North America, our goal is to be a premier provider of 
selected financial services where our core capabilities and key 
expertise provide us with competitive advantages. In banking, we 
intend to continue to build on our strong position in the Caribbean 
through strategic acquisitions and organic growth, supported 
by ongoing operational improvements, strengthening of client 
relationships and broadening of product offerings. In wealth 
management, our strategy remains focused on increasing scale 
through expansion in our chosen markets and recruiting relation-
ship managers. We will continue to make targeted acquisitions 
and enhance the breadth of our products and services, as well as 

improve our relationship management model to capitalize on the 
growing demand for wealth management products and services. In 
custody services, our joint venture, RBC Dexia IS, utilizes its global 
scale and expanded product capability to grow the number of and 
deepen our client relationships. In capital markets, we continue to 
expand our global distribution and extend our capabilities in struc-
turing and trading businesses, infrastructure finance and fixed 
income origination.

Guided by our Client First philosophy and strategic goals, our business  
segments continue to tailor their strategies to meet client needs and 
strengthen client relationships within their unique operating and 
competitive environments. We believe that the successful execution 
of our business strategies will enhance the quality and diversity of our 
earnings. These efforts should result in the continued strong market 
leadership of our Canadian businesses as well as improved results and 
solid growth in our U.S. and international businesses. 

Selected financial and other highlights 

(C$ millions, except per share, number of and percentage amounts) 

    Total revenue 
    Non-interest expense  
    Provision for credit losses  
    Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 
    Net income before income taxes and non-controlling interest  
      in subsidiaries 
Net income from continuing operations 
Net loss from discontinued operations 
Net income 

Segments – net income
    Canadian Banking 
    Wealth Management  
    U.S. & International Banking 
    Capital Markets 
    Corporate Support 
Net income  

Selected information
    Earnings per share (EPS) – basic  
    Earnings per share (EPS) – diluted 
    Return on common equity (ROE) (1)  
    Return on risk capital (RORC) (2)  
    Net interest margin (3)  
Capital ratios (4) 
    Tier 1 capital ratio  
    Total capital ratio  
Selected balance sheet and other information
    Total assets 
    Securities 
    Retail loans  
    Wholesale loans  
    Deposits 
    Average common equity (1) 
    Average risk capital (2) 
    Risk-adjusted assets (4) 
    Assets under management 
    Assets under administration – RBC 

Common share information 
    Shares outstanding (000s) – average basic 

– RBC Dexia IS (5) 

– average diluted 
– end of period 

    Dividends declared per share 
    Dividend yield 
    Common share price (RY on TSX) – close, end of period 
    Market capitalization (TSX) 
Business information (number of )
    Employees (full-time equivalent) 
    Bank branches 
    Automated teller machines 

Period average US$ equivalent of C$1.00 (6) 
Period-end US$ equivalent of C$1.00 

Table 1

2007 vs. 2006
Increase (decrease)

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2007 

2006 

$  22,462 
  12,473 
791 
2,173 

$  20,637 
11,495 
429 
2,509 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

7,025 
5,492 
– 
5,492 

2,987 
762 
242 
1,292 
209 
5,492 

4.24 
4.19 
24.6% 
37.4% 
1.30% 

9.4% 
11.5% 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

6,204 
4,757 
(29) 
4,728 

2,426 
604 
261 
1,355 
111 
4,757 

3.65 
3.59 
23.5% 
36.7% 
1.35% 

9.6% 
11.9% 

2005 

19,184 
11,357 
455 
2,625 

4,702 
3,437 
(50) 
3,387 

2,007 
502  
256  
686  
(14)  

3,437 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2.61   $ 
2.57   $ 

18.0% 
29.3% 
1.53% 

9.6% 
13.1% 

1,825 
978 
362 
(336) 

821 
735 
29 
764 

561 
158  
(19) 
(63) 
98 
735 

.59 
.60 
n.m. 
n.m. 
n.m. 

n.m. 
n.m. 

$  600,346 
  178,255 
  169,462 
69,967 
  365,205 
  22,000 
  14,450 
  247,635 
  161,500 
  548,200 
 2,713,100 

 1,273,185 
 1,289,314 
 1,276,260 
1.82 
3.3% 
56.04 
  71,522 

$ 

$ 

$  536,780 $
  184,869 
  151,050  
  58,889 
  343,523 
  19,900 
  12,750 
  223,709 
  143,100 
525,800 
2,421,100 

1,279,956 
1,299,785 
1,280,890 
1.44 
$ 
3.1% 
49.80 
  63,788 

$ 

  469,521 
  160,495 
  140,239 
51,675 
  306,860 
  18,600 
11,450 
  197,004 
  118,800 
1,778,200 
– 

1,283,433 
1,304,680 
1,293,502 
1.18 
$ 
3.2% 
41.67 
  53,894 

$ 

$  63,566 
6,614) 
 (
  18,412 
11,078 
  21,682 
2,100 
1,700 
  23,926 
  18,400 
  22,400 
  292,000 

(6,771) 
(10,471) 
(4,630) 
.38 
n.m. 
6.24 
7,734 

$ 

$ 

  65,045 
1,541 
4,419 

  60,858 
1,443 
4,232 

  60,012 
1,419 
4,277 

$ 

.915 
1.059 

$ 

.883 
.890 

$ 

.824 
.847 

$ 

4,187 
98 
187 

.03 
.17 

8.8%
8.5%
84.4%
(13.4)%

13.2%
15.5%
n.m.
16.2%

23.1%
26.2%
(7.3)%
(4.6)%
n.m.
15.5%

16.2%
16.7%
  110 bps
70 bps
n.m.

   (20)bps
  (40)bps

11.8%
(3.6)%
12.2%
18.8%
6.3% 
10.6% 
13.3%
10.7%
12.9%
4.3%
12.1%

(.5)%
(.8)%
(.4)%
26.4%
20 bps 
12.5%
12.1%

6.9%
6.8%
4.4%

4%
19%

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

(4) 
(5) 

Average common equity and Return on common equity are calculated using month-end balances for the period.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. For further discussion on Average risk capital and Return on 
risk capital, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Net interest margin (NIM) is calculated as Net interest income divided by Average assets. Average assets are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily 
balances for the period. 
Calculated using guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI).
Assets under administration – RBC Dexia IS represents the total Assets under administration (AUA) of the joint venture as at September 30, 2007. We have revised the 2006 amount to reflect 
the amount reported by RBC Dexia IS, as we had previously disclosed only the assets under custody amount related to our joint venture.
Average amounts are calculated using month-end spot rates for the period.

(6) 
n.m.  not meaningful

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Overview of 2007

We reported record net income of $5,492 million for the year ended 
October 31, 2007, up $764 million, or 16%, from a year ago. Diluted 
earnings per share (EPS) were $4.19, up 17% compared to a year ago. 
ROE was 24.6%, compared to 23.5% a year ago. The Tier 1 capital ratio 
of 9.4% was down 20 basis points (bps) from 9.6% a year ago, while our 
Total capital ratio of 11.5% was down 40 bps from 11.9% a year ago.

Executing our initiatives
During the year, we continued to diversify our products and services, 
markets, and geographical presence to generate strong and stable 
earnings growth. We remained focused on strengthening our distribu-
tion capabilities and enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty, while 
seeking to deliver top quartile total shareholder return versus our  
North American peer group.

In Canada, we continued to strengthen our leadership position in 

most major product categories by enhancing the quality and breadth 
of our products and services, as well as expanding and upgrading 
our distribution network to better serve our clients. We continued to 
be the leader in the Canadian mutual fund industry in terms of net 
long-term sales and in most of our capital market businesses. We also 
strengthened our leadership positions in most product categories, 
including mortgages, credit cards and business loans and deposits.  
As part of our initiatives to meet client needs and build enduring  
client relationships, we have expanded our distribution capabilities 
by adding new bank branches, insurance offices and automated teller 
machines, particularly in high-growth markets, and have upgraded 
our branches. We launched new and innovative products, including a 
high-interest online savings account and socially responsible mutual 
funds. We have also continued to streamline sales, credit and back-
office processes to make it easier for our clients to do business with 
us. Our trusted brand, together with our leadership position in most 
major product categories in Canada, continued to provide us with the 
foundation and resources to expand internationally.

In the U.S., we continued to build scale and capability in all our 
major businesses through a combination of organic growth and stra-
tegic acquisitions. To expand our banking capabilities strategically in 
high-growth markets in the U.S. Southeast, we completed the acquisi-
tion of Atlanta-based Flag Financial Corporation and 39 AmSouth Bank 
branches in Alabama. These acquisitions, which complemented our 
de novo branch openings, have significantly expanded our banking 
presence in the U.S. Southeast. We also announced an agreement (1) to 
acquire Alabama National BanCorporation, the parent of 10 subsidiary 
banks and other affiliated businesses in Alabama, Florida and Georgia, 
which will add another 103 branches and strengthen our retail dis-
tribution by growing our footprint to over 450 locations throughout 
high-growth southeastern U.S. markets. We also expanded our invest-
ment banking and wealth management capabilities in the U.S.  
We completed the acquisition of Carlin Financial Group, which provides 
our clients with a best-in-class North American electronic trade execu-
tion platform. We completed the acquisition of Daniels & Associates, 
L.P., a leading mergers and acquisitions advisory firm specializing 
in the communications, media and entertainment, and technology 
sectors. In addition, we completed the acquisition of Seasongood & 
Mayer, LLC, strengthening our franchise as one of the leading munici-
pal finance platforms in the U.S. We also completed the acquisition  
of J.B. Hanauer & Co., expanding our retail fixed income and wealth  
management capabilities in New Jersey, Florida and Pennsylvania. 
Internationally, we strategically expanded our distribution net-

work, products and services in fast-growing markets and regions. 
During the year, we announced our intention to acquire RBTT Financial 
Group (RBTT) to expand our banking footprint in the Caribbean. 
The acquisition is expected to close by the middle of 2008 (1), and 

will create one of the most extensive retail banking networks in the 
Caribbean, with a presence in 18 countries and territories across the 
region. We also announced our intention to acquire a 50% interest in 
Fidelity Merchant Bank & Trust Limited, the Bahamas-based wholly 
owned subsidiary of Fidelity Bank & Trust International Limited to 
form a joint venture to be called Royal Fidelity Merchant Bank & Trust 
Limited, which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2008 (1). 
This pending acquisition is expected to extend our growing financial 
services platform in the Caribbean and will enable us to have greater 
access to the fast-growing merchant banking and corporate advisory 
sector in the region. 

Basel II
As of November 1, 2007, we implemented the International 
Convergence of Capital Measurement and Capital Standards: A 
Revised Framework – Comprehensive Version (June 2006), known as 
Basel II. Basel II more closely aligns regulatory capital requirements 
with a financial institution’s underlying risk profile and internal risk 
management practices as compared to Basel I, and is intended to 
ensure that our capital holdings adequately underpin those risks. 
For details related to the implications of Basel II on our capital man-
agement framework and risk measurement approaches, refer to the 
Capital management and Risk management sections.

2007 Economic and market review
In 2007, the Canadian economy grew at an estimated rate of 2.6%,  
which was down slightly from the 2.7% projected a year ago, with 
domestic demand remaining the key driver of economic growth. 
Robust economic growth in the early part of the year, largely reflect-
ing strong consumer spending underpinned by strong labour market 
conditions, solid business investment, favourable terms of trade and 
solid housing market activities, weakened slightly in the latter part of 
the year. This was mainly attributable to slowing U.S. demand and a 
tightening of credit conditions as a result of the U.S. subprime mort-
gage market concerns. While growth of both consumer and business 
lending largely remained solid, credit quality weakened moderately 
during the year as conditions appeared to be reverting to historical 
averages. The Bank of Canada raised the overnight rate by 25 bps in 
July to 4.5%, and kept the rate unchanged in September and October 
taking into account the tightening of credit conditions arising from the 
U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns and the marked appreciation 
of the Canadian dollar, which had a negative impact on net exports. To 
address the liquidity concerns and to support the efficient functioning 
of the Canadian financial system, the Bank of Canada injected liquidity 
into the financial markets on a number of occasions over the latter part 
of the year. 

The U.S. economy grew at an estimated rate of 2% for the year, 

down from the 2.6% projected in 2006. This downward revision to 
growth was primarily attributable to the U.S. subprime mortgage 
market concerns. Solid econ omic growth in the middle of the year, pri-
marily supported by continued non-residential investment, strong 
export growth and still-solid consumer spending, slowed in the latter 
part of the year. The weakened economic growth was largely a result  
of slowing residential investment amid the ongoing housing market 
correction, a tightening of credit conditions and increased funding 
costs arising from the U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns, as 
well as a general repricing of risk in numerous markets. Consumer and 
business lending, excluding mortgages, accelerated over recent 
months, although there remain concerns that the intensification of the 
housing market correction would eventually dampen lending. Credit 
quality weakened, particularly in high-risk credit products and resi-
dential real estate-related loans. To alleviate the mounting liquidity  

(1) 

36

These acquisitions are subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

concerns and to ease the U.S. financial market volatility arising from 
the U.S. subprime mortgage market difficulties, the U.S. Federal 
Reserve injected a significant amount of liquidity into financial  
markets beginning in August. It then lowered its federal funds rate by 
50 bps and 25 bps in September and October, respectively, to 4.5%, 
in an effort to promote economic growth, forestall a severe economic 
downturn and alleviate liquidity concerns.

Growth in other global economies remained solid for the year. 

Although central banks in the United Kingdom, the Eurozone and 
Japan had indicated their intention to further increase interest rates 
to contain inflationary pressures in the early part of the year, they had 
put their tightening monetary policies on hold to avoid an economic 
slowdown, taking into account the financial market volatility triggered 
by U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns. 

Compared to our favourable outlook in 2006, global capital mar-
ket conditions were mixed during the year, largely attributable to the 
U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns. Most major equity markets 
reached record highs in June and July, and then declined as did the 
debt markets, except for government bonds, largely due to the spillover 
effects of the U.S. subprime mortgage market difficulties. Debt and 
equity origination activities, which were strong at the beginning of the 
year, slowed due to less favourable pricing and a tightening of liquidity. 
Merger and acquisitions (M&A) activity remained strong for most of  
the year. 

Our three-year average annual TSR (2) of 25% ranks us in the top 
quartile compared to our peer group and compares favourably with 
the three-year average annual TSR for our peer group of 8%. Our per-
formance reflects our strong financial results, including returns on our 
investment in our businesses, and effective risk and capital manage-
ment, which has allowed us to successfully meet most of our annual 
earnings and capital objectives over the last three years.

Our five-year average annual TSR (2) of 19% ranks us in the sec-
ond quartile against our peer group. This compares favourably with 
the five-year average annual TSR for our peer group of 14%. 

Dividends paid over the three-year period have increased at an 

average annual compounded rate of 22%.

(1) 

(2) 

Versus the TSR of seven large Canadian financial institutions (Manulife Financial 
Corporation, The Bank of Nova Scotia, Toronto-Dominion Bank, Bank of Montreal,  
Sun Life Financial Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and National Bank of 
Canada) and 13 U.S. financial institutions (Bank of America Corporation, JPMorgan 
Chase & Co., Wells Fargo & Company, Wachovia Corporation, U.S. Bancorp, SunTrust 
Banks, Inc., The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation, BB&T Corporation, Fifth Third 
Bancorp, National City Corporation, The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., KeyCorp 
and Northern Trust Corporation).
The three-year average annual TSR is calculated based on share price appreciation 
plus reinvested dividend income for the period October 31, 2004 to October 31, 2007.  
The five-year average annual TSR is calculated based on the period October 31, 2002 
to October 31, 2007.

Three-year average annual total shareholder return (home currency) (1)

30%

24%

18%

12%

6%

0%

RBC

Canadian peer group

Total peer group

U.S. peer group

Five-year average annual total shareholder return (home currency) (1)

30%

24%

18%

12%

6%

0%

RBC

Canadian peer group

Total peer group

U.S. peer group

(1) 

For Canadian financial institutions, the Canadian dollar is used. For U.S. financial 
institutions, the U.S. dollar is used.

2007 Performance vs. objectives 

Table 2

2007 
Objectives 

2007
Performance

Diluted earnings per share (EPS) growth   
Defined operating leverage (1) 
Return on common equity (ROE)  
Tier 1 capital ratio (2)  
Dividend payout ratio 

10%+ 
>3% 
20%+ 
8%+ 
40% –50% 

17%
2.6%
  24.6%
9.4%
43%

(1) 

(2) 

Our defined operating leverage refers to the difference between our revenue growth 
rate (as adjusted) and non-interest expense growth rate (as adjusted). Revenue 
is based on a taxable equivalent basis and excludes consolidated Variable interest 
entities (VIEs), accounting adjustments related to the new financial instruments 
accounting standards and Global Insurance revenue. Non-interest expense excludes 
Global Insurance expense. This is a non-GAAP measure. For further information includ-
ing a reconciliation, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Calculated using guidelines issued by the OSFI.

2007 Annual objectives
Our diluted EPS growth, ROE and dividend payout ratio compared 
favourably to our annual objectives, largely reflecting strong perfor-
mance across most of our businesses. We also increased our dividend 
by $.38, or 26%, in 2007. Our defined operating leverage ratio was 
below our annual objective, reflecting higher costs in support of our 
growing business as well as investment in future growth initiatives 
including acquisitions. Our capital position remained strong, with a 
Tier 1 capital ratio comfortably above our target.

Medium-term objective
Our medium-term objective is to achieve top quartile (1) total share-
holder return (TSR) compared to our Canadian and U.S. peers.  
This medium-term objective increases our focus on our priority to 
maximize shareholder value and requires us to consider both our  
current performance and our investment in higher return businesses 
that will provide sustainable competitive advantage and stable  
earnings growth.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outlook and objectives for 2008

Economic outlook
Economic growth in Canada is expected to weaken as a strong 
Canadian dollar and sluggish U.S. growth weigh on export growth. 
Nonetheless, continued favourable terms of trade should support 
income growth, which in turn should help sustain business and con-
sumer spending. We expect the Bank of Canada to decrease interest 
rates by 50 bps by early 2008, taking into account the intensifying 
restraint from the trade sector before shifting to a rising interest rate 
environment in late 2008 when financial market volatility is expected 
to dissipate. We forecast that the Canadian dollar will remain elevated 
against the U.S. dollar into early 2008, reflecting firm commodity 
prices, solid global economic growth and broad-based U.S. dollar 
weakness. Taking into account modest U.S. growth, a strong Canadian 
dollar and a tightening of credit conditions, we expect the Canadian 
economy to grow at 2.2% in 2008. 

We anticipate that the U.S. financial market volatility will persist 

into early 2008 as investors and lenders will remain cautious and 
risk averse amid a slowdown in the housing market. U.S. economic 
growth is expected to accelerate in the latter part of 2008, primarily 
underpinned by rising business investment, strong export growth 
boosted by the relatively weak U.S. dollar, as well as continued con-
sumer spending reflecting solid personal disposable income and 
healthy household balance sheets against a backdrop of lower interest 
rates, and the abatement of current financial market volatility and the 
housing market correction. We project that the U.S. Federal Reserve 
will decrease the federal funds rate a further 75 bps by early 2008 to 
insure that the downside risks from the financial market turmoil are 
contained, and will start to increase the rate in the latter part of 2008 
when economic growth is expected to accelerate. We project that the 
U.S. economy will grow at 2.2% in 2008, taking into account antici-
pated improving economic conditions in the latter part of the year.

Growth in other global economies is expected to ease moderately 
in 2008, with the highest growth projected for China and other emerg-
ing Asian economies. Economic growth in Japan and the Eurozone 
is anticipated to weaken slightly on moderately slowing investment 
related to tighter credit conditions and modest U.S. growth, although it 
should remain solidly supported by continued business and household 
spending. 

Business outlook
Although consumer lending growth is expected to moderate in 2008 
on tighter credit conditions, growth should continue to be supported 
by rising domestic demand amid expanding labour markets. The intro-
duction of new mortgage products in Canada due to the liberalization 

Accounting and control matters

Critical accounting policies and estimates

of the mortgage insurance market should also continue to underpin 
credit growth. We anticipate business lending to remain solid with 
ongoing investment spending. While credit quality is projected to 
weaken moderately, we expect consumer and business credit quality 
to remain solid in a historical context, with an anticipated increase in 
provision for credit losses primarily resulting from modestly higher 
average delinquency rates, portfolio growth and lower recoveries. 
Capital market conditions are anticipated to improve from the 

challenging environment over the latter part of 2007 stemming from 
the U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns. Liquidity concerns 
should also abate as global financial markets stabilize and gradually 
return to more normalized levels of activity. We expect a rebound in 
underperforming businesses as strains in financial markets ease. 

2008 Objectives
Our primary financial objective continues to focus on providing top 
quartile TSR relative to our North American peers. This medium-term 
objective requires our focus on both current performance as well  
as prudent investment in higher return businesses that will provide  
us with competitive advantages and stable earnings growth for  
the future. 

2008 Objectives  

Diluted earnings per share (EPS) growth   
Defined operating leverage (1) 
Return on common equity (ROE) 
Tier 1 capital ratio (2) 
Dividend payout ratio 

Table 3

 7% –10%
>3%
20%+
8%+
  40% –50%

(1) 

(2) 

Our defined operating leverage is a non-GAAP measure and refers to the difference 
between our revenue growth rate (as adjusted) and non-interest expense growth rate 
(as adjusted). 
Calculated using guidelines issued by the OSFI under Basel II, which changes the 
methodology for the determination of risk-adjusted assets (RAA) and regulatory capital.

For 2008, our financial objectives have been established taking into 
consideration our three strategic goals and our economic and business 
outlooks as outlined in this section. Objectives for our defined operat-
ing leverage, ROE, Tier 1 capital ratio and dividend payout ratio remain 
unchanged, reflecting our continued commitment to strong revenue 
growth and cost containment, as well as sound and effective manage-
ment of capital resources. Our 2008 diluted EPS growth objective is 
7% to 10 %. Our objectives factor in the effect of our pending acquisi-
tions of ANB and RBTT, which will be funded partly through issuance of 
our common shares, as well as the related integration costs.

Application of critical accounting policies and estimates
Our significant accounting policies and estimates are described in  
Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Certain of these 
policies, as well as estimates made by management in applying such 
policies, are recognized as critical because they require us to make 
particularly subjective or complex judgments about matters that are 
inherently uncertain and because of the likelihood that significantly 
different amounts could be reported under different conditions or 
using different assumptions. Our critical accounting policies and esti-
mates relate to the allowance for credit losses, fair value of financial 
instruments, other-than-temporary impairment of available-for-sale 
and held-to-maturity securities, securitization, variable interest enti-
ties, pensions and other post-employment benefits and income taxes. 

Our critical accounting policies and estimates have been reviewed and 
approved by our Audit Committee, in consultation with management, 
as part of their review and approval of our significant accounting  
policies and estimates.

Allowance for credit losses
The allowance for credit losses represents management’s estimate of 
identified credit related losses in the portfolio, as well as losses that 
have been incurred but are not yet identifiable at the balance sheet 
date. The allowance is established to cover the lending portfolio includ-
ing loans, acceptances, letters of credit and guarantees, and unfunded 
commitments. The allowance for credit losses comprises the specific 
allowance and the general allowance. The specific allowance is  

38

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
determined through management’s identification and determination of 
losses related to impaired loans. The general allowance is determined 
on a quarterly basis through management’s assessment of probable 
losses in the remaining portfolio.

The process for determining the allowances involves quantitative  

and qualitative assessments using current and historical credit 
information. Our lending portfolio is reviewed on an ongoing basis to 
assess whether any borrowers should be classified as impaired and 
whether an allowance or write-off is required. The process inherently 
requires the use of certain assumptions and judgments including:  
(i) assessing the impaired status and risk ratings of loans; (ii) estimat-
ing cash flows and collateral values; (iii) developing default and loss 
rates based on historical and industry data; (iv) adjusting loss rates 
and risk parameters based on the relevance of historical loss rate 
given changes in credit strategies, processes and policies; (v) assess-
ing the current credit quality of the portfolio based on credit quality 
trends in relation to impairments, write-offs and recoveries, portfolio 
characteristics and composition; and (vi) determining the current posi-
tion in the economic and credit cycles. Changes in these assumptions 
or using other reasonable judgments can materially affect the allow-
ance level and thereby our net income.

Specific allowances
Specific allowances are established to cover estimated losses on both 
retail and wholesale impaired loans. Loan impairment is recognized 
when, based on management’s judgment, there is no longer reason-
able assurance that all interest and principal payments will be made in 
accordance with the loan agreement.

For wholesale portfolios including small business loans managed 
individually, which are continuously monitored, an account is classified 
as impaired based on our evaluation of the borrower’s overall financial 
condition, its available resources and its propensity to pay amounts as 
they come due. A specific allowance is then established on individual 
accounts that are classified as impaired, using management’s  
judgment relating to the timing of future cash flow amounts that can 
be reasonably expected from the borrower, financially responsible 
guarantors and the realization of collateral. The amounts expected 
to be recovered are reduced by estimated collection costs and dis-
counted at the effective interest rate of the obligation.

For retail portfolios managed on a pooled basis, including resi-
dential mortgages and personal and small business loans, accounts 
are classified as impaired based on contractual delinquency status, 
generally 90 days past due. The estimation of specific allowance on 
these accounts is based on formulas that apply product-specific net 
write-off ratios to the related impaired amounts. The net write-off ratios 
are based on historical loss rates, adjusted to reflect management’s 
judgment relating to recent credit quality trends, portfolio character-
istics and composition, and economic and business conditions. Credit 
card balances are directly written off after payments are 180 days past 
due. Personal loans are generally written off at 150 days past due.

General allowance
The general allowance is established to cover estimated credit losses 
that are incurred in the lending portfolio that have not yet been specifi-
cally identified as impaired. This estimation is based on a number 
of assumptions including: (i) the level of unidentified problem loans 
given current economic and business conditions; (ii) the timing of 
the realization of impairment; (iii) the gross exposure of a credit 
facility at the time of default; and (iv) the ultimate severity of loss. In 
determining the appropriate level of general allowance, management 
first employs statistical models using historical loss rates and risk 
parameters to estimate a range of probable losses over an economic 
cycle. Management then considers changes in the credit granting 
process including underwriting, limit setting and the workout process 
in order to adjust historical experience to better reflect the current 
environment. In addition, current credit information including portfolio 
composition, credit quality trends and economic and business infor-
mation is assessed to determine the appropriate allowance level. 

For heterogeneous loans (wholesale loans including small busi-
ness loans managed individually), the general allowance is based on 
the application of estimated probability of default, gross exposure 
at default and loss factors, which are determined by historical loss 
experience and delineated by loan type and rating. These parameters 
are based on historical loss rates (default migration, loss severity 
and exposure at default), supplemented by industry studies and are 
updated on a regular basis. This approach allows us to generate a 
range of potential losses over an economic cycle. One of the key judg-
mental factors that influence the loss estimate for this portfolio is the 
application of the internal risk rating framework, which relies on our 
quantitative and qualitative assessments of a borrower’s financial con-
dition in order to assign an internal credit risk rating similar to those 
used by external rating agencies. Any material change in the above 
parameters or assumptions would affect the range of probable credit 
losses and consequently may affect the general allowance level. 

For homogeneous portfolios (retail loans) including residential 

mortgages, credit cards, as well as personal and small business loans 
that are managed on a pooled basis, the determination of the general 
allowance is based on the application of historical loss rates. Historical 
loss rates are applied to current outstanding loans to determine a 
range of probable losses over an economic cycle. 

In determining the general allowance level, management also 
considers the current portfolio credit quality trends, business and 
economic conditions, the impact of policy and process changes, and 
other supporting factors. In addition, the general allowance includes 
a component for the model limitations and imprecision inherent in the 
allowance methodologies. 

Any fundamental change in methodology is subject to indepen-

dent vetting and review.

Total allowance for credit losses
Based on the procedures discussed above, management believes 
that the total allowance for credit losses of $1,572 million is adequate 
to absorb estimated credit losses incurred in the lending portfolio as 
at October 31, 2007. This amount includes $79 million classified in 
other liabilities, which relates to letters of credit and guarantees and 
unfunded commitments. The year-over-year increase of $86 million 
largely reflects the increase in impaired loans.

Fair value of financial instruments
With the adoption of the three new accounting standards related to 
financial instruments on November 1, 2006, a greater portion of our 
Consolidated Balance Sheet is now measured at fair value. Refer to 
Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a detailed discus-
sion. Under the new standards, all financial instruments are required 
to be measured at fair value on initial recognition except for certain 
related party transactions. Measurement in subsequent periods 
depends on whether the financial instruments have been classified or 
designated as held-for-trading, available-for-sale, held-to-maturity, 
loans and receivables or other financial liabilities. 

Financial assets and financial liabilities held-for-trading, including 
derivative instruments, are measured at fair value with changes in the 
fair values recognized in net income, except for derivatives designated 
in effective cash flow hedges or hedges of foreign currency exposure 
of a net investment in a self-sustaining foreign operation; the changes 
in the fair values of those derivatives are recognized in Other com-
prehensive income (OCI). Available-for-sale financial assets are also 
measured at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, including 
changes in foreign exchange rates, being recognized in OCI except for 
investments in equity instruments classified as available-for-sale that 
do not have a quoted market price in an active market, which are mea-
sured at cost. Financial assets held-to-maturity, loans and receivables, 
and other financial liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the 
effective interest method. 

At October 31, 2007, approximately $276 billion, or 46%, of our 

financial assets and $205 billion, or 36%, of our financial liabilities 
were carried at fair value ($184 billion, or 34%, of financial assets and  

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

39

$80 billion, or 16%, of financial liabilities at October 31, 2006). Note 2 
to our Consolidated Financial Statements provides disclosure of the 
fair value of our financial instruments as at October 31, 2007. 

Fair value is defined as the amount at which a financial instru-
ment could be bought or sold in a current transaction, other than in a 
forced or liquidation sale, between knowledgeable and willing parties 
in an arm’s-length transaction under no compulsion to act. The best 
evidence of fair value is quoted bid or ask price, as appropriate, in an 
active market. Where bid and ask prices are unavailable, we use the 
closing price of the most recent transaction of that instrument subject 
to the liquidity adjustments referred to below. Where quoted prices 
are not available for a particular financial instrument, we use the 
quoted price of a financial instrument with similar characteristics and 
risk profiles or internal or external valuation models using observable 
market-based inputs to estimate the fair value.

The determination of fair value for actively traded financial instru-

ments that have quoted market prices or readily observable model 
input parameters requires minimal subjectivity. Management’s judg-
ment is required, however, when the observable market prices and 
parameters do not exist. In addition, management exercises judgment 
when establishing market valuation adjustments for liquidity when 
we believe that the amount realized on sale may be less than the 
estimated fair value due to insufficient liquidity over a short period of 
time. This includes adjustments calculated when market prices are not 
observable due to insufficient trading volume or a lack of recent trades 
in a less active or inactive market. In addition, liquidity adjustments 
are calculated to reflect the cost of unwinding a larger than normal 
market risk position.

The majority of our financial instruments classified as held-
for-trading other than derivatives and financial assets classified as 
available-for-sale comprise or relate to actively traded debt and equity 
securities, which are carried at fair value based on available quoted 
prices. As few derivatives and financial instruments designated as 
held-for-trading are actively quoted, we rely primarily on internally 
developed pricing models and established industry standard pricing 
models, such as Black-Schöles, to determine fair value. In determining 
the assumptions to be used in our pricing models, we look primarily 
to external readily observable market inputs including factors such as 

interest rate yield curves, currency rates and price and rate volatilities 
as applicable. However, certain derivative financial instruments are 
valued using significant unobservable market inputs such as default 
correlations, among others. These inputs are subject to significantly 
more quantitative analysis and management judgment. Where input 
parameters are not based on market observable data, we defer the  
initial trading profit until the amounts deferred become realized 
through the receipt and/or payment of cash or once the input 
parameters are observable in the market. We also record fair value 
adjustments to account for measurement uncertainty due to model 
risk and parameter uncertainty when valuing complex or less actively 
traded financial instruments. For further information on our derivative 
instruments, refer to Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes our significant financial assets 

and liabilities carried at fair value, by valuation methodology at 
October 31, 2007 and October 31, 2006. We have applied the general 
concepts contained in the accounting standards related to financial 
instruments under Canadian GAAP to determine the classification of 
assets and liabilities carried at fair value among the valuation method-
ology groupings below.

Instruments grouped within “quoted prices” include those where 
prices are obtained from an exchange, dealer, broker, industry group, 
pricing service or regulatory agency, or net asset values provided by 
fund managers of mutual funds and hedge funds. Instruments priced 
based on models are grouped based on whether the models include 
significant observable or unobservable parameters. Where fair value is 
not evidenced by observable market parameters, and day one  
unrealized gains and losses are not permitted under Canadian GAAP, 
the instrument is grouped as being based on “pricing models with  
significant unobservable market parameters.”

In September 2006, the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards 

Board (FASB) issued FAS 157, Fair Value Measurements, which 
includes measurement guidance and requires that all financial instru-
ments measured at fair value be categorized in fair value hierarchy 
levels. We have not adopted these measurement and disclosure 
requirements for U.S. GAAP reconciliation disclosure purposes, and 
the information contained in the table below is not intended to corre-
spond to those levels.

Assets and liabilities carried at fair value by valuation methodology 

Table 4

2007 

Based on

2006 (1)

Based on

(C$ millions, 
except percentage amounts) 

Financial assets 
Required to be classified as held-for-trading  
  other than derivatives (2) 
Derivatives (3) 
Designated as held-for-trading (2) 
Classified as available-for-sale 

Financial liabilities 
Required to be classified as held-for-trading  
  other than derivatives (2) 
Derivatives (4) 
Designated as held-for-trading (2) 

Fair value 

 $   129,408 
  65,568 
  52,580 
  28,811 

  $  276,367 

 $   46,328 
  71,422 
  87,433 

  $  205,183 

Pricing 

Pricing 
  models with  models with 
significant 
  observable unobservable 
Quoted 
market 
market 
prices  parameters  parameters 

significant 

82% 
– 
36% 
70% 

18% 
100% 
64% 
28% 

89% 
– 
– 

11% 
99% 
100% 

– 
– 
– 
2% 

– 
1% 
– 

Total 

Fair value 

100%  $  147,237 
  37,008 
100% 
n.a. 
100% 
n.a. 
100% 

  $  184,245

100%  $  38,252 
  41,728 
100% 
n.a. 
100% 

  $  79,980

Pricing 

Pricing
  models with  models with
significant
  observable unobservable
market
market 
prices  parameters  parameters 

significant 

Quoted 

87% 
– 
n.a. 
n.a. 

13%  $ 

100% 
n.a. 
n.a. 

– 
– 
n.a. 
n.a. 

Total

100%
100% 
n.a. 
n.a.

97% 
– 
n.a. 

3%  $ 

100% 
n.a. 

– 
– 
n.a. 

100%
100%
n.a.

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Prior to the adoption of the new accounting standards related to financial instruments on November 1, 2006, there were no financial assets or financial liabilities designated as held-for-
trading and there were no financial assets classified as available-for-sale. Consequently, prior period comparatives are not applicable (n.a.). 
The categories of financial instruments are explained in Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
The fair value excludes margin requirements of $1,017 million (2006 – $721 million).
The fair value excludes market and credit valuation adjustments of $588 million (2006 – $366 million).

40

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 vs. 2006 
With the adoption of the new financial instruments accounting stan-
dards, there are new categories of financial instruments carried at 
fair value such as financial assets and financial liabilities designated 
as held-for-trading and financial assets classified as available-for-
sale which were carried at amortized cost prior to November 1, 2006. 
Further, all derivatives are now carried at fair value whereas prior to 
that date, only derivatives other than designated hedging instruments 
were carried at fair value. Accordingly, the comparative amounts for 
2006 in the above table do not include these financial instruments.
The decrease of $18 billion in financial assets classified as 
held-for-trading and the increase of $8 billion in financial liabilities 
classified as held-for-trading in 2007 are primarily due to our equity 
and bond securities held related to our proprietary equity arbitrage 
and fixed income trading businesses, where we offset the risks from 
our securities holdings by short selling other securities that are of 
similar risks to those in our portfolios. The increase of $29 billion in 
derivative assets and of $30 billion in derivative liabilities in 2007, 
primarily in foreign exchange and interest rate contracts, are largely 
due to increased volatility, strong shifts in exchange rates and inter-
est rates, and higher client and trading activity, partially offset by the 
weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar. These 
activities are consistent with our strategy for these businesses and the 
increases in 2007 are within the approved risk limits.

The determination of fair value where quoted prices are not 
available, and the identification of appropriate valuation adjustments 
require management judgment and are based on quantitative research 
and analysis. Our risk management group is responsible for estab-
lishing our valuation methodologies and policies, which address the 
use and calculation of valuation adjustments. These methodologies 
are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure that they remain appro-
priate. Risk management’s oversight in the valuation process also 
includes ensuring all significant financial valuation models are strictly 
controlled and regularly recalibrated and vetted to provide an inde-
pendent perspective. During the year, there was no significant change 
to our methodologies for determining fair value, including those for 
establishing any valuation adjustments. Refer to the Risk management 
section for further detail on the sensitivity of financial instruments 
used in trading and non-trading activities.

Other-than-temporary impairment of available-for-sale and  
held-to-maturity securities 
Available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities are assessed for 
impairment at each reporting date. When the fair value of any security 
has declined below its amortized cost, management is required to 
assess whether the decline is other-than-temporary. In making this 
assessment, we consider such factors as the type of investment, the 
length of time and extent to which the fair value has been below the 
amortized cost, the financial and credit aspects of the issuer, and our 
intent and ability to hold the investment long enough to allow for any 
anticipated recovery. The decision to record a writedown, its amount 
and the period in which it is recorded could change if management’s 
assessment of one or more of those factors is different. If the decline 
in value is considered to be other-than-temporary, the cumulative 
changes in the fair values of available-for-sale securities previously 
recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) are 
reclassified to net income during that period. For further details, refer 
to Notes 1 and 3 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Securitization
We periodically securitize Canadian residential mortgages, credit card 
receivables and commercial mortgage loans by selling them to special 
purpose entities (SPEs) or trusts that issue securities to investors. 
Some of the key accounting determinations in a securitization of our 
loans are whether the transfer of the loans meets the criteria required 
to be treated as a sale and, if so, the valuation of our retained interests 
in the securitized loans. Refer to Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial 
Statements for a detailed description of the accounting policy for  
loan securitization. 

When we securitize loans and retain an interest in the securitized 

loans, it is a matter of judgment whether the loans have been legally 
isolated. We obtain legal opinions where required to give us comfort 
that legal isolation of the transferred loans has been achieved. We 
often retain interests in securitized loans such as interest-only strips, 
servicing rights or cash reserve accounts. Where quoted market prices 

are not available, the valuation of retained interests in sold assets is 
based on our best estimate of several key assumptions such as the 
payment rate of the transferred loans, weighted average life of the 
prepayable receivables, excess spread, expected credit losses and 
discount rate. The fair value of such retained interests calculated using 
these assumptions affects the gain or loss that is recognized from 
the sale of the loans. Refer to Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial 
Statements for the volume of securitization activities of our loans, the 
gain or loss recognized on sale and a sensitivity analysis of the key 
assumptions used in valuing our retained interests. 

Another key accounting determination is whether the SPE that 

is used to securitize and sell our loans is required to be consolidated. 
As described in Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, we 
concluded that none of the SPEs used to securitize our financial assets 
should be consolidated.

Variable interest entities
Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) Accounting 
Guideline 15, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (AcG-15), pro-
vides guidance on applying the principles of consolidation to certain 
entities defined as variable interest entities (VIEs). Where an entity is 
considered a VIE, the Primary Beneficiary is required to consolidate 
the assets, liabilities and results of operations of the VIE. The Primary 
Beneficiary is the entity that is exposed, through variable interests, 
to a majority of the VIE’s expected losses (as defined in AcG-15) or is 
entitled to a majority of the VIE’s expected residual returns (as defined 
in AcG-15), or both.

We use a variety of complex estimation processes involving both 
qualitative and quantitative factors to determine whether an entity is a 
VIE, and, if required, to analyze and calculate the expected losses and 
the expected residual returns. These processes involve estimating the 
future cash flows and performance of the VIE, analyzing the variability 
in those cash flows, and allocating the losses and returns among the 
identified parties holding variable interests to determine who is the 
Primary Beneficiary. In addition, there is a significant amount of judg-
ment exercised in interpreting the provisions of AcG-15 and applying 
them to our specific transactions.

AcG-15 applies to a variety of our businesses, including our 

involvement with multi-seller conduits we administer, credit invest-
ment products and structured finance transactions. For further details 
on our involvement with VIEs, refer to the Off-balance sheet arrange-
ments section and Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Pensions and other post-employment benefits
We sponsor a number of defined benefit and defined contribution 
plans providing pension and other benefits to eligible employees after 
retirement. These plans include registered pension plans, supple-
mental pension plans and health, dental, disability and life insurance 
plans. The pension plans provide benefits based on years of service, 
contributions and average earnings at retirement.

Due to the long-term nature of these plans, the calculation of ben-

efit expenses and obligations depends on various assumptions such 
as discount rates, expected rates of return on assets, health care cost 
trend rates, projected salary increases, retirement age, mortality and 
termination rates. The discount rate assumption is determined using a 
yield curve of AA corporate debt securities. All other assumptions are 
determined by management and are reviewed annually by the actuar-
ies. Actual experience that differs from the actuarial assumptions will 
affect the amounts of benefit obligation and expense. The weighted 
average assumptions used and the sensitivity of key assumptions are 
presented in Note 20 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Income taxes
Management exercises judgment in estimating the provision for 
income taxes. We are subject to income tax laws in various jurisdictions 
where we operate. These complex tax laws are potentially subject 
to different interpretations by the taxpayer and the relevant tax 
authority. The provision for income taxes represents 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. A future income tax asset or liability is determined for each 
temporary difference based on the future tax rates that are expected 
to be in effect and management’s assumptions regarding the expected 
timing of the reversal of such temporary differences. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

41

Future changes in accounting policies

Future changes in accounting policies and disclosure
Canadian GAAP
Capital Disclosures and Financial Instruments – Disclosures  
and Presentation
On December 1, 2006, CICA issued three new accounting standards: 
Handbook Section 1535, Capital Disclosures (Section 1535), Handbook 
Section 3862, Financial Instruments – Disclosures (Section 3862), 
and Handbook Section 3863, Financial Instruments – Presentation 
(Section 3863). These new standards became effective for us on 
November 1, 2007. 

Section 1535 requires the disclosure of (i) an entity’s objectives, 

policies and processes for managing capital; (ii) quantitative data 
about what the entity regards as capital; (iii) whether the entity has 
complied with any capital requirements; and (iv) if it has not complied, 
the consequences of such non-compliance. 

Sections 3862 and 3863 replace Handbook Section 3861, 
Financial Instruments – Disclosure and Presentation, revising and 
enhancing its disclosure requirements, and carrying its presentation 
requirements forward unchanged. These new sections place increased 
emphasis on disclosures about the nature and extent of risks arising 
from financial instruments and how the entity manages those risks.

U.S. GAAP 
Guidance on accounting for income taxes
FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in 
Income Taxes – an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (FIN 48),  
on July 13, 2006, and its related Staff Position FIN 48-1, Definition of 

Controls and procedures

Disclosure controls and procedures
Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide 
reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by 
us is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time 
periods specified under Canadian and U.S. securities laws and include 
controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that informa-
tion is accumulated and communicated to management, including the 
President and Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, to 
allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management evaluated, under the supervision of and with the 

participation of the President and CEO, and Chief Financial Officer, the 
effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined 
under Multilateral Instrument 52-109 and the U.S. Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 as of October 31, 2007. Based on that evaluation, the 
President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer  
concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective 
as of October 31, 2007.

Settlement in FASB Interpretation No. 48 (FSP FIN 48-1), on May 2, 
2007. FIN 48 and FSP FIN 48-1 provide additional guidance on how to 
recognize, measure and disclose income tax benefits. FIN 48 became 
effective for us on November 1, 2007, and we do not expect it will have 
a material impact on our consolidated financial position and results  
of operations.

Framework on fair value measurement 
On September 15, 2006, FASB issued FASB Statement No. 157, Fair 
Value Measurements (FAS 157), which establishes a framework for 
measuring fair value in U.S. GAAP and is applicable to other account-
ing pronouncements where fair value is considered to be the relevant 
measurement attribute. FAS 157 also expands disclosures about fair 
value measurements and will be effective for us on November 1, 2008. 
We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this standard on our 
consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Fair value option for financial assets and liabilities
On February 15, 2007, FASB issued Statement No. 159, The Fair Value 
Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities (FAS 159). FAS 159 provides 
an entity the option to report selected financial assets and liabilities 
at fair value and establishes new disclosure requirements for assets 
and liabilities to which the fair value option is applied. FAS 159 will be 
effective for us on November 1, 2008. We are currently assessing the 
impact of adopting this standard on our consolidated financial position 
and results of operations.

Internal control over financial reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate 
internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assur-
ance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation 
of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP. 
Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over 
financial reporting as of October 31, 2007, and based on that assess-
ment, concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was 
effective. See page 112 for Management’s report on internal control 
over financial reporting and the Report of Independent Registered 
Chartered Accountants. No changes were made in our internal control 
over financial reporting during the year ended October 31, 2007, that 
have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, 
our internal control over financial reporting.

42

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Financial performance

Overview

2007 vs. 2006
We reported record net income of $5,492 million for the year ended 
October 31, 2007, up $764 million, or 16%, from a year ago. Diluted 
EPS were $4.19, up 17% compared to a year ago. ROE was 24.6%, 
compared to 23.5% a year ago. Our strong results were largely attrib-
utable to profitable volume and balance growth in our banking and 
wealth management businesses, strong Global Insurance results, 
and increased equity and foreign exchange trading results and strong 
equity origination activity in our capital markets businesses. These 
results reflected the ongoing successful execution of our growth initia-
tives as well as generally favourable economic and market conditions 
for most of the year. For additional discussion on the performance of 
our business segments, refer to the Business segment results section 
starting on page 57. A gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring and the 
exchange of our membership interest in Visa Canada Association for 
shares of Visa Inc. also contributed to the increase. These factors were 
partially offset by the writedowns on the valuation of U.S. subprime 
residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) and collateralized 
debt obligations of asset-backed securities (CDOs of ABS) reflecting 
the deterioration in credit markets since July 2007, higher provisions 
for credit losses reflecting portfolio growth and higher impaired loans 
in our U.S. residential builder finance business, and higher credit card 
customer loyalty reward program costs. Also partly offsetting the 
favourable factors were higher costs in support of our business growth 
and the negative impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated 
value of our U.S. dollar-denominated earnings. The Tier 1 capital ratio 
of 9.4% was down 20 bps from 9.6% a year ago, while the Total capital 
ratio of 11.5% was down 40 bps from 11.9% a year ago.

U.S. subprime
In October 2007, the credit markets deteriorated dramatically after  
rating agencies downgraded a broad group of U.S. subprime RMBS and 
CDOs of ABS. Following these events, we recognized a charge of  
$357 million before-tax in Capital Markets, consisting of writedowns 
on the fair value of our direct holdings of U.S. subprime RMBS and 
CDOs of ABS and related credit default swaps.

Our Capital Markets holdings of RMBS and CDOs of ABS arose 

primarily in relation to our role in structuring CDOs of ABS and are 
classified as held-for-trading, with unrealized changes in fair value 
reflected in Non-interest income. Our other holdings are RMBS and are 
classified as available-for-sale and unrealized changes in fair value  
are generally reflected in Other comprehensive income. These changes 
are reflected in Non-interest income only if management determines 
that it is appropriate that the value be written down (referred to as 
“other-than-temporary impairment”).

As at October 31, 2007, Capital Markets had $216 million of net 
exposure to U.S. subprime CDOs of ABS, after taking into consideration  
protection provided by credit default swaps. We have credit default 
swaps providing protection of $240 million, recorded at fair market 
value of $104 million, with counterparties rated less than AAA by 
Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and less than Aaa by Moody’s Investors 
Service (Moody’s). Other credit default swaps provide an additional  
$1,053 million of protection against our gross exposure and are either 
collateralized or with counterparties rated AAA by S&P and Aaa  
by Moody’s. 

As at October 31, 2007, we had $388 million of exposure to  
U.S. subprime RMBS recorded as available-for-sale, which we intend  
to hold until maturity. As at October 31, 2007, Capital Markets had  
no net exposure to U.S. subprime RMBS after taking into account  
credit default swaps that provide $1,113 million of protection and are 
either collateralized or with counterparties rated AAA by S&P and Aaa 
by Moody’s.

Canadian non-bank-sponsored asset-backed commercial paper 
As at October 31, 2007, we had $4 million of direct holdings of 
Canadian non-bank-sponsored asset-backed commercial paper  
conduits where liquidity is contingent on a general market disruption. 
We are not a significant participant in this market as a distributor or a 
liquidity provider.

Structured investment vehicles
We had $1 million of direct holdings, $140 million of committed liquid-
ity facilities and $88 million of normal course interest rate derivatives 
with structured investment vehicles (SIVs) as at October 31, 2007.  
Our liquidity facilities remained undrawn at October 31, 2007 and we 
do not consider any of our positions to be impaired. We do not manage 
any SIVs.

Impact of U.S. vs. Canadian dollar 
The translated value of our consolidated results is impacted by  
fluctuations in the respective exchange rates relative to the Canadian 
dollar. The following table depicts the effect of translating current year 
Canadian dollar/U.S. dollar consolidated results at the current 
exchange rate in comparison to the historical period’s exchange rate. 
We believe this provides the reader with the ability to assess the 
underlying results on a more comparable basis, particularly given the 
magnitude of the recent changes in the exchange rate and the resulting 
impact on our results.

Certain of our business segment results are also impacted by 
fluctuations in the U.S. dollar, Euro and British pound exchange rates. 
For further details, refer to the Impact of foreign exchange rates on our 
business segments section.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

43

Impact of U.S. dollar vs. Canadian dollar 

Table 5

(C$ millions, except per share amounts) 

Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate (average) 
2007         
2006         
2005         
Percentage change in average US$  
  equivalent of C$1.00 (1) 

Reduced total revenue  
Reduced non-interest expense    
Reduced net income  

Reduced basic EPS  
Reduced diluted EPS  

2007 vs. 
2006 

2006 vs.
2005

$ 

1.093  $ 
1.132 

4% 

230  $ 
139 
47 

.04  $ 
.04  $ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

1.132
1.214

7%

425
215
123

.10
.09

(1)  

Average amounts are calculated using month-end spot rates for the period.

In 2007, the Canadian dollar appreciated 4% on average com-
pared to a year ago resulting in a $47 million decrease in the translated 
value of our U.S. dollar-denominated net income and a decrease of 
$.04 in our current year’s diluted EPS.

Impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards
On November 1, 2006, we adopted three new accounting standards 
related to financial instruments that were issued by the CICA. The 
standards require a greater portion of our Consolidated Balance Sheet 
to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair values reported 
in income in the period they occur, except for available-for-sale securi-
ties, derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, and hedges of net 
investments in foreign operations, the changes in fair value of which 
are recognized in OCI. The standards also provide new guidance on the 
accounting for derivatives in hedging relationships. 

The following table provides the main impacts on our 

Consolidated Statements of Income arising from the application of the 
new financial instruments accounting standards. For further details 
about the financial instruments accounting standards, refer to Notes 1 
and 2 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards 

Table 6

(C$ millions)  

Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
    Insurance premiums, investment and fee income 
    Trading revenue 
    Other 
  Other  

Total revenue 
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 
Net income  

Canadian Banking 
For the year ended October 31, 2007, we recognized a $22 million 
increase in net interest income related to the application of the effec-
tive interest method on our residential mortgage portfolio. In addition, 
we recorded a loss of $160 million in Insurance premiums, investment 
and fee income related to the changes in the fair values of the securi-
ties backing our life and health insurance businesses. These losses 
were largely offset by a corresponding $154 million decrease in the 
measurement of certain liabilities related to life and health insurance 
policies, recorded in Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and 
acquisition expense. 

Capital Markets
For the year ended October 31, 2007, we recognized a gain of  
$18 million in Trading revenue as a result of the net increase in fair  
values in various trading portfolios previously measured at amortized 
cost. This gain includes a $59 million gain on our deposit liabilities 
designated as held-for-trading resulting from the widening of our own 
credit spread during the year. 

Wealth Management
For the year ended October 31, 2007, we recorded a $35 million foreign 
currency translation gain in Non-interest income – Other related to 
deposits used to fund certain Available-for-sale securities denomi-
nated in foreign currencies in order to minimize exposure to changes 
in foreign exchange rates. The corresponding foreign currency transla-
tion loss on the related Available-for-sale securities was recorded  
in AOCI.

2007 

Significantly impacted segments

$ 

22 

Canadian Banking

(160)  Canadian Banking 

18 
Capital Markets 
35  Wealth Management 

Corporate Support 

(77) 

(154)  Canadian Banking 

55 

 8

$ 

Corporate Support
For the year ended October 31, 2007, we recognized a gain of  
$8 million. This consisted of a $32 million gain in Non-interest income –  
Other related to certain long-term funding notes and subordinated 
debentures that were issued and designated as held-for-trading liabili-
ties, including a $29 million gain related to the widening of our own 
credit spread during the year. These amounts were largely offset by 
$24 million of mark-to-market losses mainly related to the recognition 
of the ineffectiveness of hedged items and the related derivatives in 
hedge accounting relationships.

Summary of 2006 and 2005
In 2006, we achieved net income of $4,728 million, up $1,341 million,  
or 40%, from 2005. Our strong earnings reflected solid business 
growth across all business segments and our successful execution of 
growth initiatives, despite the negative impact of the strong Canadian 
dollar on the translated value of our foreign currency-denominated 
results. Our 2005 results reflected the Enron litigation-related provi-
sion. Our strong results in 2006 were also underpinned by generally 
favourable economic and credit conditions in both domestic and inter-
national markets.

In 2006, the Canadian economy grew by 2.8%, primarily bol-
stered by robust domestic demand. These factors were partially offset 
by a weakening in exports and manufacturing activities against a 
backdrop of a strong Canadian dollar, high but falling energy prices, 
slowing U.S. demand and competition from emerging markets. The 
U.S. economy recorded a growth rate of 2.9%, reflecting solid con-
sumer and business spending supported by strong balance sheets as 
well as strength in the labour market, though partly restrained by the 
lagged effects of increases in interest rates and high but falling  
energy prices.

44

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
During 2006, strong consumer lending was supported by favour-

In 2005, the Canadian economy grew by 3.1% (1), reflecting  

able labour market conditions and a relatively low interest rate 
environment. Business lending remained solid, albeit in part offset 
by surpluses of internally generated funds available for capital and 
inventory investment. The favourable credit environment, together 
with healthy household and corporate balance sheets, continued to 
support strong consumer and business credit quality. Capital market 
conditions were generally favourable, characterized by buoyant M&A 
activity in Canada and strong performance of natural resource-based 
equities. Debt origination activity in the U.S. and Europe weakened in 
2006 in part due to rising interest rates and the negative impact of the 
strengthening of the Canadian dollar.

During 2006, a number of specified items were identified, which 

had minimal impacts on our overall results as their effects largely 
offset each other. We realized a favourable resolution of an income 
tax audit related to prior years, resulting in a $70 million reduction in 
income tax expense. We received $51 million related to the termina-
tion of an agreement. We reversed $50 million of general allowance 
related to our corporate loan portfolio. We also recorded a net gain of 
$40 million on the exchange of New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) seats 
for shares in the NYSE Group (NYX). We incurred a net charge of  
$16 million ($19 million after-tax, which included a write-off of 
deferred taxes) related to the transfer of our Institutional & Investor 
Services business to the joint venture RBC Dexia IS. We recorded a  
$61 million (before-tax and after-tax) charge in our insurance business 
for additional estimated net claims for damages predominantly related 
to hurricane Wilma, which occurred in late 2005. In addition, we made 
a $72 million adjustment to increase our credit card customer loyalty 
reward program costs.

In 2005, net income was $3,387 million, up $584 million, or 21%, 

from 2004. Our strong earnings were supported by our successful 
execution of client-focused initiatives and favourable economic condi-
tions, despite the negative impact of an Enron Corp. litigation-related 
provision and charges for net claims related to hurricanes Katrina, Rita 
and Wilma.

strong consumer and business spending underpinned by low inter-
est rates, robust employment growth and rising house prices, albeit 
partially offset by the adverse effects of a strong Canadian dollar and 
higher energy prices. The U.S. economy recorded a growth rate of 
3.1% (1), fuelled by strong consumer spending amid solid job growth 
and surging house prices, despite increases in interest rates and 
energy prices and the dampening impacts of hurricanes Katrina, Rita 
and Wilma. Business investment in the U.S. was buoyed by both 
capital and inventory investment. Strong consumer credit quality was 
supported by resilient debt-servicing capacity and high household 
liquidity, while business credit quality continued to reflect a favour-
able credit and business environment with a general reduction in 
defaults and bankruptcies.

During 2005, we took action to mitigate the uncertainties regard-
ing Enron-related matters, including the settlement of our part of the 
MegaClaims bankruptcy lawsuit brought by Enron against RBC and 
a number of financial institutions for $31 million (US$25 million). In 
addition, we settled an additional $29 million (US$24 million) for rec-
ognition of claims against the Enron bankruptcy. We also established 
a provision of $591 million (US$500 million) or $326 million after-
tax (US$276 million after-tax) for Enron litigation-related matters. 
We recorded a charge of $203 million (US$173 million) before- and 
after-tax for estimated net claims for damages related to hurricanes 
Katrina, Rita and Wilma. We completed the sale of Liberty Insurance 
Services Corporation (LIS) to IBM Corporation (IBM), and entered into 
a long-term agreement with IBM to perform key business processes 
for RBC Insurance U.S. operations. We also completed the sale of cer-
tain assets of RBC Mortgage Company (RBC Mortgage) to Home123 
Corporation.

(1)  

Reflects revised data from Statistics Canada and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. 

Total revenue 

(C$ millions)  

  Interest income 
    Interest expense 

Net interest income 

    Investments (1) 
    Insurance (2) 
    Trading 
    Banking (3) 
    Underwriting and other advisory 
    Other (4) 

Non-interest income  

Total revenue 

Additional information
    Total trading revenue (5) 
        Net interest income – related to trading activities 
        Non-interest income – trading revenue 

    Total  

    Total trading revenue by product (5) 
        Interest rate and credit 
        Equities 
        Foreign exchange and commodities 

    Total  

2007 

2006 

Table 7

2005

$  26,377 
   18,845 

$  22,204 
  15,408 

$  16,981 
10,188

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

7,532 

4,405 
3,152 
2,261 
2,620 
1,217 
1,275 

$ 

$ 

6,796 

3,786 
3,348 
2,574 
2,391 
1,024 
718 

6,793

3,357
3,270
1,594
2,326
1,026
818

$  14,930 

$  13,841 

$  12,391

$  22,462 

$  20,637 

$ 

19,184

$ 

$ 

$ 

(390)  $ 
2,261 

(539)  $ 
2,574 

21
1,594

1,871 

$ 

2,035 

$ 

1,615

$ 

693 
823 
355 

$ 

1,174 
561 
300 

1,025
355
235

$ 

1,871 

$ 

2,035 

$ 

1,615

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Includes brokerage, investment management and mutual funds.
Includes premiums, investment and fee income.
Includes service charges, foreign exchange other than trading, card services and credit fees.
Includes other non-interest income, gain/loss on securities sales and securitization.
Total trading revenue comprises trading-related revenue recorded in Net interest income and Non-interest income. Total trading revenue includes cash and related derivatives. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 vs. 2006
Total revenue increased $1,825 million, or 9%, from a year ago. 
Excluding the impact of the new financial instruments accounting stan-
dards, revenue was up $1,902 million, or 9%. The increase was largely 
due to continued strong balance and volume growth in our banking 
and wealth management businesses and a gain related to the Visa Inc. 
restructuring. Higher revenue from several capital markets businesses 
also contributed to this increase. The strong growth largely reflected 
the successful execution of our strategy including acquisitions, as well 
as generally favourable market conditions for most of the year. These 
factors were partially offset by writedowns on the valuation of U.S. 
subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS, the negative impact of a stronger 
Canadian dollar on the translated value of our U.S. dollar-denominated 
revenue and higher credit card customer loyalty reward program costs. 
For a reconciliation of revenue excluding the impact of the new finan-
cial instruments accounting standards, refer to the Key performance 
and non-GAAP measures section.

Net interest income increased $736 million, or 11%, largely 
driven by strong loan and deposit growth. Net interest margin of 
1.30% was down 5 bps compared to the prior year.

Investments-related revenue increased $619 million, or 16%, 
primarily due to continued growth in fee-based client assets reflect-
ing strong net sales, capital appreciation and the recruitment and 
retention of experienced advisors. Growth in custodian and securities 
lending businesses reflecting strong market activities, and higher 
transactional volumes in our brokerage businesses also contributed to 
the increase.

Insurance-related revenue decreased $196 million, or 6%. 

Excluding the impact of the new financial instruments accounting 
standards, revenue decreased $36 million, or 1%, from the prior year, 
largely reflecting lower U.S. annuity sales mainly due to relatively 
lower long-term interest rates and lower revenue from our property 
catastrophe reinsurance business, which we exited completely this 
year. These factors were partially offset by growth in our European 
life reinsurance and Canadian businesses. For a reconciliation of 
Insurance-related revenue excluding the impact of the new financial 
instruments accounting standards, refer to the Key performance and 
non-GAAP measures section.

Banking revenue was up $229 million, or 10%, mainly due to 
higher transaction volumes and client balances and increased loan 
syndication activity. These factors were partially offset by higher 
credit card customer loyalty reward program costs that were recorded 
against revenue.

Trading revenue decreased by $313 million, or 12%. Total trading 

revenue was $1,871 million, down $164 million, or 8%, from a year 
ago largely due to writedowns totalling $357 million on the valuation 
of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS in our Structured Credit  
business. 

Underwriting and other advisory revenue increased $193 million, 

or 19%, on strong equity origination activity across all geographies 
and improved M&A results, mainly in the U.S. These factors were  
partially offset by lower U.S. debt origination activity in part due to  
the tightening of credit markets in the latter part of 2007 as a result of 
the U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns.

Other revenue increased $557 million, or 78%, largely due to 
a $326 million gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring and gains 
on the fair valuing of credit derivatives used to economically hedge 
our corporate loan portfolio. A favourable adjustment of $40 million 
related to the reallocation of certain foreign investment capital from 

our international insurance operations, which had supported our 
property catastrophe reinsurance business, as we exited this busi-
ness completely this year, a $35 million foreign exchange translation 
gain on certain deposits resulting from the implementation of the new 
financial instruments accounting standards, and higher private equity 
gains and distributions also contributed to the increase.

2006 vs. 2005 
Total revenue increased $1,453 million, or 8%, from 2005, largely due 
to record trading results on improved market conditions and solid 
business growth in our wealth management and banking businesses 
reflecting successful execution of our growth initiatives and favourable  
market conditions. Strong M&A activity and the net gain on the exchange 
of our NYSE seats for NYX shares also contributed to the increase. 
These factors were partially offset by a reduction of $425 million due to 
the negative impact of the stronger Canadian dollar on the translated 
value of our U.S. dollar-denominated revenue, lower debt and equity 
origination activity and certain favourable items recorded in 2005.

Net interest income increased $3 million. Strong loan and deposit 

growth and increased spreads on deposits and personal investment 
products were mostly offset by funding costs related to certain equity 
trading strategies and the impact of higher securitization balances. 
Investments-related revenue increased $429 million, or 13%, 
primarily due to growth in fee-based client assets reflecting strong net 
sales and capital appreciation and the inclusion of Abacus Financial 
Services Group Limited. Higher transactional volumes in our full  
service and self-directed brokerage businesses also contributed to the 
increases.

Insurance-related revenue increased $78 million, or 2%, primarily  

reflecting growth in our Canadian life business and European life  
reinsurance business. This was partially offset by lower revenue in 
our U.S. life business largely due to lower annuity sales, the negative 
impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of our  
U.S. dollar-denominated revenue and lower revenue from property 
catastrophe reinsurance reflecting our strategic reduction in exposure, 
as we ceased underwriting new business.

Banking revenue was up $65 million, or 3%, mainly due to higher 

service fees, higher credit fees related to our investment banking 
activity and increased foreign exchange revenue due to higher trans-
action volume. These factors were partially offset by higher customer 
loyalty reward program costs that were recorded against revenue.

Trading revenue increased by $980 million, or 61%. Total trading  
revenue was $2,035 million, up $420 million, or 26%, from a year ago 
largely due to record trading results on improved market conditions 
and growth in certain equity trading strategies. This was partly offset 
by higher funding costs in support of growth in certain equity trading 
strategies.

Underwriting and other advisory revenue decreased $2 million 

on lower equity origination in Canada mainly reflecting slower activity 
outside the resource sector and lower debt origination largely in the 
U.S. due to the rising interest rate environment. These factors were 
largely offset by stronger M&A activity.

Other revenue decreased $100 million, or 12%, largely due to a 

number of favourable items recorded in 2005 including the gain on the 
sale of an Enron-related claim, a cumulative accounting adjustment 
related to our ownership interest in an investment and the gain on the 
sale of LIS. These factors were partially offset by the receipt of a fee 
related to the termination of an agreement and the net gain on the 
exchange of our NYSE seats for NYX shares, which were both recorded 
in 2006.

Net interest income and margin 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts)  

Net interest income 
Average assets (1) 

Net interest margin (2) 

2007 

2006 

Table 8

2005

$ 

7,532 
  581,000 

$ 

6,796 
  502,100 

$ 

6,793
  445,300

1.30% 

1.35% 

1.53%

(1) 
(2) 

Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Net interest income as a percentage of average assets.

46

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in net interest income (1)  

Table 9

(C$ millions) 

Assets 
Deposits with other banks 
    Canada 
    United States 
    Other International 
Securities 
    Trading 
    Available-for-sale (3) 
    Investments (3) 
Asset purchased under reverse repurchase  
  agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans 
    Canada 
        Retail 
        Wholesale 
    United States 
    Other International 

2007 vs. 2006 

Increase (decrease)  
due to changes in 

2006 vs. 2005

Increase (decrease)  
due to changes in

Average 
volume (2) 

Average 
rate (2) 

Net 
change 

Average 
volume (2) 

Average 
rate (2) 

Net 
change

$ 

11 
71 
31 

1,142 
(230) 
– 

$ 

(9)  $ 

(50) 
4 

423 
141 
– 

$ 

2 
21 
35 

1,565 
(89) 
– 

783 

(160) 

623 

1,025 
– 
348 
778 

194 
(217) 
(218) 
106 

1,219 
(217) 
130 
884 

$ 

10 
11 
35 

863 
– 
22 

404 

697 
146 
108 
172 

$ 

– 
89 
104 

482 
– 
216 

1,069 

423 
(144) 
376 
140 

10
100 
139 

1,345 
–
238

1,473 

1,120 
2 
484 
312

Total interest income 

$ 

3,959 

$ 

214 

$ 

4,173 

$ 

2,468 

$ 

2,755 

$ 

5,223

Liabilities 
Deposits 
    Canada 
    United States 
    Other International 
Obligations related to securities sold short  
Obligations related to assets sold under  
  repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
Subordinated debentures 
Other interest-bearing liabilities 

Total interest expense 

Net interest income 

$ 

(1)  $ 

264 
1,344 
386 

542 
(66) 
89 

$ 

$ 

646 
281 
528 
(460) 

(60) 
(15) 
(41) 

645 
545 
1,872 
(74) 

482 
(81) 
48 

$ 

122 
238 
754 
197 

341 
(18) 
(115) 

$ 

1,178 
733 
737 
493 

421 
(5) 
144 

1,300
971 
1,491 
690 

762 
(23)
29

$ 

$ 

2,558 

1,401 

$ 

$ 

879 

$ 

3,437 

(665)  $ 

736 

$ 

$ 

1,519 

949 

$ 

$ 

3,701 

$ 

5,220

(946)  $ 

3

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Geographic classification for selected assets and liabilities is based on the domicile of the booking point of the subject assets and liabilities.
Volume/rate variance is allocated on the percentage relationship of changes in balances and changes in rates to the total net change in net interest income.
Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value. Prior to November 1, 2006, Available-for-sale securities were classified as investment securities and were carried at amortized cost.

2007 vs. 2006
Net interest margin decreased 5 bps reflecting the impact of changes 
in product mix, an increase in lower-yielding and non-interest-earning 
assets, competitive pressures on our U.S. deposit business, and the 
reversal of accrued interest on higher impaired loans in the U.S. 
Net interest income increased $736 million, or 11%, largely 
driven by strong loan and deposit growth in our banking businesses. 
As noted in Table 9, we experienced higher growth in lower- 
yielding and non-interest-earning assets, including trading securities 
and assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and  
securities borrowed largely in support of our trading and other busi-
ness activities, which generate non-interest income. For further 
details, refer to Table 58 in the Additional financial information section.

2006 vs. 2005
Net interest margin decreased 18 bps compared to 2005, reflecting 
lower net interest income due to higher funding costs in support of 
growth in certain equity trading strategies. An increase in lower-
yielding and non-interest-earning assets, which generate non-interest 
income, largely in support of our trading and other business activities 
also contributed to the decrease. This decrease was partially offset by 
stronger loan and deposit growth and increased spreads on deposits 
and personal investment products.

Non-interest expense 

(C$ millions)  

    Salaries  
    Variable compensation 
    Stock-based compensation 
    Benefits and retention compensation 

    Human resources  
    Equipment 
    Occupancy 
    Communications 
    Professional and other external services  
    Other expenses 

Non-interest expense 

$ 

$ 

2007 

3,541 
2,975 
194 
1,150 

7,860 
1,009 
839 
723 
838 
,204 

$ 

$ 

 1

2006 

3,192 
2,827 
169 
1,080 

7,268 
957 
792 
687 
844 
947 

$ 

$ 

Table 10

2005

3,101
2,309
169
1,103 

6,682
960
749
632 
796
1,538

$  12,473 

$ 

11,495 

$ 

11,357 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 vs. 2006 
Non-interest expense increased $978 million, or 9%, compared to the 
prior year, primarily reflecting higher costs due to increased business 
levels, which included additional sales and service personnel and higher 
variable compensation on higher commission-based revenue in Wealth 
Management. Increased sundry losses and higher processing and 
system development costs also contributed to the increase. Additional 
costs in support of our growth initiatives, including our recent acquisi-
tions, and de novo branch expansion and branch upgrade programs also 
contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by the 
favourable impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value 
of the U.S. dollar-denominated expenses and lower variable compensa-
tion in Capital Markets commensurate with weaker results.

2006 vs. 2005
Non-interest expense increased $138 million, or 1%, compared to 
2005, largely reflecting higher variable compensation primarily in our 
Capital Markets and Wealth Management segments due to strong busi-
ness performance. Higher costs in support of our growth initiatives, 
including a higher level of sales personnel and infrastructure in our 
distribution network, increased costs related to systems application 
development, higher marketing and advertising costs and a larger 
number of branches also contributed to the increase. These factors 
were partially offset by the reduction in the translated value of U.S. 
dollar-denominated expenses due to the stronger Canadian dollar. 
The Enron litigation-related provision and the settlement of the Enron 
MegaClaims bankruptcy lawsuit were recorded in 2005.

Provision for credit losses 

(C$ millions)  

Residential mortgages 
Personal 
Credit cards 
Small business (1) 

Retail    

Business (2) 
Sovereign (3) 
Bank     

Wholesale 

Specific provision 
General provision 

Provision for credit losses  

2007 

2006 

2005

Table 11

$ 

$ 

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

13 
364 
223 
34 

634 

148 

– 

148 

782 
9 

791 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

6 
306 
163 
29 

504 

(22) 
– 
– 

(22)  $ 

482 
(53) 

429 

$ 

$ 

2
259
194 
27

482

(93)
–
– 

(93) 

389 
66

455

Specific PCL as a % of average net loans and acceptances 

.33% 

.23% 

.21%

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

2007 vs. 2006 
Total provision for credit losses (PCL) increased $362 million, or 84%, 
compared to the prior year, which had been at a cyclically low level, 
and has trended up towards the historical average. The increase 
reflected higher provisions for both of our wholesale and retail loan 
portfolios, primarily reflecting portfolio growth and higher impaired  
loans in our U.S. residential builder finance business triggered by the 
downturn in the U.S. housing market. Specific PCL as a percentage  
of average net loans and acceptances increased from a year ago, 
largely reflecting higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder 
finance business.

Specific PCL for retail loans was up $130 million, or 26%, from 
a year ago. The increase was primarily attributable to higher provi-
sions in our credit cards and personal unsecured credit line portfolios, 
largely reflecting higher loss rates and portfolio growth.  

Specific PCL for wholesale loans increased $170 million over the 
prior year. The increase was largely attributable to our business port-
folio mainly due to higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder 
finance business and higher write-offs in Canada. Lower recoveries in 
our corporate loan portfolio this year also contributed to the increase 
in provisions. 

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 

(C$ millions)  

  Insurance policyholder benefits and claims 
  Insurance policyholder acquisition expense 

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 

The general provision increased $62 million from a year ago, pri-

marily reflecting a $50 million reversal of the general allowance related 
to our corporate loan portfolio in the prior year. Higher provisions in 
our U.S. residential builder finance business loan portfolio, largely 
reflecting a weakening in credit quality as a result of the downturn in 
the U.S. housing market, also contributed to the increase. 

2006 vs. 2005
Provision for credit losses decreased $26 million, or 6%, from 2005. 
The decrease largely reflected a $50 million reversal of the general 
allowance in 2006 related to our corporate loan portfolio in Capital 
Markets in light of the continued favourable credit conditions and 
the strengthening of the credit quality of our corporate portfolio, the 
favourable impact of the higher level of securitized credit cards, and 
the continued strong credit quality of our U.S. loan portfolio. In 2005,  
we also recorded a provision related to our 50% proportionate share of 
a provision booked at Moneris Solutions, Inc. (Moneris). These factors 
were partially offset by higher provisions for our Canadian personal 
loan and small business portfolios, as well as lower recoveries in our 
corporate and agriculture loan portfolios.

Table 12

2007 

1,588 
585 

$ 

2006 

1,939 
570 

$ 

2005

2,103
522

2,173 

$ 

2,509 

$ 

2,625

$ 

$ 

48

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 vs. 2006 
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 
(PBCAE) decreased $336 million, or 13%, from the prior year. Excluding 
the impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards and 
the prior year hurricane-related charges, PBCAE decreased $121 mil-
lion, or 5%, over last year. The decrease was largely attributable to 
the impact of lower U.S. annuity sales and a higher level of favourable 
net actuarial liability adjustments this year, which included cumulative 
adjustments of $92 million related to prior periods. These factors were 
partially offset by increased costs commensurate with growth in our 
European life reinsurance and Canadian businesses. For a reconcilia-
tion of PBCAE excluding the impact of the new financial instruments 
accounting standards, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP 
measures section.

2006 vs. 2005 
PBCAE decreased $116 million, or 4%, compared to 2005. The 
decrease primarily reflected a $142 million (before- and after-tax) 
reduction in hurricane-related charges for net claims, as we recorded 
$203 million in 2005 related to hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma 
and $61 million for additional claims in 2006 predominantly related 
to hurricane Wilma. The favourable impact on the translated value of 
U.S. dollar-denominated actuarial liabilities as a result of the stronger 
Canadian dollar and lower U.S. annuity sales also contributed to the 
decrease. These factors were partially offset by higher benefits and 
claims costs associated with business growth and a reduced level of 
net favourable actuarial liability adjustments in 2006.

Taxes 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts)  

Income taxes 

Other taxes
    Goods and services and sales taxes 
    Payroll taxes 
    Capital taxes 
    Property taxes (1) 
    Insurance premium taxes 
    Business taxes 

Total income and other taxes 

Net income before income taxes 

Effective income tax rate (2) 
Effective total tax rate (3) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

Table 13

2007 

2006 

2005

1,392 

$ 

1,403 

$ 

1,278

208 
227 
117 
97 
41 
8 

698 

2,090 

7,025 

19.8% 
27.1% 

$ 

$ 

$ 

218 
217 
107 
92 
39 
7 

680 

2,083 

6,204 

22.6% 
30.3% 

$ 

$ 

$ 

218
220 
164
93
39 
9

743

2,021

4,702

27.2%
37.1%

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Includes amounts netted against non-interest income regarding investment properties.
Income taxes, as a percentage of net income before income taxes.
Total income and other taxes as a percentage of net income before income and other taxes. 

Our operations are subject to a variety of taxes, including taxes on 
income and capital assessed by Canadian federal and provincial 
governments and taxes on income assessed by the governments of 
international jurisdictions where we operate. Taxes are also assessed 
on expenditures and supplies consumed in support of our operations.

2007 vs. 2006
Income tax expense decreased $11 million, or 1%, from a year ago, 
despite higher earnings before income taxes. The effective tax rate of 
19.8% compared favourably to 22.6% a year ago. The lower effective 
tax rate was largely due to writedowns on the valuation of U.S. sub-
prime RMBS and CDOs of ABS reported by our subsidiaries operating 
in jurisdictions with higher income tax rates, the gain related to the 
Visa Inc. restructuring, which is taxed at the capital gains tax rate, and 
a higher level of income from tax-advantaged sources (Canadian tax-
able corporate dividends). 

In addition to the income and other taxes reported in our 
Consolidated Statements of Income, we recorded income taxes of 
$946 million in 2007 (2006 – $136 million) in Shareholders’ equity, 
an increase of $810 million, primarily reflecting an increase in unreal-
ized foreign currency translation gains as shown in Note 24 to our 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

2006 vs. 2005
Income taxes were up in 2006 compared to 2005, largely reflecting  
higher earnings and the impact of the Enron litigation-related provision 
recorded in 2005. The effective income tax rate for 2006 decreased 
4.6% primarily due to higher earnings reported by our subsidiaries 
operating in jurisdictions with lower income tax rates, a higher level 
of income from tax-advantaged sources (Canadian taxable corporate 
dividends), and the favourable resolution of income tax audits in 2006 
related to prior years.

Other taxes increased by $18 million from a year ago, largely due 

Other taxes decreased $63 million, largely due to lower capital 

to increased payroll taxes reflecting higher staffing levels and higher 
capital taxes due to an increased Canadian capital tax base on which 
capital taxes are levied. Increased property taxes reflecting a higher 
number of branches also contributed to the increase. These factors 
were partially offset by lower goods and services and sales taxes due 
to a decrease in the goods and services tax (GST) rate.

taxes primarily related to recoveries of capital taxes paid in prior  
periods and a lower Canadian capital base on which capital taxes  
are levied.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Results by geographic segment (1) 

Table 14

2007 

2006 

2005

(C$ millions) 

Canada 

United 
Other 
States International 

Total 

Canada 

United 
Other 
States International 

Total 

Canada 

United 
Other 
States International 

Total

Net interest income 
Non-interest income 

$  6,435 
  8,605 

$ 

412 
  4,322 

$ 6

85 
  2,003 

$  7,532 
 14,930 

$  6,045 
  7,518 

$ 

108 
  4,397 

$ 

643 
  1,926 

$  6,796 
 13,841 

$  5,628 
  6,878 

$ 

608 
  3,955 

$ 

557 
  1,558 

$  6,793 
 12,391

Total revenue 
Provision for (recovery of)  
  credit losses 
Insurance policyholder benefits,  
  claims and acquisition expense 
Non-interest expense 
Business realignment charges 
Income taxes and  
  non-controlling interest 

Net income from continuing  
  operations 

Net income (loss) from  
  discontinued operations 

Net income 

 15,040 

  4,734 

  2,688 

 22,462 

  13,563 

  4,505 

  2,569 

 20,637 

 12,506 

  4,563 

  2,115 

  19,184 

696 

90 

5 

791 

456 

(28) 

1 

429 

433 

23 

(1) 

455 

  1,230 
  7,409 
– 

474 
  3,405 
– 

469 
  1,659 
– 

  2,173 
 12,473 
– 

  1,379 
  7,056 
– 

683 
  3,038 
– 

447 
  1,401 
– 

  2,509 
  11,495 
– 

  1,270 
  6,685 
45 

809 
  3,595 
– 

546 
  1,077 
– 

  2,625 
  11,357 
45 

  1,788 

(13) 

(242) 

  1,533 

  1,495 

13 

(61) 

  1,447 

  1,299 

(64) 

30 

  1,265

$  3,917 

$ 

778 

$ 

797 

$  5,492 

$  3,177 

$ 

799 

$ 

781 

$  4,757 

$  2,774 

$ 

200 

$ 

463 

$  3,437

$ 

– 

$  3,917 

$ 

$ 

– 

778 

$ 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

797 

$  5,492 

$  3,177 

$ 

$ 

(29)  $ 

– 

$ 

(29)  $ 

– 

770 

$ 

781 

$  4,728 

$  2,774 

$ 

$ 

(50)  $ 

– 

$ 

(50)

150 

$ 

463 

$  3,387

(1) 

For geographic reporting, our segments are grouped into Canada, United States and Other International. Transactions are primarily recorded in the location that best reflects the risk 
due to negative changes in economic conditions and prospects for growth due to positive economic changes. This location frequently corresponds with the location of the legal entity 
through which the business is conducted and the location of our clients. Transactions are recorded in the local currency and are subject to foreign exchange rate fluctuations with 
respect to the movement of the Canadian dollar.

2007 vs. 2006
Net income in Canada was $3,917 million, up $740 million, or 23%, 
compared to the prior year. This increase largely reflected strong 
volume and balance growth in our domestic banking and wealth man-
agement businesses and a gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring. 
Higher trading results, improved equity origination activity and higher 
loan syndication activity also contributed to the increase. These fac-
tors were partially offset by higher costs reflecting increased business 
levels and in support of growth initiatives, higher provisions for credit 
losses and higher credit card customer loyalty reward program costs 
this year.

U.S. net income of $778 million was up $8 million, or 1%, from 

the prior year. Solid revenue growth reflecting the inclusion of our 
recent acquisitions and improved equity origination and M&A activ-
ity was mostly offset by the negative impact of the stronger Canadian 
dollar on the translated value of our U.S. dollar-denominated earnings, 
higher costs in support of business growth and higher provision for 
credit losses, which primarily reflected higher impaired loans in our 
U.S. residential builder finance business.

Other international net income of $797 million was up $16 million, 

or 2%, from 2006, partly due to stronger insurance results reflecting 
the absence of hurricane-related charges this year and a favourable 
adjustment related to the reallocation of certain foreign investment 
capital this year. Growth at RBC Dexia IS also contributed to the 
increase. These factors were largely offset by lower trading results  
in certain fixed income businesses as a result of writedowns on the 
valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS.

2006 vs. 2005
Net income in Canada was $3,177 million, up $403 million, or 15%, 
compared to 2005. This increase largely reflected strong revenue 
growth in our wealth management and banking businesses due to our 
successful execution of growth initiatives, the continuing favourable 
economic conditions and stronger M&A activity. These factors were 
partly offset by higher variable compensation on stronger business 
performance and increased costs in support of business growth.

U.S. net income of $770 million was up $620 million, or 413%, 

from 2005 and comprises net income from continuing operations  
of $799 million and a net loss from discontinued operations of  
$29 million. U.S. net income from continuing operations was up  
$599 million, or 300%, compared to 2005 largely reflecting the Enron 
litigation-related provision and strong trading results in 2006. These 
factors were partially offset by lower debt originations, lower U.S. 
annuity sales, the negative impact of the stronger Canadian dollar on 
the translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated income and the gain 
recorded in the prior year on the sale of LIS in 2005.

Net loss from discontinued operations of $29 million in 2006 

compared to a net loss of $50 million in 2005. The 2006 net loss 
reflected charges related to the wind down of operations of RBC 
Mortgage Company. The 2005 net loss largely reflected charges 
related to the sale and wind down of operations, including the costs of 
closing RBC Mortgage Company’s Chicago office and certain branches, 
employee incentive payments and the write down of certain assets.
Other international net income was up $318 million, or 69%, 
from 2005, mainly reflecting the lower net estimated hurricane-related 
charges and income tax amounts, which were largely related to enter-
prise-funding activities and solid business growth in our European 
life reinsurance business. These factors were partially offset by lower 
revenue from property catastrophe reinsurance reflecting our strategic 
reduction in exposure.

Related party transactions

In the ordinary course of business, we provide normal banking  
services, operational services and enter into other transactions with 
associated and other related corporations, including our joint venture 
entities, on terms similar to those offered to non-related parties. 

We grant loans to directors, officers and other employees at rates 

normally accorded to preferred clients. In addition, we offer deferred 
share and other plans to non-employee directors, executives and  
certain other key employees. For further information, refer to Notes 9 
and 29 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

50

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Quarterly financial information

Results and trend analysis

Our quarterly earnings, revenue and expenses are impacted by a  
number of trends and recurring factors which include seasonality,  

general economic conditions and competition. The following table 
summarizes our results for the last eight quarters.

Quarterly results  

Table 15

(C$ millions, except per share amounts) 

Q4 

Q3 

Q2 

Q1 

Q4 

Q3 

Q2 

Q1

2007 

2006

    Net interest income 
    Non-interest income 

Total revenue 
    Non-interest expense 
    Provision for credit losses 
    Insurance policyholder benefits,  
      claims and acquisition expense 

Net income before income taxes and  
  non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
    Income taxes 
    Non-controlling interest in net income  
      of subsidiaries 

$  1,828 
  3,787 

$  5,615 
  3,093 
263 

$  1,965 
  3,515 

$  5,480 
  3,165 
178 

$  1,889 
  3,780 

$  5,669 
  3,148 
188 

$  1,850 
  3,848 

$  5,698 
  3,067 
162 

$  1,731 
  3,618 

$  5,349 
  2,955 
159 

$  1,766 
  3,440 

$  5,206 
  2,861 
99 

$  1,617 
  3,505 

$  5,122 
  2,928 
124 

$  1,682
  3,278

$  4,960
  2,751
47

637 

343 

677 

516 

611 

627 

619 

652

$  1,622 
255 

$  1,794 
349 

$  1,656 
353 

$  1,953 
435 

$  1,624 
342 

$  1,619 
381 

$  1,451 
348 

$  1,510
332

43 

50 

24 

24 

19 

44 

(25) 

6

Net income from continuing operations 
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations 

$  1,324 
– 

$  1,395 
– 

$  1,279 
– 

$  1,494 
– 

$  1,263 
(1) 

$  1,194 
(17) 

$  1,128 
(10) 

$  1,172
(1)

Net income 

$  1,324 

$  1,395 

$  1,279 

$  1,494 

$  1,262 

$  1,177 

$  1,118 

$  1,171

    Earnings per share  – basic  

– diluted 

Segment net income (loss) 
    Canadian Banking 
    Wealth Management 
    U.S. & International Banking 
    Capital Markets 
    Corporate Support 

$  1.02 
$  1.01 

$ 
1.07 
$  1.06 

$ 

899 
180 
21 
186 
38 

$ 

699 
177 
87 
360 
72 

$ 
$ 

$ 

.99 
.98 

618 
194 
67 
350 
50 

$ 
$ 

$ 

1.16 
1.14 

771 
211 
67 
396 
49 

.97 
.96 

675 
164 
79 
300 

$ 
$ 

$ 

 45

$ 
$ 

$ 

.91 
.90 

660 
136 
82 
303 
13 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

.86 
.85 

511 
159 
62 
414 
(18) 

.90
.89

580
145
38 
338 
71

Net income 

$  1,324 

$  1,395 

$  1,279 

$  1,494 

$  1,263 

$  1,194 

$  1,128 

$  1,172

Period average USD equivalent of C$1.00 (1) 
Period-end USD equivalent of C$1.00 

$  1.001 
  1.059 

$ 

.937 
.937 

$ 

.874 
.901 

$ 

.861 
.850 

$ 

.897 
.890 

$ 

.896 
.884 

$ 

.877 
.894 

$ 

.865
.878

(1) 

Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.

Seasonality
Seasonal factors impact our results in most quarters. The second 
quarter has fewer days than the other three quarters, resulting in a 
decrease primarily in net interest income and certain expense items. 
The third and fourth quarters include the summer months during  
which market activity frequently slows, negatively impacting the 
results of our capital markets, brokerage and investment management 
businesses. 

Impact of economic and market conditions
In general, economic conditions remained favourable over most of the 
last eight quarters and positively impacted our businesses. Economic 
conditions were negatively impacted in the latter part of 2007, mainly 
attributable to the U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns. For a  
further discussion, refer to the Overview of 2007 section.

The strengthening of the Canadian dollar over the period resulted 

in lower translated value of our U.S. dollar-denominated earnings,  
primarily in our wholesale banking business and U.S. retail operations.

Overview and consolidated results
Over the last eight quarters, our results were affected by a number 
of favourable and unfavourable items or events. Our fourth quarter 
2007 results were impacted by the writedowns on the valuation of 
U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS, the gain related to the Visa Inc. 
restructuring, and higher credit card customer loyalty reward program 
costs. In the first quarter of 2007 we recorded a favourable adjustment 
related to the reallocation of foreign investment capital and our  

insurance business results were negatively impacted by hurricane-
related charges of $61 million (before- and after-tax). During the same 
quarter, we also recorded a $50 million reversal of the general allow-
ance in light of the strong credit quality of our corporate loan portfolio, 
which partially reflected the favourable credit conditions. Our results 
over the last eight quarters were also impacted by the acquisition of 
certain businesses. For further discussion, refer to the Overview of 
2007 section.

Our consolidated net income consistently exceeded $1 billion 
over the last eight quarters. These strong results largely reflected a 
general increase in revenue across all our business segments. This 
positive trend was partially offset by the lower translated value of 
foreign currency-denominated earnings as a result of the strengthen-
ing of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar during most of the 
period, with the effects being more pronounced in the most recent 
quarter.

Non-interest expense generally increased over the last eight 
quarters, largely reflecting increased variable compensation on strong 
business performance and higher costs due to increased business activ-
ity volume, acquisitions and higher spending in support of our growth 
initiatives. 

Provision for credit losses was at a cyclically low level during 
most of the period, primarily reflecting a generally benign credit envi-
ronment and favourable corporate recoveries. However, it increased 
over the past year due to portfolio growth, as well as increasing loss 
rates and higher impairments, both of which have trended up towards 
historical averages. In the fourth quarter of 2007, the provision for 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business segment results
Canadian Banking net income generally increased over the last eight 
quarters reflecting strong volume growth across most business lines. 
Margins have decreased slightly over the latter part of 2007, primarily 
due to strong market competition. Our results in the fourth quarter 
of 2007 were favourably impacted by the gain related to the Visa Inc. 
restructuring, which was partly offset by higher credit card customer 
loyalty reward program costs. Also, the first quarter of 2007 was 
positively impacted by a favourable adjustment related to the realloca-
tion of foreign investment capital while the first quarter of 2006 was 
adversely impacted by hurricane-related charges.

Wealth Management net income has generally trended higher 
over the last eight quarters, driven largely by strong growth in fee-
based client assets across all business lines reflecting new sales, 
capital appreciation and the recruitment and retention of experienced 
advisors. This has been partially offset by higher variable compensa-
tion commensurate with commission-based revenue and higher costs 
in support of business growth, including recent acquisitions.

U.S. & International Banking results were generally stable dur-
ing the period except for the fourth quarter of 2007. The decrease in 
earnings in the fourth quarter of 2007 was primarily attributable to the 
higher provisions in our U.S. residential builder finance loan portfolio 
reflecting higher impaired loans. In addition, net income was impacted 
by higher costs in support of business growth, including recent acqui-
sitions and de novo branch openings.

Capital Markets recorded a general improvement in earnings over 
the period, with the exception of the fourth quarter of 2007, which was 
impacted by the writedowns on the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS 
and CDOs of ABS over concerns related to the U.S. subprime mortgage 
market. Throughout 2006 and most of 2007, our diverse business 
and product offerings, together with business expansions and grow-
ing global distribution capabilities, contributed to this positive trend. 
However, these factors were partially offset by the lower translated 
value of U.S. dollar- and British pound-denominated earnings resulting 
from the stronger Canadian dollar.

Non-interest expense increased $138 million, or 5%, from a  
year ago, largely reflecting higher costs in support of our business 
initiatives, including higher staffing levels, our recent acquisitions and 
de novo branch openings. These factors were partially offset by lower 
variable compensation in Capital Markets due to weaker results.

Provision for credit losses increased $104 million from a year ago, 

largely reflecting higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder 
finance business portfolio, primarily driven by the downturn in the  
U.S. housing market. Higher provisions commensurate with growth  
in our credit card portfolio and higher impairment in our business  
portfolio also contributed to the increase.

PBCAE increased $26 million, or 4%, over the prior year, primarily 

due to the impact of the new financial instruments accounting stan-
dards, increased costs associated with growth in our European life  
reinsurance business as well as less favourable claims experience 
in the current period. These factors were partly offset by reduced 
expenses associated with lower U.S. annuity sales, a higher level of 
favourable net actuarial liability adjustments, and the favourable 
impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of U.S. 
dollar-denominated expenses.

credit losses increased in our U.S. & International Banking segment 
due to higher impaired loans, primarily driven by the downturn in the 
U.S. housing market. The decrease in provisions in the first quarter of 
2006 was primarily due to a $50 million reversal of the general allow-
ance in light of the strong credit quality of our corporate loan portfolio 
at that time.

PBCAE fluctuated considerably over the period. Although under-

lying business growth has generally increased PBCAE, there can be 
significant quarterly volatility resulting from claims experience, actu-
arial liability adjustments and capital market impacts on equities  
backing universal life policyholder funds. The impact of the new 
financial instruments accounting standards implemented in the first 
quarter of 2007 introduced additional volatility to this line. Other than 
claims experience and actuarial liability adjustments, these items are 
predominantly offset in Insurance-related revenue. As well, the first 
quarter of 2006 was impacted by hurricane-related charges.

Our effective income tax rate has generally trended downward 

from 22.0% to 15.7% over the period, despite higher earnings before 
income taxes. This largely reflected higher income from tax-advantaged 
sources (Canadian taxable corporate dividends), favourable income 
tax settlements in the first quarter of 2006 and the second and third 
quarters of 2007. The fourth quarter of 2007 reflected writedowns on 
the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS reported by our 
subsidiaries operations in jurisdictions with higher income tax rates 
and a lower tax rate on the gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring.
Non-controlling interest in net income of subsidiaries fluctuated 
over the period, which depends on the net income attributed to third-
party investors in entities in which we do not have 100% ownership, 
but are required to consolidate.

Fourth quarter 2007 performance

Fourth quarter net income of $1,324 million was up $62 million, or 5%, 
from a year ago despite the $48 million unfavourable impact of the 
stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of U.S. dollar- 
denominated earnings. Diluted EPS were $1.01, up 5%. ROE was 
23.0% compared to 23.9% a year ago. The increase was primarily due 
to a gain on the Visa Inc. restructuring, higher equity derivatives and 
foreign exchange trading results and solid volume and balance growth 
in our banking and wealth management businesses. These factors 
were partly offset by writedowns on the valuation of U.S. subprime 
RMBS and CDOs of ABS, and an adjustment to increase our credit card  
customer loyalty reward program costs.

Total revenue increased $266 million, or 5%, from a year ago, 
largely reflecting a gain on the Visa Inc. restructuring, higher equity 
derivatives and foreign exchange trading revenue and continued solid 
volume and balance growth in our banking and wealth management 
businesses. The favourable impact of the new financial instruments  
accounting standards, the inclusion of recent acquisitions and 
improved M&A activity also contributed to the increase. These factors 
were partly offset by lower trading revenue in our fixed income busi-
nesses reflecting the writedowns on the valuation of U.S. subprime 
RMBS and CDOs of ABS and an adjustment to increase our credit card 
customer loyalty reward program costs.

52

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Business segment results

Results by business segment 

(C$ millions) 

    Net interest income 
    Non-interest income 

Total revenue 
    Non-interest expense 
    Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 
    Insurance policyholder benefits,  
      claims and acquisition expense 
    Business realignment charges  

    Net income before income taxes and  
      non-controlling interest in net income  
      of subsidiaries  
Net income 

Return on equity (ROE) (2) 
Return on risk capital (RORC) (2) 
Average assets (3) 

2007 

Table 16

2006 

2005

Canadian 
Wealth 
Banking  Management 

U.S. & 
International 
Banking 

 Capital 
Markets (1) 

Corporate 
Support (1) 

Total 

Total 

Total

$ 

6,353  $ 

427  $  1,031  $ 

453  $ 

  6,168 

  3,565 

884 

  3,936 

$  12,521  $  3,992  $  1,915  $  4,389  $ 

  5,285 
788 

  2,902 
1 

  1,481 
109 

2,769 
(22) 

(732)  $ 
377 

7,532  $  6,796  $  6,793
  12,391

  13,841 

  14,930 

(355)  $  22,462  $  20,637  $  19,184
  11,357
455

  11,495 
429 

  12,473 
791 

36 
(85) 

  2,173 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

2,173 
– 

  2,509 
– 

  2,625
45

$ 
$ 

4,275  $  1,089  $ 
2,987  $ 
762   $ 

325  $  1,642  $ 
242  $  1,292  $ 

7,025  $  6,204  $  4,702 
(306)  $ 
209  $  5,492  $  4,757  $  3,437

  34.3% 
  45.5% 

  18.0%
  29.3%
$ 220,000  $  16,600  $  39,700  $ 311,200  $  (6,500)  $ 581,000  $ 502,300  $ 447,100

  24.6% 
  37.4% 

  23.5% 
  36.7% 

  26.6% 
  32.5% 

6.9% 
  11.7% 

  32.4% 
  65.1% 

6.7% 
n.m. 

(1) 

Net interest income, total revenue and net income before income taxes are presented in Capital Markets on a taxable equivalent basis. The taxable equivalent basis adjustment is  
eliminated in the Corporate Support segment. For a further discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section.
Average risk capital and the Return on risk capital are key performance measures. For further details, refer to Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.

(2) 
(3) 
n.m.  not meaningful

Canadian Banking 
Net income increased $561 million, or 23%, from a year ago. The 
increase primarily reflected strong growth across all our business lines 
as well as a gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring, partially offset 
by higher costs in support of business growth, increased provision for 
credit losses and higher credit card customer loyalty reward program 
costs this year. Our prior year results also included the hurricane-
related charges and the receipt of a fee related to the termination of 
an agreement, whereas this year we included a favourable adjustment 
related to the reallocation of certain foreign investment capital.

Wealth Management
Net income for the year of $762 million increased $158 million, or 
26%, from a year ago. The increase was largely due to strong earnings 
growth across all our business lines reflecting the ongoing success ful 
execution of our growth initiatives and generally favourable market 
conditions. We recorded a foreign exchange translation gain on certain 
deposits in the current year related to the implementation of the new 
financial instruments accounting standards. 

U.S. & International Banking
Net income decreased $19 million, or 7%, from the prior year. The 
decrease was largely attributable to increased provision for credit 
losses, primarily reflecting higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential 
builder finance business. This was partially offset by strong business 

growth in RBC Dexia IS, as well as higher loan and deposit growth in 
the U.S. reflecting the inclusion of our acquisitions of Flag and the 
AmSouth branches, de novo branch openings and business  
expansion. Our results also reflected higher costs in support of 
business growth and a loss on the restructuring of our U.S. banking 
investment portfolio this year. 

Capital Markets
Net income decreased $63 million, or 5%, compared to a year ago 
largely due to the writedowns on the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS 
and CDOs of ABS in our Structured Credit business. The negative 
impact of the stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of U.S. 
dollar-denominated earnings also contributed to the decrease. These 
factors were partially offset by broad-based revenue growth in many 
other businesses.

Corporate Support 
Net income of $209 million for the year included income tax amounts 
largely related to enterprise funding activities that were not allocated 
to the business segments and favourable income tax settlements 
related to prior years. These factors were partially offset by the mark-
to-market losses on derivatives relating to certain economic hedges, a 
cumulative adjustment for losses resulting from the fair valuing of cer-
tain derivatives that did not qualify for hedge accounting and higher 
capital taxes that were not allocated to the business segments.

Revenue contribution from our business segments (C$ millions) 

Net income contribution from our business segments (C$ millions) 

25,000

20,000

15,000

10,000

5,000

0

U.S. & International Banking

Wealth Management

Capital Markets

Canadian Banking

6,000

4,800

3,600

2,400

1,200

0

2005

2006

2007

2005

2006

2007

U.S. & International Banking

Wealth Management

Capital Markets

Canadian Banking

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

53

 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
How we measure and report our business segments

Our management reporting framework is intended to measure the 
performance of each business segment as if it were a stand-alone 
business and reflect the way that business segment is managed. This 
approach is intended to ensure that our business segments’ results 
reflect all relevant revenue and expenses associated with the conduct 
of their business and it depicts how management views those results.

The following highlights the key aspects of how our business  

segments are managed and reported:
• 

Canadian Banking reported results include securitized Canadian 
residential mortgage and credit card loans and related amounts 
for income and provision for credit losses. The securitized resi-
dential mortgage and credit card loans included as at October 31, 
2007 were $19 billion and $4 billion, respectively 
•  Wealth Management reported results include additional  

• 

• 

• 

disclosures in U.S. dollars for its U.S. & International Wealth 
Management business line, as we review and manage the results 
of this business line largely in U.S. dollars
U.S. & International Banking reported results include additional 
disclosure in U.S. dollars for its Banking business line, as we 
review and manage the results of this business line largely on a 
U.S. dollar basis
Capital Markets results are reported on a taxable equivalent  
basis (teb), which grosses up Net interest income from certain 
tax-advantaged sources (Canadian taxable corporate dividends) 
to their effective taxable equivalent value with a corresponding 
offset recorded in the provision for income taxes. This increases 
comparability between taxable and tax-advantaged sources  
of revenue
Corporate Support results include all enterprise level activities 
that are undertaken for the benefit of the organization that are 
not allocated to our four business segments, such as enterprise 
funding, securitizations and net charges associated with unat-
tributed capital. The reported results of the Corporate Support 
segment also reflect consolidation adjustments, including the 
elimination of the teb adjustments recorded in Capital Markets.

Key methodologies 
The following outlines the key methodologies and assumptions used 
in our management reporting framework. These assumptions and 
methodologies are periodically reviewed by management to ensure 
they remain valid.

Expense allocation
In order to ensure that our business segments’ results include 
expenses associated with the conduct of their business, we allocate 
costs incurred or services provided by GTO and Global Functions, 
which are directly undertaken or provided on the business segments’ 
behalf. For other costs not directly attributable to our business seg-
ments, including overhead costs and other indirect expenses, we use 
our management reporting framework for allocating these costs to each 
business segment in a manner that reflects the underlying benefits.

Capital attribution
Our framework also assists in the attribution of capital to our business 
segments in a manner that is intended to consistently measure and 
align economic costs with the underlying benefits and risks associated 
with the activities of each business segment. The amount of capital 
assigned to each business segment is referred to as attributed capital.  
Unattributed capital and associated net charges, are reported in 
Corporate Support.

The capital attribution methodologies, detailed in the Capital 

management section, involve a number of assumptions and estimates 
that involve judgment and are revised periodically. Any changes to these 
factors directly impact other measures such as business segment return 
on average common equity and return on average risk capital. 

54

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Funds transfer pricing 
Our funds transfer pricing methodology is used to allocate interest 
income and expense to each business segment. This allocation consid-
ers the interest rate risk, liquidity risk and regulatory requirements 
of our business segments. Our business segments may retain certain 
interest rate exposures, subject to management approval, that would 
be expected in the normal course of operations. Other activities con-
ducted between our business segments are generally conducted at 
market rates. 

Taxable equivalent basis (teb) 
Similar to many other institutions, we analyze income from certain  
tax-advantaged sources (Canadian taxable corporate dividends) on a 
taxable equivalent basis. Under this approach, we gross up revenue 
from certain tax-advantaged sources, which currently only includes 
our Canadian taxable corporate dividends recorded in Net interest 
income, to their effective taxable equivalent value with a correspond-
ing offset recorded in the provision for income taxes. We record teb 
adjustments in Capital Markets and record elimination adjustments 
in Corporate Support. We believe these adjustments are useful and 
reflect how Capital Markets manages its business since it increases 
the comparability of revenue and related ratios across taxable and our 
principal tax-advantaged sources of revenue. The use of teb adjust-
ments and measures may not be comparable to similar GAAP measures 
or similarly adjusted amounts at other financial institutions. The teb 
adjustment for 2007 was $332 million (2006 – $213 million, 2005 – 
$109 million).

Changes made in 2007 
The following highlights the key changes we made to our management 
reporting framework and business segments during the year. All seg-
ment results have been revised accordingly for 2006 and 2005. These 
changes did not have an impact on our consolidated results or disclo-
sure, unless otherwise noted.
•  We revised the assets under administration – RBC Dexia IS 

amount for 2006 to reflect the total assets under administration 
amount reported by our joint venture. We had previously disclosed 
only the total assets under custody amount related to RBC Dexia IS.

•  We revised our definitions of assets under administration and 

assets under management to better align them with our business- 
specific practices. This change did not impact the amounts 
reported for 2006 and 2005.

•  We reclassified certain amounts reported in Capital Markets from 

Interest income to Interest expense. There was no impact to Net 
interest income as a result of this reclassification.

•  We reclassified certain amounts reported in Corporate Support 
related to interest settlements on swaps in fair value hedge  
relationships from Non-interest income to Net interest income. 
This reclassification did not impact results for 2006 and 2005.
•  We reclassified certain deposits reported in Capital Markets and 

U.S. & International Banking related to RBC Dexia IS, in  
accordance with the Q2 2007 business segment realignment. 

•  We reclassified expenses related to internally developed 

software from Non-interest expense – Other to more specific 
Non-interest expense lines. All related comparative amounts 
were updated to reflect this reclassification, which impacted the 
Corporate Support segment only and had no impact on total Non-
interest expense.
Certain amounts related to trustee services within Canadian 
Banking were reclassified from Non-interest income – Investment 
management and custodial fees to Net interest income to better 
reflect their nature. 

• 

Impact of foreign exchange rates on our business segments 

The translated value of our business segment results is impacted by 
fluctuations in the respective exchange rates relative to the Canadian 
dollar. Wealth Management, U.S. & International Banking and Capital 
Markets each have significant U.S. dollar-denominated operations, 
while U.S. & International Banking has material Euro-denominated 
results related to RBC Dexia IS, and Capital Markets has significant 
British pound-denominated operations.

In 2007, the Canadian dollar appreciated 4% on average rela-
tive to the U.S. dollar and depreciated 5% on average relative to both 
the British pound and Euro compared to a year ago. As a result of 
the impact of the changes in the respective exchange rates from last 
year, Wealth Management net income was down $9 million, U.S. & 
International Banking net income was up $4 million, while Capital 
Markets net income was down $30 million. For further discussion, 
refer to the applicable business segment results section.

Key performance and non-GAAP measures 

Key performance measures
Return on equity and Return on risk capital 
We measure and evaluate the performance of our consolidated opera-
tions and each business segment using a number of financial metrics 
such as net income, return on average common equity (ROE) and 
return on average risk capital (RORC). We use ROE and RORC as a mea-
sure of return on total capital invested in our businesses. RORC does 
not have a standardized meaning under GAAP and may not be compa-
rable to similar measures used by other financial institutions.

Our consolidated ROE calculation is based on net income avail-
able to common shareholders divided by total average common equity 
for the period. Business segment ROE calculations are based on annu-
alized segment net income available to common shareholders divided 
by average attributed capital for the period. For each segment, aver-
age attributed capital is based on attributed risk capital and amounts 
invested in goodwill and intangibles (1). 

The attribution of capital involves the use of assumptions, judg-
ments and methodologies that are regularly reviewed and revised by 
management as necessary. The attribution of risk capital is based on 
certain assumptions, judgments and models that quantify economic 
risks as described in the Economic Capital section. Changes to such 
assumptions, judgments and methodologies can have a material 

effect on the segment ROE and RORC information that we report. 
Other companies that disclose information on similar attributions and 
related return measures may use different assumptions, judgments 
and methodologies.

RORC is used to measure returns on capital required to support 

the risks related to ongoing operations. Our RORC calculations are 
based on net income available to common shareholders divided by 
attributed risk capital (which excludes goodwill and intangibles and 
unattributed capital). The business segment ROE and RORC measures 
are viewed as useful measures by management for supporting invest-
ment and resource allocation decisions because they adjust for certain 
items that may affect comparability between business segments and 
certain competitors. The following table provides a summary of the 
ROE and RORC calculations.

(1) 

For internal allocation and measurement purposes, total attributed capital is deemed 
by management to comprise amounts necessary to support the risks inherent in the 
businesses (risk capital) and amounts related to historical investments (goodwill 
and intangibles). Total risk capital and goodwill and intangibles are referred to as 
Attributed capital as well as Economic Capital. The difference between total average 
common equity and average attributed capital is classified as Unattributed capital 
and reported in Corporate Support for segment reporting purposes.

Calculation of Return on equity and Return on risk capital 

2007 

Table 17

2006 

2005

(C$ millions, except for percentage amounts) (1), (2) 

Canadian 
Wealth 
Banking  Management 

U.S. & 
International 
Banking 

 Capital 
Markets 

Corporate 
Support 

Total 

Total 

Total

Net income available to common shareholders  $  2,953 

$ 

753 

$ 

228 

$  1,272 

$ 

198 

$  5,404 

$  4,668 

$  3,349

Average risk capital (2) 
    Add: Unattributed capital 
            Goodwill and intangible capital 
Average equity (3) 

Return on equity (ROE) 
Return on risk capital (RORC) 

$  6,500 
– 
  2,100 
$  8,600 

  34.3% 
  45.5% 

$  1,150 
– 
  1,150 
$  2,300 

$  1,950 
– 
  1,400 
$  3,350 

$  3,900 
– 
900 
$  4,800 

$ 

950 
  2,000 
– 
$  2,950 

$ 14,450 
  2,000 
  5,550 
$ 22,000 

$ 12,750 
  2,500 
  4,650 
$ 19,900 

$ 11,450
  2,300 
  4,850 
$ 18,600

  32.4% 
  65.1% 

  6.9% 
  11.7% 

  26.6% 
  32.5% 

  6.7% 
  n.m. 

  24.6% 
  37.4% 

  23.5% 
  36.7% 

  18.0% 
  29.3%

(1) 

(2) 

Average risk capital, Goodwill and intangible capital, and Average equity represent rounded figures. These amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average 
of the daily balances for the period. ROE and RORC measures are based on actual balances before rounding.
Average risk capital includes Credit, Market (trading and non-trading), Insurance, Operational and Business and fixed assets risk capital. For further details refer to the Capital  
management section.
The amounts for the segments are also referred to as attributed capital.

(3) 
n.m.  not meaningful

Non-GAAP measures
Given the nature and purpose of our management reporting frame-
work, we use certain non-GAAP financial measures, which are not 
defined nor do they have standardized meaning under GAAP. Hence 
these reported amounts and related ratios are not necessarily compa-
rable with similar information reported by other financial institutions.

2007 Defined operating leverage 
Our defined operating leverage refers to the difference between our 
revenue growth rate (as adjusted) and non-interest expense growth 
rate (as adjusted). Revenue is presented on a taxable equivalent 
basis, while the impact of consolidated VIEs is excluded, as they have 

no material impact on our earnings. Accounting adjustments related to 
the new financial instruments accounting standards are also excluded 
from revenue as they give rise to volatility, primarily relating to unre-
alized gains and losses arising from fair valuing of the instruments 
and are not viewed as a measure of economic performance. Global 
Insurance results are excluded, as certain changes in revenue can be 
largely offset in Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisi-
tion expense, which is not captured in our defined operating leverage 
calculation. 

The following table shows the defined operating leverage  

ratio calculation. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

55

 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 Defined operating leverage 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

Total revenue 
    Add: teb adjustment 
    Less: Revenue related to VIEs 
    Less: Global Insurance revenue 
    Less: Impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards (1) 

Total revenue (adjusted) 

Non-interest expense 
    Less: Global Insurance-related non-interest expense 

Non-interest expense (adjusted) 

Defined operating leverage  

(1) 

Excludes the impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards related to Global Insurance.

2007 

2006 

Change

Table 18

$  22,462 
332 
31 
3,192 
83 

$  19,488 

$  12,473 
537  

$  20,637  
 213  
 (7) 
 3,348 
 – 

$ 

$ 

17,509  

11,495  
517 

 $ 

11,936 

$  10,978   

11.3%

8.7%

2.6%

Consolidated revenue and Insurance-related results excluding the 
impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards and 
hurricane-related charges
In 2007 and 2006, there were certain items that impacted Total  
consolidated revenue, Global Insurance and Insurance-related results. 
Management believes that identifying and adjusting for these items 
enhances the comparability of our results, and enables a more mean-
ingful comparison of our financial performance with certain other 
financial institutions that make similar adjustments. 

The following table provides a reconciliation of consolidated  
revenue, Global Insurance and Insurance-related results excluding  
the impacts of the new financial instruments accounting standards and 
the hurricane-related charges. 

Consolidated revenue, Global Insurance and Insurance-related results excluding the noted items 

Table 19

(C$ millions) 

GAAP reported amounts 
Exclude: Impact of the new financial  

October 31, 2007 

October 31, 2006

Consolidated 
revenue (1) 

Global 
Insurance 
revenue (2) 

Insurance 
Insurance 
policyholder 
premiums, 
investment benefits, claims 
and  and acquisition 
expense (1) 

fee income (1) 

Consolidated 
revenue (1) 

Global 
Insurance 
revenue (2) 

Insurance
Insurance 
premiums, 
policyholder 
investment benefits, claims 
and  and acquisition
expense (1)

fee income (1) 

$  22,462 

$  3,192 

$  3,152 

$  2,173  $  20,637 

$  3,348 

$  3,348 

$  2,509

  instruments accounting standards 

              Hurricane-related charges 

77 
– 

160 
– 

160 
– 

154 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

–
(61)

Amounts excluding the noted items  

$  22,539 

$  3,352 

$  3,312 

$  2,327  $  20,637 

$  3,348 

$  3,348 

$  2,448

(1) 
(2) 

For further details, refer to the Financial performance section.
For further details, refer to the Canadian Banking section. 

56

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Canadian Banking

Canadian Banking comprises our domestic personal and business 
banking operations, certain retail investment businesses and our 
global insurance operations. This segment includes Personal Financial 
Services, Business Financial Services, Cards and Payment Solutions, 
and Global Insurance.

Canadian Banking provides a broad suite of financial products 
and services to over 14 million individual and business clients through 
our extensive branch, automated teller machine (ATM), online and 
telephone banking networks, as well as through a large number of pro-
prietary sales professionals in addition to a wide-ranging third-party 
network of independent insurance distributors. 

We have top rankings in market share for most retail product  

categories and are the largest Canadian bank-owned insurer.

Highlights 
•  We launched new and innovative products to better serve  

our clients through the introduction of a new personal banking 
suite that includes several client-centric features, such as multi-
product rebates, and a new high-interest online savings account.

•  We strengthened our leading market position in personal lending, 

driven by 12% growth in residential mortgages.

•  We continued to expand and upgrade our distribution network. 

We opened 30 bank branches and 12 insurance offices in Canada 
during the year.

Economic and market review
In Canada, strong economic growth, in part reflecting solid consumer 
and business spending in the early part of the year, weakened mod-
erately in the latter part of the year, primarily due to slowing U.S. 
demand and a tightening of credit conditions as a result of the U.S. 
subprime mortgage market concerns. Nonetheless, robust domestic 
demand, largely underpinned by favourable labour market conditions, 
solid business investment and continued strong Canadian housing 
market activities, contributed to volume growth in all our businesses, 
particularly in the home equity lending and retail investment busi-
nesses. Competition in the personal deposits market remained strong 
from both traditional and niche financial institutions.

Canadian Banking financial highlights 

(C$ millions, except number of and percentage amounts) 

    Net interest income 
    Non-interest income 
Total revenue 
    Non-interest expense 
    Provision for credit losses (PCL)  
    Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 
Net income before income taxes and non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
Net income 

Key ratios 
    Return on equity (1) 
    Return on risk capital (1) 
    Net interest margin (2) 
    Operating leverage (Banking-related operations) (3) 
Selected average balance sheet information (4) 
    Total assets (5) 
    Total earning assets (5) 
    Loans and acceptances (5) 
    Deposits  
    Attributed capital (1) 
    Risk capital (1) 
Other information 
    Assets under administration 
    Number of employees (full-time equivalent) 
Credit information
    Gross impaired loans as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances 
    Specific PCL as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances 

Banking-related operations (6) 
    Total revenue 
    Provision for credit losses 
    Non-interest expense 
    Net income 
Global insurance 
    Total revenue 
    Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 
    Non-interest expense 
    Net income 

2007 

$ 

6,353 
6,168 
$  12,521 
5,285 
788 
2,173 
4,275 
2,987 

$ 
$ 

34.3% 
45.5% 
3.17% 
6.5% 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2006 

5,816 
5,880 
11,696 
5,027 
604 
2,509 
3,556 
2,426 

30.1% 
39.9% 
3.22% 
4.4% 

Table 20

2005

$ 

5,233
5,765 
$  10,998 
4,830
542 
2,625
2,994
2,007 

$ 
$ 

26.3%
36.3%
3.21%
5.8%

$  220,000 
  200,400 
  200,000 
  147,100 
8,600 
6,500 

$  199,200 
  180,500 
  179,700 
  139,200 
8,000 
6,050 

$  181,100
  163,200 
  160,700
  132,500
7,550 
5,450

$  53,300 
  25,813 

$  44,600 
  24,828 

$  33,900  
  23,794

$ 

$ 

.35% 
.39% 

9,329 
788 
4,748 
2,545 

3,192 
2,173 
537 
442 

$ 

$ 

.33% 
.34% 

8,348 
604 
4,510 
2,124 

3,348 
2,509 
517 
302 

$ 

$ 

.31%
.34%

7,687
542
4,329
1,852

3,311
2,625
501
155

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

(6) 

Segment Return on equity, Average risk capital and Return on risk capital are key performance measures. Average attributed capital and Return on equity are calculated using methods 
intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. For further discussion, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Net interest margin (NIM) is calculated as Net interest income divided by Average total earning assets. Average total earning assets are calculated using methods intended to approxi-
mate the average earning asset balances for the period.
Defined as the difference between revenue growth rate and non-interest expense growth rate for Banking-related operations.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Total assets, Total earning assets, and Loans and acceptances include average securitized residential mortgage and credit card loans for the year of $19 billion and $4 billion, respectively 
(2006 – $15 billion and $4 billion; 2005 – $11 billion and $4 billion).
The banking-related operations of Canadian Banking comprise Personal Financial Services, Business Financial Services, and Cards and Payment Solutions.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue by business line (C$ millions)

15,000

12,000

9,000

6,000

3,000

0

2005

2006

2007

Cards and Payment Solutions

Business Financial Services

Global Insurance

Personal Financial Services

Financial performance
2007 vs. 2006
Net income increased $561 million, or 23%, from a year ago. The 
increase primarily reflected strong growth across all our business 
lines as well as a $326 million ($269 million after-tax) gain related to 
the Visa Inc. restructuring, partially offset by higher costs in support 
of business growth, increased provision for credit losses and higher 
credit card customer loyalty reward program costs, reflecting a  
$121 million ($79 million after-tax) liability adjustment this year as 
compared to $72 million ($47 million after-tax) in the prior year.  
Our prior year results also included the hurricane-related charges, 
and the receipt of a fee related to the termination of an agreement, 
whereas this year we included a favourable adjustment related to the 
reallocation of certain foreign investment capital.

Average assets increased $21 billion, or 10%, over the prior 
year. The increase was largely attributable to strong loan growth, 
underpinned by our successful execution of growth initiatives, robust 
domestic demand and continued solid Canadian housing market 
activities. Average deposits were up $8 billion, or 6%, from a year ago, 
mainly due to growth in business deposits reflecting high liquidity 
within Canadian businesses.

Banking-related operations
Banking-related operations net income was up $421 million, or 20%, 
compared to the prior year. The increase was primarily due to solid 
growth across all business lines and a gain related to the Visa Inc. 
restructuring. These factors were partially offset by higher costs in 
support of business growth, increased provision for credit losses, the 
receipt of a fee related to the termination of an agreement in the prior 
year, and higher credit card customer loyalty reward program costs 
this year.

Total revenue was up $981 million, or 12%, over the prior year. 

The increase was largely attributable to strong volume growth across 
all business lines and the gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring. 
These factors were partly offset by the receipt of a fee related to the 
termination of an agreement in the prior year and higher credit card 
customer loyalty reward program costs this year.

Net interest margin decreased 5 bps from a year ago, primarily 

reflecting the impact of changes in our product mix. 

Non-interest expense increased $238 million, or 5%, compared 

to a year ago. The increase was largely attributable to higher costs 
in support of business growth, including a 4% increase in sales and 
service personnel, or approximately 900 staff, and de novo branch 
expansion, as well as higher costs associated with system develop-
ment, professional fees and sundry losses.

Provision for credit losses increased $184 million, or 30%, from 

last year, which had been at a cyclically low level, and has trended 
up towards the historical average this year. The increase was mainly 
attributable to higher provisions in our business, credit card and per-
sonal loan portfolios, reflecting higher loss rates and portfolio growth.

Global Insurance
Global Insurance net income increased $140 million, or 46%, com-
pared to the prior year. The increase was primarily related to the 
property catastrophe reinsurance business, reflecting the hurricane-
related charges in the prior year, and a favourable adjustment related 

• 

• 

58

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

to the reallocation of certain foreign investment capital this year, 
which was partially offset by lower income from this business as we 
exited this business completely this year. A higher level of favourable 
net actuarial liability adjustments and solid growth in our European 
life reinsurance business also contributed to the increase. For a 
detailed discussion regarding Insurance policyholder benefits, claims 
and acquisition expense, refer to the Global Insurance business line 
discussion.

2006 vs. 2005
Net income increased $419 million, or 21%, from 2005. The increase 
primarily reflected solid revenue growth in our banking businesses 
and lower hurricane-related charges in 2006. These factors were 
partially offset by increased costs in support of business growth and 
higher provision for credit losses partly due to loan growth and lower 
recoveries.

Banking-related operations
Banking-related operations net income increased $272 million, 
or 15%, from 2005, largely reflecting solid revenue growth across 
all business lines. The increase in net income was partly offset by 
increased costs in support of business growth and higher provision for 
credit losses. 

Total revenue increased $661 million, or 9%, from 2005. The 
increase was mainly due to strong volume growth across all business 
lines, and improved deposit and investment spreads, underpinned 
by our successful execution of growth initiatives and favourable eco-
nomic conditions.

Net interest margin increased 1 bp compared to 2005, primarily 

reflecting improved spreads on deposits and investment products. 
Non-interest expense increased $181 million, or 4%, primarily 

due to higher levels of sales and service personnel and infrastructure 
costs in our distribution network and increased marketing costs in 
support of business growth.

Provision for credit losses increased $62 million, or 11%, largely 

reflecting higher provisions in our personal loan portfolio and lower 
recoveries in our agriculture loan portfolio in 2006. In 2005, we included 
our 50% proportionate share of a provision recorded at Moneris.

Global Insurance
Global Insurance net income increased $147 million compared to 2005, 
largely reflecting a $142 million reduction in hurricane-related charges 
in 2006. In addition, business growth associated with Canadian life 
business and European life reinsurance business, as well as improved 
claims experience in our Canadian property and casualty business 
contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by lower 
revenue from property catastrophe reinsurance business reflecting our 
strategic reduction in exposure. For a detailed discussion regarding 
Insurance-related revenue and Insurance policyholder benefits, claims 
and acquisition expense, refer to the Financial performance section.

2008 Outlook and priorities 
Canadian economic growth is expected to weaken in 2008 due to 
tighter credit conditions, though credit growth should continue to be 
supported by rising domestic demand amid expanding labour markets 
and solid business investment. We will remain focused on new client 
acquisition and growth in high-value markets, simplifying processes 
as well as augmenting our strengths in distribution capabilities,  
product breadth and integration, and client analytics to provide  
superior client service.

Key strategic priorities for 2008
• 

Deliver a superior client experience to help clients achieve  
financial success, allowing us to retain and grow their business.
Continue to improve our processes and revise our business  
models to make it easier for our clients to do business with us. 
Focus on delivering relevant advice and solutions to attract new 
clients in specific markets, geographies and life stages.

 
Business line review

Personal Financial Services

Personal Financial Services focuses on meeting the needs of our 
individual clients at every stage of their lives through a wide range 
of lending and investment products and services, including home 
equity financing, lines of credit, personal loans, savings and chequing 
accounts, guaranteed investment certificates (GICs), mutual funds and 
self-directed brokerage accounts. We have the largest retail banking 
network in Canada with 1,146 branches and 3,946 ATMs. In addition, 
we have more than 75 private bankers and 1,700 sales specialists. We 
also rank first or second in market share for most personal banking 
products. 

Financial performance
Total revenue increased $461 million, or 10%, over the prior year. 
The increase largely reflected strong volume growth in home equity 
lending and retail investments, and improved spreads across most 
products. Higher mutual fund distribution fees, reflecting a 18% 
growth in mutual fund balances as a result of strong net sales and 
capital appreciation also contributed to the increase. 

Average residential mortgage balances and personal loans were 
each up by 12% over the prior year, supported by relatively low inter-
est rates in a historical context, strong labour market conditions and 
continued solid Canadian housing market activities. Average personal 
deposit balances increased 6% from a year ago, notwithstanding an 
increasingly competitive market, in part driven by the success of our 
recently launched high-interest online savings account.

Business Financial Services

Business Financial Services offers a wide range of lending, leasing, 
deposit, investment and transaction products and services to small 
and medium-sized businesses, commercial, farming and agriculture 
clients across Canada. We also provide trade-related products and 
services to Canadian and international clients to assist them in the 
conduct of their import and export operations domestically and 
around the globe. Our extensive business banking network includes 
approximately 100 business banking centres and 2,000 business 
account managers, and our strong commitment to our clients has 
resulted in leading market share in business loans and deposits.

Financial performance 
Total revenue increased $160 million, or 7%, over the prior year. The 
increase was largely attributable to solid growth in business loans  
and deposits, partially offset by lower spreads on deposits. 

Average business loans grew by 7% and average business 
deposits increased 10%, primarily driven by continued solid business 
spending and high liquidity within Canadian businesses.

Selected highlights 

Table 21

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue 
Other information 
    Residential mortgages (1) 
    Personal loans (1) 
    Personal deposits (1) 
    Personal GICs (1) 
    Branch mutual fund balances  
    AUA – Self-directed brokerage 
    New accounts opened  
      (thousands) (2) 
Number of: 
    Branches 
    Automated teller machines 

$ 

5,082  $ 

4,621  $ 

4,181

  113,200 
  38,700 
  35,500 
  57,900 
  66,900 
  28,300 

  100,800 
  34,600 
  33,600 
  57,000 
  56,500 
  23,200 

  89,700
  30,500
  32,900
  57,200
  46,600
  19,800

1,066 

769 

740

1,146 
3,946 

1,117 
3,847 

1,104
3,906

(1) 

(2) 

Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average 
of the daily balances for the period.
Deposit accounts only.

Average residential mortgages, personal loans and deposits 
(C$ millions) 

120,000

96,000

72,000

48,000

24,000

0

2005

2006 2007

2005 2006

2007

40,000

Residential mortgages

32,000

Personal loans

Personal deposits

24,000

16,000

8,000

0

Selected highlights 

Table 22

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue 
Other information (average) (1) 
    Business loans (2) 
    Business deposits (3) 

$ 

2,301  $ 

2,141  $ 

2,011

  36,900 
  53,700 

  34,400 
  48,600 

  31,700
  42,400

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average 
of the daily balances for the period.
Includes small business loans treated as retail and wholesale loans.
Includes GIC balances.

Average business loans and deposits (C$ millions) 

40,000

32,000

24,000

16,000

8,000

0

2005

2006 2007

2005 2006 2007

60,000

Business loans

48,000

Business deposits

36,000

24,000

12,000

0

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cards and Payment Solutions

Cards and Payment Solutions provides a wide array of convenient and 
customized credit cards and related payment products and solutions. 
In addition, this business line includes our 50% interest in Moneris, 
the merchant card processing joint venture with the Bank of Montreal.
We have over 5 million credit card accounts and have an approxi-

mately 20% market share of Canada’s credit card purchase volume.

Financial performance 
Total revenue increased $360 million, or 23%, compared to the prior 
year. The increase largely reflected a $326 million ($269 million after-
tax) gain related to the Visa Inc. restructuring. Continued solid growth 
in credit card balances and transaction volumes also contributed to 
the increase. These factors were partially offset by the receipt of a fee 
related to the termination of an agreement in the prior year, as well as 
higher credit card customer loyalty reward program costs this year.

Global Insurance 

Global Insurance offers a wide range of life, creditor, health, travel, home 
and auto insurance products and services to individual and business cli-
ents in Canada and the U.S., as well as reinsurance for clients around the 
world. These products and services are offered through a wide variety of 
distribution channels, including telephone, independent brokers, travel 
agents, career sales force, Internet and retail insurance offices.

We are the largest Canadian bank-owned insurer, with products 
distributed through more than 17,000 independent brokers and more 
than 650 career sales representatives in North America. Our Canadian 
insurance business holds lead positions in creditor, travel and individ-
ual living benefits insurance products, and has a significant presence 
in life, home and auto insurance. We are a preferred provider of protec-
tion, asset accumulation and retirement solutions in the U.S.

Financial performance
Global Insurance net income increased $140 million, or 46%, com-
pared to the prior year. The increase was primarily related to the 
property catastrophe reinsurance business, reflecting the hurricane-
related charges in the prior year, and a favourable adjustment related 
to the reallocation of certain foreign investment capital this year, 
which was partially offset by lower income from this business as we 
exited this business completely this year. A higher level of favourable 
net actuarial liability adjustments and solid growth in our European 
life reinsurance business also contributed to the increase. 

Total revenue decreased $156 million, or 5%, from a year ago. 

Excluding the impact of the new financial instruments accounting 
standards, total revenue increased $4 million from the prior year. 
The increase was largely attributable to growth in our European life 
reinsurance and Canadian businesses, and a favourable adjustment 
related to the reallocation of certain foreign investment capital this 
year. These factors were largely offset by lower U.S. annuity sales 
mainly due to lower long-term interest rates and lower revenue from 
our property catastrophe reinsurance operations, which we exited 
completely this year. For a reconciliation of Global Insurance revenue 
excluding the impact of the new financial instruments accounting stan-
dards, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section. 
Gross insurance premiums and deposits were up $54 million, or 

2%, primarily reflecting new sales growth and stronger client reten-
tion, partially offset by a decline in U.S. annuity sales.  

60

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Selected highlights 

Table 23

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue 
Other information
    Average credit card balances (1)    11,200 
    Net purchase volumes 
  47,200 

$ 

1,946  $ 

1,586  $ 

1,495

9,900 
  41,500 

8,800
  36,100

(1) 

Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average 
of the daily balances for the period.

Average credit card balances and net purchase volumes (C$ millions) 

12,500

10,000

7,500

5,000

2,500

0

2005

2006 2007

2005 2006 2007

Average credit 
card balances

Net purchase 
volumes

50,000

40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000

0

Non-interest expense was up $20 million, or 4%, from a year ago, 
primarily reflecting higher project-related spending and other costs in 
support of business growth.

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 

(PBCAE) decreased $336 million, or 13%, from the prior year. 
Excluding the impact of the new financial instruments accounting  
standards and the prior year hurricane-related charges, PBCAE 
decreased $121 million, or 5%, over last year. The decrease was 
largely attributable to the impact of lower U.S. annuity sales and a 
higher level of favourable net actuarial liability adjustments this year, 
which included cumulative valuation adjustments of $92 million relat-
ing to prior periods. These factors were partially offset by increased 
costs commensurate with growth in our European life reinsurance and 
Canadian businesses. For a reconciliation of PBCAE excluding the  

Selected highlights 

(C$ millions) 

$ 

Total revenue 
    Non-interest expense 
    Insurance policyholder benefits, 
      claims and acquisition expense   
Net income 
Other information
    Gross insurance premiums  
     and deposits 
    Insurance claims and policy  
      benefit liabilities 

2007 

2006 

3,192  $ 
537 

3,348  $ 
517 

2,173 
442 

2,509 
302 

Table 24

2005

3,311
501

2,625
155 

3,460 

3,406 

3,288

7,283 

7,337 

7,117

Gross insurance premiums and deposits (C$ millions)

Gross insurance
premiums and deposits

4,000

3,200

2,400

1,600

800

0

2005

2006

2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
impact of the new financial instruments accounting standards, refer to 
the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities decreased $54 mil-

lion, or 1%, over the prior year. The decrease primarily reflected the 
impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of our  
U.S. dollar-denominated liabilities, lower property catastrophe  

reinsurance liabilities, net payments of claims related to hurricanes, 
and a net decrease in life and health insurance liabilities reflecting 
changes to actuarial assumptions and model enhancements. These 
factors were largely offset by increased costs commensurate with 
business growth and the impact of the new financial instruments 
accounting standards. 

Wealth Management

Wealth Management comprises businesses that directly serve the 
growing wealth management needs of affluent and high net worth 
clients in Canada, the U.S. and outside North America, and busi-
nesses that provide asset management and trust products through 
RBC and external partners. This segment comprises Canadian Wealth 
Management, U.S. & International Wealth Management and Global 
Asset Management. 

• 

Highlights
•  Wealth Management was created in February 2007 to focus on 
extending our leadership position in Canada and aggressively 
growing in the U.S. and international markets.
The fastest growing segment in Canadian wealth management 
continues to be high net worth clients (households with more 
than $1 million in investable assets).
Our Canadian full-service brokerage business was the first in  
the Canadian industry to surpass $150 billion in client assets 
under administration. 

• 

•  We led the Canadian mutual fund industry in net sales of long-

term funds for the 16th consecutive calendar quarter.

•  We continued to grow our U.S. full-service brokerage business 
through the acquisition of J.B. Hanauer & Co. (J.B. Hanauer).
•  We established international wealth management offices in sev-

eral cities, including Mexico City, Beijing and Santiago.

Economic and market review 
In 2007, economic growth was solid, underpinned by a relatively 
favourable interest rate environment, strong employment levels and 
higher wages, and a solid yet moderating housing market, which 
contributed to increased demand for wealth management products. 
The generally favourable capital market conditions during the year 
continued to support the growth of our wealth management business. 
Economic growth weakened moderately in the latter part of the year 
mainly attributable to slowing U.S. demand, and a tightening of credit 
conditions as a result of the U.S. subprime mortgage market concerns.

Wealth Management financial highlights  

(C$ millions, except number of and percentage amounts) 

    Net interest income 
    Non-interest income 
        Fee-based revenue  
        Transactional and other revenue 
Total revenue 
    Non-interest expense 
    Provision for credit losses (PCL) 
Net income before income taxes and non-controlling interest in subsidiaries  
Net income 

Key ratios 
    Return on equity (1) 
    Return on risk capital 
    Pre-tax margin  
Selected average balance sheet information (2) 
    Total assets 
    Loans and acceptances 
    Deposits 
    Attributed capital (1) 
    Risk capital (1) 
Other information
    Revenue per advisor (000s) (3)  
    Assets under administration  
    Assets under management  
    Number of employees (full-time equivalent) 
    Number of advisors (3) 

2007 

2006 

$ 

427 

$ 

397 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2,109 
1,456 
3,992 
2,902 
1 
1,089 
762 

32.4% 
65.1% 
27.3% 

$ 

 1

$ 
$ 

1,745 
1,345 
3,487 
2,613 

872 
604 

27.8% 
59.3% 
25.0% 

$ 

$ 
$ 

Table 25

2005

374

1,458
1,319
3,151
2,440
2
708
502

24.5%
54.8%
22.5%

$  16,600 
4,600 
  24,900 
2,300 
1,150 

$ 

15,100 
4,400 
  22,100 
2,150 
1,050 

$ 

784 $

  488,500 
  161,200 
  10,382 
3,118 

694 
  476,500 
  142,800 
9,667 
3,001 

$  13,200
4,100
  20,700
2,050
900

$ 

687
  380,700
  118,500
8,791
2,934

Impact of US$ translation on selected items 

    Reduced total revenue 
    Reduced non-interest expense 
    Reduced net income 

    Percentage change in average US$ equivalent of C$1.00 (4) 

  For the year ended

  2007 vs. 2006

$ 

61
49
9

4%

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Segment Return on equity, Average risk capital and Return on risk capital are key performance measures. Average attributed capital and Return on equity are calculated using methods 
intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. For further discussion, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Includes investment advisors and financial consultants of our Canadian and U.S. full-service brokerage businesses.
Average amounts are calculated using month-end spot rates for the year.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue by business line (C$ millions) 

4,000

3,200

2,400

1,600

800

0

2005

2006

2007

Global Asset Management

Canadian Wealth Management

U.S. & International 
Wealth Management

Financial performance
2007 vs. 2006
Net income for the year of $762 million increased $158 million, or 
26%, from a year ago. The increase was largely due to strong earnings 
growth across all our business lines reflecting the ongoing suc-
cessful execution of our growth initiatives and generally favourable 
market conditions. We recorded a $35 million ($28 million after-tax) 
foreign exchange translation gain on certain deposits in the current 
year related to the implementation of the new financial instruments 
accounting standards. 

Total revenue increased $505 million, or 14%, over the prior year, 

largely due to strong growth in fee-based client assets across all busi-
ness lines, reflecting new sales, capital appreciation and the recruitment 
and retention of experienced advisors. A foreign exchange translation 
gain on certain deposits, the inclusion of our J.B. Hanauer acquisition, 
solid loan and deposit growth in our international wealth management 
business, and higher transactional volumes in our brokerage businesses 
reflecting generally favourable market conditions throughout the early 
part of the year also contributed to the increase. These factors were 
partially offset by the negative impact of the stronger Canadian dollar on 
the translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated revenue.

Non-interest expense was up $289 million, or 11%, mainly as a result 

of higher variable compensation commensurate with higher commission-
based revenue, higher staffing levels and other costs in support of 
business growth, including our acquisition of J.B. Hanauer. These factors 
were partially offset by the favourable impact of the stronger Canadian 
dollar on the translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated expenses.

Business line review

Canadian Wealth Management

Canadian Wealth Management includes the market leader in 
full-service brokerage in Canada, with over 1,300 investment advi-
sors, providing advisor-based comprehensive financial solutions. 
Additionally, we provide discretionary investment management 
and trust services to high net worth clients, offering a relationship 
approach for clients in need of sophisticated financial solutions. In 
these businesses, there are more than 28 investment counsellors  
and 125 trust professionals in locations across the country.

Financial performance
Revenue increased $170 million, or 13%, over the prior year, mostly 
due to strong growth in fee-based client assets reflecting higher 
net sales, capital appreciation and the recruitment and retention of 
experienced advisors. Higher transactional volumes in our brokerage 
business reflecting generally favourable market conditions also  
contributed to the increase.

62

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

2006 vs. 2005
Net income increased $102 million, or 20%, compared to 2005. The 
increase primarily reflected strong earnings growth across all our busi-
ness lines and generally favourable market conditions. This increase 
was partially offset by higher variable compensation due to higher 
commission-based revenue, higher staffing costs and increased costs 
in support of business growth, including our acquisition of Abacus 
Financial Services Group Limited.

Total revenue increased $336 million, or 11%, compared to 2005, 
largely due to strong growth in fee-based client assets reflecting new 
sales and capital appreciation, and the inclusion of our Abacus acqui-
sition. These factors were partially offset by lower client transaction 
volumes in our brokerage businesses.

Non-interest expense increased $173 million, or 7%, compared to 
2005. The increase was primarily due to higher variable compensation 
commensurate with higher commission-based revenue, the inclusion 
of our Abacus acquisition and higher staffing levels.

2008 Outlook and priorities
The Canadian economic and business environment is expected to 
weaken slightly although business growth should continue to be sup-
ported by generally favourable capital market conditions. In the U.S., 
we anticipate that financial market volatility will persist into early 
2008, but economic growth will reaccelerate in the latter part of 2008. 
Growth in other global economies is expected to ease moderately in 
2008. This economic environment and the successful execution of our 
strategic priorities are anticipated to fuel our growth.

Key strategic priorities for 2008
• 

• 

• 

Continue extending our lead in the Canadian wealth and asset 
management markets.
Pursue strong organic and acquisition growth in our U.S. wealth 
management businesses that serve individual clients and  
advisors.
Continue expanding our high net worth international wealth  
management business in select markets as well as through 
bolt-on acquisitions to complement our existing operations.
Focus on expanding our asset management business globally,  
initially through acquisitions with a focus on U.S. opportunities.
•  Work to continue attracting and retaining experienced advisors, 
private bankers and other client-facing professionals across all 
our businesses.

• 

Selected highlights  

(C$ millions) 

Total revenue  
Other information
    Assets under administration  
    Assets under management  
    Total assets under fee-based  
      programs 

Table 26

2007 

2006 

2005

$ 

1,460  $ 

1,290  $ 

1,164

  183,000 
  22,200 

  168,600 
  17,500 

  146,400
  12,700

  83,300 

  70,200 

  56,500

Average assets under administration and management (C$ millions)

200,000

160,000

120,000

80,000

40,000

0

2005

2006 2007

2005 2006 2007

Assets under 
administration

Assets under 
management

25,000

20,000

15,000

10,000

5,000

0

U.S. & International Wealth Management

U.S. & International Wealth Management consists of our retail broker-
age business, which is one of the largest full-service firms in the U.S. 
with over 1,770 financial consultants. We also have a clearing and exe-
cution services business that serves small to mid-sized independent 
broker-dealers and institutions. Internationally, we provide custom-
ized banking, credit, investment and trust solutions to high net worth 
private clients through 2,300 employees across a network of 34 offices 
located in 20 countries around the world.

Financial performance
Revenue increased $256 million, or 15%, over the prior year. In U.S. 
dollars, revenue increased $293 million, or 19%, largely as a result of 
solid growth in fee-based client assets, higher transaction volumes 
in our U.S. brokerage business reflecting generally favourable mar-
ket conditions throughout the early part of the year, and a foreign 
exchange translation gain on certain deposits. The inclusion of our J.B. 
Hanauer acquisition and solid loan and deposit growth in our interna-
tional wealth management business also contributed to the increase.

Global Asset Management

Global Asset Management is responsible for our proprietary asset 
management business in Canada and the U.S. In Canada, we provide 
a broad range of investment management services through mutual 
funds, pooled funds and separately managed portfolios. We distri-
bute our investment solutions through a broad network of our bank 
branches, our discount and full-service brokers, independent advisors 
and direct-to-consumer. We are the largest single fund company and 
one of the largest money managers in Canada. In the U.S., we provide 
investment services to both retail and institutional clients through 
mutual funds, fee-based accounts and separately managed portfolios.

Financial performance
Revenue increased $79 million, or 17%, over the prior year, mainly 
reflecting strong growth in Canadian assets under management due  
to solid net long-term and money market mutual fund sales and  
capital appreciation.

Selected highlights  

Table 27

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue 
Other information
    Total loans, guarantees and  
      letters of credit (1), (2) 
    Total deposits (1), (2) 
    Assets under administration  
    Assets under management  
    Total assets under fee-based  
      programs (3) 
Other information (US$ millions)
    Total revenue 

$ 

1,988  $ 

1,732  $ 

1,580

5,500 
  17,900 
  305,500 
  20,200 

4,500 
  15,100 
  307,900 
  19,700 

3,900
  13,900
  234,300
  15,600

  26,600 

  26,400 

  20,700

1,826 

1,533 

1,305

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

Represents amounts related to our international wealth management businesses.
Represents an average amount, which is calculated using methods intended to 
approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Represents amounts related to our U.S. wealth management businesses.

Average assets under administration and management (C$ millions)

350,000

280,000

210,000

140,000

70,000

0

2005 2006 2007

2005 2006 2007

Assets under 
administration

Assets under 
management

25,000

20,000

15,000

10,000

5,000

0

Selected highlights  

Table 28

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue 
Other information
    Canadian net long-term  
      mutual fund sales 
    Assets under management  

$ 

544  $ 

465  $ 

407

6,200 
  118,800 

5,400 
  105,600 

5,600
  90,200

Average assets under management (C$ millions)

Assets under 
management

125,000

100,000

75,000

50,000

25,000

0

2005

2006

2007

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. & International Banking

U.S. & International Banking comprises our banking businesses  
outside Canada, including our banking operations in the U.S. and 
Caribbean. In addition, this segment includes our 50% ownership in 
RBC Dexia IS.

All of our businesses leverage the global resources of RBC, while 

drawing upon the knowledge and expertise of our local profession-
als to deliver customized solutions to our clients. We differentiate 
ourselves in each of our highly competitive marketplaces by tailoring 
solutions to meet our clients’ specific needs and building strong, long-
lasting relationships by consistently delivering high-quality service.

Highlights
•  We continued to expand our banking footprint in key growth 

areas in the U.S. Southeast through targeted acquisitions and  
de novo branch openings. We acquired 39 AmSouth Bank 
branches (AmSouth branches) in Alabama and added 17 branches 
in Georgia when we acquired Flag Financial Corporation (Flag). 

•  We realized a 12% (17% in Euros) growth in assets under 

administration with RBC Dexia IS, underpinned by both new and 
existing client growth.

•  We added a real estate lending team to our Caribbean operations, 

giving us the expertise to better serve clients across the region. 
In addition, we formed a small business unit to serve this growing 
client segment.

Economic and market review
The solid U.S. economic growth in the middle of the year, primarily 
supported by continued non-residential investment, strong export 
growth and consumer spending, slowed in the latter part of the year. 
The weakening economic conditions largely reflected the ongoing  
housing market correction, a tightening of credit conditions and 
increased funding costs arising from the U.S. subprime mortgage mar-
ket concerns. This resulted in a general weakening in credit quality of 
residential real estate-related loans. Internationally, economic condi-
tions in the Caribbean remained strong, although strong competition 
in the deposits market also tempered business growth. Solid economic 
conditions in Canada and the fast-growing asset management industry 
in Europe continued to support our global custody business growth.

U.S. & International Banking financial highlights 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

    Net interest income 
    Non-interest income 
Total revenue  
    Non-interest expense 
    Provision for credit losses (PCL) 
Net income before income taxes and non-controlling interest in subsidiaries  
Net income 

Key ratios 
    Return on equity (1) 
    Return on risk capital (1) 
Selected average balance sheet and other information (2) 
    Total assets 
    Loans and acceptances 
    Deposits 
    Attributed capital (1) 
    Risk capital (1) 
Other information 
    Assets under administration – RBC 
    Assets under administration – RBC Dexia IS (3) 
    Number of employees (full-time equivalent) 
Credit information 
    Gross impaired loans as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances  
    PCL as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances 

Impact of US$ and Euro translation on selected items 

    Reduced total revenue 
    Reduced non-interest expense 
    Increased net income 

    Percentage change in average US$ equivalent of C$1.00 (4) 
    Percentage change in average Euro equivalent of C$1.00 (4) 

2007 

1,031 
884 
1,915 
1,481 
109 
325 
242 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

Table 29

2005

923
654
1,577
1,136
49
395
256

2006 

940 
688 
1,628 
1,216 
25 
387 
261 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

6.9% 
11.7% 

10.6% 
16.1% 

10.8%
16.4%

$  39,700 
  22,300 
  34,200 
3,350 
1,950 

$  32,600 
  18,500 
  28,700 
2,400 
1,600 

$  25,900
17,200
  21,200
2,350
1,550

 –
 2,713,100 
6,001 

– 
2,421,100 
5,034 

1,361,100
– 
6,880 

1.91% 
.49% 

1.01% 
.14% 

.94%
.28%

  For the year ended
  2007 vs. 2006

$ 

8
6
4

4%
(5)%

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

(4) 

Segment Return on equity, Average risk capital and Return on risk capital are key performance measures. Average attributed capital and Return on equity are calculated using methods 
intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. For further discussion, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
AUA – RBC Dexia IS represents the total AUA of the joint venture as at September 30, 2007. We have revised the 2006 amount to reflect the amount reported by RBC Dexia IS, as we had 
previously disclosed only the assets under custody amount related to our joint venture.
Average amounts are calculated using month-end spot rates for the year.

64

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue by business line (C$ millions) 

2,000

1,600

1,200

800

400

0

2005

2006

2007

RBC Dexia Investor Services

Banking

Financial performance
2007 vs. 2006
Net income decreased $19 million, or 7%, from the prior year. The 
decrease was largely attributable to increased provision for credit 
losses, primarily reflecting higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential 
builder finance business. This was partially offset by strong business 
growth in RBC Dexia IS, as well as higher loan and deposit growth in 
the U.S. reflecting the inclusion of our acquisitions of Flag and the 
AmSouth branches, de novo branch openings and business expan-
sion. Our results also reflected higher costs in support of business 
growth and a loss on the restructuring of our U.S. banking investment 
portfolio this year. 

Total revenue increased $287 million, or 18%, from the prior year. 

The increase was primarily attributable to RBC Dexia IS, reflecting 
strong market activity, an additional month of results and business 
growth. Banking revenue was also up largely due to loan and deposit 
growth, mainly reflecting the inclusion of Flag and the AmSouth 
branches, despite the negative impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on 
the translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated revenue. These factors 
were partially offset by a loss on the restructuring of our U.S. banking 
investment portfolio this year.

Non-interest expense was up $265 million, or 22%, over the prior 

year, largely reflecting higher costs in support of business growth.  
The increase primarily reflected higher processing and staff costs at  
RBC Dexia IS commensurate with business growth, the inclusion of 
our acquisitions of Flag and the AmSouth branches and the related 
integration costs, and U.S. de novo branch openings. Higher costs 
associated with an additional month of results relating to RBC Dexia IS, 
as well as an increase in sales and service personnel in our banking 
branch network also contributed to the increase.

Provision for credit losses was up $84 million, largely due to 
higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder finance business, 
reflecting the downturn in the U.S. housing market in the latter part of 
the year. As at October 31, 2007, we had $2.8 billion in our U.S. resi-
dential builder finance loans outstanding.

2006 vs. 2005
Net income increased $5 million, or 2%, from 2005, largely reflecting 
solid growth and improved credit quality in Banking, partially offset by 
transaction expenses related to the transfer of Institutional & Investor 
Services to RBC Dexia IS.

Total revenue increased $51 million, or 3%, from 2005, primar-
ily reflecting strong revenue growth in RBC Dexia IS due to increased 
business volume. The increase was partially offset by lower Banking 
revenue due to the negative impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the 
translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated revenue. In U.S. dollars, 
Banking revenue increased $58 million, or 7%, reflecting solid loan and 
deposit growth and higher fee-based activities. 

Non-interest expense was up $80 million, or 7%, from 2005, 
primarily reflecting transaction expenses related to the transfer of IIS 
to RBC Dexia IS, as well as higher project-related spending and other 
costs in support of business growth.  

Provision for credit losses decreased $24 million, or 49%,  

compared to 2005, primarily reflecting strong credit quality in our  
U.S. banking loan portfolio in 2006.

2008 Outlook and priorities
We continue to see significant opportunities in the U.S. and Caribbean 
to expand our Banking business, through a combination of organic 
growth and strategic acquisitions. We anticipate that the current 
financial market volatility in the U.S. will persist into early 2008, as 
investors and lenders will remain cautious and risk averse amid the 
continued correction in the U.S. housing market. The anticipated 
improved U.S. economic conditions in the latter part of 2008, primarily 
underpinned by rising business investment, strong export growth and 
continued consumer spending against a backdrop of the abatement of 
current financial market volatility and the housing market correction, 
should support business and revenue growth. The projected solid  
economic growth in Canada and the Eurozone, as well as the increas-
ing trend of outsourcing by fund managers in Canada, the Eurozone 
and Asia should continue to support RBC Dexia IS business growth. 

Key strategic priorities for 2008
• 

• 

• 

• 

Continue implementing our long-term strategy to become the  
pre-eminent bank for businesses, business owners and profes-
sionals in the U.S. Southeast.
Efficiently integrate the pending acquisition of Alabama National 
BanCorporation for our U.S. banking operations, while retaining 
and growing our client base through continuous enhancement of 
our products and services and distribution network.
Build on our strong position in the Caribbean to create the lead-
ing bank in the region through the efficient integration of RBTT 
Financial Group, which we recently announced our intention to 
acquire, subject to closing conditions. 
Pursue growth strategies with RBC Dexia IS that focus on 
strengthening the global client franchise, broadening its suite of 
products through innovation and expanding its presence in high-
growth markets. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

65

Business line review

Banking

Banking consists of our banking operations in the U.S. and Caribbean. 
These businesses offer a broad range of banking products and ser-
vices to personal and business clients in their respective markets, 
including residential construction finance services. Our U.S. banking 
business ranks 5th in deposit market share in North Carolina and 
among the top 15 in its U.S. Southeast banking footprint. It has a  
network of 350 branches and 395 ATMs. Caribbean banking ranks in 
the top three in deposit market share in most of its markets and has  
44 branches and 78 ATMs.

Financial performance
Total revenue increased $86 million, or 8%, compared to the prior 
year, despite the negative impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the 
translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated revenue. In U.S. dollars, 
Banking revenue increased $114 million, or 12%, primarily driven by 
solid loan and deposit growth, reflecting the inclusion of Flag and the 
AmSouth branches, the 10 U.S. de novo branch openings since last 
year and business growth. These factors were partially offset by a 
loss on the restructuring of our U.S. banking investment portfolio. Net 
interest margin was down 16 bps, largely due to continued competitive 
pressure on deposit business, the reversal of accrued interest related 
to higher impaired loans this year, and a loss on the early redemption of 
trust preferred notes due to the impact of changes in our portfolio mix.
In U.S. dollars, average loans and acceptances and deposits were 

up $3 billion (18%) and $2 billion (11%), respectively, from the prior 
year. The increase was primarily attributable to growth in loans and 
acceptances, and deposits in our U.S. banking operations of 18% and 
12%, respectively, reflecting our acquisitions of Flag and the AmSouth 
branches, de novo branch openings and business growth. Growth in 
loans and acceptances, and deposits in our Caribbean banking opera-
tions of 14% and 8%, respectively, reflecting our continued focus on 
enhancing sales management and client satisfaction, also contributed 
to the increase.

RBC Dexia Investor Services

Our joint venture, RBC Dexia IS, offers an integrated suite of institu-
tional investor products and services, including global custody, fund 
and pension administration, securities lending, shareholder services, 
analytics and other related services, to institutional investors world-
wide. RBC Dexia IS was created on January 2, 2006, when we combined 
our Institutional & Investor Services (IIS) business with Luxembourg-
based Dexia Funds Services in return for a 50% joint venture interest 
in RBC Dexia IS.

Financial performance
Total revenue was up $201 million, or 36%, compared to the prior year.  
The increase primarily reflected growth in our custodian and securities 
lending business on strong market activity, as well as organic growth 
from existing clients and the acquisition of new clients. An additional 
month of results reported in the year also contributed to the increase.

Assets under administration were up 12% from a year ago. The 

increase was largely attributable to the acquisition of new clients, 
largely driven by an increase in sales as a result of our broadened 
product and service offerings, organic growth from existing customers 
and market appreciation.

66

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Selected highlights 

Table 30

$ 

$ 

Total revenue (C$ millions) 
Other information (US$ millions) 
    Total revenue 
    Net interest margin (1) 
    Average loans and  
      acceptances (2), (3) 
    Average deposits (2), (3) 
Number of: 
    Branches 
    Automated teller machines 

2007 

2006 

2005

1,156  $ 

1,070  $ 

1,077

1,059  $ 

945  $ 

  3.56% 

  3.73% 

887
  3.70%

$  17,800  $  15,100  $  14,200
  15,500
  15,900 

  17,700 

394 
473 

325 
385 

315
371

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

Net interest margin (NIM) is calculated as Net interest income divided by Average 
total earning assets. Average total earning assets are calculated using methods 
intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average 
of the daily balances for the period.
Average loans and acceptances and Average deposits have been adjusted for 2005 for 
netting of a large Caribbean government account effective the fourth quarter of 2005, 
which reduced loan and deposit balances by a similar amount.

Average loans and deposits (US$ millions)

20,000

16,000

12,000

8,000

4,000

0

2005 2006 2007

2005 2006 2007

20,000

Loans and acceptances

16,000

Deposits

12,000

8,000

4,000

0

Selected highlights  

Table 31

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue (1) 
Other information
    Assets under administration 
       RBC  (2) 
        RBC Dexia IS (3) 

$ 

759  $ 

558  $ 

500

– 

 2,713,100  2,421,100 

–  1,361,100
–

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

Given the similarities between the IIS and RBC Dexia IS businesses, we have disclosed 
the revenue from our prior IIS business and our 50% proportionate ownership of RBC 
Dexia IS on the same line for comparative purposes. Revenue presented for 2006 rep-
resents two months of revenue from our IIS business earned between November 1, 
2005, and the creation of RBC Dexia IS on January 2, 2006. The current period revenue 
also includes our proportionate share of RBC Dexia IS for the twelve months ended 
September 30, 2007, as RBC Dexia IS reports on a one month lag.
AUA – RBC represents total Assets under administration (AUA) of our IIS business.  
IIS AUA of $1,400 billion was contributed to RBC Dexia IS in exchange for our 50% 
ownership interest.
AUA – RBC Dexia IS represents the total AUA of the joint venture as at September 30, 
2007. We have revised the 2006 amount to reflect the amount reported by RBC Dexia 
IS, as we had previously disclosed only the assets under custody amount related to 
our joint venture.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital Markets

Capital Markets comprises our global wholesale banking business, 
which provides a wide range of corporate and investment banking, sales 
and trading, research and related products and services to corporations, 
public sector and institutional clients in North America and specialized 
products and services in select global markets. This segment consists 
of two main businesses, Global Markets and Global Investment Banking 
and Equity Markets. All other businesses are grouped under Other.

We have an established reputation as a premier Canadian invest-
ment bank with top-tier market share in virtually all lines of wholesale 
business in Canada. We offer a full suite of products and service 
capabilities and have long-standing and deep relationships with our 
clients. We have a select but diversified set of global capabilities which 
includes fixed income, equity, foreign exchange, structured products, 
global infrastructure finance, and energy and mining.

We remain committed to our businesses and will maintain our 
focus on being the undisputed leader in Canada, a top-tier leader in 
the U.S. mid-market, a global structurer and trader, and a leading 
global fixed income bank.

Highlights
•  We completed three acquisitions to access new clients and build 

on our capabilities: Carlin Financial Group, a U.S. broker-dealer 
known for its proprietary trade execution platform; Daniels & 
Associates, L.P., a U.S. merger and acquisition advisory firm; and 
Seasongood & Mayer, LLC, a U.S. public finance firm and munici-
pal debt underwriter.
In 2007, we led or jointly led many significant debt and equity new 
issuance transactions totalling $184 billion.

• 

•  We were involved in the top five merger and acquisitions  

transactions with Canadian involvement through the first three 
calendar quarters of 2007.

•  We were named Dealmaker of the Year in Canada for four of the 
last five years (Financial Post) and the Best Investment Bank in 
Canada (Financial Post and Global Finance magazine).

Capital Markets financial highlights 

(C$ millions, except number of and percentage amounts) 

    Net interest income (1) 
    Non-interest income 
Total revenue (1) 
    Non-interest expense 
    Provision for (recovery of) credit losses (PCL) 
Net income before income taxes and non-controlling interest in subsidiaries (1) 
Net income 

Key ratios 
    Return on equity (2) 
    Return on risk capital (2) 
Selected average balance sheet information (3) 
    Total assets 
    Trading securities 
    Loans and acceptances 
    Deposits 
    Attributed capital (2) 
    Risk capital (2) 
Other information 
    Number of employees (full-time equivalent) 
Credit information 
    Gross impaired loans as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances  
    Specific PCL as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances 

Impact of US$ and British pound translation on selected items (1) 

    Reduced total revenue (1) 
    Reduced non-interest expense 
    Reduced net income 

    Percentage change in average US$ equivalent of C$1.00 (4) 
    Percentage change in average British pound equivalent of C$1.00 (4) 

Table 32

2007 

453 
3,936 
4,389 
2,769 
(22) 
1,642 
1,292 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2006 

131 
4,005 
4,136 
2,603 
(115) 
1,649 
1,355 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2005

557
3,005
3,562
2,890
(91)
762
686

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

26.6% 
32.5% 

31.5% 
38.7% 

17.5%
22.4%

$  311,200 
  152,900 
  29,000 
  125,700 
4,800 
3,900 

$  260,600 
  132,300 
  22,100 
  108,100 
4,250 
3,450 

$  229,100
  109,600
17,600
  96,500
3,850
3,050

3,364 

2,936 

.06% 
(.08)% 

.28% 
(.52)% 

2,762

.67%
(.52)%

  For the year ended
  2007 vs. 2006

$ 

70
15
30

4%
(5)%

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 
(4) 

Taxable equivalent basis. For further discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section.
Segment Return on equity, Average risk capital and Return on risk capital are key performance measures. Average attributed capital and Return on equity are calculated using methods 
intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. For further discussion, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Average amounts are calculated using month-end spot rates for the year.

Revenue (1) by business line (C$ millions) 

Revenue (1) by geography (C$ millions) 

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

Other

GIBEM

Global Markets

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

Other

Europe

U.S.

Canada

2005

2006

2007

2005

2006

2007

(1) 

Taxable equivalent basis. For further discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Economic and market review
Capital markets were generally favourable for the first part of 2007; 
however, a sudden and deep deterioration in the U.S. subprime resi-
dential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) market in the latter part 
of 2007 had negative effects on the broader credit markets. This was 
characterized by significant credit spread widening, increased volatil-
ity in global equities, the credit rating agency downgrades of a broad 
group of collateralized debt obligations of asset-backed securities 
(CDOs of ABS) and U.S. RMBS instruments and a general lack of liquid-
ity across a broad range of products including securities with strong 
credit ratings. The severe disruption in financial markets contributed 
to substantial writedowns and negatively impacted the effective-
ness of hedging strategies for certain credit related products. Global 
central banks continued to provide liquidity to financial markets in an 
effort to minimize the impact of the market dislocation on the broader 
economy, including a 75 bps aggressive reduction in its overnight bor-
rowing rate by the U.S. Federal Reserve during the fourth quarter of 
2007. Lower levels of liquidity coupled with increased financial market 
volatility contributed to lower levels of origination activity compared 
to 2006. M&A activity remained strong for most of the year. The stron-
ger Canadian dollar negatively impacted the translated value of our 
U.S. dollar-denominated earnings.

Financial performance
2007 vs. 2006
Net income decreased $63 million, or 5%, compared to a year ago 
largely due to writedowns recorded in the current year totalling  
$357 million on the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS 
in our Structured Credit business. The writedowns reflected the dete-
rioration in the credit markets in the latter part of 2007 as a result of 
concerns over the U.S. subprime market, a general lack of liquidity and 
the recent credit rating agency downgrades of a broad group of CDOs 
of ABS and U.S. RMBS instruments. The negative impact of the stron-
ger Canadian dollar on the translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated 
earnings also contributed to the decrease. These factors were partially 
offset by broad-based revenue growth in many other businesses. The 
writedowns of $357 million were offset by a $119 million compensa-
tion adjustment and $78 million income tax adjustment for a net 
impact of $160 million.

Total revenue increased $253 million, or 6%. The increase was pri-
marily due to increased equity derivatives and foreign exchange trading 
revenue, strong equity origination activity across all geographies and 
the inclusion of our recent acquisitions. Higher M&A activity, mainly in 
the U.S. gains associated with credit derivative contracts used to  
economically hedge our core lending portfolio reflecting the widening 
of credit spreads, and higher distributions on private equity invest-
ments also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially 
offset by lower trading revenue in our fixed income businesses reflect-
ing the writedowns on the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs 
of ABS, the negative impact of the stronger Canadian dollar on the 
translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated revenue and lower U.S. 
debt origination results due in part to the tightening of credit markets in 
the latter part of 2007.

Non-interest expense increased $166 million, or 6%, primarily 
reflecting increased costs in support of business growth, including 
higher staffing levels and the inclusion of our recent acquisitions. 
These factors were partially offset by lower variable compensation 
commensurate with weaker results and lower professional fees.

Recovery of credit losses of $22 million in the current year com-
pares to a recovery of credit losses of $115 million in the prior year, 
which included a $50 million reversal of the general allowance.
Average assets were up $51 billion, or 19%, mainly due to 
increased trading securities primarily resulting from growth in certain 
equity trading strategies and in our fixed income trading businesses. 

Loans and acceptances increased $7 billion, or 31%, mainly related to 
strong investment banking activity and growth in our Infrastructure 
Finance business. Deposits increased $18 billion, or 16%, primarily 
due to increased funding requirements of our trading businesses. 
Credit quality remained strong as gross impaired loans decreased  
$43 million, or 72%, from a year ago.

2006 vs. 2005
Net income increased $669 million, or 98%, compared to 2005  
primarily due to the prior year Enron litigation-related provision of 
$591 million ($326 million after-tax). Also contributing to the increase 
were record trading results, a lower effective income tax rate and near 
record M&A fees. These factors were partly offset by higher variable 
compensation on improved business performance and the negative 
impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of our  
U.S. dollar- and British pound-denominated earnings. 

Total revenue increased $574 million, or 16%. The increase was 
primarily due to record trading results on improved market conditions 
and growth in certain equity trading strategies and stronger M&A activ-
ity. Higher distributions and gains from private equity investments, 
increased brokerage commissions and increased credit fees related 
to investment banking activity also contributed to the increase. These 
factors were partially offset by a decline in equity origination in Canada 
mainly reflecting uncertainty in equity markets outside the resource sec-
tor. Debt origination fees were also down, mainly in the U.S., due to the 
rising interest rate environment and further weakening of the U.S. dollar. 
Non-interest expense decreased $287 million, or 10%, largely 

reflecting the Enron litigation-related provision recorded in 2005 and 
the favourable reduction in the translated value of U.S. dollar- and 
British pound-denominated expenses due to the stronger Canadian 
dollar. Higher variable compensation on stronger business perfor-
mance and higher spending in support of business growth initiatives 
partly offset the decrease.

Recovery of credit losses of $115 million in 2006, including a  
$50 million reversal of the general allowance, compared to a recovery 
of credit losses of $91 million in 2005.

2008 Outlook and priorities 
Credit market and liquidity concerns should abate as capital markets 
stabilize globally and gradually return to more normal levels of activity. 
The expected gradual improvement in market conditions should result 
in the recovery of underperforming businesses. In Canada, we will con-
tinue to build on our leadership position, while in the U.S. we remain 
focused on leveraging the strengths of recent acquisitions continuing 
to build our mid-market franchise and expanding into new sectors. 
Internationally, we will strategically expand our global capabilities, 
including strengthening our Infrastructure Finance business and 
expanding the distribution of structured and fixed income products into 
Asian markets. Our deal pipeline should remain fairly healthy and is 
expected to continue to grow; however, conversion remains a concern.

Key strategic priorities for 2008
•  Maintain our leadership position in Canada and deepen our  

• 

• 

• 

• 

penetration in the Canadian mid-market segment.
Continue to grow our Municipal Products business with the 
recently acquired platform of Seasongood & Mayer, expand our 
banking activities geographically and develop new product seg-
ments in the U.S.
Continue to expand the distribution of structured and fixed 
income products into Asian markets.
Continue to expand our infrastructure and project finance  
product offering from U.K. to other international and U.S. markets.
Continue to build our global energy capabilities, an area of 
strength for us.

68

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Business line review

Global Markets

Global Markets is our centre for origination, trading and distribution of 
predominantly investment-grade fixed income, foreign exchange and 
derivative products. It also conducts our proprietary trading opera-
tions, alternative asset and private equity businesses.

Financial performance
Global Markets revenue decreased $124 million, or 5%, from a year 
ago. Trading-related revenue was down $94 million, or 4%, primarily  
due to lower trading revenue in certain fixed income business as a 
result of writedowns totalling $357 million on the valuation of U.S. sub-
prime RMBS and CDOs of ABS in our Structured Credit business. This 
was partially offset by higher equity derivatives and foreign exchange 
trading revenue due to business expansion and increased market vola-
tility. Other revenue was down $30 million from a year ago largely due 
to lower private equity investment gains. 

We led or jointly led 1,005 debt issues, up from 615 deals  
a year ago, with a total value of approximately $164 billion, and in  
Municipal Finance, we were involved in 779 issues with a total value  
of US$81 billion through October 2007.

Global Investment Banking and Equity Markets

Global Investment Banking and Equity Markets brings together our 
investment banking and equity sales and trading capabilities to  
provide a complete suite of advisory and equity-related services to 
clients from origination, structuring and advising to distribution, sales 
and trading.

Given the significant growth in our National Clients business, we 

transferred this business from Other to Global Investment Banking 
and Equity Markets in the second quarter of 2007.

Financial performance
Global Investment Banking and Equity Markets revenue increased 
$293 million, or 21%, compared to the prior year. Gross underwriting 
and advisory revenue was up $166 million, or 25%, largely reflecting 
strong equity origination activity across all geographies and improved 
M&A activity mainly in the U.S. Equity sales and trading revenue 
increased $92 million, or 33%, mainly due to the inclusion of our 
recent acquisitions, while Other revenue was up $35 million, or 8%, 
primarily reflecting higher private equity distributions and increased 
lending activity.

In 2007, we advised on 98 announced M&A deals with a total 

value of $190 billion. In 2007, we led or co-led 142 equity and  
equity-related new issues with a total market value of $20 billion, 
up from 82 in the prior year.

Selected highlights 

Table 33

(C$ millions) 

Total revenue (1) 
Other information
    Trading-related 
    Other (2) 

2007 

2006 

2005

$ 

2,455  $ 

2,579  $ 

2,256

2,060 
395 

2,154 
425 

1,706
550

(1) 

Taxable equivalent basis. For further discussion, refer to the How we measure and 
report our business segments section.

(2)   Other includes debt origination, municipal products, gains/losses on private equity 

instruments, derivatives non-trading and securitization revenue.

Trading-related and Other revenue (C$ millions)

Other

Trading-related

3,000

2,400

1,800

1,200

600

0

2005

2006

2007

Selected highlights  

Table 34

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Total revenue (1) 
Other information
    Gross underwriting and  
      advisory fees 
    Equity sales and trading 
    Other (2) 

$ 

1,675  $ 

1,382  $ 

1,098

831 
375 
469 

665 
283 
434 

598
252
248

(1) 

(2) 

Taxable equivalent basis. For further discussion, refer to the How we measure and 
report our business segments section.
Other includes increases in private equity distributions, growth in revenue  
associated with our core lending portfolio and syndicated finance and the gain on the 
exchange of our NYSE seats for NYX shares.

Gross underwriting and advisory fees, equity sales and trading, 
and Other revenue (C$ millions)

2,000

1,600

1,200

800

400

0

2005

2006

2007

Equity sales and trading

Other

Gross underwriting and 
advisory fees

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other

Other consists of our remaining businesses including our Global Credit 
business, which oversees the management of our core lending port-
folios and manages our non-strategic lending portfolio. Global Credit 
also includes our Global Financial Institutions business which delivers 
innovative and creative solutions to global financial institutions includ-
ing correspondent banking, treasury and cash management services. 
Research offers economic and securities research products to institu-
tional clients in Canada and globally.

Financial performance 
Revenue from Other was $259 million, an increase of $84 million, or 
48%, over the prior year. The increase mainly reflected gains associ-
ated with credit derivative contracts used to economically hedge our 
core lending portfolio reflecting the widening of credit spreads and 
increased revenue in our Global Financial Institutions business due to 
higher deposit balances.

Corporate Support

Corporate Support segment activities include our global technology 
and operations group, corporate treasury, finance, human resources, 
risk management, internal audit and other global functions, the costs 
of which are largely allocated to the business segments. 

The reported results for the Corporate Support segment mainly 

reflect activities that are undertaken for the benefit of the organiza-
tion, and which are not allocated to the business segments such as 
enterprise funding, securitization and the net charges associated  
with unattributed capital. The results also include consolidation 

adjustments including the elimination of the teb adjustments recorded 
in Capital Markets related to the gross-up of income from Canadian 
taxable corporate dividends to their taxable equivalent value. These 
adjustments are recorded in net interest income and offset in the  
provision for income taxes. 

Due to the nature of activities and consolidated adjustments 
reported in this segment, we believe that a year-over-year trend analy-
sis is not relevant. The following identifies the material items affecting 
the reported results in each year. 

Corporate Support financial highlights  

(C$ millions) 

    Net interest income (1) 
    Non-interest income 
Total revenue (1) 
    Non-interest expense 
    Recovery of credit losses 
    Business realignment charges 
Net loss before income taxes and non-controlling interest in subsidiaries (1) 
Net income (loss) 

Selected average balance sheet and other information (2) 
    Total assets 
    Attributed capital (3) 
Securitization  
    Total securitizations sold and outstanding (4) 
    New securitization activity in the year (5) 

Other information 
    Number of employees (full-time equivalent) 

Table 35

2007 

2006 

2005 

(732)  $ 
377 
(355)  $ 

36 
(85) 
– 
(306)  $ 
$ 
209 

(488)  $ 
178 
(310)  $ 

36 
(86) 
– 
(260)  $ 
$ 

111 

(294)
190
(104) 
61
(47)
39
(157)
(14)

(6,500)  $ 
2,950 

(5,400)  $ 
3,100 

(4,000)
2,800 

17,889 
4,264 

$ 1 5,836 
6,142 

$ 

11,587
3,821 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 

  19,485 

  18,393 

17,785 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Taxable equivalent basis. For further discussion, refer to the How we manage and report our business segments section. These amounts included the elimination of the adjustment 
related to the gross-up of income from Canadian corporate dividends of $332 million in 2007 recorded in Capital Markets (2006 – $213 million, 2005 – $109 million). 
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
For further discussion, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
Total securitizations sold and outstanding comprises credit card loans and residential mortgages.
New securitization activity comprises residential mortgages and credit card loans securitized and sold in the year. For further details, refer to Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial  
Statements.

2007
Net income of $209 million for the year included income tax amounts 
largely related to enterprise funding activities that were not allocated 
to the business segments and favourable income tax settlements 
related to prior years. These factors were partially offset by the 
mark-to-market losses mainly related to the recognition of the inef-
fectiveness of hedged items and the related derivatives in hedge 
accounting relationships, a cumulative adjustment for losses result-
ing from the fair valuing of certain derivatives that did not qualify for 
hedge accounting and higher capital taxes that were not allocated to 
the business segments.

2006
Net income of $111 million for the year mainly reflected income tax 
amounts which were largely related to enterprise funding activities 

70

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

and the favourable resolution of income tax audits related to prior 
years not allocated to the business segments. Mark-to-market gains 
on derivatives related to certain economic hedges also contributed to 
net income in the year. These factors were partially offset by the timing 
of securitization activity and an amount accrued related to a leased 
space which we will not occupy and expect to sublease at a rate lower 
than our contracted rate.

2005
Net loss of $14 million largely reflected business realignment charges 
of $39 million, and mark-to-market losses on derivatives relating to 
certain economic hedges, which were partially offset by securitization 
activity and interest refunds relating to the resolution of disputed tax 
items for the 1993 to 1998 tax periods.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial condition

Balance sheet 

(C$ millions)  

Interest-bearing deposits with banks 
Securities 
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans    
Other assets 
Total assets 
Deposits 
Other liabilities 
Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
Shareholders’ equity 

Table 36

As at October 31
2007 

2006

$  11,881 
  178,255 
64,313 
  239,429 
  103,735 
  600,346 
  365,205 
  201,284 
1,483 
  24,439 

$  10,502
  184,869
59,378
  209,939
69,100
  536,780
  343,523
  160,575
1,775
22,123

With the adoption of the new financial instruments accounting stan-
dards, certain financial instruments are now measured at fair value 
that were previously reported at cost or amortized cost. As a result, a 
greater portion of our Consolidated Balance Sheet is now measured at 
fair value, including certain derivative instruments. For further details, 
refer to the Critical accounting policies and estimates section as well 
as Notes 1 and 2 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

2007 vs. 2006
Total assets were up $64 billion, or 12%, from a year ago, driven by  
growth across most asset categories. The increase was largely attrib-
utable to solid loan growth, including Canadian residential mortgages 
and personal and business loans, amid generally favourable domes-
tic market conditions. Higher balances related to derivative-related 
amounts, primarily reflecting changes in market conditions, also con-
tributed to the increase.

Interest-bearing deposits with banks increased $1 billion, or 
13%, from the prior year, largely reflecting a shift in our portfolio mix 
to higher-yielding assets.

Securities were down $7 billion, or 4%, from a year ago, primarily  
due to a strategic reduction in our positions taking into account recent 
financial market volatility, and the impact of a stronger Canadian dollar 
on the translated value of U.S. dollar-denominated securities.

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and 
securities borrowed increased $5 billion, or 8%, from a year ago. This 
growth primarily reflected higher balances in support of our equity and 
fixed income trading strategies.

Loans increased $29 billion, or 14%, from a year ago, reflecting 

past 12 months) and personal loans, largely driven by demand for 
home equity lending amid continued strong Canadian housing market 
activities, relatively low interest rates in a historical context and strong 
labour market conditions. Solid growth in our wholesale loans of  
$11 billion, or 19%, mainly reflecting continued growth in corporate 
lending also contributed to the increase.

Other assets were up $35 billion, or 50%. The growth was mainly 

attributable to an increase in derivative-related amounts primarily 
in foreign exchange and interest rate contracts, reflecting increased 
volatility, strong shifts in exchange rates and interest rates, as well as 
higher client and trading activity. These factors were partially offset by 
the impact of a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of U.S. 
dollar-denominated derivative-related assets.

Deposits increased $22 billion, or 6%, from a year ago. The 
growth was largely due to increased business and government depos-
its mainly reflecting higher balances in support of business activities, 
increased balances at RBC Dexia IS, and domestic business growth. 
Higher personal deposits in part driven by the success of our recently 
launched high-interest online savings account also contributed to the 
increase. These factors were partially offset by a reduction in interest-
bearing deposits with banks in part reflecting our lower funding 
requirements compared to a year ago.

Other liabilities rose $41 billion, or 25%, from last year. The 
increase was mainly due to derivative-related amounts, primarily 
reflecting the same factors noted above in derivative-related assets. 
Increased securities sold short, mainly reflecting business growth and 
higher balance in support of our fixed income trading strategies, also 
contributed to the increase.

increases across all categories. The largest growth was attributable to 
Canadian residential mortgages, which increased $13 billion, or 14% 
(despite the offsetting effect of $13 billion of securitizations over the 

Shareholders’ equity increased $2 billion, or 10%, over the prior 
year. The growth largely reflected strong earnings growth, net of divi-
dends, and a $1 billion net issuance of preferred shares since last year.

Capital management

Capital management framework
We actively manage our capital to balance the desire to maintain 
strong capital ratios and high ratings with the objective of providing 
strong returns to our shareholders. In striving to achieve this balance, 
we consider the requirements of regulators, rating agencies, deposi-
tors and shareholders, as well as our future business plans, peer 
comparisons and our position relative to internal targets for capital 
ratios. Additional considerations include the costs and terms of current 
and potential capital issuances, and projected capital requirements.
Our capital management framework provides the policies and  
processes for defining, measuring, raising and investing all forms of 
capital in a co-ordinated and consistent manner. We manage and moni-
tor our capital from several perspectives, including: 
(i)  Regulatory capital: capital required for regulatory compliance 
defined in accordance with the Office of the Superintendent of 
Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI) criteria;

(ii)  Economic Capital: an internal assessment of the amount of equity 

capital required to underpin our risks; and

(iii)  Subsidiary capital: the amount of regulatory capital invested  

in subsidiaries.

This co-ordinated approach to capital management serves an impor-
tant business function. Our goal is to optimize our capital usage and 
structure and provide efficient support for our business segments and 
clients and better returns for our shareholders, while protecting our 
depositors and senior creditors.

Governance
The Board of Directors is responsible for the annual review and 
approval of our capital plan, in conjunction with our operating plan. 
The Audit Committee is responsible for the governance of capital man-
agement, which includes the approval of capital management policies, 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

71

 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
the regular review of our capital position and liquidity, funding and 
capital management processes, and the ongoing review of internal 
control over financial reporting. In addition, the OSFI meets with  
our Audit Committee and the Conduct Review and Risk Policy 
Committee (CR&RPC) to discuss policies and procedures regarding 
capital management.

The Asset & Liability Committee and the Group Executive share 

management oversight responsibility for capital management and 
receive regular reports detailing compliance with the established lim-
its and guidelines. Corporate Treasury and Group Risk Management 
(GRM) are responsible for the design and implementation of policies 
for regulatory, economic and subsidiary capital.

Risk-adjusted assets (1) 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

Balance sheet assets 
    Cash and deposits with banks 
    Securities 
        Issued or guaranteed by Canadian or other OECD (3) governments 
        Other 
    Residential mortgages (4) 
        Insured  
        Conventional  
    Other loans and acceptances (4) 
        Issued or guaranteed by Canadian or other OECD (3) governments 
        Other 
    Other assets 

Off-balance sheet financial instruments 
    Credit instruments 
        Guarantees and standby letters of credit 
        Documentary and commercial letters of credit 
        Securities lending (6) 
        Commitments to extend credit  
        Liquidity facilities 
        Note issuances and revolving underwriting facilities    

Risk-adjusted assets (RAA)
Under the current Basel I framework, the calculation of RAA is deter-
mined by the OSFI-prescribed rules relating to on-balance sheet and 
off-balance sheet exposures and includes an amount for the market 
risk exposure associated with our trading portfolios. 

During the year, RAA increased by $23.9 billion, with strong 

growth across most categories including loans, mortgages, and off-
balance sheet derivative instruments. However, growth in nominal 
assets was partially offset by the impact of a stronger Canadian dollar 
on the translated value of our foreign currency-denominated assets.

Balance 
sheet amount 

Weighted 
average of 
risk weights (2) 

Table 37

Risk-adjusted balance

2007 

2006

$ 

16,107 

18% 

$ 

2,852 

$ 

2,322

  16,858 
  161,591 

   27,994 
  81,713 

  32,577  
  171,422 
  92,100 

$  600,362 

Credit
equivalent 
amount (5)

$  19,758 
100 
  36,187 
  21,954 
4,826 
– 

$  82,825 

– 
6% 

1% 
40% 

17% 
69% 
11% 

52 
9,495 

 3
55 
  32,885 

5,651 
  118,723 
  10,487 

42
7,811

363
27,921

3,848
  107,336
  10,609

$  180,500 

$  160,252

60% 
78% 
3%  
85% 
98% 
– 

$  11,807 
78 
962 
  18,752 
4,746 
– 

$  14,092 
65
3,022
  16,666
4,413
4

$  36,345 

$  38,262

Derivatives (7) 

57,973 

25%  

14,457 

  10,432

Total off-balance sheet financial instruments 

$  140,798 

$  50,802 

$  48,694

Total specific and general market risk 

Total risk-adjusted assets 

  16,333 

14,763

$  247,635 

$  223,709

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 

Calculated using guidelines issued by the OSFI.
Represents the weighted average of counterparty risk weights within a particular category.
OECD stands for Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
Amounts are shown net of allowance for loan losses.
The amount of credit exposure attributable to an off-balance sheet financial instrument, derived from the notional value of the exposure.
In 2007, we implemented a new trading credit risk system in our London office that enables clearer identification of these balances, resulting in a lower risk-adjusted balance. 
Excludes non-trading credit derivatives given guarantee treatment for credit risk capital purposes.

Regulatory capital and capital ratios
Capital levels for Canadian banks are regulated pursuant to guide-
lines issued by the OSFI, based on standards issued by the Bank for 
International Settlements. Regulatory capital is allocated to two tiers: 
Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 capital comprises the more permanent com-
ponents of capital and consists primarily of common shareholders’ 
equity, non-cumulative preferred shares, the majority of which do not 
have conversion features into common shares, and the eligible amount 
of innovative capital instruments. In addition, goodwill is deducted 
from Tier 1 capital.

Tier 2 capital consists mainly of subordinated debentures, trust 
subordinated notes, the eligible amount of innovative capital instru-
ments that could not be included in Tier 1 capital, and an eligible 
portion of the total general allowance for credit losses. Total capital is 

defined as the total of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital less deductions as pre-
scribed by the OSFI. For further details on the terms and conditions  of 
our non-cumulative preferred shares and innovative capital instruments, 
refer to Notes 17 and 18 of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Regulatory capital ratios are calculated by dividing Tier 1 and 
Total capital by RAA. The OSFI formally establishes risk-based capital 
targets for deposit-taking institutions in Canada. These targets are 
currently a Tier 1 capital ratio of 7% and a Total capital ratio of 10%. 
In addition to the Tier 1 and Total capital ratios, Canadian banks are 
required to ensure that their assets-to-capital multiple, which is  
calculated by dividing gross adjusted assets by Total capital, does not 
exceed a maximum level prescribed by the OSFI.

The components of regulatory capital and our regulatory capital 

ratios are shown in the following table.

72

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Regulatory capital and capital ratios (1) 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

Tier 1 capital  
    Common equity (2) 
    Non-cumulative preferred shares 
    Trust capital securities 
    Other non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
    Goodwill 

Tier 2 capital 
    Permanent subordinated debentures (3) 
    Non-permanent subordinated debentures (3) 
    General allowances 
    Trust capital securities (excess over 15% Tier 1) 
    Trust subordinated notes 
    Accumulated net unrealized gain on available-for-sale equity securities (4) 

Other deductions from capital 
    Investment in insurance subsidiaries 
    Other 

Total capital 

Capital ratios 
    Tier 1 capital to risk-adjusted assets 
    Total capital to risk-adjusted assets 
    Assets-to-capital multiple 

Table 38

2007 

2006

$  22,272 
2,344 
3,494 
25 
(4,752) 

$  21,065
1,345
3,222 
28 
(4,182)

  23,383 

  21,478

 –

779 
5,473 
1,221 

1,027 
105 

8,605 

839
6,313
1,223
249
–
–

8,624

(2,912) 
(505) 

(2,795)
(643)

$  28,571 

$  26,664

9.4% 
11.5% 
19.9X 

9.6%
11.9%
19.7X

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

(4) 

As defined in the guidelines issued by the OSFI.
This amount is Shareholders’ equity less preferred shares of $2,050 million and other items not included in regulatory capital of $117 million.
Subordinated debentures that are within five years of maturity are subject to straight-line amortization to zero during their remaining term and, accordingly, are included above at their 
amortized value.
As prescribed by the OSFI, certain components of Accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) are included in the determination of regulatory capital. Accumulated net foreign cur-
rency translation adjustments are included in Tier 1 capital in common equity. Net unrealized fair value losses on available-for-sale (AFS) equities are deducted in the determination of 
Tier 1 capital while net unrealized fair value gains on AFS equities are included in Tier 2 capital.

Tier 1 capital ratio

12%

9%

6%

3%

0%

9.7%

8.9%

9.6%

9.6%

9.4%

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

Selected capital management activity 

(C$ millions) 

Dividends 
    Common 
    Preferred 
Common shares issued (1) 
Repurchase of common shares – normal course issuer bid (2) 
Preferred shares issued 
Preferred shares redeemed 
Subordinated debentures issued  
Repurchase and redemption of debentures (3) 
Issuance of Trust subordinated notes (4) 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Represents cash received for stock options exercised during the year. 
For further details, refer to Note 18 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
For further details, refer to Note 16 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
For further details, refer to Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

As at October 31, 2007, the Tier 1 capital ratio was 9.4% and the Total 
capital ratio was 11.5%.

The Tier 1 capital ratio was down 20 bps from a year ago. The 

decrease was largely due to business growth, including acquisitions, 
which resulted in an increase in RAA and a higher goodwill deduction 
from capital. The impact of our common share repurchases under our 
normal course issuer bid also contributed to the decrease. These fac-
tors were partially offset by strong generation of capital from earnings 
and the issuance of preferred shares. 

The Total capital ratio was down 40 bps from a year ago due to 
growth in RAA and the redemption of subordinated debentures. These 
factors were partially offset by the issuance of trust subordinated notes.
As at October 31, 2007, our assets-to-capital multiple was  
19.9 compared to 19.7 a year ago. Our assets-to-capital multiple 
remains below the maximum of 23 that is allowed by the OSFI.

$ 

Table 39

2007 

2006

$ 

2,321 
88 
152 
(646) 
1,150 
(150) 
87 
(985) 
1,000 

1,847
60
115
(844)
600
(250)
–
(955)
–

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In 2007, we undertook several initiatives to support the effective man-
agement of our capital.

Tier 1
In 2007, we repurchased 11.8 million common shares for $646 million 
under our NCIB that expired on October 31, 2007. Effective November 1,  
2007, we renewed our NCIB to repurchase up to 20 million common 
shares, or 1.6%, of our outstanding common shares as at October 31, 
2007. This NCIB will expire on October 31, 2008.

On April 26, 2007, we issued $250 million of Non-cumulative  

First Preferred Shares Series AG at $25 per share.

On March 14, 2007, we issued $200 million of Non-cumulative 

First Preferred Shares Series AF at $25 per share.

On January 19, 2007, we issued $250 million of Non-cumulative 

First Preferred Shares Series AE at $25 per share.

On December 13, 2006, we issued $250 million of Non-
cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AD at $25 per share.

On November 24, 2006, we redeemed all of the issued and out-

standing $150 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series O.
On November 1, 2006, we issued $200 million of Non-cumulative 

First Preferred Shares Series AC at $25 per share.

Tier 2
During the year, we purchased US$24 million of our outstanding 
US$300 million floating rate debentures maturing in 2085.

On June 26, 2007, we issued JP¥10 billion (C$87 million) Japanese 

Yen-denominated subordinated debentures.

On June 4, 2007, we redeemed all of our outstanding $500 million 

subordinated debentures due June 4, 2012, at par value plus accrued 
interest.

On April 30, 2007, we issued $1 billion of subordinated deben-
tures through RBC Subordinated Notes Trust, a closed-end trust wholly 
owned by us. 

On November 8, 2006, we redeemed all of our outstanding 

US$400 million floating-rate subordinated debentures due  
November 8, 2011, for 100% of their principal amount plus accrued 
interest to the redemption date.

Dividends
Our common share dividend policy reflects our earnings outlook, 
desired payout ratio and the need to maintain adequate levels of 
capital to fund business opportunities. The targeted common share 
dividend payout ratio for 2007 was 40% to 50%. In 2007, the dividend 
payout ratio was 43%, up from 40% in 2006. Common share dividends 
paid during the year were $2.3 billion, up 26% from a year ago. 

Share data and dividends 

Table 40

(C$ millions, except number of shares 
and per share amounts) 

Number of 
shares (000s) 

Amount 

Dividends 
per share 

Number of 
shares (000s) 

Amount 

Dividends 
per share 

Number of 
shares (000s) 

Amount 

Dividends
per share

2007 

2006 

2005 

First Preferred (1)
    Non-cumulative Series N  
    Non-cumulative Series O  
    Non-cumulative Series S  
    Non-cumulative Series W  
    Non-cumulative Series AA  
    Non-cumulative Series AB  
    Non-cumulative Series AC  
    Non-cumulative Series AD  
    Non-cumulative Series AE  
    Non-cumulative Series AF  
    Non-cumulative Series AG  

 12,000 
– 
– 
 12,000 
 12,000 
 12,000 
  8,000 
 10,000 
 10,000 
  8,000 
 10,000 

$ 

300 
– 
– 
300 
300 
300 
200 
250 
250 
200 
250 

$ 

1.18 
– 
– 
  1.23 
1.11 
1.18 
  1.22 
  1.06 
.95 
.77 
.65 

 12,000 
  6,000 
– 
 12,000 
 12,000 
 12,000 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 

300 
150 
– 
300 
300 
300 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 

1.18 
  1.38 
  1.33 
  1.23 
.71 
.41 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

 12,000 
  6,000 
 10,000 
 12,000 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 

300 
150 
250 
300 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Total First Preferred 

$  2,350 

$  1,350 

$  1,000 

Common shares outstanding  
Treasury shares – preferred 
Treasury shares – common  
Stock options  
    Outstanding 
    Exercisable 

1,276,260 
(249) 
 (2,444) 

$  7,300 
(6) 
(101) 

$  1.82  1,280,890 
(94) 
 (5,486) 

$  7,196 
(2) 
(180) 

$  1.44  1,293,502 
(91) 
  (7,053) 

$  7,170 
(2) 
(216) 

 26,623 
 21,924 

 32,243 
 26,918 

 36,481 
 28,863 

$ 

1.18
  1.38
1.53
.99
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

$ 

1.18

(1) 

As at October 31, 2007, the aggregate number of common shares issuable on the conversion of the First Preferred Shares Series N was approximately 5,743,000. As at October 31, 2007, 
the First Preferred Shares Series W was not yet convertible. The other preferred shares do not have conversion options.

As at November 23, 2007, the number of outstanding common shares 
and stock options were 1,276,292,000 and 26,591,000, respectively. 
As at November 23, 2007, the number of Treasury shares – preferred 

and Treasury shares – common were 263,000 and 2,775,000,  
respectively. For further information about our share capital, refer to 
Notes 18 and 21 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

74

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hedging foreign currency-denominated operations
Increasing amounts of U.S. dollar-denominated assets and deduc-
tions from regulatory capital prompted our development of a policy 
for hedging our foreign exchange exposure with respect to our foreign 
operations. The objectives of our hedging policy are: (i) stabilization of 
our consolidated regulatory capital ratios from currency fluctuations, 
and (ii) mitigation of potential earnings volatility that might result 
if we dispose of these investments in foreign operations. When the 
Canadian dollar strengthens/weakens against other currencies, the 
losses/gains on net foreign investments reduce/increase our capital, 
as well as our RAA and goodwill of the foreign currency-denominated 
operations. Selecting an appropriate level of hedging for our invest-
ment in foreign operations ensures that our regulatory capital ratios 
are not materially impacted by currency fluctuations due to the offset-
ting impact of the proportionate movements in the assets and capital.
Hedging our operations denominated in foreign currencies 
promotes orderly and efficient capital management. It facilitates com-
pliance with regulatory requirements on an ongoing basis and enables 
us to maintain greater control over key capital ratios, thereby reducing 
the need for capital transactions in response to currency fluctuations.

Economic Capital
Economic Capital is our own quantification of risks associated with 
business activities. Economic Capital is defined as the capital required 
to remain solvent and in business even under extreme market con-
ditions, given our desire to maintain a debt rating of at least AA. 
Economic Capital is attributed to each business segment in proportion 
to management’s assessment of the risks. It allows for comparable 
performance measurements among our business segments through 
Return on Equity (ROE) and Return on Risk Capital (RORC), which are 
described in detail in the Key performance and non-GAAP measures 
section. Accordingly, Economic Capital aids senior management in 
resource allocation and serves as a reference point for the assessment 
of our aggregate risk appetite in relation to our financial position, rec-
ognizing that factors outside the scope of Economic Capital must also 
be taken into consideration.

Economic Capital is also used to assess the adequacy of our  

capital base. Our policy is to maintain a level of common equity and 
other instruments with equity-like permanence and loss absorption  
features that exceed Economic Capital with a comfortable cushion. 

Economic Capital 

(C$ millions average balances) 

    Credit risk 
    Market risk (trading and non-trading) 
    Operational risk 
    Business and fixed asset risk 
    Insurance risk 

Risk capital 
Goodwill and intangibles 

Economic Capital 
Unattributed capital 

Common equity 

Economic Capital is calculated and attributed on a wider array 

of risks than is regulatory capital, which is primarily limited to credit, 
market (trading) and, under Basel II, operational risk. Economic 
Capital also includes goodwill and intangibles. The identified risks 
(described below) for which we calculate Economic Capital are credit, 
market (trading and non-trading), operational, business, fixed asset, 
and insurance. Additionally, Economic Capital allows for diversification 
benefits across risks and business segments.
• 

Credit risk is the risk of loss associated with a counterparty’s 
inability or unwillingness to fulfill its payment obligations.

• 

•  Market risk is the risk of loss that may arise from changes in  
market factors such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, 
equity or commodity prices, or the volatility of these factors, in 
both banking and trading books. Market risk can be exacerbated 
by thinly traded or illiquid markets.
Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from inadequate  
or failed internal processes, people and systems or from  
external events.
Business risk is the risk of loss due to variances in volumes, 
prices and costs caused by competitive forces, regulatory 
changes, reputation and strategic risks. 
Fixed asset risk is defined as the risk that the value of fixed assets 
will be less than their book value at a future date.
Insurance risk is the risk of loss that may occur when assumptions 
made in insurance product design and pricing activities differ 
from actual experience.

• 

• 

• 

For further discussion of credit, market, operational and insurance 
risk, refer to the Risk management section.

The calculation and attribution of Economic Capital involves a 
number of assumptions and judgments. The methodologies are con-
tinually monitored to ensure that the Economic Capital framework 
is comprehensive and consistent. Economic Capital measurement 
models and techniques are developed by GRM and are subject to inde-
pendent assessment for appropriateness and reliability. The models 
are continually benchmarked to leading industry practices via partici-
pation in surveys, reviews of methodologies and ongoing interaction 
with external risk-management industry professionals. The models 
and input parameters are subject to independent vetting and valida-
tion, as per internal model risk policies. 

$ 

2007 

6,850 
2,700 
2,750 
2,000 
150 

$ 

Table 41

2006

5,800
2,500
2,450
1,800
200

$  14,450 
5,550 

$  12,750
4,650

$  20,000 
2,000 

$ 

17,400
2,500

$  22,000 

$  19,900 

Economic Capital increased $2.6 billion from a year ago largely due 
to increases in Credit risk capital, Goodwill and intangibles and 
Operational risk capital. The increases in Credit risk and Operational 
risk capital were primarily due to business growth including the impact 
of our acquisitions of Flag, the AmSouth branches and Carlin. Goodwill 
and intangibles increased primarily as a result of these acquisitions, 

which were partially offset by the favourable impact of a stronger 
Canadian dollar on the translated value of foreign currency- 
denominated assets.

We remain well capitalized with current levels of qualified equity 

exceeding the Economic Capital required to underpin all of our risks.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Subsidiary capital
Management of consolidated capital has become a strategic objec-
tive for us as the amount of capital deployed in subsidiaries to build 
their businesses has grown in order to maximize profits and returns 
to our shareholders. Accordingly, regulatory bodies have focused on 
ensuring that for all internationally active banks, capital recognized 
in regulatory capital measurements is accessible by the parent entity. 
At the same time, subsidiaries should be sufficiently capitalized on 
a stand-alone basis and in compliance with local regulatory require-
ments at all times. In addition to minimum capital requirements, these 
local regulations may include restrictions on the transfer of assets in 
the form of cash, dividends, loans or advances. For further details, 
refer to Note 18 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. To balance 
these regulatory requirements and facilitate the co-ordinated genera-
tion and allocation of capital across the enterprise, we have put in 
place a comprehensive subsidiary capital management framework. 
This framework sets guidelines for defining capital investments in our 
subsidiaries and establishes an overall limit for total investment in 
those subsidiaries. 

While each of our subsidiaries has individual responsibility for 
calculating, monitoring and maintaining capital adequacy in compli-
ance with the laws and regulations of its local jurisdiction, Corporate 
Treasury is mandated to provide centralized oversight and consoli-
dated capital base management across various entities. 

Other considerations affecting capital 
Transition to Basel II 
Beginning in the first quarter of 2008, as a result of the OSFI’s adop-
tion of new guidelines based on “International Convergence of  
Capital Measurement and Capital Standards: A Revised Framework –  
Comprehensive Version (June 2006),” known as Basel II, Canadian 
banks will be required to calculate and report their regulatory capital 
ratios under new measurement standards. We intend to adopt the 
Advanced Internal Ratings Based (AIRB) Approach for credit risk and, 
initially, the Standardized Approach for operational risk. There will be 
no changes in the treatment of market risk. For details on our Basel II 
risk approaches, refer to the Risk management section. 

As part of the Basel II process, Canadian banks must demonstrate 

to the OSFI that they have met the AIRB requirements and that their 
capital reporting is accurate and of high quality. The OSFI has been 
engaged in extensive AIRB approval reviews throughout 2007. Our 
final application package, for adoption of the AIRB Approach for most 
material portfolios, was submitted to the OSFI on October 31, 2007 
and the formal approval decision is expected by December 31, 2007. 
Once we achieve full compliance with the AIRB requirements and the 
OSFI has agreed, we may proceed to reflect capital below Basel I levels, 
subject to a two-year transitional floor requirement where our capital 
must reflect 90% and 80% of our Basel I capital charges. As required 
by the OSFI since November 1, 2006, we have been calculating capital 
requirements in parallel under both the Basel I and Basel II rules.

Also, the OSFI has made some allowances for staged implemen-
tation. In particular, the OSFI has approved a waiver for RBC Centura 
Bank to use the Standardized Approach for credit risk until 2010. 
We have also been granted an extension (applicable to non-North 
American portfolios) for RBC Dexia IS, which plans to implement the 
AIRB approach by June 2008. Additionally, the OSFI has approved an 
exemption for our Caribbean banking operations to report under the 
Standardized Approach as long as that portfolio remains non-material 
(defined as 1% or less of total balance sheet and credit equivalent 
amounts).

Notwithstanding that our risk and capital management processes 

were already substantially consistent with the principles embodied in 
Basel II, we have introduced new policies and enhanced practices, as 
appropriate, to facilitate transition to Basel II. These include meeting 
requisite standards for:
• 
• 

risk rating system design and operation
risk quantification, validation, and use of rating systems and 
internal ratings
corporate governance and oversight 

• 

76

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

• 

implementation of a robust internal capital adequacy assessment 
process (ICAAP).

Our approach to capital adequacy is a co-ordinated effort involv-
ing functional units such as GRM, Corporate Treasury, and Finance. 
Currently, GRM works in partnership with our businesses to identify, 
measure, mitigate and monitor all forms of risk, as described in the 
Risk management section. Capital adequacy is assessed and deter-
mined with consideration of the full range of risk controls and capital 
management tools available to us. We view capital adequacy as a 
dynamic process that considers multiple variables, including earnings, 
asset growth and capital transactions, within regulatory and financial 
market constraints in order to meet strategic goals. 

Our initial ICAAP was presented to the Audit Committee in 
October 2007. This ICAAP incorporates senior management oversight, 
comprehensive risk-based stress testing of regulatory capital require-
ments and our own assessment of risk based on Economic Capital, 
which is expected to play a greater role in capital adequacy assess-
ments under Basel II. 

Our ICAAP demonstrates that we are well capitalized, having 

enough capital to meet management’s assessment of required  
capital under both normal market conditions and a range of severe but 
plausible stress testing scenarios. It serves as an important tool in the 
establishment of our internal capital ratios target within the broader 
context of our capital management framework, and will be subject to 
annual review and ongoing development. 

In addition to our ICAAP, several of our subsidiaries are required to 
submit entity level ICAAPs to local regulators. While these assessments 
are the responsibility of the respective subsidiaries, Corporate Treasury 
liaises with subsidiaries to ensure enterprise-wide consistency.

Our implementation of Basel II will produce capital requirements 
that may differ from those calculated under the current Basel I frame-
work. For the most part, this reflects a shift in calculation methodology 
from application of prescribed risk weights to processes that are 
more closely aligned with our internal risk management practices. 
Also, Basel II incorporates a specific charge for operational risk that 
is not currently required under Basel I. As Basel II will be applied on a 
prospective basis, comparability to historical data and capital ratios 
reported under Basel I may be difficult.

Disclosure requirements under Basel II will begin with our first 

quarter 2008 financial disclosure, and will continue to evolve over 
2008, with all quantitative and qualitative requirements being met 
with the release of our 2008 annual report. 

Accounting considerations
In addition to the regulatory environment, we closely monitor changes 
in accounting rules and their potential impact on our capitalization 
levels. With the recent adoption of the new financial instruments 
accounting standards under Canadian GAAP, differences exist between 
the measurement of capital as disclosed in the financial statements 
and that used for regulatory capital purposes. For example, under 
Canadian GAAP, available-for-sale (AFS) debt securities are recognized 
at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported in Accumulated 
other comprehensive income (AOCI). In contrast, for regulatory capi-
tal purposes, these securities are measured at amortized cost, and 
consequently, no unrealized gains or losses are reflected in regulatory 
capital. Additionally, the unrealized gains and losses on derivatives 
designated as cash flow hedges and reported in AOCI are excluded 
from regulatory capital. 

Capital treatment for equity investments in other entities is deter-

mined by a combination of accounting and legal guidelines based on 
the size or nature of the investment. Three broad approaches apply  
as follows: 
• 

Consolidation: entities in which we have a controlling interest 
must be fully consolidated on our consolidated balance sheet. 
Joint ventures are consolidated on a pro rata basis. Consolidated 
holdings are capitalized directly by asset class and are not 
treated as equity investments for regulatory capital calculation 
purposes.

• 

• 

Deduction: certain holdings are deducted in full from our regu-
latory capital. These include all “substantial” investments (as 
defined by the Bank Act), as well as all investments in insurance 
subsidiaries. 
Risk weighting: unconsolidated equity investments that are not 
deducted from capital are risk weighted at a prescribed rate for 
determination of capital charges. 

Off-balance sheet arrangements

In the normal course of business, we engage in a variety of finan-
cial transactions that, under GAAP, are not recorded on our balance 
sheet. Off-balance sheet transactions are generally undertaken for 
risk management, capital management and/or funding management 
purposes for our benefit and the benefit of our clients. These transac-
tions include transactions with special purpose entities and issuance 
of guarantees. These transactions give rise to, among other risks, 
varying degrees of market, credit, liquidity and funding risk, which are 
discussed in the Risk management section. 

Derivatives
On November 1, 2006, we adopted three new accounting standards 
that were issued by the CICA related to financial instruments. These 
standards and the impact on our financial position and results of 
operations are discussed in the Impact of the new financial instru-
ments accounting standards section and in Note 1 to our Consolidated 
Financial Statements. With the adoption of these standards, all deriva-
tives including derivatives that qualified for hedge accounting are now 
recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Prior to 
November 1, 2006, derivatives that qualified for hedge accounting 
were not carried at fair value on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 
Refer to Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for detailed 
information on our derivatives products.

Special purpose entities
Special purpose entities (SPEs) are typically set up for a single, 
discrete purpose, have a limited life and serve to legally isolate the 
financial assets held by the SPE from the selling organization. They 
are not operating entities and usually have no employees. SPEs may 
be variable interest entities (VIEs) as defined by CICA Accounting 
Guideline 15, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (AcG-15). 
Refer to the Critical accounting policies and estimates section and 
Notes 1 and 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, for our 
consolidation policy and information about the VIEs that we have con-
solidated, or in which we have significant variable interests. Pursuant 
to CICA Accounting Guideline 12, Transfers of Receivables (AcG-12), 
Qualifying SPEs (QSPE) are legal entities that are demonstrably 
distinct from the transferor, have limited and specified permitted 
activities, have defined asset holdings and may only sell or dispose of 
selected assets in automatic response to specified conditions.

We manage and monitor our involvement with SPEs through our 
Structured Transactions Oversight Committee. Refer to the Risk man-
agement section for further details.

Securitization of our financial assets
We periodically securitize our credit card receivables and residential 
mortgage loans primarily to diversify our funding sources and enhance 
our liquidity position. We also securitize residential and commercial 
mortgage loans for sales and trading activities. Gains and losses on 
securitizations are included in Non-interest income. Refer to Note 1 to 
our Consolidated Financial Statements for our accounting policy for 
loan securitizations.

In addition to traditional securitizations where we sell our  
loans and receivables, we also enter into synthetic securitizations to 

While Basel II retains the same criteria for determination of capital 
treatment of equities, the prescribed risk weightings are generally 
higher than under Basel I. 

transfer risks relating to selected elements of our financial assets  
without actually transferring the assets through the use of certain 
financial instruments.

Credit card receivables
We securitize a portion of our credit card receivables through a SPE 
on a revolving basis. The SPE is funded through the issuance of senior 
and subordinated notes collateralized by the underlying credit card 
receivables. The issuances are rated by at least two of DBRS, Moody’s 
Investors Service (Moody’s) or Standard & Poor’s Corporation 
(S&P). This SPE meets the criteria for a QSPE and, accordingly, as the 
transferor of the credit card receivables, we are precluded from con-
solidating this SPE.

We continue to service the credit card receivables sold to the 
QSPE and perform an administrative role for the QSPE. We also provide 
first-loss protection to the QSPE in two forms. We have an interest in 
the excess spread from the QSPE which is subordinate to the QSPE’s 
obligation to the holders of its asset-backed securities. Excess spread 
is the residual net interest income after all trust expenses have been 
paid. Our excess spread serves to absorb losses with respect to the 
credit card receivables before payments to the QSPE’s noteholders  
are affected. The present value of this excess spread is reported as 
a retained interest within our AFS securities on our Consolidated 
Balance Sheets. In addition, we provide loans to the QSPE to pay 
upfront expenses. These loans rank subordinate to all notes issued by 
the QSPE.

Residential mortgage loans
We securitize Canadian insured residential mortgage loans through 
the creation of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and sell a portion 
of these MBS to an independent SPE on a revolving basis. We retain 
interests in the excess spread on the sold MBS and continue to service 
the underlying mortgages that we have securitized for funding and 
liquidity purposes.

We did not securitize any residential mortgages synthetically in 

2007. As at October 31, 2006, we had synthetically securitized  
$20 billion in residential mortgage loans through financial guarantees. 

Commercial mortgage loans
We securitize commercial mortgages by selling them in collateral pools, 
which meet certain diversification, leverage and debt coverage criteria, 
to SPEs, one of which is sponsored by us. The SPEs finance the pur-
chase of these pools by issuing certificates that carry varying degrees 
of subordination. The certificates issued by the SPE which we sponsor 
range from AAA to B- and are rated by any two of DBRS, Moody’s and 
S&P. The most subordinated certificates are unrated. The certificates 
represent undivided interests in the collateral pool, and the SPE which 
we sponsor, having sold all undivided interests available in the pool, 
retains none of the risk of the collateral pools. We do not retain any 
beneficial interests in the loans sold unless we purchase some of the 
securities issued by the SPEs for our own account. We are the primary 
servicer under contract with a third-party master servicer for the loans 
that are sold to the SPE that is sponsored by us.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

77

Our financial asset securitizations 

Table 42

(C$ millions) 

Outstanding securitized assets
    Residential mortgages 
    Credit cards 
    Commercial mortgages 

Total          

2007 

2006

  $  18,384  $  14,131
3,650
1,914

3,650 
3,727 

  $  25,761  $  19,695

Retained interests 
    Residential mortgages 
        Mortgage-backed securities retained (1)  $ 
        Retained rights to future excess interest 
    Credit cards
        Asset-backed securities purchased (2)   
        Retained rights to future excess interest 
        Subordinated loan receivables 
    Commercial mortgages 
       A sset-backed securities purchased (2)   

5,954  $ 
414 

5,591
206

870 
27 
3 

47 

1,390
26
6

–

Total         

  $ 

7,315  $ 

7,219

(1) 
(2) 

All residential mortgages securitized are Canadian insured mortgages. 
Securities purchased during the securitization process.

Securitization activities during 2007
During the year, we securitized $13.3 billion of residential mortgages, 
of which $6.2 billion were sold, $3.7 billion were reinvested in revolv-
ing securitizations and the remaining $3.4 billion were retained. We 
also securitized $1.9 billion of commercial mortgages and purchased 
$48 million (principal value) related securities during the securitiza-
tion process. Refer to Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial Statements 
for further details and the amounts of impaired and past due loans 
that we manage and any losses recognized on securitization activities 
during the year.

Capital trusts
We issue innovative capital instruments, RBC Trust Capital Securities 
(TruCS) and RBC Trust Subordinated Notes (TSNs), through three 
SPEs: (i) RBC Capital Trust (Trust), (ii) RBC Capital Trust II (Trust II) and 
(iii) RBC Trust Subordinated Trust (Trust III). We consolidated Trust but 
do not consolidate Trust II or Trust III because we are not the Primary 
Beneficiary since we are not exposed to the majority of the expected 
losses, and we do not have a significant interest in these trusts. As at 
October 31, 2007, we held the residual interest of $1 million and  
$1 million (2006 – $1 million and nil) in Trust II and Trust III, respec-
tively. We had a loan receivable of $40 million (2006 – $42 million) 
from Trust II and of $30 million from Trust III (2006 – nil), and reported 
the senior deposit notes of $900 million and $999.8 million (2006 –  
$900 million and nil) that we issued to Trust II and Trust III in our 
deposit liabilities. Under certain circumstances, TruCS of Trust II will be 
automatically exchanged for our preferred shares and TSNs exchanged 
for our subordinated notes without prior consent of the holders. In 
addition, TruCS holders of Trust II have the right to exchange for our 
preferred shares as outlined in Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial 
Statements.

Liquidity and credit enhancement facilities 

(C$ millions) 

Committed 

Interest expenses on the senior deposit notes issued to Trust II  
and Trust III amounted to $52 million and $23.6 million, respectively 
(2006 – $52 million and nil, 2005 – $52 million and nil) during the year. 
For further details on the capital trusts and the terms of the TruCS and 
TSNs issued and outstanding, refer to the Capital management section 
and Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Securitization of client financial assets
Within our Global Securitization Group, our principal relationship with 
SPEs comes in the form of administering seven multi-seller asset-backed  
commercial paper conduit programs (multi-seller conduits) – four in 
Canada and three in the United States. We are involved in the multi-
seller conduit markets because our clients value these transactions, 
they offer us a growing source of revenue and they generate a favour-
able risk-adjusted return for us. Our clients primarily utilize multi-seller 
conduits to diversify their financing sources and to reduce funding 
costs by leveraging the value of high-quality collateral. The multi-seller 
conduits purchase various financial assets from clients and finance the 
purchases by issuing highly rated asset-backed commercial paper. The 
multi-seller conduits typically purchase the financial assets as part of a 
securitization transaction by our clients. In these situations, the sellers 
of the financial assets continue to service the respective assets and 
generally provide some amount of first-loss protection on the assets.

The multi-seller conduits also financed assets that were either in 
the form of securities, including collateralized debt obligations (CDOs) 
or instruments that closely resemble securities such as credit-linked 
notes. The credit quality of these transactions is very high, often in the 
highest available rating categories established by the rating agencies 
that assign ratings to these types of securities or security-like instru-
ments. In these situations, the multi-seller conduit is often one of 
many investors in the securities or security-like instruments. 

The commercial paper issued by each multi-seller conduit is in the 

multi-seller conduit’s own name with recourse to the financial assets 
owned by the multi-seller conduit. The multi-seller conduit commercial 
paper is non-recourse to us except through our participation in liquid-
ity and/or credit enhancement facilities, and non-recourse to the other 
multi-seller conduits that we administer.

We do not maintain any ownership or retained interests in these 

multi-seller conduits. We provide services such as transaction struc-
turing and administration as specified by the multi-seller conduit 
program documents, for which we receive fees. In addition, we provide 
backstop liquidity facilities and partial credit enhancements to the 
multi-seller conduits. Our maximum exposure to loss under these facil-
ities is $42.9 billion for 2007 and $35.1 billion for 2006. The increase 
in liquidity and credit facilities is due to the increase in the multi-seller 
conduits’ activities during the year. We have no rights to, or control of, 
the assets owned by the multi-seller conduits. Fee revenue for all such 
services, which is reported as Non-interest income, amounted to  
$72 million during the year (2006 – $60 million, 2005 – $58 million).

Total commitments and amounts outstanding under liquidity 
and credit enhancement facilities for the multi-seller conduits as at 
October 31, 2007 and 2006, which are also included in our discussion 
in the Guarantees section, are shown below:

2007 

Maximum  
exposure 
to loss 

Outstanding 

Committed 

2006

Maximum 
exposure
to loss 

Table 43

Outstanding

Backstop liquidity facilities 
Credit enhancement facilities 

$  42,567 
4,185 

$  38,726 
4,185 

$ 

– 
– 

$  34,880 
3,404 

$  31,686 
3,404 

$ 

–
–

78

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following is a summary of our maximum exposure to loss cat-
egorized by securitized client asset type in the multi-seller conduits for 
the years ended October 31, 2007 and 2006.

The assets in these SPEs amounted to $5.2 billion as at  
October 31, 2007 (2006 – $3.8 billion), of which $.3 billion were con-
solidated as at October 31, 2007 (2006 – $.7 billion). The majority of 
the increase in these assets is due to the creation of new SPEs in 2007.

Maximum exposure to loss by client asset type 

Table 44

(C$ millions) 

Outstanding securitized assets
    Auto loans and leases 
    Asset-backed securities 
    Consumer loans 
    Credit cards 
    Dealer floor plan receivables 
    Electricity market receivables 
    Equipment receivables 
    Insurance premiums 
    Other loans 
    Residential mortgages 
    Securities 
    Student loans 
    Trade receivables 
    Truck loans and leases 
    Other    

2007 

2006

  $  12,157  $ 

 6

 3

 1

64 
1,769 
 1 1,125 
496 
06 
2,279 
10 
288 
3,793 
1,669 
2,654 
5,133 
468 
– 

 –

 –

7,073
195
2,659
8,856
–
306
2,132
664

4,358
1,497
2,928
3,537
885

Total         

  $  42,911  $  35,090

All the multi-seller conduits were restructured in 2004. As part of the 
restructurings, an unrelated third party (expected loss investor) agreed 
to absorb credit losses, up to a maximum contractual amount, that may 
occur in the future on the assets in the multi-seller conduits (multi-seller 
conduit first-loss position) before us and the multi-seller conduit’s debt 
holders. In return for assuming this multi-seller conduit first-loss posi-
tion, the expected loss investor is paid by the multi-seller conduit a 
return commensurate with its risk position. Moreover, each multi-seller 
conduit has granted to the expected loss investor material voting rights, 
including the right to approve any transaction prior to the multi-seller 
conduit purchasing and financing a transaction. As a result of the 
restructurings, we do not consolidate any of the multi-seller conduits. 
As a result of increased activities during 2007, these seven multi-seller 
conduits have financial assets totalling $29.3 billion as at October 31, 
2007 (2006 – $24.8 billion). The maximum assets that may have to be 
purchased by the conduits under purchase commitments outstanding 
as at October 31, 2007 were $41.8 billion (2006 – $34.3 billion).

Creation of credit investment products
We use SPEs to generally transform credit derivatives into cash instru-
ments, to distribute credit risk and to create customized credit products 
to meet the needs of investors with specific requirements. As part of 
this process, we may transfer our assets to the SPEs with an obligation 
to buy these assets back in the future and may enter into derivative 
contracts with these SPEs in order to convert various risk factors such 
as yield, currency or credit risk of underlying assets to meet the needs 
of the investors. In this role as derivative counterparty to the SPE, we 
also assume the associated counterparty credit risk of the SPE. 

These SPEs often issue notes. The notes may be rated by external 

rating agencies, as well as listed on a stock exchange, and are gener-
ally traded via recognized bond clearing systems. While the majority of 
the notes are expected to be sold on a “buy and hold” basis, we may 
occasionally act as market maker. We do not, however, provide any 
SPE with guarantees or other similar support commitments; instead 
we buy credit protection from these SPEs through credit derivatives. 
The investors in the notes ultimately bear the cost of any payments 
made by the SPE under these credit derivatives. We consolidate the 
SPEs in which our investments in the notes expose us to a majority of 
the expected losses.

There are many functions required to create such a product. 

We fulfill some of these functions and independent third parties or 
specialist service providers fulfill the remainder. Currently we act as 
sole arranger and swap provider for SPEs where we are involved and, 
in most cases, act as paying and issuing agent as well. As with all our 
trading derivatives, the derivatives with these SPEs are carried at fair 
value in derivative-assets and liabilities.

Structured finance
We occasionally invest in off-balance sheet entities in the form of 
loan substitute and equity investments that are part of transactions 
structured to achieve a desired outcome, such as limiting exposure to 
specific assets or risks, obtaining indirect (and usually risk mitigated) 
exposure to financial assets, funding specific assets, supporting an 
enhanced yield and meeting client requirements. These transactions 
usually yield a higher return or provide lower-cost funding on an after-
tax basis than financing non-SPE counterparties, holding an interest in 
financial assets directly, or receiving on-balance sheet funding. These 
transactions are structured to mitigate risks associated with directly 
investing in the underlying financial assets, or directly receiving fund-
ing, and may be structured so that our ultimate credit risk is that of 
a non-SPE, which in most cases is another financial institution. Exit 
mechanisms are built into these transactions to curtail exposure from 
changes in law or regulations. We consolidate structured finance VIEs 
in which our interests expose us to a majority of the expected losses. 
In 2007, we reduced our total investments in certain transactions.  
The unconsolidated entities in which we have significant investments 
or loans had total assets of $4.8 billion as at October 31, 2007  
(2006 – $6.9 billion). As at October 31, 2007, our total investments 
in and loans to these entities were $2.5 billion (2006 – $2.9 billion), 
which are reflected on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

Investment funds
We enter into derivative transactions with third parties including 
mutual funds, unit investment trusts and other investment funds for 
fees to provide their investors with the desired exposure and hedge 
our exposure from these derivatives by investing in other funds.  
We consolidate the investment funds when our participation in the 
derivative or our investment in other funds exposes us to a majority 
of the respective expected losses. The total assets held in the funds 
where we have significant exposure and which we did not consolidate 
were $1.6 billion as at October 31, 2007 (2006 – $3.6 billion). The 
decrease is primarily due to a reduction of assets in one of the  
investment funds. As at October 31, 2007, our total exposure was  
$423 million (2006 – $319 million). 

Trusts, mutual and pooled funds
Our joint venture RBC Dexia IS provides global custody, fund and 
pension administration of client assets as well as the provision of 
shareholders services, foreign exchange, securities lending and 
other related services. With respect to trusteeship and/or custodian 
services for personal and institutional trusts, RBC Dexia IS has a fidu-
ciary responsibility to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries of 
the trusts. RBC Dexia IS earns fees for providing these services and 
we include 50% of these fees in our revenue, representing our share 
of interest in the joint venture. Refer to Note 9 to our Consolidated 
Financial Statements for more details.

We manage assets in mutual and pooled funds and earn fees at 

market rates from these funds, but do not guarantee either principal or 
returns to investors in any of these funds.

Guarantees
We issue guarantee products, as defined by the CICA Accounting 
Guideline 14, Disclosure of Guarantees (AcG-14), in return for fees 
recorded in Non-interest income. Significant types of guarantee 
products we have provided to third parties include credit derivatives, 
written put options, securities lending indemnifications, backstop 
liquidity facilities, financial standby letters of credit, performance 
guarantees, stable value products, credit enhancements, mortgage 
loans sold with recourse and certain indemnification agreements.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Due to the adoption of the three new financial instrument account-

ing standards on November 1, 2006, financial guarantees are now 
recognized at inception at the fair value of the obligation undertaken in 
issuing the guarantee. Subsequent measurement of financial guaran-
tees at fair value is not required unless the financial guarantee qualifies 
as a derivative. As the carrying value of these financial guarantees 
does not reflect our maximum potential amount of future payments, we 
continue to consider guarantees as off-balance sheet arrangements. 
Prior to November 1, 2006, financial guarantees were required to be 
disclosed only in the notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Our maximum potential amount of future payments in relation  

to our guarantee products as at October 31, 2007, amounted to  
$152 billion (2006 – $125 billion). In addition, as at October 31, 2007, 
RBC Dexia IS securities lending indemnifications totalled $63.5 billion 
(2006 – $45.6 billion); we are exposed to 50% of this amount. The 
maximum potential amount of future payments represents the  
maximum risk of loss if there was a total default by the guaranteed 
parties, without consideration of possible recoveries under recourse 
provisions, insurance policies or collateral held or pledged.

As at October 31, 2007, we had $40.4 billion in backstop liquidity 
facilities related to asset-backed commercial paper programs, of which 
96% were committed to RBC-administered multi-seller conduits.
Note 27 to our Consolidated Financial Statements provides 

detailed information regarding the nature and maximum potential 
exposure for the above-mentioned types of guarantee products.

Commercial commitments
We also provide commercial commitments to our clients to help them 
meet their financing needs. On behalf of our clients we undertake  
written documentary and commercial letters of credit, authorizing a 
third party to draw drafts on us up to a stipulated amount and typi-
cally having underlying shipments of goods as collateral. We make 
commitments to extend credit, which represent unused portions of 
authorizations to extend credit in the form of loans, bankers’ accep-
tances or letters of credit. We also have uncommitted amounts for 
which we retain the option to extend credit to a borrower. These  
guarantees and commitments exposed us to liquidity and funding 
risks. The following is a summary of our off-balance sheet commercial 
commitments.

Commercial commitments (1) 

Table 45

(C$ millions) 

Within 1 year 

1 to 3 years  Over 3 to 5 years 

Over 5 years 

Total

Documentary and commercial letters of credit 
Commitments to extend credit and liquidity facilities 
Uncommitted amounts (2) 

$ 

477 
  40,015 
47,110 

$ 

24 
  30,053 
– 

$ 

– 
  22,596 
– 

$ 

– 
8,924 
– 

$ 

501
  101,588
47,110

$ 

87,602 

$  30,077 

$  22,596 

$ 

8,924 

$  149,199

(1) 
(2) 

Based on remaining term to maturity.
Uncommitted amounts represent an amount for which we retain the option to extend credit to a borrower.

Risk management

Overview

Our business activities expose us to a wide variety of risks in virtually  
all aspects of our operations. We manage these risks by seeking  
to ensure that business activities and transactions provide an appro-
priate balance of return for the risk assumed and remain within our  
risk appetite.

Our management of risk is supported by sound risk management 
practices and effective enterprise risk management frameworks. The 
cornerstone of these frameworks is a strong risk management culture, 
supported by a robust enterprise-wide set of policies, procedures and 
limits, which involve our risk management professionals, business 
segments and other functional teams. This partnership is designed 
to ensure the ongoing alignment of business strategies and activities 
within our risk appetite.

Risk Capacity

Risk Appetite

Self-Imposed
Constraints
& Drivers

Risk Limits
& Tolerances

Risk Profile

Risk appetite 
Our risk appetite framework provides a structured approach to defining 
the amount and type of risk we are able and willing to accept in the pur-
suit of our business objectives. The risk appetite framework includes:
• 

Identification of regulatory constraints that restricts our ability to 
accept risk and helps us to define our Risk Capacity, which  
represents the maximum amount and type of risk we can accept
Establishment and regular confirmation of Self-Imposed 
Constraints & Drivers where we have chosen to limit or otherwise 
influence the amount of risk we undertake
Translation of Risk Appetite into Risk Limits and Tolerances that 
guide our businesses in their risk taking activity
Periodic measurement and monitoring of our Risk Profile, which 
compares actual exposure to our established Risk Limits and 
Tolerances.

• 

• 

• 

80

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Risk management principles
We apply the following six overarching principles in the identification, 
monitoring and management of risk throughout the organization:
(i)  Balancing risk and reward is achieved through (a) aligning risk 

appetite with business strategy, (b) diversifying risk, (c) pricing 
appropriately for risk, (d) mitigating risk through preventive  
controls, and (e) transferring risk to third parties

(ii)  Management of risk is shared at all levels of the organization. 
Business management is accountable for all risks assumed in 
their operations, with direction and oversight provided by Group 
Risk Management (GRM), Global Technology and Operations 
(GTO), and Global Functions 

(iii)  Effective decision-making is based on a strong understanding  

of risk

(iv)  All business activities are conducted with the view of not risking 

our reputation

(v)  Assuring that services we provide are suitable for and understood 

by our clients

(vi)  Applying appropriate judgment is required throughout the organi-

zation in order to manage risk.

 
 
 
 
 
 
          
 
Risk governance
Our overall risk governance structure is presented below. It illustrates 
the roles and responsibilities of the various stakeholders.

• 

Establishing risk controls and limits to ensure appropriate risk 
diversification and optimization of risk and return on both a port-
folio and transactional basis 

Board of 
Directors

CR&RPC &
Audit Committee

C

u

l

t

u

r

e

wnership

Group Executive

Group Risk Committee

Supporting Risk Committees

–

F

r

a

m

e

w

o

r

k

–

D

Group Risk Management & Corporate Treasury

Business Segments

ht – Escalation – Monitoring – O

Oversig

e

l

e

g

a

t

i

o

n

–

A

c

c

o

u

n

t

a

b

i

l

i

t

y

Canadian
Banking

Wealth
Management

U.S. &
International
Banking

Capital
Markets

Global Technology & Operations

Global Functions

Board and its committees
The Board of Directors provides oversight and carries out its risk 
management mandate through the Conduct Review and Risk Policy 
Committee (CR&RPC) and the Audit Committee.

CR&RPC is designed to ensure that we have risk policies, pro-
cesses and controls in place to manage significant risks and ensure 
compliance with the Bank Act (Canada) and other relevant laws and 
regulations.

Audit Committee provides oversight over the integrity of the 

financial statements and reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of 
internal controls and the control environment, and ensures that poli-
cies related to liquidity, funding and capital management are in place.

Group Executive (GE) and Group Risk Committee (GRC)
GE is our senior management team and is led by our President and 
Chief Executive Officer (CEO). GE has overall responsibility for our 
strategy and its execution by establishing the “tone at the top.” Their 
risk oversight role is executed primarily through the mandate of GRC 
and the five supporting risk committees as follows:
• 

The Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO) reviews, recommends, 
and approves policy frameworks pertaining to capital manage-
ment, structural interest rate risk management, funds transfer 
pricing, liquidity and funding and subsidiary governance
The Ethics and Compliance Committee directly supports our  
management of regulatory, compliance and reputation risk
The Policy Review Committee acts as the senior risk approval  
authority relating to policies, products and services
The Structured Transactions Oversight Committee reviews  
structured transactions and complex credits
The USA Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for all  
corporate governance matters of our U.S. operations.

• 

• 

• 

• 

GRM and Corporate Treasury
GRM works in full partnership with our businesses to identify, assess, 
mitigate and monitor all forms of risk. Together with the CEO and other 
members of GE, the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and GRM are primarily 
responsible for the promotion of our risk management culture. The 
CRO and GRM responsibilities include:
• 

Establishing comprehensive risk identification and approval  
processes
Establishing appropriate methodologies for risk measurement

• 

•  Monitoring risk levels and reporting to senior management and 

• 

the Board of Directors on major risks we assume or face
Acting as the catalyst in defining and communicating our  
risk appetite.

Corporate Treasury is responsible for the management, oversight 
and reporting of our capital position, structural interest rate risk, and 
liquidity and funding risks. Corporate Treasury recommends poli-
cies and authorities relating to the identification, measurement and 
management of liquidity and funding risk through ALCO and GRC for 
approval by the Audit Committee.

Business segments and corporate support groups
The business segments, GTO and Global Functions also have responsi-
bility for the management of risk. These responsibilities include  
(i) accountability for their risks, (ii) alignment of business strategy 
with risk appetite, and (iii) identification, control and management of 
their risks.

Risk measurement
Our ability to measure risks is a key component of our enterprise-wide 
risk management process. Certain measurement methodologies are 
common to a number of risk types, while others only apply to a single 
risk type. While quantitative risk measurement is important, we also 
place reliance on qualitative factors. Our measurement models and 
techniques are continually subject to independent assessment by GRM 
for appropriateness and reliability. For those risk types that are hard 
to quantify, we place greater emphasis on qualitative risk factors and 
assessment of activities to gauge the overall level of risk in order to 
ensure that they are within our risk appetite.

Expected loss
Expected loss represents those losses that are statistically expected 
to occur in the normal course of business in a given period of time. 

With respect to credit risk, the key parameters used to measure 

our expected loss are the probability of default (PD), loss given default 
(LGD) and exposure at default (EAD). These parameters are deter-
mined based on historical experience, supplemented by benchmarking 
and updated on a regular basis, and are defined as follows:
• 

PD: An estimated percentage that represents the probability that 
obligors within a specific rating grade or for a particular pool of 
exposures will default within a one-year period
LGD: An estimated percentage of EAD that is expected to be lost  
in the event of default of an obligor
EAD: An estimated dollar value of the expected gross exposure of 
a facility upon default of the obligor before specific provisions or 
partial write-offs.

• 

• 

With respect to trading market risk, we use a statistical technique 
known as Value-at-Risk to measure expected loss. It is a generally 
accepted risk management concept that uses statistical models to 
estimate within a given level of confidence the maximum loss in mar-
ket value we would experience in our trading portfolio from an adverse 
one-day movement in market rates and prices. For further details, refer 
to the Market risk section.

Unexpected loss and Economic Capital
Unexpected loss is a statistical estimate of the amount by which  
actual losses can exceed expected loss over a specified time horizon, 
measured at a specified level of confidence. On an enterprise-wide 
basis, we use Economic Capital to estimate the unexpected loss asso-
ciated with our business activities. We calculate Economic Capital 
by estimating the level of capital that is necessary to cover risks con-
sistent with our desired solvency standard and desired debt rating. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
The use of Economic Capital as a risk measure enables us to assess 
performance on a comparable risk-adjusted basis at the transaction 
and portfolio levels. For further information, refer to the Capital man-
agement section.

Sensitivity analysis and stress testing
Sensitivity analysis and stress testing help us ensure that the risks we 
take remain within our risk appetite and that our level of capital  
remains adequate. Under sensitivity analysis, model inputs and 
assumptions are varied to assess how significantly the risk measure 
changes. Stress testing helps us determine the effects of potentially 
extreme market volatility on our portfolios. Stress scenarios are con-
servatively based on unlikely but possible adverse market events and 
economy-wide developments.

Model validation
To ensure robustness of our measurement techniques, model validation 
is carried out by our risk professionals independent of those respon-
sible for the development and use of the models and assumptions.

Risk control
Our enterprise-wide risk management approach is supported by a 
comprehensive set of risk controls. This includes the development and 
communication of policies, establishment of formal risk review and 
approval processes, and the establishment of delegated authorities 
and limits. The implementation of robust risk controls enables the opti-
mization of risk and return on both a portfolio and a transactional basis.

Risk policy architecture
Our risk management frameworks and policies are structured into the 
following four levels:
Level 1:  Enterprise Risk Management Framework: This framework 

serves as the foundation of our risk management frame-
works and policies, and sets the “tone at the top.”

Level 2:  Risk-Specific Frameworks: These individual frameworks 

elaborate on each risk type and explain the following areas:
•  Mechanisms for identifying, measuring, monitoring and 

• 
• 

reporting of risk
Key policies
Respective roles and responsibilities related to a  
specific risk.

Level 3:   Enterprise Risk Policies: These policies are considered our 

minimum requirements for our business segments, GTO and 
Global Functions with respect to various risk types.
Level 4:   Business Segments and GTO Specific Policies and 

Procedures: These policies and procedures are established 
by the business segments and GTO to manage the risks that 
are unique to their operations.

Risk review and approval processes
Our risk review and approval processes are established by GRM based 
on the nature, size and complexity of the risk involved. In general, 
the risk review and approval process involves a formal review and 
approval by an individual, group or committee that is independent 
from the originator. The approval responsibilities are governed by  
delegated authorities based on the following four categories:
• 

Projects and Initiatives: Documentation of risk assessment is  
formalized through the requirement that each Project 
Appropriation Request (PAR) be reviewed and approved by GRM 
and Global Functions 
New Products and Services: The policies and procedures for the 
approval of new or amended products and services have been 

• 

developed to ensure that our products and services are subject 
to a broad and robust review and approval process that fully 
considers associated risks, while striving to facilitate business 
opportunities
Transactions: We ensure that risk assessment processes are in 
place for the review and approval of all types of transactions, 
including credit transactions
Structured Transactions and Complex Credits: The Structured 
Transactions Oversight Committee reviews new structured 
products and transactions with significant reputation, legal, 
accounting, regulatory or tax risks. 

• 

• 

Authorities and limits
The Board of Directors, through the CR&RPC, delegates the setting 
of credit, market and insurance risk limits to the CEO, Chief Operating 
Officer (COO) and CRO. These delegated authorities allow these offi-
cers to set risk tolerances, approve geographic (country and region) 
and industry sector exposure limits within defined parameters, and 
establish underwriting and inventory limits for trading and invest-
ment banking activities. These delegated authorities are reviewed and 
approved annually by the Board of Directors and the CR&RPC. GRM is 
responsible for establishing:
• 
• 

The criteria whereby these authorities may be further delegated
The minimum requirements for documenting, communicating and 
monitoring the use of these delegated authorities.

CR&RPC must approve any transactions which exceed management’s 
delegated authorities.

The Board of Directors through the Audit Committee approves 

risk limits for controlling liquidity and funding risk. These limits form 
part of our liquidity management framework and are a key risk control 
designed to ensure that reliable and cost-effective sources of cash are 
available to satisfy our current and prospective commitments, both 
on- and off-balance sheet. 

Reporting 
Enterprise level risk monitoring and reporting is a critical component 
of our enterprise risk management program and supports the ability of 
senior management and the Board of Directors to effectively perform 
their risk management and oversight responsibilities.

Internal reporting is provided in the Enterprise Risk Report on  

a regular basis with the purpose of ensuring senior management and 
the Board of Directors receive timely and actionable forward-looking 
risk reporting on significant risk issues impacting our organization.  
We also have individual risk-specific reporting, which aligns with  
governance and relevant laws and regulations. Annually, the CRO  
provides the Board of Directors with a comprehensive review of  
emerging risks facing the organization as a whole as well as those  
facing the business segments. External reporting is provided as 
required by law and other relevant regulations. Regular reporting on 
risks is provided to stakeholders including regulators, external ratings 
agencies and analysts. 

Basel II
As at November 1, 2007, we have implemented Basel II, which more 
closely aligns regulatory capital requirements with our underlying risk 
profile and internal risk management practices compared to Basel I. 
Basel II represents a major change in bank regulations, in that it allows 
banks to select from a menu of approaches to calculate the minimum 
capital required to support the credit risk and operational risks they 
undertake.

82

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Credit risk
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI) 
expects each major bank in Canada to adopt the Advanced Internal 
Ratings Based (AIRB) Approach for all of its material portfolios, 
although some flexibility is permitted regarding the timing of adop-
tion. For further details, refer to the Capital management section. Once 
our AIRB internal ratings systems have been approved by the OSFI, we 
are permitted to assess the credit risk of our exposures using our inter-
nal rating systems, and to employ the risk measurements produced by 
those ratings systems in the calculation of required regulatory capital. 

Operational risk
The OSFI has been less prescriptive with respect to the calcula-
tion of capital for operational risk. The two options available to us 
under Basel II are the Standardized Approach and the Advanced 

Measurement Approach (AMA). We have elected to implement the 
more sophisticated risk management and governance practices 
that are required under AMA, but will initially use the Standardized 
Approach for the calculation of operational risk capital.

The Standardized Approach provides the benefits of sounder 

operational risk management and governance, positioning us to 
migrate to AMA once advances in measurement capabilities war-
rant the adoption of a model-based calculation approach. The OSFI 
fully endorses this strategy of focusing on sound management of 
operational risk while working towards more advanced measurement 
capabilities. 

Market risk
Basel II treatment of market risk is unchanged from the treatment 
under Basel I. 

Risk Pyramid 
We use a pyramid to identify and categorize our risks. These risks are  
organized vertically within the Risk Pyramid to reflect the degree of  
controllability. The Risk Pyramid provides us with a common language 
and discipline for the identification and assessment of risk in our 
businesses, products, initiatives, acquisitions and alliances. The Risk 
Pyramid is reviewed regularly to ensure that all key risks are reflected 
and ranked appropriately.

The base of the pyramid – The risk categories along the base of the 
Risk Pyramid are those over which we have the greatest level of control 
and influence. These are credit, market, liquidity and funding, and  
insurance risks. Operational risk, while still viewed as one of the 
risks over which we have the most control and influence, is ranked 
on a higher level than the other highly controllable risks. This ranking 
acknowledges the level of controllability associated with people,  
systems and external events.

The middle of the pyramid – Strategic and reputation risks, while more 
controllable than the risks at the top of the pyramid, are considered 
less controllable compared to the risks at the base of the pyramid. 
Strategic risk arises in one of two situations: (i) we choose the wrong 
strategy, or (ii) we choose the right strategy, but execute it poorly. 
Reputation risk is placed in the middle of the pyramid to denote the fair 
degree of control and influence we can use to manage this risk type, 
which generally occurs in connection with other risks, primarily regula-
tory and legal, and operational risks.

The top of the pyramid – Systemic risk is placed at the top of the Risk 
Pyramid, which is the least controllable and typically cannot be man-
aged through any type of direct mitigation efforts, such as risk limits 
and/or portfolio diversification. Regulatory and legal and competi-
tive risks, which can be viewed as somewhat controllable, can be 
influenced through our role as a corporate entity, and as an active par-
ticipant in the Canadian and global financial services industry. 

Less control and influence

Systemic

Regulatory 
and Legal Competitive

Strategic

Reputation

Operational

M

o

r

e

c

o

n

t

r

o

l

a

n

d

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f

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n

c

e

Credit

Market

Liquidity
and
Funding

Insurance

Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of loss associated with a counterparty’s inability 
or unwillingness to fulfill its payment obligations. Credit risk may be 
direct (issuer, debtor, obligor or policyholder) or indirect to a  
secondary obligor (guarantor or reinsurer).

credit products and services to clients, such as short-term  
investments relating to liquidity management and insurance business 
investment activities.

Our credit offerings are a significant driver of overall business 

We offer a wide range of credit products and services to  

individual and business clients within Canada, the United States and in 
numerous countries. Core products offered include loans, residential 
and commercial mortgages, credit cards, lines of credit and letters 
of credit. Specialized credit services include asset-backed financing, 
margin lending, securities lending and project finance. The majority of 
our businesses offer credit products and services. Credit risk is also 
incurred through other activities not directly linked to the provision of 

performance. The failure to effectively manage credit risk across the 
organization and all products, services and activities can have a direct, 
immediate and material impact on our earnings and reputation.

Our credit risk management principles are guided by the six 
overall risk management principles discussed in the Risk management 
overview section. In particular, the following two principles are com-
plemented by the items below with respect to credit risk management.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

83

 
 
 
 
• 
• 

• 

The effective balancing of risk and return is achieved through:
Ensuring that credit quality is not compromised for growth
Diversifying credit risks in transactions, relationships and  
portfolios
Using our credit risk rating and scoring systems, policies  
and tools
Pricing appropriately for the credit risk taken
Applying consistent credit risk exposure measurements

• 
• 
•  Mitigating credit risk through preventive and detective controls
Transferring credit risk to third parties where appropriate  
• 
through approved credit risk mitigation techniques, including 
hedging activities and insurance coverage.

Our business activities are conducted with the view of not risking 
our reputation. Therefore, there are certain types of clients and trans-
actions that we avoid in order to maintain our reputation, such as:
• 

Financing the manufacture of equipment or material for nuclear, 
chemical or biological warfare and landmines
Financing of Internet gambling businesses
Granting credit to entities subject to economic sanctions
Credit transactions that facilitate illegal activity, or contribute to 
misleading financial statements or regulatory reporting
Credit transactions involving undocumented agreements,  
disbursements or funds transfers
Granting credit to a business or individual engaged in activities 
inconsistent with generally accepted standards of ethical  
behaviour in the community. 

• 
• 
• 

• 

• 

Responsibilities
We deem credit risk management to be an enterprise-wide activity. The following provides a high-level overview of the key committees involved in 
the management of credit risk.

Board of Directors and Conduct Review & Risk Policy Committee

Shapes and influences credit risk culture; approves credit risk appetite.
Ensures that management has in place frameworks, policies, processes and procedures to manage credit risk (including approval authority 
for Credit Risk Management Framework and key enterprise-wide credit risk policies), and evaluates our effectiveness in managing credit risk.
Approves credit risk limits, delegates approval authorities to the CEO, COO, CRO, and approves credit transactions in excess of management’s 
authorities.
Reviews enterprise-wide credit reporting, significant exposures and exceptions to limits.

Group Risk Committee

Ensures credit risk profile is consistent with strategic objectives.
Ensures that there are ongoing, appropriate and effective risk management policies, processes and procedures to manage credit risk (including 
recommending the Credit Risk Management Framework and key enterprise-wide credit risk policies to the Board of Directors for approval).
Approves credit policies and products with significant risk implications, as referred by the CRO.
Recommends credit transactions in excess of management’s authority to the Board of Directors for approval.
Reviews enterprise-wide credit reporting, significant exposures and processes, and ensures that appropriate and timely information is  
provided to the Board of Directors on matters relating to credit risk and its management.

Policy Review Committee 

Structured Transactions Oversight Committee

Reviews and recommends approval of the Credit Risk  
Management Framework. 
Approves enterprise-wide credit risk policies.
Approves new and amended business specific credit risk policies  
and products with significant risk implications. 

• 

• 

Provides risk oversight of structured transactions and complex 
credits, including identification and mitigation of risks.
Reviews and approves products and transactions referred to it  
in accordance with our policies.

• 
• 

• 

• 

• 
• 

• 
• 
• 

• 

• 
• 

Risk measurement 
Given the potential for credit risk to significantly impact our earnings, 
it is critical that we accurately quantify credit risk at both the individual 
obligor and portfolio levels. This allows us to effectively estimate 
expected credit losses and minimize unexpected losses in order to 
manage and limit earnings volatility. 

Our credit risk exposures are classified as wholesale and retail 
portfolios, and we employ different risk measurement processes for 
each portfolio. The wholesale portfolio comprises business, sovereign 
and bank exposures, which include mid-size to large corporations 
and certain small businesses that are managed on an individual client 
basis. The retail portfolio is comprised of residential mortgages and  
personal, credit card and small business loans, which are managed on  
a pooled basis. This categorization of exposures is consistent with 
Basel II guidelines, which require banks to disclose their exposures 
based on how they manage their business and risks. 

Credit risk rating systems are designed to assess and quantify  

the risk inherent in credit activities in an accurate and consistent  
manner. We use a two-dimensional rating system for both wholesale 
and retail credit exposures. 

Wholesale credit portfolio
The wholesale credit risk rating system is designed to measure and 
identify the risk inherent in our credit activities in an accurate and  
consistent manner along two dimensions. 

In the first dimension, each obligor is assigned a borrower risk 

rating (BRR), which reflects an assessment of the credit quality of the 
obligor. Each BRR has a probability of default (PD) assigned to it. This 
PD is an estimate of the probability that an obligor with a certain BRR 
will default within a one-year time horizon. The BRR differentiates the 
riskiness of obligors and represents our evaluation of the obligor’s 
ability and willingness to meet its contractual obligations despite 

84

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

adverse or stressed business conditions, troughs in the business 
cycle, economic downturns or unexpected events that may occur. The 
assignment of BRRs is based on the evaluation of obligors’ business 
and financial performance against several risk factors. We use Risk 
Criteria Papers, which present a structured process for the consistent 
identification and analysis of material information needed to assess 
obligors in various industry sectors. Generally, the key risk factors 
assessed include industry, markets, firm competitiveness, company 
strategy and management quality, financial performance and access 
to funds. Risk Criteria Papers provide guidance on what to emphasize 
in the analysis of companies within an industry sector, and provide 
weightings, which may vary from industry to industry. Our internal risk 
ratings are reviewed at least on an annual basis. 

Our rating system is largely consistent with that of external rat-

ing agencies. The following table provides a mapping of our 22-grade 
internal risk ratings compared to ratings by external rating agencies.

Internal ratings map 

Table 46

  Rating 

  1 to 4 

  5 to 7 

Standard &Poor’s 

Moody’s Investors 
Service 

Description

AAA to AA- 

Aaa to Aa3

A+ to A- 

A1 to A3 

Investment Grade

  8 to 10 

BBB+ to BBB- 

Baa1 to Baa3 

  11 to 13 

BB+ to BB- 

Ba1 to Ba3 

  14 to 16 

B+ to B- 

B1 to B3 

Non-investment Grade

  17 to 20 

CCC+ to CC 

Caa1 to Ca 

  21 to 22 

C to D 

C to Bankruptcy 

Impaired/Default

In the second dimension, loss given default (LGD) represents the  
portion of exposure at default (EAD) expected to be lost when an obli-
gor defaults. LGD rates are largely driven by factors such as seniority 
of debt, collateral security, client type, and the industry in which the 
obligor operates. EAD represents an estimate of the expected gross 
exposure of a credit facility at the time of default of the obligor. At 
default the obligor may have drawn the facility fully or have repaid 
some of the principal. We estimate EAD based on the outstanding 
por tion and an estimated amount of the undrawn portion that is 
expected to be drawn at the time of default. The estimation of these 
parameters represents a critical part of our credit rating system. It 
is a process of quantifying the risk associated with obligors and the 
related facilities by estimating and assigning values to the parameters. 
Parameter estimations are based on historical internal experience, and 
are benchmarked to external data where applicable. While PD is used 
at the obligor level, LGD and EAD are estimated for the various credit 
facilities under that obligor. 

These ratings and risk measurements are used in the determina-

tion of our expected losses, unexpected losses as well as economic 
and regulatory capital. They are also used in the setting of risk limits, 
portfolio management and product pricing.

Retail credit portfolio
Credit scoring is the primary risk rating system for assessing obligor 
and transaction risk for retail exposures. Credit scoring is employed in 
the acquisition of new clients (acquisition scoring) and portfolio  
management of existing clients (behavioural scoring).

Acquisition scoring models, which are used for underwriting 
purposes, utilize established statistical methods of analyzing new 
applicant characteristics and past performance to estimate future 
credit performance. In model development, all accessible sources 
of data are used and include information obtained from the client 

(employment status), data from our own systems (loan information) 
and information from external sources (credit bureaus).

Behavioural scoring is used in the ongoing management of retail 

clients with whom we have an established relationship. It utilizes 
statistical techniques that capture past performance to predict future 
behaviour and incorporate information such as cash flow and bor-
rowing trends, as well as the extent of our relationship with the client. 
The behavioural risk score is dynamic and is generally updated on a 
monthly basis to continually re-evaluate the risk. Characteristics used 
in behavioural scoring models are based on information from existing 
accounts and lending products for each client, and from information 
obtained from external sources, such as credit bureaus.

For overall portfolio management, retail exposures are assessed 

on a pooled basis, with each pool consisting of exposures that possess 
similar homogeneous characteristics. Pooling of exposures allows for 
more precise and consistent estimates of default and loss character-
istics. Criteria used to pool exposures for risk quantification include 
behavioural score product type (mortgage, credit cards, lines of 
credit and installment loans), collateral type (chattel, liquid assets and 
real estate) and the delinquency status (performing, delinquent and 
default) of the exposure. Regular monitoring and periodic adjustments 
and alignments are conducted to ensure that this process provides for a 
meaningful differentiation of risk. It also allows the grouping of homo-
geneous exposures from a risk perspective and permits accurate and 
consistent estimation of loss characteristics at the pool level. Migration 
between the pools is considered when assessing credit quality.

The pools are assessed in two dimensions: PD and LGD. The 

estimation of PD and EAD considers both borrower and transaction 
characteristics, including behavioural credit score, product type and 
delinquency status. The LGD is estimated based on transaction speci-
fied factors, including product and collateral types. Our risk ratings are 
reviewed and updated on a regular basis. 

The following table maps PD ranges to various risk levels:

Internal ratings map 

Table 47

PD bands 

0.0% –1.0% 

1.1% –6.4% 

6.5% –99.99% 

100.00% 

Description

Low Risk

Medium Risk

High Risk

Impaired/Default

Validation
We ensure that our credit risk rating systems and methodologies are 
subject to independent validation on a regular basis. The validation  
processes provide confirmation that our systems properly identify 
factors that help discriminate risk, appropriately quantify risk, pro-
duce measures of risk that respond to changes in the macroeconomic 
and credit environments, and are consistent with regulatory require-
ments and our ratings philosophy. Those responsible for performing 
validation activities are functionally separate from the group whose 
methodologies and processes are subject to validation. 

We ensure that there is proper separation of responsibility 
between (i) transaction origination and approval which takes place 
within the business segments, and (ii) design, development and main-
tenance of the risk rating methodologies, which takes place within 
GRM. GRM is also responsible for estimating the three risk param-
eters as described above. To ensure there is a proper segregation of 
responsibilities, models developed within the business segments are 
approved by GRM.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

85

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
The validation of risk parameter estimation for both wholesale 
and retail portfolios addresses the estimation process and the rea-
sonableness of the estimates used for the calculation of regulatory 
capital. The following items are examined and assessed:
• 

Quantification methodologies and processes, as well as the  
reasonableness of outputs
Relationship between historical experience and internally derived 
parameter values that incorporate estimators’ expert judgment 
and external benchmarking
Sufficiency of data observations, the appropriateness of data 
sources and data segmentation
Statistical significance and predictive power of the estimated  
values. Levels of tolerance are defined and mapped against 
actual results, with deviations explicitly noted.

• 

• 

• 

A combination of quantitative (statistical) and qualitative (non-
statistical) validation methods is employed to ensure that our credit 
risk rating system is valid. At a minimum, we adopt the following tech-
niques intended to ensure that the validation process:
• 

Examines relevant and material data available from internal  
and external sources, to establish a context for assumptions,  
calculations and outputs
Demonstrates that estimates are grounded in historical  
experience
Provides reasonable predictors of future default and loss.

• 

• 

Detailed validation reports are produced for the assessment of risk 
rating methodology and risk parameter estimation.

Economic Capital
Economic Capital is management’s estimate of the amount of equity 
required to underpin our risks. It is used in risk-based pricing decisions 
and profitability measurement to ensure an appropriate risk and return 
balance. Within our wholesale credit portfolio, it is also used in setting 
single-name and industry limits in order to manage concentration risk. 
For further details, refer to the Capital management section.

Sensitivity and stress testing
Sensitivity and stress tests are used to determine the size of poten-
tial losses related to various scenarios for the wholesale and retail 
credit port folios. While unexpected losses are, by nature difficult 
to quantify, we use stress testing, scenario and sensitivity analysis 
to better understand and mitigate unexpected credit losses. These 
activities serve to alert management to unlikely but possible adverse 
market events and economy-wide developments and implications on 
overall capital adequacy. Scenarios for credit risk such as economic 
or industry downturns, are chosen on the basis of being meaningful, 
representative of realistic potential events or circumstances, and rea-
sonably conservative.

Risk control
Our enterprise-wide credit risk policies are developed, communi-
cated and maintained by GRM. These policies set out the minimum 
requirements for the prudent management of credit risk in a variety of 
transactional and portfolio management contexts.

Credit risk policies 
Our credit risk policies have evolved over many years as the organiza-
tion has grown in geographic scope and product complexity, and have 
been refined based on experience, regulatory influences and innova-
tions in risk management and are managed under six major categories 
as follows:
• 

Credit Risk Assessment includes policies related to credit risk 
analysis, risk rating, risk scoring and trading credit
Credit Risk Mitigation includes credit structuring, collateral and  
guarantees

• 

86

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

• 
• 

• 
• 

Credit Risk Approval includes credit risk limits and exceptions
Credit Documentation focuses on documentation and  
administration
Credit Review and Deterioration includes monitoring and review
Credit Portfolio Management includes portfolio management  
and risk quantification.

Approval of credit products and services
Our products and services are subject to robust risk review and 
approval processes. New or amended products and services must be  
reviewed relative to all risk types, including credit risk, in our Risk 
Pyramid, and as the level of risk increases, a more senior level of 
approval is required.

Credit risk limits
Limits are used to ensure our portfolio is well diversified and within 
our risk appetite as approved by the Board of Directors. Our credit 
limits are established at the following levels to ensure adequate diver-
sification and to reduce concentration risk:
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Single-name limits
Underwriting risk
Geographic (county and region) limits 
Industry sector limits
Product and portfolio limits.

The Economic Capital limit is intended to work as a complement to  
the notional limits and, as such, single names must satisfy both limits.  
To ensure single-name credit risk exposure remains well under  
regulatory thresholds, and concentration risk is prudently managed, 
we have established (i) internal single-name credit risk exposure limits 
as a percentage of total capital, which are lower than that required 
by the OSFI, and (ii) a broader and more conservative definition of 
single-name credit risk exposure than that used by the OSFI. These 
controls provide a significant buffer between our exposure tolerances 
and those of our regulators. Exceptions are monitored by GRM and 
reported to the CRO, with requisite reporting to the CR&RPC in accor-
dance with its mandate.

Credit risk mitigation
We seek to mitigate our exposure to credit risk through a variety of 
means, including structuring of transactions, collateral and credit 
derivatives. The policies and processes that are in place regarding the 
monitoring of the effectiveness of our credit risk mitigation are dis-
cussed below.

Structuring of transactions
Proper structuring of a credit facility is a key factor in mitigating risk at 
the transaction level and often includes the use of guarantees, secu-
rity, seniority and covenants. We use credit policies and procedures 
to set out requirements for structuring transactions. Product-specific 
guidelines set out appropriate product structuring and client criteria. 

Collateral
We generally require obligors to pledge collateral as security when 
we advance credit. This provides some protection in case of default. 
Real estate, liquid assets, cash, bonds and government securities are 
examples of the collateral securities we accept. The extent of risk  
mitigation provided by collateral depends on the amount type and 
quality of the collateral taken. Specific requirements relating to col-
lateral valuation and management are documented in our credit risk 
management policies. GRM manages collateral positions through 
a system, which maintains information according to counterparty. 
Valuations of collateral are based on various sources and are com-
pared to our collateral positions. 

Credit derivatives
We also mitigate risk through credit derivatives that serve to transfer 
the risk to a third party. These derivatives are also used as a tool to 
mitigate industry sector concentration and single name exposure. 
Procedures are in place to ensure these hedges are efficient and  
effective. 

All derivative transactions supported by collateral are docu-
mented using industry-standard master agreements. Internal policies 
have been developed for each jurisdiction in order to ensure the 
legal enforceability of the collateral arrangements. Cash and securi-
ties held as collateral are held by us or by our authorized custodian. 
Concentration within the collateral taken is minimal.

Credit valuation adjustments are made for derivative transac-
tions which are exposed to changes in counterparty credit quality. 
Credit valuation adjustments are calculated at least once a month 
using internal models and GRM-approved methodology, which con-
sist of sophisticated mathematical algorithms. The reasonableness 
of the level of valuation adjustments is independently verified on a 
monthly basis.

Netting is a technique that can reduce credit exposure from 
derivatives and is generally facilitated through the use of master net-
ting agreements. A master netting agreement provides for a single net 
settlement for all financial instruments covered by the agreement in  
the event of default on, or termination of, any one contract with the 

counterparty. Our trading units provide GRM with all relevant details 
of outstanding transactions, including itemized mark-to-market data. 
This data is used to monitor the amount of netting benefit recognized. 
For further details, refer to Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial 
Statements.

Reporting
GRM provides a number of enterprise level credit risk reports to senior 
management and the Board of Directors so as to ensure that shifts 
in our credit risk exposure or negative trends in our credit profile are 
highlighted and appropriate actions can be taken where necessary. 

An Enterprise Risk Report is distributed to the Board of Directors, 
Group Risk Committee and senior executives on a quarterly basis. The 
report provides a dynamic overview of our risk profile, including trend-
ing information and significant risk issues. It also includes analysis of 
significant shifts in exposures, expected loss, Economic Capital and 
risk ratings. Large exposure subject to credit policy exceptions, as 
well as significant counterparty exposure and downgrades are also 
reported. Analysis is provided on a portfolio and industry basis and 
includes the results of stress testing and sensitivity analysis.

Separate business specific reports are also provided to senior 

management, who monitor the credit quality of their respective  
portfolios and emerging industry or market trends.

Loans and acceptances by portfolio and industry 

Table 48

(C$ millions) 

    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (1) 

Retail    

    Business (2) 
        Agriculture 
        Automotive 
        Consumer goods 
        Energy 
        Non-bank financial services 
        Forest products 
        Industrial products 
        Mining and metals 
        Real estate and related 
        Technology and media 
        Transportation and environment 
        Other 
    Sovereign (3) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

Total loans and acceptances 

Total allowance for loan losses 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2004 

2003

$  109,745 
  48,743 
8,322 
2,652 

$  96,675 
  44,902 
7,155 
2,318 

$  91,043 
  41,045 
6,200 
1,951 

$  81,998 
  36,848 
6,456 
1,928 

$  75,790
  32,186
4,816 
1,335

$  169,462 

$  151,050 

$  140,239 

$  127,230 

$  114,127

5,367 
3,285 
5,206 
7,632 
4,245 
1,349 
4,119 
2,301 
19,187 
2,423 
2,656 
17,583 
932 
5,468 

5,435 
2,958 
4,553 
6,010 
2,588 
1,126 
3,659 
1,072 
16,145 
2,326 
2,400 
  15,586 
887 
3,252 

5,238 
2,545 
4,437 
5,628 
1,892 
1,210 
3,157 
543 
  13,730 
2,244 
1,900 
  14,772 
550 
903 

4,992 
2,370 
4,566 
3,462 
935 
1,150 
2,827 
511 
  12,224 
2,135 
2,555 
  12,319 
800 
668 

4,789
2,346
4,920
3,621
1,120
1,523
2,952
987
  12,286
2,723
3,196
  11,894
732
1,176

$ 

81,753 

$ 

67,997 

$  58,749 

$ 

51,514 

$  54,265

$  251,215 

$  219,047 

$  198,988 

$  178,744 

$  168,392

$ 

(1,493)  $ 

(1,409)  $ 

(1,498)  $ 

(1,644)  $ 

(2,055)

Total loans and acceptances, net of allowance for loan losses 

$  249,722 

$  217,638 

$  197,490 

$  177,100 

$  166,337

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

Credit portfolio analysis
2007 vs. 2006 
During 2007, our credit portfolio remained well diversified and con-
tinued to show strong growth. Total loans and acceptances increased 
$32 billion, or 15%, compared to the prior year, reflecting continued 
growth in both our retail and wholesale loan portfolios.

Retail credit portfolio
Retail loans increased $18 billion, or 12%, from a year ago, largely due 
to solid growth across all categories in our Canadian loan portfolio.

Residential mortgages were up $13 billion, or 14%, despite the 

offsetting effect of $13 billion of securitization during the year. The 
increase was supported by continued solid housing market activities 
in Canada, relatively low interest rates in a historical context, and 
strong labour market conditions.

Personal loans grew $4 billion, or 9%, primarily reflecting strong 

growth in home equity lending in Canada, driven by continued solid 
housing market activities and favourable labour market conditions.
Credit cards increased $1 billion, or 16%, reflecting successful 

sales efforts and continued consumer spending.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wholesale credit portfolio
Wholesale loans and acceptances were up $14 billion, or 20%, primar-
ily reflecting strong growth across various sectors, with the largest 
increase in the Real estate and related, Bank and Energy sectors. Our 
Real estate and related exposure increased $3 billion, largely attribut-
able to continued strong property development activities in Canada. 
Our exposure to the Bank sector was up $2 billion, with widespread 
increases across Canada, the U.S. and Other International. Our expo-
sure to the Energy sector increased $2 billion, primarily reflecting 
continued investments by companies related to electricity generation, 
as well as oil and gas exploration and production in Canada.

Our portfolio remained well diversified and the overall mix did not 
change significantly from the prior year. The portfolio remained well 
balanced with residential mortgages comprising 44%, wholesale loans 
33%, personal loans 19%, credit cards 3% and small business  
managed on a pooled basis 1%.

The portfolio grew across all geographic regions. The largest 
increase was in Canada, with broad-based growth across both our 
retail and wholesale loan portfolios on generally favourable economic 
conditions. Growth in business lending accounted for most of the 
increase in the U.S. and Other International. For further details, refer to 
Table 59 in the Additional financial information section.

Total loans and acceptances by credit portfolio (C$ billions)

250

200

150

100

50

0

Small business 
treated as retail

Credit cards

Personal

Wholesale

Residential 
mortgages

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

Five-year trend
Over the last five years, total loans and acceptances continued to 
grow. Compared to 2003, our portfolio increased $83 billion, or 49%, 
driven by growth in both our retail and wholesale loan portfolios.

Retail loans grew $55 billion, or 48%, since 2003, largely 
reflecting strong growth in Canada across all categories, particularly 
residential mortgages and personal loans, notwithstanding mortgage 
and credit card securitizations over the period. This growth reflected 
our continued focus on expanding our retail portfolios, underpinned 
by continued solid Canadian housing market activities, relatively low 
interest rates and strong labour market conditions.

Our wholesale portfolio grew $27 billion, or 51%, since 2003. The 
largest growth sectors were Real estate and related, Bank, Energy and 
Non-bank financial services, primarily driven by strong loan demand 
in Canada amid generally favourable economic conditions over the 
period. The increase in Real estate and related exposure over the 
period was largely due to relatively strong North American housing 
markets combined with our U.S. acquisitions. While the U.S. housing  
market had been relatively solid over the past few years, it slowed 
down significantly in the latter part of 2007, which tempered loan 
growth. Our exposure to the Energy sector increased $4 billion, largely 
attributable to increased investments by companies related to oil and 
gas exploration and production in Canada and the U.S. 

Our portfolio in Canada continued to grow over the period, 
underpinned by our extensive distribution capabilities and continued 
product enhancement on the back of solid loan demand and gener-
ally favourable economic conditions. Our exposure in the U.S. and 
Other International generally trended downward except for the last 
three years, partly reflecting our strategic reduction in exposure to 
risk sensitive sectors, a reduction in single-name concentrations and 
our exit from non-core client relationships. With our successful stra-
tegic realignment in these areas, our exposure in the U.S. and Other 
International increased since 2005, primarily reflecting our successful 
market expansion initiatives, including acquisitions.

Credit derivatives position (notional amounts) (1) 

Table 49

(C$ millions) 

Portfolio management 
    Business 
        Automotive 
        Consumer goods 
        Energy 
        Non-bank financial services 
        Industrial products 
        Mining and metals 
        Real estate and related 
        Technology and media 
        Transportation and environment 
        Other 
    Sovereign (3) 
    Bank 

Total portfolio management 

2007 

2006

Protection 
purchased (2) 

Protection 
sold (2) 

Protection 
purchased (2) 

Protection
sold (2)

$ 

$ 

379 
– 
957 
1,161 
– 
591 
413 
10 
335 
472 
220 
731 

$ 

– 
67 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
119 
– 
– 

$ 

272 
– 
273 
441 
– 
95 
– 
6 
177 
520 
– 
22 

5
92
7
–
35
–
–
11
–
142
–
–

$ 

5,269 

$ 

186 

$ 

1,806 

$ 

292 

Comprises credit default swaps, total return swaps and credit default baskets.

(1)  
(2)   Net of offsetting protection purchased and sold in the amount of $261 million (2006 – $312 million).
(3) 

Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

88

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 vs. 2006 
Total credit derivatives protection purchased increased $3 billion from 
the prior year. The credit protection bought was mainly related to the 
Non-bank financial services, Bank, Energy, and Mining and metals 
sectors, largely reflecting the acquisition of credit protection to mitigate 
single-name concentration risks in our portfolio. Our credit protection 
sold was down $106 million, or 36%, from a year ago. The decrease was 
mainly related to Industrial products, Consumer goods, and Technology 
and media sectors largely reflecting unfavourable U.S. financial market 
conditions.

Gross impaired loans and Allowance for credit losses
Loans are generally classified as impaired when there is no longer rea-
sonable assurance of timely collection of the full amount of principal 
or interest.

Gross impaired loans continuity 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

Gross impaired loans, beginning of year 
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

New impaired loans
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Repayment, return to performing status, sold and other
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Net impaired loan formations 
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Write-offs 
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Gross impaired loans, end of year
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Total gross impaired loans 

Key ratios 
    Gross impaired loans as a % of loans and acceptances 
    Total net write-offs as a % of average net loans and acceptances 

n.m.  not meaningful

Allowance for credit losses continuity 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

Specific allowance  
    Balance, beginning of year 
    Provision for credit losses 
    Write-offs 
    Recoveries 
    Adjustments 

Specific allowance for credit losses, end of year 

General allowance 
    Balance, beginning of year 
    Provision for credit losses 
    Adjustments 

General allowance for credit losses, end of year 

Allowance for credit losses 

The allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level that  
management believes is sufficient to absorb probable losses in both 
the on- and off-balance sheet portfolios. The allowance is evaluated 
on a quarterly basis based on our assessment of problem accounts, 
recent loss experience and changes in other factors, including the  
composition and quality of the portfolio and economic conditions.  
The allowance is increased by the provision for credit losses (which 
is charged to income) and decreased by the amount of write-offs  
net of recoveries. For further information, refer to the Critical account-
ing policies and estimates section and Note 1 to our Consolidated 
Financial Statements.   

2007 

2006 

2007 vs. 2006
Increase (decrease)

Table 50

 $ 

$ 

$  

$ 

$ 

$ 

$  

$ 

$  

$ 

$  

$ 

$ 

$ 

383 
451 

834 

926 
720 

$ 

$ 

$ 

340 
434  

774 

810 
271 

1,646 

$ 

1,081 

$ 

43 
17 

60 

116 
491 

607 

(132)  $ 
(340) 

(144)  $ 
(164) 

12 
(218) 

(472)  $ 

(308)  $ 

(206) 

$ 

794 
380 

$ 

666 
107 

1,174 

$ 

773 

$ 

(759)  $ 
(109) 

(623)  $ 
(90) 

(868)  $ 

(713)  $ 

$ 

418 
722 

$ 

383 
451 

$ 

1,140 

$ 

834 

$ 

.45% 
.30% 

.38% 
.25% 

128 
273 

401 

(136) 
(19) 

(155) 

35 
271 

306 

n.m. 
n.m. 

13%
4

8%

14%

181

56%

8%
(133)

(67)%

19%

255

52%

(22)%
(21)

(22)%

9%

60

37%

7 bps 
5 bps

2007 

2006 

2007 vs. 2006
Increase (decrease)

Table 51

$ 

 4

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

263 
782 
(868) 
170 

$ 

282 
482 
(713) 
205 
7 

(19) 
300 
(155)  
(35) 
 (3) 

351 

$ 

263 

$ 

88 

1,223 
9 
(11) 

1,221 

1,572 

$ 

$ 

$ 

1,286 
(53) 
(10) 

1,223 

1,486 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(63) 
 62 
(1)  

(2) 

86 

(7)%
62
(22)
(17)
(43)

33%

(5)%
117
(10)

–

6%

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007 vs. 2006
Total gross impaired loans (GIL) increased $306 million, or 37%, com-
pared to the prior year, primarily reflecting higher impaired loans in our 
U.S. residential builder finance business triggered by the downturn in 
the U.S. housing market.

Retail gross impaired loans increased $35 million, or 9%, from a 

year ago. The increase mainly reflected higher impairment in both U.S. 
and Canadian residential mortgages and small business loans com-
mensurate with portfolio growth in Canada, partially offset by lower 
impaired Canadian personal loans.

Gross impaired loans and allowance for credit losses  (C$ millions)

2,400

1,800

1,200

600

0

1.20%

.90%

Gross impaired 
loans

ACL

.60%

GIL ratio*

.30%

.0%

Wholesale gross impaired loans increased $271 million, or 60%, 

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

compared to the prior year. The increase was largely attributable to 
the Real estate and related sector, primarily reflecting higher impaired 
loans in our U.S. residential builder finance business as a result of the 
downturn in the U.S. housing market. This was partially offset by lower 
impaired loans in the Technology and media sector mainly due to the 
favourable resolution of a particular impaired loan. 

Gross impaired loans as a percentage of loans and acceptances 

were .45% compared to .38% in the prior year, primarily reflecting 
higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder finance business. 
For further details, refer to Table 60 in the Additional financial informa-
tion section.

Allowance for credit losses 
Total allowance for credit losses increased $86 million, or 6%, from a 
year ago, primarily reflecting increased specific allowance related to  
a weakening in credit quality of our U.S. residential builder finance  
loan portfolio.

The specific allowance increased $88 million, or 33%, from the 

prior year. The increase was mainly driven by higher impaired loans in 
our U.S. residential builder finance business, primarily reflecting the 
downturn in the U.S. housing market.

The general allowance remained relatively stable compared to 
the prior year, as an increase in allowance mainly related to our U.S. 
residential builder finance loan portfolio was offset by the impact of 
a stronger Canadian dollar on the translated value of our U.S. dollar-
denominated allowance.

* GIL ratio: GIL as a percentage of loans and acceptances.

Five-year trend
Gross impaired loans
Gross impaired loans trended downward from 2003 to 2006, and 
decreased $911 million, or 52%, primarily reflecting lower impair-
ment in our wholesale loan portfolio. In 2007, gross impaired loans 
increased $306 million, or 37%, from the prior year, largely due to 
higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder finance business 
as a result of the downturn in the U.S. housing market.

Retail gross impaired loans remained relatively stable over the 
period. The increase in gross impaired loans in both U.S. and Canadian 
residential mortgages, primarily due to portfolio growth, was largely 
offset by a decrease in impairment in our Canadian personal loan port-
folio over the period.

Wholesale gross impaired loans generally trended downward 

from 2003 to 2006, and decreased $613 million, or 46%. The decline 
was across all geographic areas and most industry sectors, with the 
largest decrease in the Energy, Forest products, Transportation and 
environment, and Agriculture sectors due to generally favourable eco-
nomic conditions over the period. In 2007, wholesale gross impaired 
loans increased significantly, largely reflecting higher impairment in 
our U.S. residential builder finance business triggered by the downturn 
in the U.S. housing market.

The ratio of gross impaired loans as a percentage of loans and 

acceptances declined significantly from 1.04% in 2003 to .38% in 
2006, and increased to .45% in 2007, reflecting the factors discussed 
above. For further details, refer to Table 60 in the Additional financial 
information section.

Allowance for credit losses
Over the last five years, total allowance for credit losses of  
$1,572 million in 2007, decreased $592 million, or 27%, from 2003, 
primarily reflecting a reduction in specific allowance. 

The specific allowance of $351 million in 2007 was down  

$406 million, or 54%, compared to 2003. For the period 2003 to 2006, 
the wholesale loan portfolio recorded the largest reduction in specific 
allowance, and was broad-based across portfolios, industry sectors 
and geographic regions. In 2007, specific allowance increased largely 
resulting from a weakening in credit quality of our U.S. residential 
builder finance loan portfolio driven by the downturn in the U.S. hous-
ing market. 

The general allowance of $1,221 million in 2007 decreased  

$186 million, or 13%, compared to 2003. The decrease was largely 
due to the reversal of general allowance of $175 million and $50 million 
in 2004 and 2006, respectively, largely reflecting improved credit  
quality and economic conditions in those years.

90

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Provision for credit losses
The provision for credit losses is charged to income by an amount nec-
essary to bring the allowance for credit losses to a level determined 

appropriate by management, as discussed in the Critical account-
ing policies and estimates section and Note 1 to our Consolidated 
Financial Statements.

Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (1) 

Retail    

    Business (2) 
    Sovereign (3) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

Total specific provision for loan losses 

Total general provision  

Total provision for credit losses 

Specific PCL as a % of average net loans and acceptances 

2007 

2006 

$ 

$ 

$ 
 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

13 
364 
223 
34 

634 

148 

148 

782 

9 

791 

.33% 

 $ 

6 
306 
163 
29 

504 

$ 

(22)  $ 

– 
– 

(22)  $ 

482 

$ 

(53)  $ 

429 

$ 

.23% 

Table 52

2007 vs. 2006
Increase (decrease)

7 
58 
60 
5 

130 

170 
– 
– 

170 

300 

62 

362 

n.m. 

 –
 –

117%
19
37
17

26%

n.m.

n.m.

62%

117%

84%

10 bps 

Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis. 
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
n.m.  not meaningful

2007 vs. 2006
Total provision for credit losses (PCL) increased $362 million, or 84%, 
compared to the prior year, which had been at a cyclically low level, 
and has trended up towards the historical average. The increase 
reflected higher provisions for both our wholesale and retail loan 
portfolios, primarily reflecting portfolio growth and higher impaired 
loans in our U.S. residential builder finance business triggered by the 
downturn in the U.S. housing market. Specific PCL as a percentage of 
average net loans and acceptances increased from a year ago, largely 
reflecting higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder finance 
business.

Specific PCL for retail loans was up $130 million, or 26%, from 
a year ago. The increase was primarily attributable to higher provi-
sions in our credit cards and personal unsecured credit line portfolios, 
largely reflecting higher loss rates and portfolio growth. 

Specific PCL for wholesale loans increased $170 million over the 
prior year. The increase was largely attributable to our business port-
folio mainly due to higher impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder 
finance business and higher write-offs in Canada. Lower recoveries in 
our corporate loan portfolio this year also contributed to the increase 
in provisions.

The general provision increased $62 million from a year ago, pri-

marily reflecting a $50 million reversal of the general allowance related 
to our corporate loan portfolio in the prior year. Higher provisions in 
our U.S. residential builder finance loan portfolio, largely reflecting 
a weakening in credit quality as a result of the downturn in the U.S. 
housing market, also contributed to the increase.

Specific provision for credit losses (C$ millions) 

1,000

750

500

250

0

Specific 
PCL

PCL ratio*

.60%

.45%

.30%

.15%

.0%

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

* PCL ratio: Specific PCL as a percentage of average net loans and acceptances.

Five-year trend
During the period 2003 to 2005, specific provision for credit losses 
generally trended downward, primarily reflecting a reduction in 
provisions for our business loan portfolio. We recorded significant 
recoveries particularly in corporate loans in 2005 and 2006. In 2007, 
specific provisions has trended up towards the historical average, 
mainly reflecting higher provisions for our business loan portfolio, 
largely due to increased impaired loans in our U.S. residential builder 
finance business, portfolio growth and higher write-offs in Canada. 
Higher provisions in our personal loan and credit cards portfolios 
due to higher loss rates and portfolio growth also contributed to the 
increase. The specific provision as a percentage of average net loans 
and acceptances broadly declined from 2003 to 2006, largely due to 
a reduction in provisions for our business loan portfolio. The ratio 
increased to .33% in 2007, primarily reflecting higher impaired loans in 
our U.S. residential builder finance business. For further details, refer 
to Table 61 in the Additional financial information section.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Market risk

Market risk is the risk of loss that may arise from changes in market 
factors such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, equity or com-
modity prices, and credit spreads. We are exposed to market risk in 
our trading activity and our asset/liability management activities.  
The level of market risk to which we are exposed varies depending on 
market conditions, expectations of future price and yield movements 
and the composition of our trading portfolio. 

Trading market risk
Trading market risk encompasses various risks associated with cash 
and related derivative products that are traded in interest rate, foreign 
exchange, equity, credit and commodity markets. Trading market risk 
is comprised of the following components:
• 

Interest rate risk is the potential adverse impact on our earnings  
and economic value due to changes in interest rates. It is  
composed of: (i) directional risk – arising from parallel shifts in 
the yield curve, (ii) yield curve risk – arising from non-uniform 
rate changes across a spectrum of maturities, (iii) basis risk – 
resulting from an imperfect hedge of one instrument type by 
another instrument type whose changes in price are not perfectly 
correlated, and (iv) option risk – from changes in the value of 
embedded options due to changes in prices or rates and their 
volatility. Most financial instruments have exposure to interest 
rate risk.
Foreign exchange rate risk is the potential adverse impact on our 
earnings and economic value due to currency rate and precious 
metals price movements and volatilities. In our proprietary posi-
tions, we are exposed to the spot, forward and derivative markets.
Equity risk is the potential adverse impact on our earnings due 
to movements in individual equity prices or general movements 
in the level of the stock market. We are exposed to equity risk 
from the buying and selling of equities and indices as principal in 
conjunction with our investment banking activities and from our 
trading activities, which include tailored equity derivative prod-
ucts, arbitrage trading and relative value trading.
Commodities risk is the potential adverse impact on our earnings  
and economic value due to commodities price movements and 
volatilities. Principal commodities traded include crude oil, 
heating oil and natural gas. In our proprietary positions, we are 
exposed to the spot, forwards and derivative markets. 
Credit spread risk is the general adverse impact on our earnings 
and economic value due to changes in the credit spreads associ-
ated with our holdings of instruments subject to credit risk.
Credit specific risk is the potential adverse impact on our earnings 
and economic value due to changes in the creditworthiness and 
default of issuers on our holdings in bonds and money market 
instruments, and those underlying credit derivatives.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

We conduct trading activities over-the-counter and on exchanges in 
the spot, forward, futures and options markets, and we offer struc-
tured derivative transactions. Market risks associated with trading 
activities are a result of market-making, positioning, and sales and 
arbitrage activities in the interest rate, foreign exchange, equity, com-
modities, and credit markets. Our trading operations primarily acts as 
a market maker, executing transactions that meet the financial require-
ments of our clients and transferring the market risks to the broad 
financial market. We also act as principal and take proprietary market 
risk positions within the authorized limits granted by the Board of 
Directors. The trading book consists of cash and derivative positions 
that are held for short-term resale, taken on with the intent of benefit-
ing in the short-term from actual or expected differences between their 
buying and selling prices or to lock in arbitrage profits.

Responsibilities
Oversight of market risk is provided by the Board of Directors through 
the Conduct Review & Risk Policy Committee (CR&RPC). Market risk limit 

92

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

approval authorities are established by the Board of Directors, upon  
recommendation of the CR&RPC, and delegated to senior management.

The independent oversight of trading market risk management 

activities is the responsibility of Group Risk Management (GRM) – 
Market and Trading Credit Risk, which includes major units in Toronto, 
London, New York and Sydney. The Market and Trading Credit Risk 
group establishes market risk policies and limits, develops quantita-
tive techniques and analytical tools, vets trading models and systems, 
maintains the Value-at-Risk (VaR) and stress risk measurement sys-
tems, and provides enterprise risk reporting on trading activities. 
This group also provides independent oversight on trading activities, 
including the establishment and administration of trading operational 
limits, market risk and counterparty credit limit compliance, risk 
analytics, and the review and oversight of non-traditional or complex 
transactions. 

Business segments are accountable for their market risks, work-

ing in partnership with GRM to ensure the alignment between risk 
appetite and business strategies. 

GRM – Market and Trading Credit Risk is responsible for the 
determination and reporting of regulatory and Economic Capital 
requirements for market risk, and provides assurance to regulators  
in regular filings on reporting accuracy, timeliness and the proper  
functioning of statistical models within the approved confidence level.

Risk measurement
We employ risk measurement tools such as VaR, sensitivity analysis 
and stress testing. GRM uses these measures in assessing global  
risk-return trends and to alert senior management to adverse trends  
or positions.

The majority of trading positions in foreign exchange, interest 
rate, equity, commodity and credit trading have capital calculated 
under an internal models approach while structured credit deriva-
tives are calculated under the Standardized Approach. Also calculated 
under the Standardized Approach for migration and default (specific) 
risk are a limited set of interest rate products. These products and 
risks are not included in our global VaR.

Value-at-Risk (VaR)
VaR is a statistical technique that measures the worst-case loss 
expected over the period within a 99% confidence level. Larger losses 
are possible, but with low probability. For example, based on a 99% 
confidence interval, a portfolio with a VaR of $20 million held over one 
day would have a one in one hundred chance of suffering a loss greater 
than $20 million in that day. VaR is measured over a 10-day horizon for 
the purpose of determining regulatory capital requirements.

We measure VaR by major risk category on a discrete basis. We 

also measure and monitor the effects of correlation in the movements 
of interest rates, credit spreads, exchange rates, equity and commod-
ity prices and highlight the benefit of diversification within our trading 
portfolio. This is then quantified in the diversification effect shown in 
our Global VaR table on the following page.

As with any modeled risk measure, there are certain limitations 
that arise from the assumptions used in VaR. Historical VaR assumes 
that the future will behave like the past. As a result, historical scenar-
ios may not reflect the next market cycle. Furthermore, the use  
of a 10-day horizon VaR for risk measurement implies that positions 
could be unwound or hedged within 10 days but this may not be a  
realistic assumption if the market becomes largely or completely  
illiquid. For example, this was observed for certain U.S. subprime-
related securities since August 2007. VaR is calculated based on  
end-of-day positions.

Validation
To ensure VaR effectively captures our market risk, we continuously 
monitor and enhance our methodology. Daily back-testing serves to 
compare hypothetical profit or loss against the VaR to monitor the 
statistical validity of 99% confidence level of the daily VaR measure. 

 
Back-testing is calculated by holding position levels constant and  
isolating the effect of the movement of actual market rates over the 
next day and over the next 10 days on the market value of the port-
folios. Intra-day position changes account for most of the difference 
between theoretical back-testing and actual profit and loss. VaR models 
and market risk factors are independently reviewed periodically to 
further ensure accuracy and reliability. In 2007, there were five occur-
rences of a back-test exceeding VaR. This occurred during the volatile 
markets of July and August. VaR calculated using a historical window  
can lead to back-testing breaches when the historical window used in  
the calculation is less volatile than current markets. During this period, 
we frequently updated our scenarios to keep pace with current  
market events.

Sensitivity analysis and stress testing
Sensitivity analysis is used to measure the impact of small changes in 
individual risk factors such as interest rates and foreign exchange rates 
and is designed to isolate and quantify exposure to the underlying risk. 
VaR is a risk measure that is only meaningful in normal market con-
ditions. To address more extreme market events, stress testing is used 
to measure and alert senior management to our exposure to potential 
political, economic or other disruptive events. We run several types 
of stress testing, including historical stress events such as the 1987 
stock market crash, as well as hypothetical “what-if” stress events that 
represent potential future events that are plausible but have a very low 
probability of occurring. Our stress scenarios are reviewed and updated 
as required to reflect relevant events and hypothetical situations. 
While we endeavour to be conservative in our stress testing, there can 
be no assurance that our stress testing assumptions will cover every 
market scenario that may unfold.

Risk control
Policies
A comprehensive risk policy framework governs trading-related risks 
and activities and provides guidance to trading management, middle 
office compliance functions and operations. We employ an extensive 
set of principles, rules, controls and limits, which conform to industry 
best practice. Our market risk management framework is designed  
to ensure that our risks are appropriately diversified on a global basis. 
Limits on measures such as notional size, term and overall risk are 
monitored at the desk, and at the portfolio and business levels.

Reporting
Reports on trading risks are provided by GRM – Market and Trading 
Credit Risk to the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and the operating committee 
of Capital Markets on a weekly basis and to senior management on a 
daily basis. Enterprise-wide reporting is used to monitor compliance 
against VaR and stress limits approved by the Board of Directors, and 
the operating limits derived from these board limits. In addition to 
this monitoring, GRM – Market and Trading Credit Risk pre-approves 
excesses and reports any breach to the CRO and the operating commit-
tee of Capital Markets. 

Internal reporting to senior management includes stand-alone 

risk calculations for portfolios that have standardized regulatory capi-
tal which are then combined with models-based results to present an 
aggregated enterprise risk profile.

The following table shows our global VaR for total trading 
activities under our models based approach for capital by major risk 
category and also shows the diversification effect, which is calculated 
as the difference between the global VaR and the sum of the separate 
risk factor VaRs.

Global VAR by major risk category  

Table 53

2007 

2006

As at
Oct. 31 

$ 

8 
4 
2 
  20 
 3
  (19) 
$  18 

For the year ended October 31 

High 

Average 

Low 

$  18 
7 
2 
  23 
 5
 n.m. 
$  27 

$ 

9 
2 
1 
  19 
 3
  (13) 
$  21 

$ 

4 
1 
– 
  14 
 2
 n.m. 
$  16 

As at
 Oct. 31 

$ 

7 
2 
1 
  13 
3 
(9) 
$  17 

For the year ended October 31 

High 

Average 

Low

$  11 
4 
2 
  20 
4 
 n.m. 
$  25 

$ 

7 
2 
1 
  13 
3 
(8) 
$  18 

$ 

5
1 
– 
9 
2 
 n.m. 
$  13

(C$ millions) 

    Equity 
    Foreign exchange  
    Commodities 
    Interest rate 
    Credit specific 
    Diversification 
Global VAR 

n.m.   not meaningful

Global VaR by major risk category (C$ millions)

0

-3

-6

-9

-12

-15

-18

-21

-24

November
2006

February
2007

May
2007

August
2007

October
2007

Daily interest rate VaR

Daily equity VaR

Daily commodities VaR

Daily credit specific risk VaR

Daily foreign exchange VaR

Global VaR
2007 vs. 2006
Average global VaR for the year of $21 million was up compared to  
$18 million a year ago. This increase largely reflected an increase 
in both Interest rate and Equity VaR due to a higher level of trading 
activity and increased market volatility during the current year. These 
increases were mostly offset by an improvement in the overall diversi-
fication effect, which rose to 38% compared to 31% a year ago.

Trading revenue
2007 vs. 2006
The volatility in daily trading revenue in the latter part of 2007 reflected 
difficult trading conditions in both interest rates and credit-related 
products arising from a very stressed market during that period. Equity 
markets also experienced high volatility in July and August. Writedowns 
related to the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS in our 
Structured Credit business totalled $357 million. In addition to this  

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Histogram of daily net trading revenue (1), (2) (number of days)

Daily net trading revenue and global VaR (1), (2) (C$ millions)

Histogram of daily net trading revenue (1), (2) (number of days)

Daily net trading revenue and global VaR (1), (2) (C$ millions)

one-day trading loss, we experienced 25 days of net trading losses with 
the largest one-day loss of $23 million.

24

16

8

0

6

4

2

0

-334 -30

-10

0

10

30

60

Daily net trading revenue (C$ millions)

Histogram of daily net trading revenue (1) (number of days)

-30

-15

0

15

30

45

Daily net trading revenue (C$ millions)

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

-10

-20

-30

-340

24

16

8

November
2006

February
2007

May
2007

August
2007

October
2007

Daily net trading revenue

Global VaR

0
-334 -30

-10

0

10

30

60

Daily net trading revenue (C$ millions)

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

-10

-20

-30

-340

November
2006

February

2007

May

2007

August

2007

October

2007

Daily net trading revenue

Global VaR

(1) 
(2) 

Trading revenue on a taxable equivalent basis excluding revenue related to consolidated VIEs.
The $357 million writedown on the valuation of U.S. subprime RMBS and CDOs of ABS was included on October 31, 2007.

Non-trading market risk (Asset/liability management) 
Traditional non-trading banking activities, such as deposit taking  
and lending, expose us to market risk, of which interest rate risk is the 
largest component.

Our goal is to manage the interest rate risk of the non-trading  

balance sheet to a target level. We modify the risk profile of the  
balance sheet through proactive hedging to achieve our target level. 
For additional information regarding the use of derivatives in asset 
and liability management, refer to the Off-Balance sheet section and 
Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. We continually moni-
tor the effectiveness of our interest rate risk mitigation activity within 
Corporate Treasury on a value and earnings basis.

For a discussion of the management of foreign exchange risk in  
the non-trading balance sheet, refer to the Hedging foreign currency- 
denominated operations discussion in the Capital management section.

Responsibilities
While our individual subsidiaries and business segments manage  
the daily activities, Corporate Treasury is responsible for managing our 
enterprise-wide interest rate risk, monitoring approved limits and com-
pliance with policies and operating standards. Our Asset and Liability 
Committee (ALCO) provides oversight to Corporate Treasury and 
reviews the policy developed by Corporate Treasury and provides  
recommendations to CR&RPC for approval.

Risk measurement
We endeavour to keep pace with best practices in instrument  
valuation, econometric modeling and new hedging techniques on an 
ongoing basis. Our investigations range from the evaluation of tradi-
tional asset/liability management processes to pro forma application 
of recent developments in quantitative methods.

Our risk position is measured daily, weekly or monthly based on 
the size and complexity of the portfolio. Measurement of risk is based 
on rates charged to clients as well as funds transfer pricing rates. Key 
rate analysis is utilized as a primary tool for risk management. It pro-
vides us with an assessment of the sensitivity of the exposure of our 
economic value of equity to instantaneous changes in individual points 
on the yield curve.

The economic value of equity is equal to the net present value of 

our assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet instruments.

94

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

6

Histogram of daily net trading revenue (1) (number of days)

Funds transfer pricing
We use a funds transfer pricing mechanism at the transaction level 
to transfer interest rate risk to Corporate Treasury and identify the 
profitability of various products. The funds transfer pricing rates are 
market-based and are aligned with interest rate risk management prin-
ciples. They are supported by empirical research into client behaviour 
and are an integral input to the retail business pricing decisions.

4

We also focus on developing retail product valuation models that 

2

incorporate the impact of consumer behaviour. These valuation  
models are typically derived through econometric estimation of 
consumer exercise of options embedded in retail products. The most 
significant embedded options are mortgage rate commitments and 
prepayment options. In addition, we model the sensitivity of the value 
of deposits with an indefinite maturity to interest rate changes.
0

-30

-15

45

30

15

0

Daily net trading revenue (C$ millions)

Validation
We supplement our assessment by measuring interest rate risk for 
a range of dynamic and static market scenarios. Dynamic scenarios 
simulate our interest income in response to various combinations of 
business and market factors. Business factors include assumptions 
about future pricing strategies and volume and mix of new business, 
whereas market factors include assumed changes in interest rate 
levels and changes in the shape of the yield curve. Static scenarios 
supplement dynamic scenarios and are employed for assessing the 
risks to the value of equity and net interest income.

As part of our monitoring of the effectiveness of our interest rate 

risk mitigation activity within Corporate Treasury which is done on a 
value and earnings basis, model assumptions are validated against 
actual client behaviour.

Risk control
Policies and limits
The interest rate risk policies define the management standards  
and acceptable limits within which risks to net interest income over  
a 12-month horizon, and the economic value of equity, are to be  
contained. These ranges are based on immediate and sustained  
±100 basis point parallel shift of the yield curve. The limit for net 
interest income risk is 3% of projected net interest income, and for 
economic value of equity risk, the limit is 5% of projected common 
equity. Interest rate risk policies and limits are reviewed and approved 
annually by the Board of Directors.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Risk reporting
The individual subsidiaries and business segments report the interest  
rate risk management activity on a monthly basis. They must also 
immediately report any exceptions to the interest rate risk policies to 
Corporate Treasury and seek approval of the corrective actions.

An Enterprise interest rate risk report is reviewed monthly by  
the ALCO and quarterly by the Group Risk Committee and the Board  
of Directors.

Market risk measures – Non-trading banking activities 

Table 54

Economic value of equity risk 

Net interest income risk

2007 

2006 

2005

(C$ millions) 

Before-tax impact of: 
    100bp increase in rates 
    100bp decrease in rates 
Before-tax impact of: 
    200bp increase in rates  
    200bp decrease in rates 

Canadian  
dollar 
 impact 

U.S. 
 dollar 
impact (1) 

All 
currencies 

Canadian  
dollar 
 impact 

U.S. 
 dollar 
impact (1) 

Economic 

Economic

All 

value  Net interest 

currencies  of equity risk 

income risk  of equity risk 

value  Net interest
income risk

$ 

(391)  $ 
315 

(49)  $ 
(6) 

(440)  $ 
309 

40  $ 
(97) 

14  $ 
(14) 

54  $ 

(111) 

(496)  $ 
375 

87  $ 

(153) 

(435)  $ 
291 

(819) 
640 

(111) 
(87) 

(930) 
553 

68 
(202) 

29 
(29) 

97 
(231) 

(1,044) 
658 

147 
(319) 

(920) 
461 

106
(181)

162
(365)

(1) 

Represents the impact on the non-trading portfolios held in our U.S. banking operations.

2007 Analysis
The above table provides the potential before-tax impact of an imme-
diate and sustained 100 basis point and 200 basis point increase or 
decrease in interest rates on net interest income and economic value 
of equity of our non-trading portfolio, assuming that no further  
hedging is undertaken. These measures are based upon assumptions 

made by senior management and validated by empirical research.  
All interest rate risk measures are based upon interest rate exposures 
at a specific time and continuously change as a result of business 
activities and our risk management initiatives. Over the course of 
2007, our interest rate risk exposure was well within our target level.

Operational risk

Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed 
internal processes, people and systems or from external events. 

Operational risk is embedded in all our activities, including the 

practices and controls used to manage other risks. Failure to manage 
operational risk can result in direct or indirect financial loss, reputa-
tional impact, regulatory censure, or failure in the management of 
other risks such as credit or market risk.

Our operational risk management framework flows directly from 

our enterprise risk management framework and sets out the principles 
and practices that we use to manage operational risk by identifying,  
measuring, controlling, and monitoring and reporting it. During 2007, 
we strengthened our operational risk management framework by 
expanding the common operational risk language that supports the 
consistent identification, assessment and understanding of risks. 
We also implemented our “converged” operational risk and control 
assessment and monitoring program. This enterprise-wide program 
integrated several stand-alone programs to identify and assess  
operational risks.

Responsibilities
The Board of Directors is responsible for providing oversight and 
ensuring that appropriate policies have been implemented to man-
age operational risk. The Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and Group Risk 
Management (GRM) are responsible for implementing the operational 
risk management framework on an enterprise-wide basis, as well as 
for directing and approving significant area-specific operational  
risk policies. A dedicated team within GRM designs and supports  
operational risk policies, programs and initiatives, and monitors  
implementation progress and ongoing execution. The businesses  
and corporate support groups are responsible for the informed and 
active management of the operational risks within their activities in 
accordance with the operational risk management framework.  
Where appropriate, execution of operational risk management  
programs is conducted by GTO on behalf of the businesses and  
corporate support groups.

Risk measurement
Operational risk is difficult to measure in a complete and precise man-
ner, given that exposure to operational risk is often implicit, bundled 
with other risks, or otherwise not taken on intentionally. In the banking 
industry, measurement tools and methodologies continue to evolve. 
Nonetheless, we are able to gauge our operational risk exposure by 
using several approaches concurrently.

Risk assessment
Operational risks are identified and their potential impact assessed 
through our enterprise-wide integrated operational risk and control 
assessment and monitoring program. Our operational risk management 
framework is used to ensure consistent identification and assessment 
of operational risks and the controls used to manage these.

Risk indicators
Our businesses and corporate support groups use a broad range 
of risk indicators to manage their day-to-day activities. GRM uses 
indicators to monitor operational risk at the enterprise level. These 
indicators provide insight into the level and composition of our  
operational risk exposure and potential changes in these.

Operational event data collection and analysis
Operational risk events are reported in a central enterprise database. 
Comprehensive information about these events is then collected, and 
includes information regarding amount, occurrence, discovery date, 
business area and product involved, root causes and risk drivers. 
Analysis of operational risk event data helps us to understand where 
and how our risks are manifesting themselves, provides a historical 
perspective of our operational risk experience, and establishes a basis 
for measuring our operational risk exposure and the capital needed to 
underpin this type of risk.

Industry loss analysis 
We review and analyze information on operational losses that have 
occurred at other financial institutions, using published information  
and information we acquire through our membership in the 
Operational Riskdata eXchange (ORX), a private data-sharing  

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
consortium. Both provide insights into the size and nature of potential  
exposures, which enables us to benchmark our loss experience 
against those of our peers to determine if our experience puts us in an 
outlier position. It also allows us to monitor emerging developments 
and trends that affect the financial industry as a whole.

Risk control
Operational risk is managed through our infrastructure, controls,  
systems and people, complemented by central enterprise-wide groups 
focusing on management of specific operational risks such as fraud, 
privacy, outsourcing, and business disruption, as well as people and  
systems risks.

A number of our enterprise-wide groups ensure that all of these 
controls and systems are effective under our operational risk manage-
ment framework. These include compliance, which ensures a complete 
view of our regulatory obligations and provides a co-ordinated,  
effective response to these, and the internal audit group, which pro-
vides independent assessment of risk management practices, internal 
controls and corporate governance processes.

Risk mitigation
Any high-risk exposures that we identify are subject to remedial 
measures, monitoring and control testing. This includes exposures 
identified through our integrated risk and control assessment and 
monitoring program, internal audits, compliance reviews, business 
continuity readiness reviews, or operational risk event reporting.

Our corporate insurance program enables us to transfer some  
of our operational risk exposure by purchasing insurance coverage, 
the nature and amounts of which are determined on a central,  
enterprise-wide basis.

Reporting
GRM provides quarterly enterprise level risk reporting to senior  
management and the Board of Directors. The operational risk reporting 
includes an overview of our operational risk profile and the trend and 
outlook for our exposure. Details are provided on areas of elevated 
risk, individual operational risks where there is heightened awareness, 
regulatory or compliance issues, and large operational risk events.  
This reporting is supplemented with more detailed specific reporting  
by groups such as compliance, audit, legal and human resources. 

Liquidity and funding risk 

Liquidity and funding risk is the risk that an institution is unable to 
generate or obtain sufficient cash or its equivalent in a timely and cost-
effective manner to meet its commitments as they come due.

Our liquidity and funding management framework is designed to 
ensure that adequate sources of reliable and cost-effective cash or its 
equivalents are continually available to satisfy our current and prospec-
tive financial commitments under normal and contemplated stress 
conditions. To achieve this goal, we are dedicated to the preservation of 
the following key liquidity and funding risk mitigation strategies:
• 
• 

A large base of core client deposits
Continual access to diversified sources of wholesale funding, 
including demonstrated capacities to monetize specific asset 
classes
A comprehensive and enterprise-wide liquidity contingency plan 
supported by an earmarked pool of unencumbered marketable 
securities (referred to as “contingency liquidity assets”) that  
provide assured access to cash in a crisis.

• 

Our liquidity and funding management practices and processes  
reinforce these risk mitigation strategies by assigning prudential limits 
or targets to metrics associated with these activities and regularly 
measuring and monitoring various sources of liquidity risk under both 
normal and stressed market conditions. In managing this risk, we  
aim to achieve a prudent balance between the level of risk we take  
and the cost of its mitigation, recognizing that this balance may  
need to be adjusted if our internal and/or external environments 
change materially.

Responsibilities
The Board of Directors is responsible for oversight of our liquidity 
and funding management framework, which is developed and imple-
mented by senior management.
• 

The Audit Committee approves our liquidity and funding man-
agement framework, our pledging framework, and liquidity 
contingency plan and establishes broad liquidity risk tolerance 
levels, and the Board of Directors is informed on a periodic basis 
about our current and prospective liquidity condition.
The Group Risk Committee and our Asset and Liability Committee 
(ALCO) share management oversight responsibility for liquidity 
and funding policies and receive regular reports detailing compli-
ance with key limits and guidelines.
Corporate Treasury has global responsibility for the develop-
ment of liquidity and funding management policies, strategies 

• 

• 

96

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

and contingency plans and for recommending and monitoring 
limits within the framework. In this role, Corporate Treasury is 
assisted by Group Risk Management. Corporate Treasury actively 
participates in national and international industry initiatives to 
benchmark and enhance its liquidity management practices.
Treasury departments of business segments and key subsidiaries 
execute transactions in line with liquidity management policies 
and strategies.
Subsidiaries are responsible for managing their own liquidity 
in compliance with policies and practices established under 
advice and counsel by Corporate Treasury and within governing  
regulatory requirements.

• 

• 

Risk measurement
The assessment of our liquidity position reflects management’s con-
servative estimates, assumptions and judgments pertaining to current 
and prospective firm-specific and market conditions and the related 
behaviour of our clients and counterparties. We measure and manage 
our liquidity position from three risk perspectives as follows:

Structural liquidity risk
Structural liquidity risk management addresses the risk due to  
mismatches in effective maturities between assets and liabilities, 
more specifically the risk of over-reliance on short-term liabilities to 
fund longer-term illiquid assets. We use both the cash capital and 
survival horizon models to assist in the evaluation of balance sheet 
liquidity and determination of the appropriate term structure of our 
debt financing. These methodologies also allow us to measure and 
monitor the relationship between illiquid assets and core funding, 
including our exposure to a protracted loss of unsecured wholesale 
deposits under stressed conditions.

Tactical liquidity risk
Tactical liquidity risk management addresses our normal day-to-day 
funding requirements, which are managed by imposing prudential 
limits on net fund outflows in Canadian dollar and foreign currencies 
for key short-term time horizons, as well as on our pledging activities 
that are subject to an enterprise-wide framework that assigns a risk-
adjusted limit to our aggregate pledging exposure and individual limits 
by types of pledging activities. Pledged assets include a pool of  
eligible assets that are reserved exclusively to support our participa-
tion in payment and settlement systems.

Contingent liquidity risk
Contingent liquidity risk management assesses the impact of and  
our intended responses to sudden stressful events. The liquidity  
contingency plan identifies comprehensive action plans that would be 
implemented depending on the duration and severity of the various  
liquidity crises identified in our stress testing program. Corporate 
Treasury maintains and administers the liquidity contingency plan.  
The Liquidity Crisis Team, consisting of senior representatives of all 
key business and functional units, meets regularly to engage in stress 
testing and to review our liquidity contingency preparedness. 

Our stress testing exercises are based on models that measure 

our potential exposure to global, country-specific or RBC-specific 
events (or a combination thereof) and consider both historical and 
hypothetical events. Different levels of severity are considered for 
each type of crisis including ratings downgrades of two and four 
notches and to non-investment grade for RBC-specific events. These 
comprehensive tests include elements of scenario and sensitivity 
stress testing techniques. In all cases, the crisis impact is measured 
over a nine-week horizon, which is also used in our key measure of tac-
tical liquidity risk and is what we consider to be the most crucial time 
span for a liquidity event. Liquidity Crisis Team members contribute 
to assumptions about the expected behaviour of balance sheet asset 
and liability categories and off-balance sheet exposures based on 
their specialized client, product and market perspectives. Some tests 
are run monthly, others are only run annually. Frequency is determined 
by considering a combination of their likelihood and impact. After 
reviewing test results, the liquidity contingency plan and other related 
liquidity and funding risk management practices may be modified 
in light of lessons learned. Failure to meet predetermined minimum 
targets in some of these tests, as well as in aforementioned risk mea-
sures, would result in discussion with senior management and, as 
necessary, the Board of Directors, and possibly lead to revised limits 
and targets.

Our liquid assets are primarily a diversified pool of highly rated 

marketable securities and include segregated portfolios (in both 
Canadian and U.S. dollars) of contingency liquidity assets to address 
potential on- and off-balance sheet liquidity exposures (such as 
deposit erosion, loan drawdowns and higher collateral demands), that 
have been estimated through models we have developed or by the 
scenario analyses and stress tests that we conduct periodically. These 
port folios are subject to minimum asset levels and strict eligibility 
guidelines to ensure ready access to cash in emergencies.

Risk control
We monitor and manage our liquidity position on a consolidated  
basis and consider legal, regulatory, tax, operational and any other 
applicable restrictions when analyzing our ability to lend or borrow 
funds between branches, branches and subsidiaries, and subsidiaries. 

Policies
Our principal liquidity and funding policies are reviewed and approved 
annually by senior management committees and the Board of 
Directors. These broad policies establish risk tolerance parameters 
and authorize senior management committees or Corporate Treasury 
to approve more detailed policies and limits related to specific mea-
sures, businesses and products. These policies and procedures govern 
management, measurement and reporting requirements and define 
approved liquidity and funding limits.

reviewed periodically to determine if they remain valid or changes to 
assumptions and limits are required in light of internal and/or external 
developments. Global market volatility in the latter part of 2007 has 
prompted us to modify the liquidity treatment of certain asset classes 
to reflect our expectations that market liquidity for these products 
will be sporadic for some time. Some limits are in the process of being 
reviewed and possibly revised to take into consideration the results of 
updated stress tests that reflect lessons learned during this period of 
market volatility.

Reporting
Detailed reports on our principal short-term asset/liability mismatches 
are monitored on a daily basis to ensure compliance with the limits for 
overall group exposure and by major currency, branches, subsidiaries 
and geographic locations. As set out in our liquidity and funding  
management framework, any potential exceptions to established 
limits on net fund outflows or other rules, whether monitored on a 
daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly basis, are reported immediately 
to Corporate Treasury, which provides or arranges for approval after 
reviewing a remedial action plan.

Funding
Funding strategy
Diversification of funding sources is a crucial component of our overall 
liquidity management strategy. Diversification expands our funding 
flexibility while minimizing funding concentration and dependency and 
generally reducing financing costs. To that effect, we completed the 
first Canadian covered bond issuance in November 2007. Maintaining 
competitive credit ratings is also critical to cost-effective funding. Core 
funding, comprising capital, longer-term liabilities and a diversified 
pool of personal and, to a lesser extent, commercial deposits, is the 
foundation of our strong structural liquidity position.

Credit ratings 
Our ability to access unsecured funding markets and to engage in 
certain collateralized business activities on a cost-effective basis is 
primarily dependent upon maintaining competitive credit ratings. Our 
credit ratings are largely determined by the quality of our earnings, the 
adequacy of our capital and the effectiveness of our risk management 
programs. We estimate, based on periodic reviews of ratings triggers 
embedded in our existing businesses and of our funding capacity 
sensitivity, that a minor downgrade would not materially influence our 
liability composition, funding access, collateral usage and associated 
costs. However, a series of downgrades could have adverse conse-
quences for our funding capacity, collateral requirements and on the 
results of our operations. 

Credit ratings 

As at November 29, 2007 (1) 

Moody’s Investors Service 
Standard & Poor’s 
Fitch Ratings 
DBRS          

Short-term  
debt 

Senior long- 
 term debt 

P-1 
A-1+ 
F1+ 
 R-1(high) 

Aaa 
AA– 
AA 
AA 

Table 55

Outlook

stable
  positive
stable
stable

(1) 

Credit ratings are not recommendations to purchase, sell or hold a financial  
obligation inasmuch as they do not comment on market price or suitability for a  
particular investor. Ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the 
rating organization.

Authorities and limits
Targets for our structural liquidity position, based on both a “cash cap-
ital” metric and a “survivability horizon” measurement, are approved 
at least annually and monitored regularly.

With respect to net short-term funding requirements, all limits 
are monitored regularly to ensure compliance. The prescribed treat-
ment of cash flow assets and liabilities under varying conditions are 

During the year, there were two positive developments with respect to 
our ratings. In the second quarter of 2007, Moody’s Investors Service 
upgraded our senior long-term debt rating to Aaa from Aa2 as a result 
of refinements made to their joint default analysis, and in the third 
quarter of 2007, Standard & Poor’s revised our rating outlook to posi-
tive from stable, citing among other points, a sound liquidity profile and 
a very robust liquidity management infrastructure. Our Fitch and DBRS 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ratings and outlooks remain unchanged from October 31, 2006. Our 
collective ratings continue to be the highest categories assigned by the 
respective agencies to a Canadian bank and these strong credit ratings 
support our ability to competitively access unsecured funding markets.

financial structure influence our long-term funding activities. We oper-
ate debt issuance programs in Canada, the U.S., Europe, Australia and 
Japan. Diversification into new markets and untapped investor seg-
ments is also constantly evaluated against relative issuance costs.

Deposit profile 
The composition of our global deposit liabilities is summarized in  
Note 13 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. In 2007, personal 
deposits remained the key source of funding for our Canadian dollar 
balance sheet while most foreign currency deposits originated from 
unsecured, wholesale sources, including large corporate and institu-
tional clients and foreign commercial and central banks.

Our personal deposit franchise constitutes the principal source 
of constant funding while certain commercial and institutional client 
groups also maintain relational balances with low volatility profiles. 
Taken together, these clients represent a highly stable supply of core 
deposits in most conceivable environments as they typically are less 
responsive to market developments than transactional lenders and 
investors due to the impact of deposit insurance and extensive and, 
at times, exclusive relationships with us. Core deposits, consisting of 
our own statistically derived estimates of the highly stable portions 
of all of our relational personal, commercial and institutional balances 
(demand, notice and fixed-term) together with wholesale funds matur-
ing beyond one year, increased during the year by about 2% to 56% 
of our total deposits. We encourage wholesale funding diversity and 
regularly review sources of short-term funds to ensure that they are 
well-diversified by provider, product, market and geographic origin. In 
addition, we maintain an ongoing presence in different funding mar-
kets, which allows us to constantly monitor market developments and 
trends in order to identify opportunities and risks and to take appropri-
ate and timely actions.

Term funding sources 

Table 56

(C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005

Long-term funding outstanding  $  51,540  $  33,361  $  24,004
Total mortgage-backed  
  securities sold 
Commercial mortgage-backed
  securities sold 
Credit card receivables financed  
  through notes issued by a  
  securitization special  
  purpose entity 

  14,239 

  12,186 

2,405 

2,250 

1,914 

2,759 

8,487

2,500

1,237

Our long-term funding sources are managed to minimize cost by 
limiting concentration by geographic location, investor segment, 
instrument, currency and maturity profile. In addition, liquidity objec-
tives, market conditions, interest rates, credit spreads and desired 

Contractual obligations 

During 2007, we continued to expand our long-term funding base 

by issuing, either directly or through our subsidiaries, $30.7 billion 
of senior deposit notes in various currencies and markets. Total long-
term funding outstanding increased $18.2 billion. Outstanding senior 
debt containing ratings triggers, which would accelerate repayment, 
constitutes a very small proportion of our overall outstanding debt.

Other liquidity and funding sources
We use commercial mortgage, residential mortgage and credit card 
receivable-backed securitization programs as alternative sources of 
funding and for liquidity and asset/liability management purposes. 
We hold retained interests in our residential mortgage and credit card 
securitization programs. Our total outstanding mortgage-backed  
securities sold increased year over year by $2.1 billion. Our credit  
card receivables, which are financed through notes issued by a  
securitization special purposes entity, increased year over year 
by $509 million. For further details, refer to the Off-balance sheet 
arrangements section and Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial 
Statements.

Impact of global market turmoil to our term funding capacity
Despite recent global market events, including a reduction in liquidity 
in term funding markets, our liquidity and funding position remains 
sound and adequate to execute our strategy. There are no known 
trends, demands, commitments or events that are presently expected 
to materially change this position.

By leveraging our new and existing domestic and global funding 

programs, we continued to raise wholesale term funding in size  
during the latter half of 2007. Most of the funding was raised through 
large benchmark-sized transactions, but a significant amount was  
also raised in a variety of lower-cost funding transactions. In 2007, we 
raised wholesale term funding in 12 different currencies, including  
six currencies in the fourth quarter. The market turmoil did not prevent 
us from launching the first Canadian covered bond program, where  
we sold €2 billion of notes in the inaugural transaction, which settled 
on November 5, 2007. Our ability to raise wholesale term funding  
continued to significantly exceed our funding needs during the latter 
half of 2007.

Contractual obligations
In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts that give rise 
to commitments of future minimum payments that affect our liquidity. 
Depending on the nature of these commitments, the obligation may  
be recorded on- or off-balance sheet. The table below provides a  
summary of our future contractual funding commitments.

Over 5 years 

Total 

Total 

2006 

Table 57

2005

Total

$  4,670 
  6,117 
  1,224 

$ 51,540 
  6,235 
  3,161 

$ 33,361 
  7,103 
  2,486 

$ 24,004
  8,167
  2,508

2007 

Over 
3 to 5 years 

$ 13,628 
– 
608 

(C$ millions) (1) 

  Within 1 year 

1 to 3 years 

Unsecured long-term funding 
Subordinated debentures 
Obligations under leases (2) 

$ 16,892 
– 
494 

$ 16,350 
118 
835 

(1) 
(2) 

Amounts represent principal only and exclude accrued interest.
Substantially all of our lease commitments are operating.

$ 17,386 

$ 17,303 

$ 14,236 

$ 12,011 

$ 60,936 

$ 42,950 

$ 34,679

98

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
Reputation risk

Reputation risk is the risk that an activity undertaken by an organiza-
tion or its representatives will impair its image in the community or 
lower public confidence in it, resulting in the loss of business, legal 
action or increased regulatory oversight.

Reputation risk can arise from a number of events and primar-

ily occurs in connection with regulatory, legal and operational risks. 
Operational failures and non-compliance with laws and regulations 
can have a significant reputational impact on us.

In addition to the six risk management principles discussed  

earlier in the Risk management overview section, the following prin-
ciples also apply to our overall management of reputation risk:
•  We must operate with integrity at all times in order to sustain a 

• 

strong and positive reputation
Protecting our reputation is the responsibility of all our employ-
ees, including senior management, and extends to all members of 
the Board of Directors.

Code of Conduct
Our corporate values and Code of Conduct underpin the management  
of risk to our reputation and drive our ethical culture. Our Code of 
Conduct is the foundation of employee and director awareness of  
the kinds of conduct that protect our reputation, and those that put 
our reputation at risk. 

Responsibilities
The management of reputation risk is overseen by the Board of 
Directors. The key senior management committees involved with 

Regulatory and legal risk

Regulatory and legal risk is the risk of negative impact to business 
activities, earnings or capital, regulatory relationships or reputation 
as a result of failure to comply with or a failure to adapt to current and 
changing regulations, law, industry codes or rules, regulatory expecta-
tions or ethical standards. 

Global Compliance, which is a part of Group Risk Management 
(GRM) has developed a comprehensive enterprise compliance man-
agement (ECM) framework that is consistent with regulatory guidance 
from the OSFI and other regulators. The framework is designed to 
promote the proactive, risk-based management of regulatory risk. 
It applies to all of our businesses and operations, legal entities and 
employees globally and confirms the shared accountability of all 
employees across the organization for ensuring we maintain robust 
and effective regulatory risk and compliance controls. The framework 
covers the following eight elements of compliance management:  
liaison with regulators, risk identification and assessment, control 
design and evaluation, learning and awareness, compliance execution, 
monitoring and oversight, issue management and reporting, and new 
initiative management.

Responsibilities
Global Compliance sets out the enterprise-wide requirements for the 
identification, assessment, control, monitoring and reporting of regu-
latory and compliance risk (and associated operational and  
reputation risk), as well as remediation of any issues identified. 
Oversight is provided by the Board of Directors through the CR&RPC 
and the Audit Committee. The Ethics and Compliance Committee 
supports our management of regulatory risk. It approves compliance 
programs and compliance-related policies and informs and advises 
the Group Risk Committee (GRC), CR&RPC and the Audit Committee on 
significant regulatory issues and remedial measures. 

The Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) and Global Compliance work  

closely with business partners to ensure the overall effectiveness 

monitoring and reporting on reputation risk at an enterprise level 
are: Ethics and Compliance Committee, Policy Review Committee, 
Structured Transactions Oversight Committee and the Group Risk 
Committee.

Risk control
Policies
Policies and procedures support the management of reputation risk 
across the organization. Business segments have specific policies in 
place to manage the risks within their businesses, including reputa-
tion risk. A comprehensive set of policy requirements applies to the 
identification and assessment of reputation risk, including Know Your 
Client due diligence controls and procedures, anti-money laundering 
and anti-terrorist financing policy requirements, auditor independence 
requirements, research standards, whistle blowing, and the require-
ments for managing conflicts of interest.

Reporting 
The responsibility for monitoring and reporting on reputation risk 
issues is primarily within GRM. Regular comprehensive reporting is 
provided to the Group Risk Committee and the Board of Directors and 
its committees. This includes annual reporting on fraud issues, litiga-
tion issues and quarterly reporting on regulatory, compliance and 
operational risk issues. Reputation risk issues are also raised in inter-
nal audit reports provided to senior management, summaries of which 
are provided to the Audit Committee. 

of compliance and regulatory risk management controls across the 
enterprise through the ECM framework, which includes policies for 
consistent and effective compliance, independent oversight of compli-
ance controls, timely reporting of trends and escalation of issues to 
senior management and the Board of Directors and timely execution of 
appropriate action plans.

Risk measurement
The identification and assessment of regulatory risk includes formal 
risk assessment activities carried out across the organization, both 
at the individual business and operational level, and at the enterprise 
level. Risk is measured through the assessment of the impact of  
regulatory and organizational changes, the introduction of new prod-
ucts and services, and the acquisition or development of new lines 
of business. It is also measured through the testing of the effective-
ness of the controls established to ensure compliance with regulatory 
requirements and expectations. Although the use of metrics to  
measure compliance-related matters is relatively new and there are 
few proven methods for detecting leading indicators, we are working 
to develop such metrics. Meanwhile, we use what measures are  
available to identify issues and trends.

Risk control
Policies
We have a strong ethical and compliance culture grounded in our Code 
of Conduct. The Code of Conduct is regularly reviewed and updated 
to ensure that it continues to meet the expectations of regulators and 
other stakeholders. All our employees must reconfirm their under-
standing of and commitment to comply with the Code of Conduct at 
least every two years, and employees in certain key roles, such as 
Group Executive and others in financial oversight roles as identified in 
our Auditor Independence Policy, must do so annually.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

99

 
CR&RPC. In addition, the CCO provides an annual report on overall 
compliance, and on specific topics, such as related party transactions, 
conflicts of interest, and compliance with Canadian consumer protec-
tion requirements, and the Global Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officer 
reports at least annually on anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist 
financing compliance. Similarly, senior compliance officers of our oper-
ating subsidiaries provide relevant annual and quarterly reports to 
their respective senior management and Boards of Directors.

• 
Train employees to identify and manage environmental risks
•  Maintain an open dialogue with stakeholders, both internal and 

external to the organization

•  Measure our performance and compare it to our objectives,  
which enables us to identify enhancement opportunities 
Periodically verify that our environmental risk management  
policies and processes are operating as intended.

• 

Policies
Our Environmental Blueprint, launched in October 2007, updates our 
corporate environmental policy. It details environmental issues that 
are important to our stakeholders and us and outlines our commit-
ment to reducing our environmental footprint, responsible lending and 
investment, and business growth and development of environmental 
products and services. 

Our suite of environmental credit risk management policies 
enables us to proactively identify and manage environmental risks in 
our lending activities. These policies are regularly reviewed to ensure 
compliance with legal and operational requirements, and to take into 
account evolving business activities. 

In addition to general policies for commercial and corporate  
lending, we have sector-specific and business-segment-specific poli-
cies and guidelines. For example, we have a separate Policy on Social 
and Environmental Review in our Project Finance business, which 
reflects our commitment to the Equator Principles (EPs). The EPs, 
which were revised in 2007, are voluntary guidelines that help financial 
institutions address the environmental and social risks associated 
with project finance.

Management and mitigation
In addition to adherence to policies, standards, procedures and  
guidelines, environmental risk is mitigated through transaction  
structuring and the use of insurance as well as other mechanisms.  
The CEA supports lenders, risk managers and clients in the manage-
ment and mitigation of environmental risks in transactions, by  
recommending strategies to treat, eliminate or transfer (via insurance) 
environmental risk. 

Reporting
The Board of Directors and senior management committees are  
periodically provided with reports and analysis on risks associated 
with environmental issues (for example, climate change and the  
Kyoto Accord, and the EPs), as appropriate. Loan losses resulting from 
environmental issues are tracked and reported to senior management.
 We report on our implementation of the EPs annually in our 
Corporate Responsibility Report and Public Accountability Statement 
(CRR & PAS) and on rbc.com. The CRR & PAS also provides information 
about our environmental policies, lending, emerging issues, stake-
holder engagement, and environmental performance and initiatives.

We provide online and face-to-face training for all our employees 
in the area of anti-money laundering compliance and training in other 
compliance and regulatory risk related matters for relevant employees 
through other online tools and other job aids, as part of employees’ 
regular job training, in new employee orientation materials, and peri-
odically through targeted face-to-face or webcast training.

Reporting
On a quarterly basis, the CCO reports compliance matters to senior 
management, management committees, the Audit Committee and 

Environmental risk

Environmental risk is the risk of loss to financial, operational or 
reputation value resulting from the impact of environmental issues. 
Environmental risk arises from our business activities and our opera-
tions. For example, the environmental issues associated with our 
clients’ purchase and sale of contaminated property or development of 
large-scale projects may give rise to credit and reputation risk for us. 
Operational and legal risks may arise when we are faced with environ-
mental issues at our branches, offices or data processing centres. 

We undertake independent and collaborative research to identify 

and better understand the material environmental risks we face.  
Some current and emerging issues include climate change, biodiver-
sity, water and the rights of indigenous peoples, among others. 

Responsibilities
Environmental risk management activities are managed by the 
Corporate Environmental Affairs Group (CEA) with support from 
our business segments and Corporate Support groups. The CEA is 
responsible for developing and implementing the environmental risk 
management system, including identifying environmental risks in the 
organization, designing and supporting environmental risk policies, 
programs and initiatives, monitoring implementation, and leading 
communication and training. The CEA also provides advisory services 
and support to business and functional units on the management of 
specific environmental risks. 

Risk measurement
Some environmental risks associated with our business and opera-
tional activities can be easily quantified while others are assessed on 
a qualitative basis. For example, in our lending activities, we quantify 
the potential cost of cleaning up environmental contamination of  
properties used as security for loans, and the cost to an obligor of  
making operational changes that may be required to meet environ-
mental regulatory requirements or satisfy other obligations. In our 
own operations, we quantify our cost to maintain compliance with 
environmental regulations or applicable standards. Other environ-
mental risks are assessed on a qualitative basis, for example, the 
exposure of a particular industry to the effects of climate change and 
climate change regulations. As environmental risk measurement meth-
odologies mature, particularly with respect to climate change, we will 
incorporate more quantitative risk measures into our processes.

Risk control
We manage environmental risk by maintaining an environmental  
management system, including policy requirements, management and 
mitigation strategies, and reporting. Specifically, to manage environ-
mental risk, we:
• 

Develop and maintain environmental policies, standards,  
procedures and guidelines

•  Monitor relevant laws and regulations, as well as other  

requirements to which the bank adheres

•  Maintain environmental programs and initiatives
• 

Establish roles and responsibilities for environmental  
management in the organization

100

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
Insurance risk

Insurance risk is the risk of loss that may occur when actuarial assump-
tions made in insurance product design and pricing activities differ 
from actual experience. Insurance risk arises from our life and health, 
creditor, home and auto, and travel insurance, and reinsurance busi-
nesses. Insurance risk can be categorized into the following sub-risks:
Claims risk: The risk that the actual severity and/or frequency of 
• 
claims differ from the levels assumed in pricing calculations.  
This risk can occur through (i) a misestimation of expected claims 
activities as compared to actual claims activities, or (ii) the  
mis-selection of a risk during the underwriting process
Policyholder behaviour risk: The risk that the behaviour of policy-
holders relating to premium payments, policy withdrawals or 
loans, policy lapses, surrenders and other voluntary terminations 
differs from the behaviour assumed in pricing calculations
Expense risk: The risk that the expense of acquiring or admin-
istering policies, or of processing claims, exceeds the costs 
assumed in pricing calculations. 

• 

• 

Responsibilities
Insurance risk approval authorities are established by the Board of 
Directors upon recommendation of its committees and delegated to 
senior management. 

The respective boards of directors of the insurance subsidiar-

ies are responsible for the stewardship of the insurance companies. 
These boards of directors oversee and monitor the management of the 
insurance subsidiaries and ensure that the subsidiaries are properly 
managed and functioning within our overall strategies and policies.

Group Risk Management (GRM) is responsible for providing risk 

management direction and oversight to the insurance businesses  
and for providing comprehensive reporting of insurance risks facing 
the organization. The Appointed Actuaries of our Canadian insur-
ance subsidiaries are appointed by the boards of directors and have 
statutory requirements to provide opinions on adequacy of liabilities, 
sufficiency of capital, the insurance company’s future financial condi-
tion and fairness of treatment for policyholders. External actuarial 
reviewers, in accordance with the OSFI guidelines and Canadian 
Institute of Actuaries standards, provide oversight on the work of the 
Appointed Actuaries. Our international insurance subsidiaries receive 
similar actuarial oversight. Global Functions and Global Technology 
and Operations (GTO) also provide direction and oversight to manage 
risk within their areas of expertise.

Insurance business units are responsible for the active manage-

ment of insurance risk in partnership with GRM, other Global Functions 
groups and GTO.

Risk measurement
We measure insurance risks at regular intervals to ensure that our risk 
profile is appropriately monitored, reported, and aligned with business 
assumptions. These risk measurements are used for Economic Capital 
quantification, valuation of actuarial liabilities, and to meet statutory 
reporting requirements. This process is managed by GRM through the 
use of models.

Models used for risk measurement are subject to a robust and 
systematic process of review and reporting in accordance with our 
Model Risk Policy. Key elements of the policy include maintaining 
appropriate model documentation, an approval process to ensure 

Strategic risk

Strategic risk is the risk that an enterprise or a particular business area 
makes inappropriate strategic choices, or is unable to successfully 
implement selected strategies or related plans and decisions.  
We apply the following principles to manage strategic risk:
• 
• 

Significant decisions are aligned with our enterprise strategy
Business segment strategy is aligned with our enterprise strategy

appropriate segregation of duties, independent and periodic model 
reviews, and clear accountability and oversight.

Risk control
Policies
Insurance risk policies articulate our strategies to identify, prioritize 
and manage insurance risk. GRM is responsible for insurance risk  
policies which establish the expectations and parameters within which 
the insurance businesses may operate, communicate our risk tolerance, 
and ensure accountability through clear roles and responsibilities.

Authorities and limits
Risk approval authorities and limits are established by the Board of 
Directors and delegated to management within the business units in 
order to guide insurance business activities. These delegated authori-
ties and limits ensure our insurance portfolio is well diversified and 
within the risk appetite as approved by the Board of Directors.

Risk oversight and approval
GRM provides independent oversight over our insurance business 
activities including product development, product pricing, under-
writing and claims management. GRM also approves authority for 
activities, which exceed business unit authorities and limits, and  
certain business activities, which are deemed to be of significant risk.

Risk mitigation
Our key elements for identifying, assessing and managing insurance  
risk include a risk-based approach for product development and  
pricing, effective guidelines and practices for underwriting and claims 
management. In addition, transferring insurance risk to independent 
insurance companies or reinsurance is used to diversify our portfolio 
of insurance risks, limit loss exposure to large risks, and provide  
additional capacity for future growth.

Actuarial liabilities
Actuarial liabilities are estimates of the amounts required to meet obli-
gations resulting from insurance contracts. Liabilities for estimated 
future policy benefits and expenses are established in accordance with 
the standards of practice of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and the 
requirements of the OSFI and other relevant professional and regula-
tory bodies. Actuarial liabilities under Canadian GAAP are calculated 
using the Canadian Asset Liability Method. These estimates and actu-
arial assumptions include explicit provisions for adverse deviations 
to ensure adequacy of liabilities and are validated through extensive 
internal and independent external reviews and audits.

Reporting
GRM regularly provides independent evaluation and reporting on our 
insurance risk exposures to management at the business segment 
level and at the enterprise level. The reports analyze and communicate 
insurance risk information and contribute to the overall understanding 
of insurance risk. Reporting includes an assessment of risks facing the 
insurance business units, trends related to all claims and adequacy of 
actuarial liabilities. The reports also provide an assessment of the risk-
return profile of insurance products and a view of future potential risks.

• 

All business strategies are supported by market and competitive 
analysis and financial projection of their expected impact.

The effective identification and assessment of this risk is critical  
for us and involves the Group Executive and the Board of Directors 
when identifying and assessing various strategic opportunities for  
the organization.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

101

 
Responsibilities
Responsibility for successfully implementing strategies is mandated to 
the individual heads of the businesses. The Strategy and Development 
team within Global Functions is responsible for the articulation of our 
enterprise strategy. This team also provides support for the develop-
ment of strategies of the business segments and lines of business. The 
identification and analysis of strategic issues, opportunities and risks 
we face is an ongoing component of their overall responsibilities.

Risk control
The project appropriation request (PAR) process is used to manage 
strategic risk. Our strategic initiatives group provides an initial review 
and co-ordinates circulating each PAR to GRM, Law and Corporate 
Treasury for review, comments and approval. The Board of Directors 
and/or Group Risk Committee may approve the finalized version if  
their approval is warranted. PARs are a critical part of our corporate 
governance framework and are available for review by regulators or 
our external auditors as required.

Competitive risk

Competitive risk is the risk associated with the inability to build  
or maintain sustainable competitive advantage in a given market  
or markets. This risk can arise within or outside the financial  
sector, from traditional or non-traditional competitors, domestically  
or globally.

We manage competitive risk through appropriate identification 

and assessment as part of our overall risk management process.  
This includes risk assessment of new or enhanced products and ser-
vices, alliances and acquisitions. Our ability to adapt to a changing 
competitive environment will impact our overall financial performance. 

Systemic risk

Systemic risk is the risk that the financial system as a whole may not 
withstand the effects of a crisis resulting from extraordinary economic, 
political, social or financial circumstances. This could result in finan-
cial, reputation or other losses.

Systemic risk is considered to be the least controllable risk we 

face. Our ability to mitigate this risk when undertaking business  
activities is very limited, other than through collaborative mechanisms 
between industry participants, and, as appropriate, the public sector, 
to reduce the frequency and impact of these risks.

Additional risks that may affect future results

By their very nature, forward-looking statements, including those 
made in this document, require us to make assumptions and are sub-
ject to inherent risks and uncertainties which may cause our actual 
results to differ materially from our expectations expressed in such 
forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause our actual finan-
cial performance to vary from that described in our forward-looking 
statements include credit, market, operational, liquidity and funding 
risks, and other risks discussed in detail in the Risk management 
section. In addition, the following discussion sets forth other factors 
we believe could cause our actual results to differ materially from 
expected results. 

Industry factors 
General business and economic conditions in Canada, the  
United States and other countries in which we conduct business 
Interest rates, foreign exchange rates, the stability of various financial 
markets, including the impact from the continuing volatility in the 
U.S. subprime and related markets and lack of liquidity in various 
other financial markets, consumer spending, business investment, 
government spending, the level of activity and volatility of the capital 
markets, inflation and terrorism each impact the business and eco-
nomic environments in which we operate and, ultimately, the level of 
business activity we conduct and earnings we generate in a specific 
geographic region. For example, an economic downturn in a country 
may result in high unemployment and lower family income, corporate 
earnings, business investment and consumer spending, and could 
adversely affect the demand for our loan and other products. In addi-
tion, our provision for credit losses would likely increase, resulting 
in lower earnings. Similarly, a downturn in a particular equity or debt 
market could cause a reduction in new issue and investor trading 
activity or assets under management and assets under administration, 
resulting in lower fee, commission and other revenue. Also, defaults 

by a large financial institution in Canada, the United States or interna-
tionally could adversely affect the financial markets generally and us 
specifically. 

Currency rates 
Our revenue, expenses and income denominated in currencies other 
than the Canadian dollar are subject to fluctuations in the movement 
of the Canadian dollar relative to those currencies. Such fluctuations 
may affect our overall business and financial results. Our most signifi-
cant exposure is to the U.S. dollar due to our level of operations in the 
U.S., and other activities conducted in U.S. dollars. The strengthening 
of the Canadian dollar compared to the U.S. dollar over the last four 
years has had a significant effect on our results. We are also exposed 
to the British pound and the Euro due to our activities conducted inter-
nationally in these currencies. Further appreciation of the Canadian 
dollar relative to the U.S. dollar, British pound and Euro reduced the 
translated value of U.S. dollar-, British pound- and Euro-denominated 
revenue, expenses and earnings. 

Government monetary and other policies
Our businesses and earnings are affected by the monetary policies 
that are adopted by the Bank of Canada and the Board of Governors 
of the Federal Reserve System in the United States, as well as those 
adopted by international agencies, in jurisdictions in which we oper-
ate. For example, monetary policy decisions by the Bank of Canada 
have an impact on the level of interest rates, fluctuations of which can 
have an impact on our earnings. As well, such policies can adversely 
affect our clients and counterparties in Canada, the United States and 
internationally, which may increase the risk of default by such clients 
and counterparties. Our businesses and earnings are also affected by 
fiscal or other policies that are adopted by various regulatory authori-
ties in Canada, the United States and international agencies.

102

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Level of competition 
The competition for clients among financial services companies in the 
consumer and business markets in which we operate is intense. Client 
loyalty and retention can be influenced by a number of factors, includ-
ing relative service levels, the prices and attributes of our products or 
services, our reputation and actions taken by our competitors. Other 
financial companies, such as insurance and mono-line companies and 
non-financial companies are increasingly offering services traditionally 
provided by banks. Such competition could also reduce fee revenue 
and adversely affect our earnings. 

Changes in laws and regulations 
Laws and regulations are in place to protect the financial and other 
interests of our clients, investors and the public interest. Changes to 
laws, including tax laws, regulations or regulatory policies, including 
changes to our capital management framework, as well as changes in 
how they are interpreted, implemented or enforced, could adversely 
affect us, for example, by lowering barriers to entry in the businesses 
in which we operate or increasing our costs of compliance. In addition, 
our failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations or regulatory 
policies could result in sanctions and financial penalties by regulatory 
agencies that could adversely impact our reputation and earnings.

Judicial or regulatory judgments and legal proceedings 
Although we take what we believe to be reasonable measures 
designed to ensure compliance with laws, regulations and regulatory 
policies in the jurisdictions in which we conduct business, there is no 
assurance that we always will be, or will be deemed to be, in compli-
ance. Accordingly, it is possible that we could receive a judicial or 
regulatory judgment or decision that results in fines, damages and 
other costs that would damage our reputation and negatively impact 
on our earnings.

We are also subject to litigation arising in the ordinary course  

of our business. The adverse resolution of any litigation could  
have a material adverse effect on our results or could give rise to  
significant reputational damage, which could impact our future  
business prospects.

Accuracy and completeness of information on clients  
and counterparties 
When deciding to extend credit or enter into other transactions with 
clients and counterparties, we may rely on information provided by 
or on behalf of clients and counterparties, including audited financial 
statements and other financial information. We also may rely on rep-
resentations of clients and counterparties as to the completeness and 
accuracy of that information. Our financial results could be adversely 
impacted if the financial statements and other financial information 
relating to clients and counterparties on which we rely do not comply 
with GAAP or are materially misleading. 

Bank specific factors 
Execution of our strategy
Our ability to execute on our objectives and strategic goals will  
influence our financial performance. If our strategic goals do not meet 
with success or there is a change in our strategic goals, our financial 
results could be adversely affected.

Acquisitions and joint ventures
Although we regularly explore opportunities for strategic acquisitions 
of, or joint ventures with, companies in our lines of business, there is 
no assurance that we will receive required regulatory or shareholder 
approvals or be able to complete acquisitions or joint ventures on 
terms and conditions that satisfy our investment criteria. There is also 
no assurance we will achieve our financial or strategic objectives or 
anticipated cost savings following acquisitions or forming joint ven-
tures. Our performance is contingent on retaining the clients and key 
employees of acquired companies and joint ventures, and there is no 
assurance that we will always succeed in doing so. 

Changes in accounting standards, accounting policies and estimates 
From time to time, the Accounting Standards Board of the CICA 
changes the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern 
the preparation of our financial statements. These changes can be dif-
ficult to anticipate and can materially impact how we record and report 
our financial condition and results of operations. In some instances, 
we may be required to retroactively apply a new or revised standard 
that results in our restating prior period financial statements.

The accounting policies and methods we utilize determine  
how we report our financial condition and results of operations, and 
they require management to make estimates or rely on assumptions  
about matters that are inherently uncertain. Such estimates and 
assumptions may require revisions, and changes to them may materi-
ally adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.  
Significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to our 
Consolidated Financial Statements. 

As detailed in the Critical accounting policies and estimates  

section, we have identified seven accounting policies as being 
“critical” to the presentation of our financial condition and results 
of operations as they; (i) require management to make particularly 
subjective and/or complex judgments about matters that are inher-
ently uncertain; and (ii) carry the likelihood that materially different 
amounts could be reported under different conditions or using differ-
ent assumptions and estimates.

Ability to attract employees and executives
Competition for qualified employees and executives is intense  
both within the financial services industry and from non-financial 
industries looking to recruit. If we are unable to retain and attract  
qualified employees and executives, our results of operations and 
financial condition, including our competitive position, may be  
materially adversely affected.

Changes to our credit ratings
There can be no assurance that our credit ratings and rating outlooks 
from rating agencies such as Moody’s Investors Service, Standard & 
Poor’s, Fitch Ratings or DBRS will not be lowered or that these ratings 
agencies will not issue adverse commentaries about us, potentially 
resulting in higher financing costs and reduced access to capital mar-
kets. A lowering of our credit ratings may also affect our ability, and the 
cost, to enter into normal course derivative or hedging transactions. 

Development and integration of our distribution networks
Although we regularly explore opportunities to expand our distribu-
tion networks, either through acquisitions or organically by adding, 
for example, new bank branches, insurance offices, online savings 
accounts and ATMs in high-growth markets in Canada, the United 
States and internationally, if we are not able to develop or integrate 
these distribution networks effectively, our results of operations and 
financial condition may be negatively affected.

Other factors 
Other factors that may affect actual results include changes in gov-
ernment trade policy, the timely and successful development of new 
products and services, technological changes and our reliance on 
third parties to provide components of our business infrastructure, 
fraud by internal or external parties, unexpected changes in consumer 
spending and saving habits, the possible impact on our business from 
disease or illness that affects local, national or global economies, 
disruptions to public infrastructure, including transportation, com-
munication, power and water, international conflicts and other political 
developments including those relating to the war on terrorism, and our 
success in anticipating and managing the associated risks.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

103

We caution that the foregoing discussion of risk factors is not 

exhaustive and other factors could also adversely affect our results. 
When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions 
with respect to us, investors and others should carefully consider 
the foregoing factors, other uncertainties and potential events, and 

other industry- and bank-specific factors that may adversely affect our 
future results and the market valuation placed on our common shares. 
Unless required by law, we do not undertake to update any forward-
looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from 
time to time by us or on our behalf. 

Additional financial information

Net interest income on average assets and liabilities from continuing operations (1) 

Table 58

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2007 

Average balances (2) 

Interest (3) 
2006 

2005 

2007 

Average rate
2006 

Assets 
Deposits with other banks 
    Canada 
    United States 
    Other International 

Securities  
    Trading 
    Available-for-sale (4) 
    Investments (4) 

Asset purchased under reverse repurchase  
  agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans (5) 
    Canada 
        Retail 
        Wholesale 

    United States 
    Other International 

  $ 

1,570  $ 
2,904 
5,436 

1,218  $ 
1,856 
4,913 

9,910 

7,987 

915  $ 

1,587 
4,068 

 6,570 

43  $ 
176 
319 

538 

41  $ 

155 
284 

480 

31 
55 
145 

231 

2.74% 
6.06 
5.87 

5.43 

  162,828 
31,516 
– 

  134,166 
– 
  38,792 

  110,356 
– 
37,876 

 –

6,621 
1,044 

  194,344 

  172,958 

 148,232 

7,665 

5,056 
– 
1,133 

6,189 

3,711 
– 
895 

 4,606 

 –

4.07 
3.31 

3.94 

3.37% 
8.35 
5.78 

6.01 

3.77 
– 
2.92 

3.58 

71,759 

  55,615 

  44,420 

3,450 

2,827 

1,354 

4.81 

5.08 

3.05 

  152,588 
31,541 

  135,852 
  31,539 

  124,001 
  28,087 

  184,129 
25,718 
  13,388 

  167,391 
  21,871 
8,286 

  152,088 
  20,572 
6,993 

9,376 
1,047 

10,423 
2,240 
2,061 

8,157 
1,264 

9,421 
2,110 
1,177 

7,037 
1,262 

8,299 
1,626 
865 

6.14 
3.32 

5.66 
8.71 
  15.39 

Total interest-earning assets  
Non-interest-bearing deposits with other banks 
Customers’ liability under acceptances 
Other assets 

  499,248 
2,137 
10,270 
69,345 

  434,108 
2,806 
8,748 
56,438 

 378,875 
2,567 
6,411 
57,447 

 –
 –
 –

26,377 

22,204 
– 
– 
– 

 16,981 
– 
– 
– 

 –
 –
 –

  223,235 

  197,548 

 179,653 

  14,724 

  12,708 

 10,790 

6.60 

5.28 

Total assets 

  $  581,000  $  502,100  $  445,300   $  26,377  $  22,204  $  16,981  

4.54% 

4.42% 

3.81%

2005

3.39%
3.47 
3.56

3.52

3.36 
–
2.36

3.11

6.00 
4.01 

5.63 
9.65 
  14.20 

6.43 

5.11 
– 
– 
– 

5.67 
4.49

5.46 
7.90
  12.37

6.01

4.48 
– 
– 
–

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity 
Deposits (6)  
    Canada 
    United States 
    Other International 

Obligations related to securities sold short  
Obligations related to assets sold under  
  repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
Subordinated debentures 
Other interest-bearing liabilities 

Total interest-bearing liabilities 
Non-interest-bearing deposits 
Acceptances 
Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Shareholders’ equity 
    Preferred 
    Common 

  $  166,983  $  167,015  $  161,866  $ 
  47,913 
  91,334 

53,817 
  121,924 

  40,004 
70,168 

5,669  $ 
2,563 
5,538 

5,024  $ 
2,018 
3,666 

  342,724 

  306,262 

 272,038 

13,770 

10,708 

  46,654 

  38,630 

34,169 

1,997 

2,071 

  42,503 
6,704 
3,569 

  32,786 
8,013 
2,759 

  25,912 
8,359 
4,041 

  442,154 
25,752 
10,270 
79,087 

  388,450 
17,037 
8,882 
66,755 

 344,519 
16,159 
6,414 
58,757 

 –
 –
 –

2,364 
338 
376 

18,845 

1,882 
419 
328 

15,408 
– 
– 
– 

3,724 
1,047 
2,175 

6,946 

1,381 

1,120 
442 
299 

10,188  
–  
– 
– 

 –
 –
 –

 4

3.39% 
.76 
4.54 

3.01% 
4.21 
4.01 

2.30%
2.62 
3.10

4.02 

4.28 

5.56 
5.04 
10.54 

4.26 

3.50 

5.36 

5.74 
5.23 
11.89 

3.97 
– 
– 
– 

2.55

4.04 

4.32 
5.29
7.40

2.96 
– 
– 
–

  $  557,263  $  481,124  $ 

 425,849  $  18,845  $  15,408  $ 

10,188 

3.38% 

3.20% 

2.39%

  $ 

1,553  $ 

1,022  $ 

  22,184 

  19,954 

811  $ 
 –

  18,640 

–  $ 

–  $ 
– 

– 
 – 

 –
 –

% 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

  $  581,000  $  502,100  $   445,300  $  18,845  $  15,408  $ 

 10,188 

Net interest income and margin 

  $  581,000  $  502,100  $  445,300  $ 

7,532  $ 

6,796  $ 

6,793 

Net interest income and margin  
  (average earning assets)(7)
    Canada 
    United States 
    Other International 

  $  280,385  $  257,319  $  229,184  $ 
  90,684 
  86,105 

  74,842 
  74,849 

  106,044 
  112,819 

6,435  $ 
412 
685 

6,045  $ 
108 
643 

5,628 
608 
557 

Total       

  $  499,248  $  434,108  $  378,875  $ 

7,532  $ 

6,796  $ 

6,793 

3.24% 

1.30% 

2.30% 
.39 
.61 

1.51% 

–% 
– 

3.07% 

1.35% 

2.35% 
.12 
.75 

1.57% 

–%
–

2.29%

1.53%

2.46%
.81 
.74

1.79%

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

(7) 

Geographic classification for selected assets and liabilities is based on the domicile of the booking point of the subject assets and liabilities.
Calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
Interest income includes loan fees of $331 million (2006 – $348 million; 2005 – $343 million).
Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value. Prior to November 1, 2006, Available-for-sale securities were classified as investment securities and were carried at amortized cost.
Average balances include impaired loans.
Deposits include savings deposits with average balances of $46 billion (2006 – $46 billion; 2005 – $46 billion), interest expense of $.4 billion (2006 – $.4 billion; 2005 – $.3 billion) and 
average rates of .9% (2006 – .8%; 2005 – .6%). Deposits also include term deposits with average balances of $240 billion (2006 – $206 billion; 2005 – $181 billion), interest expense of 
$10.7 billion (2006 – $8.3 billion; 2005 – $5.3 billion) and average rates of 4.43% (2006 – 4.02%; 2005 – 2.95%).
During the year, we reviewed the geographic information that was used to prepare the Net interest income and margin for the prior periods and determined that some information was 
incorrectly classified; accordingly, the Net interest income and margins presented for the comparative periods have been revised.

104

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loans and acceptances by geography (1) 

Table 59

(C$ millions) 

Canada 
        Residential mortgages 
        Personal 
        Credit cards 
        Small business (2) 

    Retail 

        Business (3) 
        Sovereign (4) 
        Bank 

    Wholesale 

United States 
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Other International 
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Total loans and acceptances 

Total allowance for loan losses 

2007 

2006 

As at October 31
2005 

2004 

2003

$  107,453 
  42,506 
8,142 
2,652 

$  94,272 
37,946 
6,966 
2,318 

$  88,808 
  33,986 
6,024 
1,951 

$  80,168 
  30,415 
6,298 
1,928 

$  73,978
  26,445
4,663
1,335

  160,753 

  141,502 

  130,769 

  118,809 

  106,421

51,237 
585 
3,235 

  44,353 
553 
2,031 

  42,383 
521 
74 

  35,214 
535 
106 

55,057 

  46,937 

  42,978 

35,855 

34,551
572
118

35,241

$  215,810 

$  188,439 

$  173,747 

$  154,664 

$  141,662

6,804 
  18,548 

7,652 
  13,847 

7,741 
12,317 

7,010 
11,698 

6,189
  13,213

25,352 

  21,499 

  20,058 

  18,708 

  19,402

1,905 
8,148 

10,053 

1,896 
7,213 

9,109 

1,729 
3,454 

5,183 

1,411 
3,961 

5,372 

1,517
5,811

7,328

$  251,215 

$  219,047 

$  198,988 

$  178,744 

$  168,392 

(1,493) 

(1,409) 

(1,498) 

(1,644) 

(2,055) 

Total loans and acceptances, net of allowance for loan losses 

$  249,722 

$  217,638 

$  197,490 

$  177,100 

$  166,337 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

105

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impaired loans by portfolio and geography (1) 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

Business (3)
    Agriculture 
    Automotive 
    Consumer goods 
    Energy 
    Non-bank financial services 
    Forest products 
    Industrial products 
    Mining and metals 
    Real estate and related 
    Technology and media 
    Transportation and environment 
    Other 
Sovereign (4) 
Bank     

Wholesale 

Total impaired loans (5), (6) 

Canada
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

    Business (3) 
    Sovereign (4) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

United States
    Retail  
    Wholesale 

Other International
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Total impaired loans  

Specific allowance for loan losses 

Net impaired loans 

Gross impaired loans as a % of loans and acceptances: 
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    
Wholesale 

Total     

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2007 

210 
189 
19 

$ 

2006 

165 
205 
13 

As at October 31
2005 

$ 

$ 

146 
183 
11 

2004 

156 
204 
8 

$ 

418 

$ 

383 

$ 

340 

$ 

368  

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

65 
5 
83 
3 
14 
29 
29 
4 
345 
10 
19 
116 
– 
– 

722 

1,140 

149 
152 
19 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

45 
 8 
85 
6 
15 
12 
17 
5 
82 
49 
19 
108 
– 
– 

451 

834 

127 
183 
13 

48 
4 
73 
47 
15 
16 
12 
4 
74 
52 
14 
75 
– 
– 

434 

774 

106 
161 
11 

$ 

89   $ 

8 
59 
162 
14 
163 
60 
10 
102 
89 
19 
116 
– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 

891   $ 

1,335 

1,259 

$ 

1,745

$ 

96 
178 
8 

$ 

320 

$ 

323 

$ 

278 

$ 

282 

$ 

377 
– 

377 

697 

57 
314 

 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

266 

225 

501 

 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

266 

589 

15 
151 

 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

225 

503 

16 
173 

 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

501 

783 

44 
332 

371 

$ 

166 

$ 

189 

$ 

376 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

41 
31 

72 

1,140 

(351) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

45 
34 

79 

834 

(263) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

46 
36 

82 

774 

(282) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

42 
58 

100 

1,259 

(487) 

789 

$ 

571 

$ 

492 

$ 

772  

$ 

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

.19% 
.39% 
.72% 

.25% 
.88% 

.45% 

.17% 
.46% 
.56% 

.25% 
.66% 

.38% 

.16% 
.45% 
.56% 

.24% 
.74% 

.39% 

.19% 
.55% 
.41% 

.29% 
1.73% 

.70% 

Table 60

2003

138 
255 
17 

410 

146
12
75
240 
45 
181
44 
57
113 
129
143
150
–
–

110
213
17

340

724

724 

1,064

29
332

361

41
279

320

1,745

(757)

988

.18%
.79%
1.27%

.36%
2.46%

1.04%

Specific allowance for loan losses as a % of gross impaired loans 

  30.79% 

  31.53% 

  36.43% 

  38.68% 

  43.38%

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.
Includes foreclosed assets of $36 million in 2007 (2006 – $9 million; 2005 – $17 million; 2004 – $27 million; 2003 – $34 million).
Past due loans greater than 90 days not included in impaired loans were $353 million in 2007 (2006 – $305 million; 2005 – $304 million; 2004 – $219 million; 2003 – $222 million).

106

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
            
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses by portfolio and geography (1) 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

    Business (3)
        Agriculture 
        Automotive 
        Consumer goods 
        Energy 
        Non-bank financial services 
        Forest products 
        Industrial products 
        Mining and metals 
        Real estate and related 
        Technology and media 
        Transportation and environment 
        Other 
    Sovereign (4) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

Total specific provision  

Canada
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

    Business (3) 
    Sovereign (4) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

United States
    Retail  
    Wholesale 

Other International
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Total specific provision  

Total general provision  

Total provision for credit losses 

Specific provision as a % of average net loans and acceptances 

$ 

$ 

2007 

13 
364 
223 
34 

For the year ended October 31 
2005 

2004 

2006 

$ 

6 
306 
163 
29 

$ 

2 
259 
194 
27 

$ 

7 
222 
167 
27 

$ 

634 

$ 

504 

$ 

482 

$ 

423 

$ 

Table 61

2003

8 
254
155
39

456

(1)  $ 
4 
7 
(53) 
4 
2 
4 
– 
1 
(5) 
1 
14 
– 
– 

(12)  $ 

– 
24 
(20) 
10 
(52) 
(7) 
(1) 
(11) 
(6) 
8 
(26) 
– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(22)  $ 

(93)  $ 

482 

$ 

389 

$ 

$ 

6 
296 
161 
29 

$ 

1 
247 
192 
27 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

7 
2 
(11) 
50 
– 
7 
13 
(3) 
(1) 
2 
(32) 
64 
– 
– 

98 

521 

6 
211 
166 
27 

$ 

593 

$ 

492 

$ 

467 

$ 

410 

$ 

15 

(32) 

3 

 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

15 

507 

12 
(38) 

 –
 –

 –
 –

(32)  $ 

3 $

435 

$ 

413 $

$ 

15 
(60) 

$ 

13 
106 

(26)  $ 

(45)  $ 

119 

$ 

– 
1 

1 

482 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(53)  $ 

429 

$ 

$ 

– 
(1) 

$ 

– 
(11) 

(1)  $ 

(11)  $ 

389 

66 

455 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 521 

$ 

721

(175)   $ 

 346 

$ 

–

721

.43%

.23% 

.21% 

.30% 

$ 

 2

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

2 

$ 

27 
(7) 

10 
10 
1 
70 
(2) 
7 
28 
– 
– 

148 

782 

5 
334 
220 
34 

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

102 
– 

102 

695 

34 
50 

84 

7 
(4) 

3 

782 

9 

791 

.33% 

 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

–
– 
17
78
(1)
16
5
5
(8)
32
79
42
–
–

265

721

4
230
152
39

425

102

102

527

30
78

108

1
85

86

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

107

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for credit losses by portfolio and geography (1) 

(C$ millions, except percentage amounts) 

Allowance at beginning of year 
Provision for credit losses 
Write-offs by portfolio 
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

    Business (3) 
    Sovereign (4) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

Less developed countries exposures 

Total write-offs by portfolio 

Recoveries by portfolio 
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

    Business (3) 
    Sovereign (4) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

Total recoveries by portfolio 

Net write-offs 
    Adjustments (5) 

Total allowance for credit losses at end of year 

Canada
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Small business (2) 

Retail    

    Business (3) 
    Sovereign (4) 
    Bank 

Wholesale 

United States
    Retail  
    Wholesale 

Other International
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

Total specific allowance for loan losses  

General allowance 

Total allowance for credit losses  

Key ratios
    Allowance for credit losses as a % of loans and acceptances 
    Net write-offs as a % of average net loans and acceptances 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 4

$ 

$ 
 –
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2007 

1,486 
791 

(5) 
(444) 
(268) 
(42) 

2006 

1,568 
429 

(5) 
(379) 
(204) 
(36) 

$ 

2005 

1,714 
455 

(5) 
(353) 
(237) 
(34) 

2004 

2,164 
346 

(7) 
(332) 
(207) 
(44) 

(759)  $ 

(624)  $ 

(629)  $ 

(590)  $ 

(109)  $ 
 –
– 

(89)  $ 
 –

(141)  $ 
 –

(411)  $ 
 –

– 

– 

– 

Table 62

2003

2,314
721

$ 

(10)
(379)
(192)
(53) 

(634)

(348)

– 

(109)  $ 

(89)  $ 

(141)  $ 

(411)  $ 

(348)

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

–

(868)  $ 

(713)  $ 

(770)  $ 

(1,001)  $ 

(982)

1 
74 
6 
7 

128 

42 

42 

170 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
64 
41 
7 

112 

93 
– 
– 

93 

205 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
69 
43 
9 

121 

53 
– 
– 

53 

174 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
68 
39 
11 

118 

98 
– 
– 

98 

216 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(698)  $ 
(7) 

(508)  $ 
(3) 

(596)  $ 
(5) 

(785)  $ 

(11) 

–
68
37
12

117

53
–
–

53

170

(812)
(59)

1,572 

$ 

1,486 

$ 

1,568 

$ 

1,714 

$ 

2,164

$ 

13 
79 
9 

$ 

11 
88 
9 

$ 

9 
101 
8 

$ 

11 
108 
6 

101 

$ 

108 

$ 

118 

$ 

125 

$ 

153 
– 

$ 
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

153 

254 

14 
54 

68 

13 
16 

29 

351 

1,221 

1,572 

.63% 
.30% 

112 

– 

112 

220 

3 
12 

15 

12 
16 

28 

263 

1,223 

1,486 

.68% 
.25% 

$ 
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

112 

– 

112 

230 

3 
18 

21 

12 
19 

31 

282 

1,286 

1,568 

.79% 
.32% 

$ 
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

202 

– 

202 

327 

5 
118 

123 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

14 
23 

37 

487 

1,227 

1,714 

.97% 
.46% 

12
129
13

154

284

–

284

438

11
131

142

15
162

177

757

1,407

2,164

1.30%
.49%

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.
Other adjustments include primarily foreign exchange translations on non-Canadian dollar denominated allowance for credit losses and acquisition adjustments for Flag Bank,  
$21 million in 2007; Provident Financial Group Inc., $6 million in 2004; Admiralty Bancorp, Inc., $8 million in 2003.

108

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit quality information by Canadian province (1) 

Table 63

(C$ millions) 

Loans and acceptances 
    Atlantic provinces (2) 
    Quebec 
    Ontario 
    Prairie provinces (3) 
    B.C. and territories (4) 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2004 

2003

$ 

11,556 
35,168 
  92,956 
  40,956 
35,174 

$  10,256 
  32,723 
  83,839 
  32,598 
  29,023 

$ 

10,255 
  26,646 
  78,283 
  31,190 
27,373 

$ 

9,598 
  23,670 
  70,896 
  26,701 
  23,799 

$ 

9,191
  22,564 
  64,351 
  24,084
  21,472

Total loans and acceptances in Canada 

$  215,810 

$  188,439 

$  173,747 

$  154,664 

$  141,662

Gross impaired loans 
    Atlantic provinces (2) 
    Quebec 
    Ontario 
    Prairie provinces (3) 
    B.C. and territories (4) 

Total gross impaired loans in Canada 

Specific provision  
    Atlantic provinces (2) 
    Quebec 
    Ontario 
    Prairie provinces (3) 
    B.C. and territories (4) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

53 
118 
322 
112 
92 

$ 

53 
68 
286 
107 
75 

$ 

47 
44 
269 
78 
65 

$ 

60 
131 
254 
93 
245 

81
155
348 
140
340

697 

$ 

589 

$ 

503 

$ 

783 

$ 

1,064

$ 

40 
66 
490 
51 
48 

$ 

33 
47 
344 
38 
45 

$ 

30 
7 
368 
44 
(14) 

$ 

34 
(1) 
318 
31 
31 

46
77
309 
55
40

527

Total specific provision for credit losses in Canada 

$ 

695 

$ 

507 

$ 

435 

$ 

413 

$ 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Based on residence of borrower.
Comprises Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
Comprises Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Comprises British Columbia, Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon.

Small business loans and acceptances in Canada by sector (1) 

(C$ millions) 

Agriculture 
Automotive  
Consumer goods 
Energy  
Non-bank financial services 
Forest products 
Industrial products 
Mining and metals 
Real estate and related 
Technology and media 
Transportation and environment 
Other    

Total small business loans 

(1) 

Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled and individual client basis.

$ 

2007 

271 
650 
2,350 
370 
88 
351 
1,543 
98 
2,822 
314 
901 
4,488 

$ 

 2

2006 

248 
601 
2,043 
284 
73 
366 
1,377 
88 
,565 
300 
774 
4,098 

$ 

As at October 31
2005 

$ 

715 
490 
1,728 
182 
78 
311 
1,057 
57 
1,982 
243 
549 
3,365 

2004 

519 
463 
1,764 
150 
51 
276 
999 
62 
1,821 
232 
502 
3,298  

$ 

Table 64

2003

70
462
1,777 
137
97 
298
952
65
1,777
242 
503
3,325

$  14,246 

$  12,817 

$ 

10,757 

$ 

10,137  

$ 

9,705

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Management’s Discussion and Analysis

109

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated
Financial Statements

Reports

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

148   Note 20  Pensions and other  

post-employment benefits

150  Note 21  Stock-based compensation
153  Note 22  Trading revenue
153  Note 23  Business realignment charges
154  Note 24  Income taxes 
155  Note 25  Earnings per share
156  Note 26  Concentrations of credit risk
156   Note 27  Guarantees, commitments  

159 

and contingencies
 Note 28  Contractual repricing and  
maturity schedule

160  Note 29  Related party transactions
161 

 Note 30  Results by business and  
geographic segment
 Note 31  Reconciliation of the application 
of Canadian and United States generally 
accepted accounting principles
175  Note 32  Parent company information

163 

117 

 Note 1  Significant accounting policies  
and estimates

124   Note 2 Fair value of financial instruments
127  Note 3  Securities
129  Note 4  Loans
130  Note 5  Securitizations
132  Note 6  Variable interest entities (VIEs)
133  Note 7  Derivative financial instruments  

and hedging activities

 Note 9  RBC Dexia Investor Services 
oint venture

137  Note 8  Premises and equipment
137 
 j
138  Note 10  Goodwill and other intangibles
139   Note 11  Significant acquisitions and  

dispositions

140  Note 12  Other assets
141  Note 13  Deposits
142  Note 14  Insurance 
142  Note 15  Other liabilities
143  Note 16  Subordinated debentures
144  Note 17  Trust capital securities
145 

 Note 18  Preferred share liabilities and  
share capital
 Note 19  Non-controlling interest in  
subsidiaries

147 

111 

111 

 Management’s responsibility for  
financial reporting
 Report of Independent Registered  
Chartered Accountants

112  Management’s report on internal control

over financial reporting

112  Report of Independent Registered  

Chartered Accountants

Consolidated Financial Statements

113  Consolidated Balance Sheets
114  Consolidated Statements of Income
 Consolidated Statements of  
115 
Comprehensive Income 
 Consolidated Statements of Changes in 
Shareholders’ Equity

115 

116  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

110
110

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
Management’s responsibility for financial reporting

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Royal Bank 
of Canada (RBC) were prepared by management, which is responsible 
for the integrity and fairness of the information presented, including 
the many amounts that must of necessity be based on estimates and 
judgments. These consolidated financial statements were prepared in 
accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles 
(GAAP) pursuant to Subsection 308 of the Bank Act (Canada), which 
states that, except as otherwise specified by the Superintendent 
of Financial Institutions Canada, the financial statements are to be 
prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. Financial information 
appearing throughout our management’s discussion and analysis is 
consistent with these consolidated financial statements.

In discharging our responsibility for the integrity and fairness of 
the consolidated financial statements and for the accounting systems 
from which they are derived, we maintain the necessary system of 
internal controls designed to ensure that transactions are authorized, 
assets are safeguarded and proper records are maintained. These 
controls include quality standards in hiring and training of employees, 
policies and procedures manuals, a corporate code of conduct and 
accountability for performance within appropriate and well-defined 
areas of responsibility.

The system of internal controls is further supported by a  
compliance function, which is designed to ensure that we and our 
employees comply with securities legislation and conflict of interest 
rules, and by an internal audit staff, which conducts periodic audits  
of all aspects of our operations.

The Board of Directors oversees management’s responsibilities 

for financial reporting through an Audit Committee, which is composed 
entirely of directors who are neither officers nor employees of RBC. 

Report of Independent Registered Chartered Accountants

To the Shareholders of Royal Bank of Canada

We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Royal Bank of 
Canada (the “Bank”) as at October 31, 2007 and 2006 and the con-
solidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes 
in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in 
the period ended October 31, 2007. These financial statements are 
the responsibility of the Bank’s management. Our responsibility is to 
express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

With respect to the consolidated financial statements as at and 

for the years ended October 31, 2007 and 2006, we conducted our 
audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing stan-
dards and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight 
Board (United States). With respect to the consolidated financial state-
ments as at and for the year ended October 31, 2005, we conducted 
our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing 
standards. These standards require that we plan and perform an audit 
to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements 
are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a 
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the 
financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting 
principles used and significant estimates made by management,  
as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

This Committee reviews our consolidated financial statements and  
recommends them to the Board for approval. Other key responsibilities  
of the Audit Committee include reviewing our existing internal control 
procedures and planned revisions to those procedures, and advising  
the directors on auditing matters and financial reporting issues.  
Our Compliance Officer and Chief Internal Auditor have full and  
unrestricted access to the Audit Committee.

The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions,  
Canada (OSFI) examines and inquires into the business and affairs of 
RBC as deemed necessary to determine whether the provisions of the 
Bank Act are being complied with, and that RBC is in sound financial 
condition. In carrying out its mandate, OSFI strives to protect the rights 
and interests of depositors and creditors of RBC.

Deloitte & Touche LLP, Independent Registered Chartered 
Accountants appointed by the shareholders of RBC upon the recom-
mendation of the Audit Committee and Board, have performed an 
independent audit of the consolidated financial statements and  
their report follows. The auditors have full and unrestricted access to 
the Audit Committee to discuss their audit and related findings.

Gordon M. Nixon
President and Chief Executive Officer

Janice R. Fukakusa
Chief Financial Officer

Toronto, November 29, 2007

In our opinion, these consolidated financial statements present 

fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Bank  
as at October 31, 2007 and 2006 and the results of its operations and 
its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended  
October 31, 2007 in accordance with Canadian generally accepted 
accounting principles. 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the 

Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the 
Bank’s internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 
2007 based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated 
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of 
the Treadway Commission and our report dated November 29, 2007 
expressed an unqualified opinion on the Bank’s internal control over 
financial reporting.

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Independent Registered Chartered Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
Toronto, Canada
November 29, 2007

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

111

Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting

Management of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is responsible for establish-
ing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. 
Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or 
under the supervision of, the President and Chief Executive Officer and 
the Chief Financial Officer and effected by the Board of Directors, man-
agement and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding 
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial 
statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles. It includes those policies and procedures that:
• 

 pertain to the maintenance of records that accurately and fairly 
reflect, in reasonable detail, the transactions related to and  
dispositions of RBC’s assets
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded 
as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in 
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and 
RBC receipts and expenditures are made only in accordance with 
authorizations of management and RBC’s directors
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detec-
tion of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of RBC assets 
that could have a material effect on RBC’s financial statements.

• 

• 

Due to its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting 
may not prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. Also, pro-
jections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over 
financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the 
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions,  
or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures  
may deteriorate.

Report of Independent Registered Chartered Accountants

To the Shareholders of Royal Bank of Canada

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Royal 
Bank of Canada (the “Bank”) as of October 31, 2007 based on criteria 
established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. 
The Bank’s management is responsible for maintaining effective 
internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the 
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included 
in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over 
Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
Bank’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the 
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those 
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reason-
able assurance about whether effective internal control over financial 
reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included 
obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting,  
assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evalu-
ating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based 
on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we 
considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit 
provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process 

designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal 
executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar 
functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, manage-
ment, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding 
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial  
statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial 
reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the 
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly 
reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company;  
(2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as  

112

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Management assessed the effectiveness of RBC’s internal control 

over financial reporting as of October 31, 2007, based on the criteria 
set forth in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. 
Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of  
October 31, 2007, RBC’s internal control over financial reporting is 
effective. Also, management determined that there were no material 
weaknesses in RBC’s internal control over financial reporting as of 
October 31, 2007.

RBC’s internal control over financial reporting as of October 31,  

2007 has been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, Independent 
Registered Chartered Accountants, who also audited RBC’s Consoli-
dated Financial Statements for the year ended October 31, 2007, as 
stated in the Report of Independent Registered Chartered Accountants, 
which report expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of 
RBC’s internal control over financial reporting.

Gordon M. Nixon
President and Chief Executive Officer

Janice R. Fukakusa
Chief Financial Officer

Toronto, November 29, 2007

necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance  
with generally accepted accounting principles and that receipts and  
expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with 
authorizations of management and directors of the company; and  
(3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detec-
tion of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s 
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial 

reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper manage-
ment override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud 
may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections 
of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over finan-
cial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls 
may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the 
degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. 
In our opinion, the Bank maintained, in all material respects, 
effective internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 
2007 based on the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated 
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of 
the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with Canadian generally 
accepted auditing standards and the standards of the Public Company 
Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial 
statements as at and for the year ended October 31, 2007 of the Bank 
and our report dated November 29, 2007 expressed an unqualified 
opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Independent Registered Chartered Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
Toronto, Canada
November 29, 2007

 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets

As at October 31 (C$ millions) 

Assets 

Cash and due from banks 

Interest-bearing deposits with banks 

Securities (Note 3) 
    Trading 
    Available-for-sale  
    Investments 

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 

Loans (Notes 4 and 5) 
    Retail 
    Wholesale 

    Allowance for loan losses 

Other 
    Customers’ liability under acceptances 
    Derivatives (Note 7) 
    Premises and equipment, net (Note 8) 
    Goodwill (Note 10) 
    Other intangibles (Note 10) 
    Assets of operations held for sale  
    Other assets (Note 12) 

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

Deposits (Note 13) 
    Personal 
    Business and government 
    Bank 

Other 
    Acceptances 
    Obligations related to securities sold short  
    Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
    Derivatives (Note 7) 
    Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities (Note 14) 
    Liabilities of operations held for sale 
    Other liabilities (Note 15) 

Subordinated debentures (Note 16) 

Trust capital securities (Note 17) 

Preferred share liabilities (Note 18) 

Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries (Note 19) 

Shareholders’ equity (Note 18) 
    Preferred shares 
    Common shares (shares issued – 1,276,260,033 and 1,280,889,745) 
    Contributed surplus 
    Treasury shares – preferred (shares held – 248,800 and 93,700) 

– common (shares held – 2,444,320 and 5,486,072) 

    Retained earnings 
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 

Gordon M. Nixon 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Robert B. Peterson
Director

2007 

2006

$ 

4,226 

$ 

4,401

 1 1,881 

  10,502

  148,246 
  30,009 
– 

  147,237 
– 
37,632

  178,255 

  184,869

64,313 

59,378

  169,462 
69,967 

  151,050 
  58,889

  239,429 
(1,493) 

  209,939 
(1,409)

  237,936 

  208,530

11,786 
  66,585 
2,131 
4,752 
628 
– 
17,853 

  103,735 

9,108 
37,729 
1,818 
4,304 
642 
82 
15,417

69,100

$  600,346 

$  536,780

$  116,557 
  219,886 
  28,762 

$  114,040 
  189,140 
  40,343

  365,205 

  343,523

11,786 
  44,689 
37,033 
  72,010 
7,283 
– 
  28,483 

9,108 
  38,252 
41,103 
  42,094 
7,337 
32 
  22,649

  201,284 

  160,575

6,235 

1,400 

300 

1,483 

2,050 
7,300 
235 
(6) 
(101) 
18,167 
(3,206) 

7,103

1,383

298

1,775

1,050 
7,196 
292 
(2) 
(180) 
  15,771 
(2,004)

  24,439 

22,123

$  600,346 

$  536,780

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

113

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Income

For the year ended October 31 (C$ millions) 

Interest income 
    Loans 
    Securities 
    Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 
    Deposits with banks 

Interest expense 
    Deposits 
    Other liabilities 
    Subordinated debentures 

Net interest income 

Non-interest income 
    Insurance premiums, investment and fee income 
    Trading revenue 
    Investment management and custodial fees 
    Mutual fund revenue 
    Securities brokerage commissions 
    Service charges 
    Underwriting and other advisory fees 
    Foreign exchange revenue, other than trading 
    Card service revenue 
    Credit fees 
    Securitization revenue (Note 5) 
    Net gain on sale of available-for-sale securities (Note 3) 
    Net gain on sale of investment securities 
    Other  

Non-interest income 

Total revenue 

Provision for credit losses (Note 4) 

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 

Non-interest expense 
    Human resources (Notes 20 and 21) 
    Equipment 
    Occupancy 
    Communications 
    Professional fees 
    Outsourced item processing 
    Amortization of other intangibles (Note 10) 
    Other 

Business realignment charges (Note 23) 

Income from continuing operations before income taxes 
Income taxes (Note 24) 

Net income before non-controlling interest 
Non-controlling interest in net income of subsidiaries 

Net income from continuing operations 
Net loss from discontinued operations 

Net income 

Preferred dividends (Note 18) 
Net gain on redemption of preferred shares 

Net income available to common shareholders 

Average number of common shares (in thousands) (Note 25) 
Basic earnings per share (in dollars) 
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars) 
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars) 

Average number of diluted common shares (in thousands) (Note 25) 
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars) 
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars) 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars)   

Dividends per share (in dollars) 

114

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

2007 

2006 

2005

$  14,724 
7,665 
3,450 
538 

$  12,708 
6,189 
2,827 
480 

$  10,790 
4,606 
1,354 
231

  26,377 

  22,204 

  16,981

  13,770 
4,737 
338 

  10,708 
4,281 
419 

  18,845 

  15,408 

7,532 

6,796 

3,152 
2,261 
1,579 
1,473 
1,353 
1,303 
1,217 
533 
491 
293 
261 
63 
– 
951 

3,348 
2,574 
1,301 
1,242 
1,243 
1,216 
1,024 
438 
496 
241 
257 
– 
88 
373 

6,946 
2,800 
442

10,188

6,793

3,270 
1,594 
1,232 
962 
1,163 
1,153 
1,026 
407 
579 
187 
285 
– 
85 
448

  14,930 

  13,841 

  12,391

  22,462 

  20,637 

19,184

791 

2,173 

7,860 
1,009 
839 
723 
530 
308 
96 
1,108 

429 

2,509 

7,268 
957 
792 
687 
546 
298 
76 
871 

455

2,625

6,682 
960 
749 
632 
500 
296 
50 
1,488

  12,473 

11,495 

11,357

– 

7,025 
1,392 

5,633 
141 

5,492 

 –

– 

6,204 
1,403 

4,801 
44 

4,757 
(29) 

45

4,702 
1,278

3,424 
(13)

3,437 
(50)

$ 

5,492 

$ 

4,728 

$ 

3,387

(88) 
– 

(60) 
– 

(42) 
4

$ 

5,404 

$ 

4,668 

$ 

3,349

 1,273,185 
4.24 
4.24 
– 

$ 
$ 
$ 

1,283,433
1,279,956 
2.61 
$ 
3.65 
$ 
2.65 
3.67 
$ 
$ 
(.04)
(.02)  $ 
$ 

 1,289,314 
4.19 
4.19 
– 

$ 
$ 
$ 

1,304,680
1,299,785 
2.57
$ 
3.59 
$ 
2.61
3.61 
$ 
$ 
(.04)
(.02)  $ 
$ 

$ 

1.82 

$ 

1.44 

$ 

1.18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended October 31 (C$ millions) 

    Net income 
    Other comprehensive income, net of taxes 
        Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities 
        Reclassification of (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities to income 

        Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) 
        Reclassification of (gains) losses on foreign currency translation to income 
        Net foreign currency translation gains (losses) from hedging activities 

        Net gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 
        Reclassification to income of (gains) losses on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 

    Other comprehensive income (loss) 

Total comprehensive income 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

For the year ended October 31 (C$ millions) 

Preferred shares (Note 18) 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Issued 
    Redeemed for cancellation 

    Balance at end of year 

Common shares (Note 18) 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Issued  
    Purchased for cancellation 

    Balance at end of year 

Contributed surplus 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Renounced stock appreciation rights 
    Stock-based compensation awards 
    Gain on redemption of preferred shares 
    Initial adoption of AcG-15, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities 
    Other 

    Balance at end of year 

Treasury shares – preferred (Note 18) 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Sales 
    Purchases 

    Balance at end of year 

Treasury shares – common (Note 18) 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Sales 
    Purchases 
    Initial adoption of AcG-15, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities 

    Balance at end of year 

Retained earnings 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Transition adjustment – Financial instruments (1) 
    Net income 
    Preferred share dividends (Note 18) 
    Common share dividends (Note 18) 
    Premium paid on common shares purchased for cancellation 
    Issuance costs and other 

    Balance at end of year 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 
    Transition adjustment – Financial instruments (1) 
    Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities 
    Unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses, net of hedging activities 
    Gains and losses on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 

    Balance at end of year 

Retained earnings and Accumulated other comprehensive income 

Shareholders’ equity at end of year 

(1) 

The transition adjustment relates to the implementation of the new financial instruments accounting standards. Refer to Note 1.

2007 

2006 

2005

 $ 

5,492 

 $ 

4,728  

 $ 

3,387 

(93) 
28 

(65) 

(2,965) 
(42) 
1,804 

(1,203)  

80  
31 

111 

 – 
–  

 –  

 (501) 
 2  
 269  

(230) 

 – 
 –  

– 

– 
– 

 – 

 (624)
5 
 401 

(218)

–
– 

 – 

(1,157) 

 (230) 

 (218)

 $  

4,335   $ 

4,498  

 $ 

3,169 

2007 

2006 

2005

$ 

$ 

$ 

 –

1,050 
1,150 
(150) 

2,050 

7,196 
170 
(66) 

7,300 

292 
(6) 
(46) 

– 
(5) 

235 

(2) 
33 
(37) 

(6) 

(180) 
175 
(96) 
– 

(101) 

700 
600 
(250) 

1,050 

7,170 
127 
(101) 

7,196 

265 
(2) 
(18) 
– 
– 
47 

292 

(2) 
51 
(51) 

(2) 

(216) 
193 
(157) 
– 

(180) 

532 
300 
(132)

700

6,988 
214 
(32)

7,170

169 
(6) 
26 
7 
54 
15

265

– 
– 
(2)

(2)

(294) 
179 
(47) 
(54)

(216)

15,771 
(86) 
5,492 
(88) 
(2,321) 
(580) 
(21) 

  13,704 
 –

  12,065 
 –

4,728 
(60) 
(1,847) 
(743) 
(11) 

3,387 
(42) 
(1,512) 
(194) 
–

18,167 

  15,771 

  13,704

(45) 
(65) 
(3,207) 
111 

(3,206) 

 –

 –

– 
(2004) 
– 

– 
(1,774) 

–

(2,004) 

(1,774)

  14,961 

13,767 

  11,930

$  24,439 

$ 

22,123 

$  19,847

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

115

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the year ended October 31 (C$ millions) 

Cash flows from operating activities 
    Net income from continuing operations 
    Adjustments to determine net cash from (used in) operating activities 
        Provision for credit losses 
        Depreciation 
        Business realignment payments 
        Future income taxes 
        Amortization of other intangibles 
        (Gain) loss on sale of premises and equipment 
        (Gain) loss on loan securitizations 
        (Gain) loss on sale of available-for-sale securities 
        (Gain) loss on sale of investment securities 
        Changes in operating assets and liabilities 
            Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities 
            Net change in accrued interest receivable and payable 
            Current income taxes 
            Derivative assets 
            Derivative liabilities 
            Trading securities 
            Net change in brokers and dealers receivable and payable 
            Other  

Net cash from (used in) operating activities from continuing operations 
Net cash from (used in) operating activities from discontinued operations 

Net cash from (used in) operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities 
    Change in interest-bearing deposits with banks 
    Change in loans, net of loan securitizations 
    Proceeds from loan securitizations 
    Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities 
    Proceeds from sale of investment securities 
    Proceeds from maturity of available-for-sale securities 
    Proceeds from maturity of investment securities 
    Purchases of available-for-sale securities 
    Purchases of investment securities 
    Net acquisitions of premises and equipment  
    Change in assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 
    Net cash from (used in) acquisitions 

Net cash from (used in) investing activities from continuing operations 
Net cash from (used in) investing activities from discontinued operations  

Net cash from (used in) investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities 
    Change in deposits 
    Issue of RBC Trust Capital Securities 
    Issue of subordinated debentures 
    Repayment of subordinated debentures 
    Issue of preferred shares  
    Redemption of preferred shares for cancellation 
    Issuance costs 
    Issue of common shares 
    Purchase of common shares for cancellation 
    Sales of treasury shares 
    Purchase of treasury shares 
    Dividends paid 
    Dividends/distributions paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests 
    Change in obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
    Change in obligations related to securities sold short 
    Change in short-term borrowings of subsidiaries 

Net cash from (used in) financing activities from continuing operations 

Net cash from (used in) financing activities 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and due from banks 

Net change in cash and due from banks 
Cash and due from banks at beginning of year 

Cash and due from banks at end of year 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information 
    Amount of interest paid in year 
    Amount of income taxes paid in year 

116

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

2007 

2006 

2005

$ 

5,492 

$ 

4,757 

$ 

3,437 

791 
434 
(38) 
(147) 
96 
(16) 
(41) 
(63) 
– 

429 
405 
(74) 
144 
76 
(16) 
(16) 
– 
(88) 

455 
414 
(94) 
(482) 
50 
(21) 
(101) 
– 
(85) 

(54) 
(28) 
1,034 
  (28,856) 
29,916 
9,623 
(317) 
1,647 

19,473 

 –

220 
217 
(203) 
1,105 
(498) 
(21,477) 
(1,017) 
1,036 

629 
(5) 
(9) 
63 
391 
  (36,438) 
1,334 
840

  (15,000) 
4 

(29,622)
95

19,473 

  (14,996) 

(29,527)

1,030 
(27,670) 
5,607 
– 
  25,628 
– 
  18,431 
– 
  (36,373) 
(383) 
3,976 
–

(9,754)
2,027

(7,727)

  35,001 
1,200 
800 
(786) 
300 
(132) 
(3) 
198 
(226) 
179 
(49) 
(1,469) 
(13) 
(3,092) 
7,386 
(628)

(1,379) 
 ( 39,569) 
8,020 
7,565 
– 
  18,784 
– 
  (24,097) 
 –

(706) 
(4,935) 
(373) 

(5,265) 
(33,534) 
8,139 
– 
  14,709 
 –
  28,222 
– 
(38,474) 
(511) 
(16,405) 
(256) 

  (36,690) 
– 

(43,375) 
140 

  (36,690) 

(43,235) 

  36,663 
– 
– 
(953) 
600 
(250) 
(6) 
116 
(844) 
244 
(208) 
(1,807) 
(47) 
17,722 
5,861 
620 

17,831 
– 
87 
(989) 
1,150 
(150) 
(23) 
155 
(646) 
208 
(133) 
(2,278) 
(59) 
(4,070) 
6,436 
(145) 

17,374 

17,374 

(332) 

(175) 
4,401 

57,711 

  38,666

57,711 

  38,666

(80) 

(600) 
5,001 

(122)

1,290 
3,711

$ 

4,226 

$ 

4,401 

$ 

5,001

$  18,494 
1,352 
$ 

$  14,678 
1,682 
$ 

$ 
$ 

10,109 
1,987

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Financial Statements (all tabular amounts are in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

Note 1    Significant accounting policies and estimates

The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been 
prepared in accordance with Subsection 308 of the Bank Act (Canada) 
(the Act), which states that, except as otherwise specified by the 
Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI), 
our Consolidated Financial Statements are to be prepared in accor-
dance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). 
The significant accounting policies used in the preparation of these 
financial statements, including the accounting requirements of the 
OSFI, are summarized below. These accounting policies conform, in all 
material respects, to Canadian GAAP. 

Basis of consolidation 
Our Consolidated Financial Statements include the assets and liabilities 
and results of operations of all subsidiaries and variable interest  
entities (VIEs) where we are the Primary Beneficiary after elimination 
of intercompany transactions and balances. The equity method is used 
to account for investments in associated corporations and limited 
partnerships in which we have significant influence. These invest-
ments are reported in Other assets. Our share of earnings, gains and 
losses realized on dispositions and writedowns to reflect other-than-
temporary impairment in the value of these investments are included 
in Non-interest income. The proportionate consolidation method is 
used to account for investments in joint ventures in which we exercise 
joint control, whereby our pro rata share of assets, liabilities, income 
and expenses is consolidated.

Significant accounting changes 
Financial Instruments
On November 1, 2006, we adopted three new financial instruments  
accounting standards that were issued by the Canadian Institute of 
Chartered Accountants (CICA): Handbook Section 1530, Compre­
hen sive Income (Section 1530), Handbook Section 3855, Financial 
Instruments – Recognition and Measurement (Section 3855), and 
Handbook Section 3865, Hedges (Section 3865). Comparative 
amounts for prior periods have not been restated. 

Comprehensive Income 
Section 1530 introduces Comprehensive Income, which consists of  
Net income and Other comprehensive income (OCI). OCI represents  
changes in Shareholders’ equity during a period arising from trans-
actions and other events with non-owner sources and includes 
unrealized gains and losses on financial assets classified as available-
for-sale, unrealized foreign currency translation gains or losses arising 
from self-sustaining foreign operations, net of hedging activities, 
and changes in the fair value of the effective portion of cash flow 
hedging instruments. We have included in our Consolidated Financial 
Statements a Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for 
the changes in these items, net of taxes, since November 1, 2006, 
while the cumulative changes in OCI are included in Accumulated other 
comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), which is presented as a new cat-
egory of Shareholders’ equity on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

Financial Instruments – Recognition and Measurement 
Section 3855 establishes standards for recognizing and measuring 
financial assets, financial liabilities and non-financial derivatives. It 
requires that financial assets and financial liabilities, including deriva-
tives, be recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets when we 
become a party to the contractual provisions of a financial instrument 
or non-financial derivative contract. Under this standard, all financial 
instruments are required to be measured at fair value on initial recog-
nition except for certain related party transactions. Measurement in 
subsequent periods depends on whether the financial instrument has 
been classified as held-for-trading, available-for-sale, held-to-maturity, 

loans and receivables, or other financial liabilities. Transaction costs 
are expensed as incurred for financial instruments classified or desig-
nated as held-for-trading. For other financial instruments, transaction 
costs are capitalized on initial recognition.

Financial assets and financial liabilities held-for-trading are 
measured at fair value with changes in those fair values recognized 
in Non-interest income. Financial assets held-to-maturity, loans and 
receivables, and other financial liabilities are measured at amortized 
cost using the effective interest method. Available-for-sale financial 
assets, which include loan substitute securities, are measured at fair 
value with unrealized gains and losses, including changes in foreign 
exchange rates, being recognized in OCI. Investments in equity instru-
ments classified as available-for-sale that do not have a quoted market 
price in an active market are measured at cost. 

Derivative instruments are recorded on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets at fair value, including those derivatives that are embedded in 
financial or non-financial contracts that are not closely related to the 
host contracts. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments are 
recognized in Net income except for derivatives designated as effec-
tive cash flow hedges or hedges of foreign currency exposure of a net 
investment in a self-sustaining foreign operation, the changes in fair 
value of which are recognized in OCI.

Section 3855 also provides an entity the option to designate 
a financial instrument as held-for-trading (the fair value option) on 
its initial recognition or upon adoption of the standard, even if the 
financial instrument was not acquired or incurred principally for the 
purpose of selling or repurchasing it in the near term. An instrument 
that is classified as held-for-trading by way of this fair value option 
must have a reliable fair value and satisfy one of the following criteria 
established by the OSFI: (i) when doing so eliminates or significantly 
reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would other-
wise arise from measuring assets or liabilities, or recognizing gains 
and losses on them on a different basis; (ii) it belongs to a group of 
financial assets or financial liabilities or both that are managed and 
evaluated on a fair value basis in accordance with our risk manage-
ment or investment strategy, and are reported to senior management, 
on that basis; or (iii) it is an embedded derivative in a financial or non-
financial host contract and the derivative is not closely related to the 
host contract. 

The principal categories of our financial assets that we  
designated as held-for-trading using the fair value option include  
(i) investments supporting the policy benefit liabilities on life and 
health insurance contracts issued by our insurance operations;  
(ii) investments used to offset exposures under derivative contracts 
in relation to our sales and trading activities; (iii) certain loans to cus-
tomers whose related hedging derivatives are measured at fair value; 
and (iv) assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements that 
form part of our trading portfolio which is managed and evaluated on 
a fair value basis. Financial liabilities designated as held-for-trading 
include (i) deposits and structured notes with embedded derivatives 
that are not closely related to the host contracts; (ii) assets sold under 
repurchase agreements that form part of our trading portfolio which is 
managed and evaluated on a fair value basis; and (iii) certain deposits 
to offset the impact of related hedging derivatives measured at fair 
value. Fair value designation for these financial assets and financial 
liabilities significantly reduces the measurement inconsistencies. 

Other significant accounting implications arising upon the adop-
tion of Section 3855 include the use of the effective interest method 
for any transaction costs or fees, premiums or discounts earned on 
financial instruments measured at amortized cost, and the recogni-
tion of the inception fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing 
a guarantee that meets the definition of a guarantee pursuant to 
CICA Accounting Guideline 14, Disclosure of Guarantees (AcG-14). 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

117

 
Note 1    Significant accounting policies and estimates (continued)

Subsequent remeasurement at fair value is not required unless the 
financial guarantee also meets the definition of a derivative. These 
guarantees are remeasured at fair value at each balance sheet date 
and reported as a derivative in Other assets or Other liabilities,  
as appropriate. 

Hedges 
Section 3865 specifies the criteria that must be satisfied in order for 
hedge accounting to be applied and the accounting for each of the 
permitted hedging strategies. We use derivatives and non-derivative 
financial instruments in our hedging strategies to manage our  
exposures to interest, currency, credit and other market risks. When 
derivatives are used to manage our own exposures, we determine 
for each derivative whether hedge accounting can be applied. Where 
hedge accounting can be applied, a hedging relationship is designated 
as a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge or a hedge of foreign currency 
exposure of a net investment in a self-sustaining foreign operation.  
For our detailed accounting policy on hedge accounting refer to the 
Derivatives section below in Note 1.

Impact upon adoption of Sections 1530, 3855 and 3865 
The transition adjustments attributable to the remeasurement of 
financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value, other than financial 
assets classified as available-for-sale and hedging instruments desig-
nated as cash flow hedges or hedges of foreign currency exposure of 
net investment in self-sustaining foreign operations, were recognized 
in opening Retained earnings as at November 1, 2006. Adjustments 
arising from remeasuring financial assets classified as available-for-
sale at fair value were recognized in opening AOCI as at that date. 

For hedging relationships existing prior to adopting Section 3865 
that continue to qualify for hedge accounting under the new standard, 
the transition accounting is as follows: (i) Fair value hedges – any gain 
or loss on the hedging instrument was recognized in opening Retained 
earnings and the carrying amount of the hedged item was adjusted 
by the cumulative change in fair value attributable to the designated 
hedged risk and was also included in opening Retained earnings;  
(ii) Cash flow hedges and hedges of net investments in self-sustaining 
foreign operations – the effective portion of any gain or loss on the 
hedging instrument was recognized in AOCI and the cumulative inef-
fective portion was included in opening Retained earnings. 

We recorded the following transition adjustments in our 
Consolidated Financial Statements: (i) a reduction of $86 million,  
net of taxes, to our opening Retained earnings, representing changes 
made to the value of certain financial instruments and the ineffective 
portion of qualifying hedges, in compliance with the measurement 
basis under the new standards including those related to the use of 
fair value option; and (ii) recognition in AOCI of $45 million, net of 
taxes, related to the net losses for available-for-sale financial assets 
and cumulative losses on the effective portion of our cash flow hedges 
that are now required to be recognized under Sections 3855 and 3865.  
In addition, we have reclassified to AOCI $2,004 million of net unreal-
ized foreign currency losses on net investments in self-sustaining 
foreign operations that were previously presented as a separate item 
in Shareholders’ equity. 

Variable Interest Entities
On February 1, 2007, we adopted CICA Emerging Issues Committee 
Abstract No. 163, Determining the Variability to be Considered in 
Applying AcG­15 (EIC-163). EIC-163 provides additional clarification  
on how to analyze and consolidate VIEs. The implementation of  
EIC-163 resulted in the deconsolidation of certain investment funds; 
however, the impact was not material to our consolidated financial 
position or results of operations. 

118

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Convertible and Other Debt Instruments with Embedded Derivatives
On August 1, 2007, we adopted CICA Emerging Issues Committee 
Abstract No. 164, Convertible and Other Debt Instruments with 
Embedded Derivatives (EIC-164). EIC-164 provides clarification regard-
ing the accounting treatment for certain types of convertible debt 
instruments, their classification as liabilities or equity, and the implica-
tions on earnings per share. It also provides guidance on whether these 
instruments contain any embedded derivatives that are required to be 
accounted for separately. The adoption of EIC-164 was not material to 
our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Accounting Policy Choice for Transaction Costs
On June 1, 2007, CICA Emerging Issues Committee issued Abstract  
No. 166, Accounting Policy Choice for Transaction Costs (EIC-166). 
This EIC addresses the accounting policy choice of expensing or add-
ing transaction costs related to the acquisition of financial assets and 
financial liabilities that are classified as other than held-for-trading. 
Specifically, it requires the same accounting policy choice be applied 
to all similar financial instruments classified as other than held-for-
trading, but permits a different policy choice for financial instruments 
that are not similar. EIC-166 became effective for us on September 30, 
2007 and requires retroactive application to all transaction costs 
accounted for in accordance with Section 3855. Our current recogni-
tion policy for transaction costs, which was adopted on November 1, 
2006, is consistent with this guidance.

The accounting policies described below have been updated to reflect 
the requirements under the new financial instruments accounting 
standards, and where applicable, include a discussion on the policies 
used in the prior periods for comparative purposes. 

Translation of foreign currencies 
Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies 
are translated into Canadian dollars at rates prevailing at the balance 
sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities are translated into 
Canadian dollars at historical rates. Income and expenses denomi-
nated in foreign currencies are translated at average rates of exchange 
for the year. 

Assets and liabilities of our self-sustaining operations with func-

tional currencies other than the Canadian dollar are translated into 
Canadian dollars at rates prevailing at the balance sheet date, and 
income and expenses of these foreign operations are translated at 
average rates of exchange for the year.

Unrealized gains or losses arising as a result of the translation of 
our foreign self-sustaining operations along with the effective portion 
of related hedges are reported as a component of OCI on an after-tax 
basis. Prior to November 1, 2006, these amounts were included in 
Shareholders’ equity. Upon disposal or dilution of our interest in such 
investments, an appropriate portion of the accumulated net transla-
tion gains or losses is included in Non-interest income. 

Other foreign currency translation gains and losses are included 

in Non-interest income. 

Securities
Securities are classified, based on management’s intentions, as  
held-for-trading, available-for-sale or held-to-maturity. 

Held-for-trading securities include securities purchased for sale 
in the near term and securities designated as held-for-trading under 
the fair value option are reported at fair value. Obligations to deliver 
Trading securities sold but not yet purchased are recorded as liabilities 
and carried at fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses 
on these securities are recorded as Trading revenue in Non-interest 
income. Dividend and interest income accruing on Trading securities is 
recorded in Interest income. Interest and dividends accrued on interest- 
bearing and equity securities sold short are recorded in Interest expense.

 Available-for-sale securities include (i) securities which may be 
sold in response to or in anticipation of changes in interest rates and 
resulting prepayment risk, changes in foreign currency risk, changes in 
funding sources or terms, or to meet liquidity needs; and (ii) loan sub-
stitute securities which are client financings that have been structured 
as after-tax investments rather than conventional loans in order to 
provide the clients with a borrowing rate advantage. Available-for-sale 
securities are measured at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, 
including changes in foreign exchange rates, recognized in OCI net of 
tax. Purchase premiums or discounts on available-for-sale securities 
are amortized over the life of the security using the effective interest 
method and are recognized in Net interest income. Investments in 
equity instruments classified as Available-for-sale that do not have a 
quoted market price in an active market are measured at cost. 

Held-to-maturity securities are debt securities where we have 
the intention and ability to hold the investment until its maturity date. 
These securities are carried at amortized cost using the effective inter-
est method. Dividends, interest income and amortization of premiums 
and discounts on debt securities are recorded in Net interest income. 
We hold a nominal amount of held-to-maturity securities in our normal 
course of business. All held-to-maturity securities have been included 
with Available-for-sale securities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 
Gains and losses realized on disposal of available-for-sale securi-

ties are included in Gain on sale of securities in Non-interest income. 
Both available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities are subject to 
periodic impairment review.

Prior to November 1, 2006, all investment securities, other than 

Trading securities, were recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets 
as Investment securities at amortized cost, and loan substitute securi-
ties were accorded the accounting treatment applicable to loans and, 
where required, reduced by an allowance for credit losses. 

We account for all our securities using settlement date accounting 

except that changes in fair value between the trade date and settle-
ment date are reflected in income for securities classified or designated 
as held-for-trading while changes in the fair value of available-for-sale 
securities between the trade and settlement dates are recorded in OCI.

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and sold 
under repurchase agreements 
We purchase securities under agreements to resell (reverse repur-
chase agreements) and take possession of these securities. Reverse 
repurchase agreements are treated as collateralized lending transac-
tions whereby we monitor the market value of the securities purchased 
and additional collateral is obtained when appropriate. We also have 
the right to liquidate the collateral held in the event of counterparty 
default. We also sell securities under agreements to repurchase 
(repurchase agreements), which are treated as collateralized  
borrowing transactions. 

Reverse repurchase agreements and repurchase agreements 
are carried on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at the amounts at 
which the securities were initially acquired or sold plus accrued inter-
est, respectively, except when they are designated using the fair value 
option as held-for-trading and are recorded at fair value. Interest earned 
on reverse repurchase agreements is included in Interest income in our 
Consolidated Statements of Income, and interest incurred on repur-
chase agreements is included in Interest expenses in our Consolidated 
Statements of Income. Changes in fair value for reverse repurchase 
agreements and repurchase agreements carried at fair value under the 
fair value option are included in Trading revenue in Non-interest income.
Prior to November 1, 2006, all reverse repurchase agreements 
and repurchase agreements were carried on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets at the amounts at which the securities were initially acquired or 
sold, respectively, plus accrued interest on interest-bearing securities. 
Interest earned on reverse repurchase agreements was included in 
Interest income, and interest incurred on repurchase agreements was 
included in Interest expense, in our Consolidated Statements of Income. 

Loans 
Loans are recorded at amortized cost unless they have been desig-
nated as held-for-trading using the fair value option. Loans recorded 
at amortized cost are net of an Allowance for loan losses and unearned 
income which comprises unearned interest and unamortized loan fees. 
Loans designated as held-for-trading are carried at fair value. Prior to 
November 1, 2006, all loans were presented at amortized cost net of 
an Allowance for loan losses and unearned income.

Loans stated at amortized cost are subject to periodic impairment 
review and are classified as impaired when, in management’s opinion, 
there is no longer reasonable assurance of the timely collection of the 
full amount of principal or interest. Whenever a payment is 90 days 
past due, loans other than credit card balances and loans guaranteed  
or insured by a Canadian government (federal or provincial) or a 
Canadian government agency (collectively “Canadian government”) 
are classified as impaired unless they are fully secured and collection  
efforts are reasonably expected to result in repayment of debt within 
180 days past due. Credit card balances are written off when a pay-
ment is 180 days in arrears. Loans guaranteed by a Canadian  
government are classified as impaired when the loan is contractually  
365 days in arrears. When a loan is identified as impaired, the accrual 
of interest is discontinued and any previously accrued but unpaid inter-
est on the loan is charged to the Provision for credit losses. Interest 
received on impaired loans is credited to the Provision for credit 
losses. Impaired loans are returned to performing status when all past 
due amounts, including interest, have been collected, loan impairment 
charges have been reversed, and the credit quality has improved such 
that timely collection of principal and interest is reasonably assured.
When an impaired loan is identified, the carrying amount of the 
loan is reduced to its estimated realizable amount, measured by dis-
counting the expected future cash flows at the effective interest rate 
inherent in the loan. In subsequent periods, recoveries of amounts 
previously written off and any increase in the carrying value of the loan 
are credited to the Allowance for credit losses on our Consolidated 
Balance Sheets. Where a portion of a loan is written off and the 
remaining balance is restructured, the new loan is carried on an 
accrual basis when there is no longer any reasonable doubt regarding 
the collectibility of principal or interest, and payments are not 90 days 
past due.

Assets acquired in respect of problem loans are recorded at their 
fair value less costs of disposition. Fair value is determined based on 
either current market value where available or discounted cash flows. 
Any excess of the carrying value of the loan over the recorded fair 
value of the assets acquired is recognized by a charge to the Provision 
for credit losses.

Fees that relate to activities such as originating, restructuring or 

renegotiating loans are deferred and recognized as Interest income 
over the expected term of such loans using the effective interest method.  
Where there is reasonable expectation that a loan will result, commit-
ment and standby fees are also recognized as Interest income over the 
expected term of the resulting loan using the effective interest method. 
Otherwise, such fees are recorded as Other liabilities and amortized to 
Non-interest income over the commitment or standby period. 

Allowance for credit losses 
The Allowance for credit losses is maintained at levels that manage-
ment considers appropriate to cover estimated identified credit related 
losses in the portfolio as well as losses that have been incurred, but 
are not yet identifiable as at the balance sheet date. The allowance 
relates to on-balance sheet exposures, such as loans and acceptances, 
and off-balance sheet items such as letters of credit, guarantees and 
unfunded commitments. 

The allowance is increased by a charge to the Provision for credit 

losses and decreased by the amount of write-offs, net of recoveries. 
The Allowance for credit losses for on-balance sheet items is included 
as a reduction to assets, and the allowance relating to off-balance 
sheet items is included in Other liabilities.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

119

Note 1    Significant accounting policies and estimates (continued)

The allowance is determined based on management’s identifica-

tion and evaluation of problem accounts on estimated losses that exist 
on the remaining portfolio, and on other factors including the com-
position and credit quality of the portfolio, and changes in economic 
and business conditions. The Allowance for credit losses consists of 
Specific allowances and the General allowance. 

Specific allowances 
Specific allowances are recorded to recognize estimated losses on 
both retail and wholesale loans that have become impaired. The losses 
relating to wholesale borrowers including small business loans individ-
ually managed are estimated using management’s judgment relating 
to the timing of future cash flow amounts that can be reasonably 
expected from the borrowers, financially responsible guarantors and 
the realization of collateral. The amounts expected to be recovered are 
reduced by estimated collection costs and discounted at the effective 
interest rate of the obligation. The losses relating to retail portfolios, 
including residential mortgages, and personal and small business 
loans managed on a pooled basis are based on net write-off experi-
ence. For credit cards, no specific allowance is maintained as balances 
are written off when a payment is 180 days in arrears. Personal loans 
are generally written off at 150 days past due. Write-offs for other 
loans are generally recorded when there is no realistic prospect of  
full recovery. 

General allowance 
A general allowance is established to cover estimated credit losses 
incurred in the lending portfolio that have not yet been specifically 
identified as impaired. For heterogeneous loans (wholesale loans 
including small business loans individually managed), the determina-
tion of the general allowance is based on the application of estimated 
probability of default, gross exposure at default and loss factors, 
which are determined by historical loss experience and delineated by 
loan type and rating. For homogeneous portfolios (retail loans) includ-
ing residential mortgages, credit cards, as well as personal and small 
business loans that are managed on a pooled basis, the determination 
of the general allowance is based on the application of historical loss 
rates. In determining the general allowance level, management also 
considers the current portfolio credit quality trends, business and 
economic conditions, the impact of policy and process changes, and 
other supporting factors. In addition, the general allowance includes 
a component for the model limitations and imprecision inherent in the 
allowance methodologies. 

Acceptances 
Acceptances are short-term negotiable instruments issued by our  
clients to third parties which we guarantee. The potential liability  
under acceptances is reported in Liabilities – Other on our Consolidated 
Balance Sheets. The recourse against our clients in the case of a  
call on these commitments is reported as a corresponding asset 
of the same amount in Assets – Other. Fees earned are reported in  
Non-interest income. 

When derivatives are used in sales and trading activities, the real-
ized and unrealized gains and losses on derivatives are recognized in  
Non-interest income – Trading revenue. Derivatives with a positive 
fair value are reported as Derivative assets and derivatives with a neg-
ative fair value are reported as Derivative liabilities. Where we have 
both the legal right and intent to settle derivative assets and liabilities 
simultaneously with a counterparty, the net fair value of the derivative 
positions is reported as an asset or liability, as appropriate. Margin 
requirements and premiums paid are also included in Derivative 
assets, while premiums received are shown in Derivative liabilities.
When derivatives are used to manage our own exposures, we 

determine for each derivative whether hedge accounting can be 
applied, as discussed below. 

Hedge accounting 
We use derivatives and non-derivatives in our hedging strategies to 
manage our exposure to interest, currency, credit and other market 
risks. Where hedge accounting can be applied, a hedge relationship is 
designated and documented at inception to detail the particular risk 
management objective and the strategy for undertaking the hedge 
transaction. The documentation identifies the specific asset, liability 
or anticipated cash flows being hedged, the risk that is being hedged, 
the type of hedging instrument used and how effectiveness will be 
assessed. The hedging instrument must be highly effective in accom-
plishing the objective of offsetting either changes in the fair value or 
anticipated cash flows attributable to the risk being hedged both at 
inception and throughout the life of the hedge. Hedge accounting is 
discontinued prospectively when it is determined that the hedging 
instrument is no longer effective as a hedge, the hedging instrument is 
terminated or sold, or upon the sale or early termination of the  
hedged item. Refer to Note 2 for the fair value of the derivatives and 
non-derivative financial instruments categorized by their hedging 
relationships, as well as derivatives that are not designated in hedging 
relationships. 

Fair value hedges 
In a fair value hedging relationship, the carrying value of the hedged 
item is adjusted for changes in fair value attributable to the hedged 
risk and recognized in Non-interest income. Changes in the fair value 
of the hedged item, to the extent that the hedging relationship is 
effective, are offset by changes in the fair value of the hedging deriva-
tive, which are also recognized in Non-interest income. When hedge 
accounting is discontinued, the carrying value of the hedged item is no 
longer adjusted and the cumulative fair value adjustments to the car-
rying value of the hedged items are amortized to Net income over the 
remaining term of the original hedging relationship. 

We predominantly use interest rate swaps to hedge our exposure 

to the changes in a fixed interest rate instrument’s fair value caused 
by changes in interest rates. We also use, in limited circumstances, 
certain cash instruments to hedge our exposure to the changes in fair 
value of monetary assets attributable to changes in foreign currency 
exchange rates.

Derivatives 
Derivatives are primarily used in sales and trading activities. 
Derivatives are also used to manage our exposures to interest, 
currency, credit and other market risks. The most frequently used 
derivative products are interest rate swaps, interest rate futures,  
forward rate agreements, interest rate options, foreign exchange 
forward contracts, currency swaps, foreign currency futures, foreign 
currency options and credit derivatives. All derivative instruments are 
recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, including 
those derivatives that are embedded in financial or non-financial  
contracts that are not closely related to the host contracts. 

Cash flow hedges
In a cash flow hedging relationship, the effective portion of the change 
in the fair value of the hedging derivative, net of taxes, is recognized  
in OCI while the ineffective portion is recognized in Non-interest 
income. When hedge accounting is discontinued, the amounts previ-
ously recognized in AOCI are reclassified to Net interest income during 
the periods when the variability in the cash flows of the hedged item 
affects Net interest income. Gains and losses on derivatives are reclas-
sified immediately to Net income when the hedged item is sold or 
terminated early. We predominantly use interest rate swaps to hedge 
the variability in cash flows related to a variable rate asset or liability.

120

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Prior to November 1, 2006, when a derivative was designated and 
qualified as an effective hedging instrument in a fair value or cash flow 
hedge, the income or expense of that derivative was recognized as an  
adjustment to Interest income or Interest expense of the hedged item 
in the same period. When hedge accounting was discontinued pro-
spectively, the fair value of the derivative was recognized in Derivative 
assets or liabilities at that time and the gain or loss was deferred and 
recognized in Net interest income in the periods in which the hedged 
item affects income. When hedge accounting was discontinued due to 
the sale or early termination of the hedged item, the fair value of the 
derivative was recognized in Derivative assets or liabilities at that time 
and the unrealized gain or loss is recognized in Non-interest income. 

Net investment hedges 
In hedging a foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a self-
sustaining foreign operation, the effective portion of foreign exchange 
gains and losses on the hedging instruments, net of applicable 
taxes, is recognized in OCI and the ineffective portion is recognized 
in Non-interest income. The amounts previously recognized in AOCI 
are recognized in Net income when there is a reduction in the hedged 
net investment as a result of a dilution or sale of the net investment, 
or reduction in equity of the foreign operation as a result of dividend 
distributions. 

We use foreign exchange contracts and foreign currency- 
denominated liabilities to manage our foreign currency exposures  
to net investments in self-sustaining foreign operations having a  
functional currency other than the Canadian dollar.

Prior to November 1, 2006, foreign exchange gains and losses  
on these hedging instruments, net of tax, were recorded in Net foreign 
currency translation adjustments in our Consolidated Statements of 
Changes in Shareholders’ Equity. 

Premises and equipment 
Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated deprecia-
tion. Depreciation is recorded principally on a straight-line basis over 
the estimated useful lives of the assets, which are 25 to 50 years for 
buildings, 3 to 10 years for computer equipment, and 7 to 10 years for 
furniture, fixtures and other equipment. The amortization period for 
leasehold improvements is the lesser of the useful life of the leasehold 
improvements or the lease term plus the first renewal period, if  
reasonably assured of renewal, up to a maximum of 10 years. Gains 
and losses on disposal are recorded in Non-interest income. 

Business combinations, goodwill and other intangibles
All business combinations are accounted for using the purchase 
method. Identifiable intangible assets are recognized separately from 
Goodwill and included in Other intangibles. Goodwill represents the 
excess of the price paid for the business acquired over the fair value 
of the net identifiable assets acquired, and is assigned to reporting 
units of a business segment. A reporting unit comprises business 
operations with similar economic characteristics and strategies, and 
is defined by GAAP as the level of reporting at which goodwill is tested 
for impairment and is either a business segment or one level below. 
Upon disposal of a portion of a reporting unit, goodwill is allocated to 
the disposed portion based on the fair value of that portion relative to 
the total reporting unit. 

Goodwill is evaluated for impairment annually as at August 1 or 
more often if events or circumstances indicate there may be an impair-
ment. If the carrying value of a reporting unit, including the allocated 
goodwill, exceeds its fair value, goodwill impairment is measured as 
the excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s allocated 
goodwill over the implied fair value of the goodwill, based on the fair 
value of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. Any goodwill 
impairment is charged to income in the period in which the impairment 
is identified. Subsequent reversals of impairment are prohibited.

which may indicate that the estimated future net cash flows from the 
asset will be insufficient to recover its carrying amount. 

Income taxes 
We use the asset and liability method whereby income taxes reflect 
the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences 
between the carrying amounts of assets or liabilities for accounting 
purposes compared with tax purposes. A future income tax asset or 
liability is determined for each temporary difference based on the tax 
rates that are expected to be in effect when the underlying items of 
income and expense are expected to be realized, except for earnings 
related to our foreign operations where repatriation of such amounts is 
not contemplated in the foreseeable future. Income taxes reported in 
our Consolidated Statements of Income include the current and future 
portions of the expense. Income taxes applicable to items charged or 
credited to Shareholders’ equity are netted with such items. Changes 
in future income taxes related to a change in tax rates are recognized 
in the period when the tax rate change is substantively enacted.

Net future income taxes accumulated as a result of temporary 

differences are included in Other assets. A valuation allowance is 
established to reduce future income tax assets to the amount more 
likely than not to be realized. In addition, our Consolidated Statements 
of Income contain items that are non-taxable or non-deductible for 
income tax purposes and, accordingly, cause the income tax provision 
to be different from what it would be if based on statutory rates.

Pensions and other post-employment benefits 
We offer a number of benefit plans, which provide pension and other 
benefits to eligible employees (as described in Note 20). These plans 
include registered defined benefit pension plans, supplemental pen-
sion plans, defined contribution plans and health, dental, disability 
and life insurance plans.

Investments held by the pension funds primarily comprise equity 

and fixed income securities. Pension fund assets are valued at fair 
value. For the principal defined benefit plans, the expected return  
on plan assets, which is reflected in the pension benefit expense, is 
calculated using a market-related value approach. Under this approach, 
assets are valued at an adjusted market value, whereby realized and 
unrealized capital gains and losses are amortized over three years on 
a straight-line basis. For the majority of the non-principal and supple-
mental defined benefit pension plans, the expected return on plan 
assets is calculated based on fair value of assets. 

Actuarial valuations for the defined benefit plans are performed 

on a regular basis to determine the present value of the accrued  
pension and other post-employment benefits, based on projections 
of employees’ compensation levels to the time of retirement and the 
costs of health, dental, disability and life insurance. 

Our defined benefit pension expense, which is included in  

Non-interest expenses – Human resources, consists of the cost of 
employee pension benefits for the current year’s service, interest cost 
on the liability, expected investment return on the market-related 
value or market value of plan assets and the amortization of prior 
service costs, net actuarial gains or losses and transitional assets or 
obligations. For some of our defined benefit plans, including the prin-
cipal defined benefit plans, actuarial gains or losses are determined 
each year and amortized over the expected average remaining service 
life of employee groups covered by the plan. For the remaining defined 
benefit plans, net actuarial gains or losses in excess of the greater of 
10% of the plan assets or the benefit obligation at the beginning of the 
year are amortized over the expected average remaining service life of 
employee groups covered by the plan. 

Gains and losses on settlements of defined benefit plans are 
recognized in income when settlement occurs. Curtailment gains and 
losses are recognized in the period when the curtailment becomes 
probable and the impact can be reasonably estimated.

Other intangibles with a finite life are amortized on a straight-line 

Our defined contribution plan expense is included in Non-interest 

basis over their estimated useful lives, generally not exceeding  
20 years, and are also tested for impairment when conditions exist 

expense – Human resources for services rendered by employees  
during the period.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

121

 
Note 1    Significant accounting policies and estimates (continued)

The cumulative excess of pension fund contributions over the 

amounts recorded as expenses is reported as a Prepaid pension  
benefit cost in Other assets. The cumulative excess of expense over 
fund contributions is reported as Accrued pension and other post-
employment benefit expense in Other liabilities. 

Stock-based compensation
We offer stock-based compensation plans to certain key employees 
and to our non-employee directors as described in Note 21. 

We use the fair value method to account for stock options granted 

to employees whereby compensation expense is recognized over the 
applicable vesting period with a corresponding increase in Contributed 
surplus. When the options are exercised, the exercise price proceeds 
together with the amount initially recorded in Contributed surplus are 
credited to Common shares. Stock options granted prior to November 1,  
2002, were accounted for using the intrinsic value method, and  
accordingly no expense was recognized for these options since the 
exercise price for such grants was equal to the closing price on the day 
before the stock options were granted. These awards fully vested  
during 2006. When these stock options are exercised, the proceeds 
will be recorded as Common shares. 

Options granted between November 29, 1999, and June 5, 2001, 
were accompanied by tandem stock appreciation rights (SARs), which 
gave participants the option to receive cash payments equal to the 
excess of the current market price of our shares over the options’ 
exercise price. SARs obligations are now fully vested and give rise to 
compensation expense as a result of changes in the market price of our 
common shares. These expenses, net of related hedges, are recorded 
as Non-interest expense – Human resources in our Consolidated 
Statements of Income with a corresponding increase in Other liabilities 
on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

Our other compensation plans include performance deferred 
share plans and deferred share unit plans for key employees (the 
Plans). The deferred share plans are settled in our common shares 
or cash, and the deferred share unit plans are settled in cash. The 
obligations for the Plans are accrued over their vesting period. For 
share-settled awards, our accrued obligations are based on the  
market price of our common shares at the date of grant. For cash-
settled awards, our accrued obligations are periodically adjusted for 
fluctuations in the market price of our common shares and dividends 
accrued. Changes in our obligations under the Plans, net of related 
hedges, are recorded as Non-interest expense – Human resources in 
our Consolidated Statements of Income with a corresponding increase 
in Other liabilities or Contributed surplus on our Consolidated  
Balance Sheets. 

The compensation cost attributable to options and awards, 
granted to employees who are eligible to retire or will become eligible 
to retire during the vesting period, is recognized immediately if the 
employee is eligible to retire on the grant date or over the period 
between the grant date and the date the employee becomes eligible  
to retire.

Our contributions to the employee savings and share ownership 

plans are expensed as incurred.

Loan securitization 
We periodically securitize loans by selling loans or packaged loans in 
the form of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) to independent special 
purpose entities (SPEs) or trusts that issue securities to investors. 
These transactions are accounted for as sales and the transferred 
assets are removed from our Consolidated Balance Sheets when we 
are deemed to have surrendered control over such assets and have 
received consideration other than beneficial interests in these trans-
ferred loans. For control to be surrendered, all of the following must 

122

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

occur: (i) the transferred loans must be isolated from the seller, even 
in bankruptcy or other receivership; (ii) the purchaser must have the 
legal right to sell or pledge the transferred loans or, if the purchaser 
is a Qualifying Special Purpose Entity (QSPE) as described in the CICA 
Accounting Guideline 12, Transfers of Receivables (AcG-12), its inves-
tors have the right to sell or pledge their ownership interest in the 
entity; and (iii) the seller must not continue to control the transferred 
loans through an agreement to repurchase them or have a right to 
cause the loans to be returned. If any one of these conditions is not 
met, the transfer is considered to be a secured borrowing, the loans 
remain on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the proceeds are  
recognized as a liability.

When MBS are created, we reclassify the loans at their carrying 

costs into MBS and retained interests on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets. The retained interest represents the excess spread of loan 
interest over the MBS rate of return. The initial carrying value of the 
MBS and the related retained interests are determined based on their 
relative fair value on the date of securitization. MBS are classified as 
trading account securities or available-for-sale securities, based on 
management’s intent. Retained interests are classified as available-
for-sale. Both MBS and the retained interests are subject to periodic 
impairment review. 

Prior to November 1, 2006, retained interests in securitizations 

that could be contractually prepaid or otherwise settled in such a way 
that we would not recover substantially all of our recorded investment 
were classified as Investment account securities at amortized cost.

Gains on the sale of loans or MBS are recognized in Non-interest 

income and are dependent on the previous carrying amount of the 
loans or MBS involved in the transfer. To obtain fair values, quoted 
market prices are used, if available. When quotes are not available 
for retained interests, we generally determine fair value based on the 
present value of expected future cash flows using management’s best 
estimates of key assumptions such as payment rates, weighted aver-
age life of the prepayable receivables, excess spread, expected credit 
losses and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. 

For each securitization transaction where we have retained the 
servicing rights, we assess whether the benefits of servicing represent 
adequate compensation. When the benefits of servicing are more than 
adequate, a servicing asset is recognized in Other assets. When the 
benefits of servicing are not expected to be adequate, we recognize  
a servicing liability in Other liabilities. Neither an asset nor a liability  
is recognized when we have received adequate compensation.  
A servicing asset or liability is amortized in proportion to and over the 
period of estimated net servicing income. 

Insurance 
Premiums from long-duration contracts, primarily life insurance, are 
recognized when due in Non-interest income – Insurance premiums, 
investment and fee income. Premiums from short-duration contracts, 
primarily property and casualty, and fees for administrative services 
are recognized in Insurance premiums, investment and fee income 
over the related contract period. Unearned premiums of the short-
duration contracts, representing the unexpired portion of premiums, 
are reported in Other liabilities. Investments made by our insurance 
operations are classified as available-for-sale or loans and receivables, 
except for investments supporting the policy benefit liabilities on 
life and health insurance contracts which are designated as held-for-
trading under the fair value option with changes in fair value reported in 
Insurance premiums, investment and fee income.

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities represent current 
claims and estimates for future insurance policy benefits. Liabilities 
for life insurance contracts are determined using the Canadian Asset 
Liability Method (CALM), which incorporates assumptions for mortality, 

morbidity, policy lapses and surrenders, investment yields, policy divi-
dends, operating and policy maintenance expenses, and provisions  
for adverse deviation. These assumptions are reviewed at least 
annually and updated in response to actual experience and market 
conditions. Liabilities for property and casualty insurance represent 
estimated provisions for reported and unreported claims. Liabilities 
for life and property and casualty insurance are included in Insurance 
claims and policy benefit liabilities.

Acquisition costs for new insurance business consist of commis-

sions, premium taxes, certain underwriting costs and other costs  
that vary with the acquisition of new business. Deferred acquisition 
costs for life insurance products are implicitly recognized in Insurance 
claims and policy benefit liabilities by CALM. For property and casualty 
insurance, these costs are classified as Other assets and amortized 
over the policy term. 

Segregated funds are lines of business in which we issue a con-

tract where the benefit amount is directly linked to the market value of 
the investments held in the underlying fund. The contractual arrange-
ment is such that the underlying assets are registered in our name but 
the segregated fund policyholders bear the risk and rewards of the 
fund’s investment performance. We provide minimum death benefit and 
maturity value guarantees on segregated funds. The liability associ-
ated with these minimum guarantees is recorded in Insurance claims 
and policy benefit liabilities. Segregated funds are not included in our 
Consolidated Financial Statements. We derive only fee income from 
segregated funds, which is reflected in Insurance premiums, invest-
ment and fee income. Fee income includes management fees, mortality, 
policy, administration and surrender charges.

Prior to November 1, 2006, investments made by our insurance 
operations were included in Investment account securities. Realized 
gains and losses on disposal of fixed income investments that support  
life insurance liabilities were deferred and amortized to Insurance premi-
ums, investment and fee income over the remaining term to maturity of 
the investments sold, up to a maximum period of 20 years. For equities 
that were held to support non-universal life insurance products, the 
realized gains and losses were deferred and amortized into Insurance 
premiums, investment and fee income at the quarterly rate of 5% of 
unamortized deferred gains and losses. The differences between the 
market value and adjusted carrying cost of these equities were reduced 
quarterly by 5%. Equities held to support universal life insurance prod-
ucts were carried at market value. Realized and unrealized gains or 
losses on these equities were included in Insurance premiums, invest-
ment and fee income. Specific investments were written down to market 
value or the net realizable value if it was determined that any impair-
ment in value was other-than-temporary. The write down was recorded 
against Insurance premiums, investment and fee income in the period 
the impairment is recognized. 

Liabilities and equity
Financial instruments that will be settled by a variable number of 
our common shares upon their conversion by the holders as well as 
the related accrued distributions are classified as liabilities on our 
Consolidated Balance Sheets. Dividends and yield distributions on 
these instruments are classified as Interest expense in our Consolidated 
Statements of Income. 

Earnings per share 
Earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income available to com-
mon shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares 
outstanding for the period, net of Treasury shares. Net income avail-
able to common shareholders is determined after deducting dividend 
entitlements of preferred shareholders and any gain (loss) on redemp-
tion of preferred shares net of related income taxes. Diluted earnings 
per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if additional 
common shares are assumed to be issued under securities or contracts 
that entitle their holders to obtain common shares in the future, to the 

extent such entitlement is not subject to unresolved contingencies. The 
number of additional shares for inclusion in diluted earnings per share 
calculations is determined using the treasury stock method. Under this 
method, stock options whose exercise price is less than the average 
market price of our common shares are assumed to be exercised and the 
proceeds are used to repurchase common shares at the average market 
price for the period. The incremental number of common shares issued 
under stock options and repurchased from proceeds is included in the 
calculation of diluted earnings per share. 

Use of estimates and assumptions 
In preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with 
GAAP, management is required to make estimates and assumptions 
that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, net income 
and related disclosures. Certain estimates, including the allowance 
for credit losses, the fair value of financial instruments, accounting 
for securitizations, litigation provisions, variable interest entities, 
insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities, pensions and other 
post-employment benefits, the carrying value of goodwill, credit card 
customer loyalty reward program liability and income taxes, require 
management to make subjective or complex judgments. Accordingly, 
actual results could differ from these and other estimates thereby 
impacting our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Change in accounting estimate
During the year, we adjusted the liability associated with our credit 
card customer loyalty reward program by $121 million in order to 
reflect higher program costs. This change in estimate is reflected as 
an increase in Other – Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets and as a decrease in Non-interest income – Card service  
revenue in our Consolidated Statements of Income.

Change in financial statement presentation
On November 1, 2007, we implemented the International Convergence 
of Capital Measurement and Capital Standards: A Revised Framework, 
known as Basel II. In preparation for this implementation, we  
reclassified our loans and credit quality information as either Retail or 
Wholesale. During the year, we revisited our presentation of certain 
assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses for previous periods to bet-
ter reflect the nature of these items. Accordingly, certain comparative 
amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year’s 
presentation. These reclassifications did not materially impact our 
consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Future accounting changes 
Capital Disclosures and Financial Instruments – Disclosures  
and Presentation
On December 1, 2006, the CICA issued three new accounting standards: 
Handbook Section 1535, Capital Disclosures (Section 1535), Handbook 
Section 3862, Financial Instruments – Disclosures (Section 3862),  
and Handbook Section 3863, Financial Instruments – Presentation 
(Section 3863). These new standards became effective for us on 
November 1, 2007. 

Section 1535 specifies the disclosure of (i) an entity’s objectives, 

policies and processes for managing capital; (ii) quantitative data about 
what the entity regards as capital; (iii) whether the entity has complied 
with any capital requirements; and (iv) if it has not complied, the conse-
quences of such non-compliance. 

Sections 3862 and 3863 replace Handbook Section 3861, Financial 

Instruments – Disclosure and Presentation, revising and enhancing its 
disclosure requirements, and carrying forward unchanged its presenta-
tion requirements. These new sections place increased emphasis on 
disclosures about the nature and extent of risks arising from financial 
instruments and how the entity manages those risks. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

123

Note 2    Fair value of financial instruments

The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount at which the 
financial instrument could be exchanged in an arm’s-length transac-
tion between knowledgeable and willing parties under no compulsion 
to act. Fair values are determined by reference to quoted bid or ask 
prices, as appropriate, in the most advantageous active market for 
that instrument to which we have immediate access. Where bid and 
ask prices are unavailable, we use the closing price of the most recent 
transaction of that instrument subject to the liquidation adjustments 
referred to below. In the absence of an active market, we determine 
fair values based on prevailing market rates (bid and ask prices, as 
appropriate) for instruments with similar characteristics and risk pro-
files or internal or external valuation models, such as option pricing 
models and discounted cash flow analysis, using observable market-
based inputs. 

Liquidity adjustments are calculated when market prices are not 

observable due to insufficient trading volume or a lack of recent trades 
in a less active or inactive market. Liquidity adjustments are also cal-
culated to reflect the cost of unwinding a larger than normal market 
size risk position. 

All of our derivatives transactions are accounted for on a fair 

value basis. We record valuation adjustments that represent the fair 
value of the credit risk of our derivative portfolios. These adjustments 
take into account the creditworthiness of our counterparties, the cur-
rent and potential future mark-to-market of the transactions, and the 
effects of credit mitigants such as master netting agreements and 
collateral agreements. Credit valuation adjustments are recalculated 
regularly for all of our derivative portfolios. Changes to credit valua-
tion adjustments are recorded in current period income. 

Fair values determined using valuation models require the use of 

We have documented internal policies that detail our processes 

assumptions concerning the amount and timing of estimated future 
cash flows and discount rates. In determining those assumptions, we 
look primarily to external readily observable market inputs including 
factors such as interest rate yield curves, currency rates, and price 
and rate volatilities, as applicable. In limited circumstances, we use 
input parameters that are not based on observable market data with 
an adjustment to reflect the uncertainty and to ensure that financial 
instruments are reported at fair values. Based on our assessment  
we believe that using possible alternative assumptions to fair value 
such financial instruments will not result in significantly different  
fair values. 

for determining fair value, including the methodologies used in  
establishing our valuation adjustments. These methodologies are  
consistently applied and periodically reviewed by our Risk 
Management group.

Carrying value and fair value of selected financial instruments
As a result of adopting the new financial instruments accounting 
standards, certain financial instruments are now measured at fair 
value which were previously reported at cost or amortized cost. This 
is primarily due to the reclassification of certain securities as Trading 
securities, which includes securities designated as held-for-trading 
using the fair value option. The following table provides a comparison 
of carrying and fair values as at October 31, 2007 and October 31, 
2006, for selected financial instruments:

Carrying value and fair value of 

October 31, 2007 

Carrying
value 

Fair value

October 31,  
2006

Financial 
instruments 
required to 

Financial 
instruments  
  be classified  designated 
as held- 

as held- 
for-trading 

Available- 
for-sale 
instruments 

Loans and 
receivables 
and  

Loans and 
receivables 
and 
measured  non-trading  non-trading 
liabilities 
liabilities 

Available- 
for-sale 
instruments 
measured 
at cost 

Total 
carrying 
amount 

Total 
fair 
value 

Total 
fair
value

for-trading  at fair value 

Financial assets
Securities 
    Trading 
    Available-for-sale (1) 

    Total securities 

  $  129,408  $  18,838  $ 

–  $ 

– 

– 

  28,811 

  $  129,408  $  18,838  $  28,811  $ 

–  $ 
– 

–  $ 

–  $ 
– 

–  $  148,246  $  148,246 
  30,009 

  30,009 

1,198 

–  $ 

1,198  $  178,255  $  178,255  $  185,239

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements  
  and securities borrowed 

  $ 

–  $  25,522  $ 

–  $  38,791  $  38,791  $ 

–  $  64,313  $  64,313  $  59,378

Loans      
    Retail  
    Wholesale 

    Total loans 

Other      
    Derivatives 
    Other assets  

Financial liabilities 
Deposits  
    Personal 
    Business and government 
    Bank   

    Total deposits 

  $ 

–  $ 
– 

–  $ 

3,235 

–  $  168,782  $  168,375  $ 
– 

  65,910 

  65,919 

–  $  168,782  $  168,375 
  69,145 
– 

  69,154 

  $ 

–  $ 

3,235  $ 

–  $  234,701  $  234,285  $ 

–  $  237,936  $  237,520  $  208,638

  $  66,585  $ 

– 

–  $ 

164 

  $ 

–  $ 

851  $ 

1,639 
– 

  56,751 
5,668 

–  $ 
– 

–  $ 

–  $ 

  24,653 

  24,653 

–  $  66,585  $  66,585  $  37,682 
  22,660
– 

  24,817 

  24,817 

–  $  115,706  $  115,609  $ 
– 
– 

  161,496 
  23,094 

  161,217 
  23,095 

–  $  116,557  $  116,460 
  219,607 
– 
  28,763 
– 

  219,886 
  28,762 

  $ 

1,639  $  63,270  $ 

–  $  300,296  $  299,921  $ 

–  $  365,205  $  364,830  $  343,312

Other      
    Obligations related to securities sold short 
    Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase  
      agreements and securities loaned 
    Derivatives 
    Other liabilities 
Subordinated debentures 
Trust capital securities 
Preferred share liabilities  

  $  44,689  $ 

–  $ 

–  $ 

–  $ 

–  $ 

–  $  44,689  $  44,689  $  38,252 

– 
  72,010 
– 
– 
– 
– 

  24,086 
– 
– 
77 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

  12,947 
– 
  36,232 
6,158 
1,400 
300 

  12,947 
– 
 3 6,262 
6,427 
1,476 
300 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

  37,033 
  72,010 
  36,232 
6,235 
1,400 
300 

  37,033 
  72,010 
  36,262 
6,504 
1,476 
300 

  41,103 
  42,108 
  28,736
7,384
1,532
304

(1) 

Available-for-sale securities, including loan substitutes, are carried at fair value and held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. Prior to November 1, 2006, both available-
for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were classified as Investment securities and were carried at amortized cost. The prior period comparative amounts have not been restated.

124

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
             
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
             
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The purpose of the table below is to present the carrying value of those financial instruments that were classified upon adoption as held-for-trading 
or available-for-sale or designated as held-for-trading using the fair value option.

October 31, 2006

Carrying value

Required 
to be 

classified  Designated 
  as held-for-  as held-for- 
trading 

trading 

Classified
as 
available-
for-sale

Financial assets
Securities 
    Trading 
    Investments (1) 

    Total securities 

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans      
Other      
    Derivatives 
    Other assets  

Financial liabilities 
Deposits  
Other      
    Obligations related to securities sold short 
    Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
    Derivatives 

(1) 

Includes the value of loan substitutes, which is nominal.

During the year, the fair value of our net financial assets classified as 
held-for-trading increased by $2,115 million. The fair value of our net 
financial assets designated as held-for-trading increased by $80 mil-
lion; substantially all of this increase was economically hedged. The 
fair value of financial liabilities that we designated as held-for-trading 
decreased by $88 million due to changes in our own credit risk. 

Derivatives and non-derivative financial instruments 

Financial assets
    Derivative financial instruments (1) 

Financial liabilities 
    Derivative financial instruments (1) 
    Non-derivative financial instruments (2) 

All derivative instruments are carried at fair value.

(1)  
(2)   Non-derivative financial instruments are carried at amortized cost.
n.a.   not applicable

  $  139,491  $  18,412  $ 

– 

– 

–
  26,966

  $  139,491  $  18,412  $  26,966

  $ 

–  $  40,535  $ 
– 

2,686 

  37,733 
– 

– 
527 

  $ 

1,651  $  60,859  $ 

  38,252 
– 
  42,340 

– 
  27,494 
– 

–
–

– 
–

–

– 
– 
–

The following table presents the carrying values of the deriva-

tive and non-derivative financial instruments designated as hedging 
instruments categorized by their hedging relationships, as well as 
derivatives that are not designated in hedging relationships.

As at October 31, 2007

Designated as hedging instruments 
in hedging relationships 

Cash flow 
hedges 

Fair value 
hedges 

Net investment  
hedges 

Not designated
in a hedging
relationship

390 

$ 

268 

$ 

856 

$  65,071

$ 

206 
– 

$ 

166 
472 

5 
4,307 

$  71,633
n.a.

$ 

$ 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

125

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 2    Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

The following table presents the changes in fair value of the financial liabilities designated as held-for-trading using the fair value option as well as 
their contractual maturity and carrying amounts.

Liabilities designated as held-for-trading 

Term deposits 
    Personal 
    Business and government 
    Bank 

Total term deposits 

Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and  
  securities loaned 
Subordinated debentures 

October 31, 2007 

Contractual 
maturity 
amount 

Carrying 
amount 

Change in fair  
Difference 
between 
value since
carrying  November 1, 2006 
attributable 
to changes
in RBC’s
credit spread

amount and 
contractual 
maturity 
amount 

$ 

890 
56,741 
5,668 

$ 

851 
56,751 
5,668 

$ 

(39)  $ 
10 
– 

$  63,299 

$  63,270 

$ 

(29)  $ 

$  24,087 
82 

$  24,086 
77 

$ 

(1)  $ 
(5) 

(6)
(74) 
(1)

(81)

–
(7) 

Total      

$  87,468 

$ 

87,433 

$ 

(35)  $ 

(88)

The following table presents information on loans and receivables designated as held-for-trading using the fair value option, the maximum  
exposure to credit risk, the extent to which the risk is mitigated by credit derivatives and similar instruments, and changes in the fair value of these 
assets as at October 31, 2007:  

Carrying 
amount of 
loans and 
receivables 
designated 
as held- 
for-trading 

Maximum 
exposure to 
credit risk 

Change 
in fair 
value since 
November 1, 
2006 

Cumulative 
change in 
fair value 
since initial 
recognition 
attributable  attributable to 
changes in 
credit risk 

to changes in 
credit risk 

Cumulative  
Change in 
change in fair
fair value  value of credit
derivatives 
of credit 
or similar
derivatives 
instruments
or similar 
since 
instruments 
designation
since 
of asset
November 1, 
at fair value
2006 

Extent to 
which credit 
derivatives 
or similar 
instruments 
mitigate 
credit risk 

$  4,821 

$  4,821 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

 25,522 
  3,235 

 25,522 
  3,164 

– 
(42) 

– 
(21) 

– 
  1,106 

–

–
– 

–

– 
18 

18 

$ 

Loans and receivables designated as held-for-trading 

Interest-bearing deposits with banks 
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements 
  and securities borrowed 
Loans    

Total      

$ 33,578 

$ 33,507 

$ 

(42)  $ 

(21)  $  1,106 

$ 

126

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 3    Securities (1)

Within 3 
months 

3 months 
to 1 year 

1 to 5 
years 

Over 5 years 
to 10 years 

Over 
10 years 

With no 
specific 
maturity 

2007 

Total 

2006 

Total 

2005 

Total

Term to maturity (2)

Trading account 
    Canadian government debt  $  1,683 
    U.S. government debt 
384 
    Other OECD government debt (3)   
– 
    Mortgage-backed securities 
110 
    Asset-backed securities 
231 
    Corporate debt and other debt 
        Bankers’ acceptances 
        Certificates of deposit 
        Other 
    Equities 

373 
704 
  5,189 
– 

$  3,046 
  1,066 
  1,429 
59 
47 

$  5,106 
  2,084 
  2,699 
  1,200 
  6,612 

$  1,383 
377 
26 
  1,176 
53 

$  2,853 
  5,106 
82 
  3,099 
691 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$  14,071  $  13,900  $  11,814 
  7,281 
  7,793 
  6,476 
  4,658 
  2,281 
  3,841 
  8,781 
  9,064 

  9,017 
  4,236 
  5,644 
  7,634 

1 
  3,525 
  4,011 
– 

– 
344 
 24,468 
– 

– 
125 
  2,220 
– 

– 
14 
  4,986 
– 

– 
– 
  1,564 
 60,120 

374 
  4,712 
  42,438 
  60,120 

766 
  5,245 
  44,139 
  57,831 

998 
  8,705 
  33,714 
  45,710

  8,674 

 13,184 

 42,513 

  5,360 

 16,831 

 61,684 

 148,246 

  147,237 

 125,760

195 
195 
  3.5% 

Available-for-sale securities (1) 
    Canadian government debt 
        Federal 
            Amortized cost 
            Fair value 
            Yield (4) 
        Provincial and municipal 
            Amortized cost 
            Fair value  
            Yield (4) 
    U.S. government debt 
        Federal 
            Amortized cost 
            Fair value 
            Yield (4) 
        State, municipal and agencies 
            Amortized cost 
            Fair value  
            Yield (4) 
    Other OECD government debt (3)  
        Amortized cost 
        Fair value 
        Yield (4) 
    Mortgage-backed securities 
        Amortized cost 
        Fair value 
        Yield (4) 
    Asset-backed securities 
        Amortized cost 
        Fair value 
        Yield (4) 
    Corporate debt and other debt   
        Amortized cost 
        Fair value 
        Yield (4) 
    Equities (5) 
        Cost 
        Fair value 
    Loan substitute 
        Cost 
        Fair value 
        Yield (4) 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

307 
307 
  5.3% 

1 
1 
  3.6% 

80 
80 
  5.2% 

399 
399 
  6.0% 

  2,563 
  2,554 
  4.8% 

57 
57 
  4.7% 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

517 
518 
  5.1% 

622 
622 
.5% 

90 
90 
  4.7% 

5 
5 
  4.2% 

  2,779 
  2,850 
  5.2% 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

  2,031 
  2,040 
  4.4% 

201 
201 
  4.0% 

– 
– 
– 

  1,194 
  1,155 
  5.0% 

107 
107 
  4.2% 

  4,854 
  4,872 
  4.6% 

245 
239 
  4.7% 

  3,229 
  3,135 
  4.5% 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

382 
384 
  4.5% 

78 
77 
  4.5% 

– 
– 
– 

21 
21 
  5.6% 

84 
83 
  4.6% 

405 
408 
  5.2% 

357 
357 
  5.2% 

774 
760 
  5.2% 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

    Amortized cost 
    Fair value 

   3,545 
   3,536 

   4,070 
   4,142 

 11,861 
 11,749 

  2,101 
  2,090 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

5 
5 
  4.9% 

  3,573 
  3,522 
  5.0% 

998 
939 
  5.3% 

505 
495 
  4.4% 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

  2,665 
  2,676 
  4.4% 

279 
278 
  4.2% 

– 
– 
– 

  2,039 
  2,001 
5.1% 

819 
818 
1.4% 

  9,002 
  8,972 
  4.8% 

  2,004 
  1,939 
5.4% 

  9,850 
  9,794 
  4.8% 

  3,649 
  3,677 
  4.2% 

  1,687 
  1,935 
  5.4% 

536 
508 
  4.5% 

  1,678 
  1,648 
  3.6% 

758 
761 
  2.6% 

 11,805 
 11,692 
  4.5% 

  3,164 
  3,171 
  5.0% 

 11,162 
 11,360 
  4.8% 

  6,214 
  6,205 
  3.6% 

  2,035 
  2,229 
  4.9% 

633 
628 
  2.2% 

  2,199 
  2,139 
  2.5% 

  1,595 
  1,599 
  1.9% 

  8,254 
  8,183 
  4.4% 

  1,442 
  1,445 
  4.2% 

  10,676 
  10,839 
  3.7% 

– 
– 

  2,715 
  2,874 

  2,715 
  2,874 

  2,537 
  2,592 

  1,012 
974 

400 
400 
  4.6% 

  5,481 
  5,361 

256 
252 
  5.3% 

  2,971 
  3,126 

656 
652 
4.9% 

  30,029 
  30,004 

656 
658 
  4.8% 

 37,632 
 38,002 

675 
683 
3.7% 

  34,735 
  34,924

Held-to-maturity securities (1) 
    Amortized cost 
    Fair value 

Total carrying value  
  of securities (1) 

– 
– 

3 
3 

– 
– 

– 
– 

2 
2 

– 
– 

5 
5 

– 
– 

– 
–

$ 12,210 

$  17,329 

$ 54,262 

$  7,450 

$ 22,194 

$ 64,810 

$ 178,255  $184,869  $ 160,495

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Available-for-sale securities, including loan substitutes, are carried at fair value and held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. Prior to November 1, 2006, both available-
for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were classified as Investment securities and were carried at amortized cost. The prior period comparative amounts have not been restated.
Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities shown above, since borrowers may have the right to prepay obligations with or without prepayment penalties. 
OECD stands for Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
The weighted average yield is based on the carrying value at the end of the year for the respective securities. 
Includes the value of the shares received upon the restructuring of Visa Inc. Refer to Note 30.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

127

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 3    Securities (continued)

Unrealized gains and losses on Available-for-sale securities (1), (2)

Canadian government debt 
    Federal 
    Provincial and municipal 
U.S. government debt  
    Federal 
    State, municipal and agencies 
Other OECD government debt  
Mortgage-backed securities 
Asset-backed securities 
Corporate debt and other debt 
Equities 
Loan substitute securities 

2007 

2006 

Amortized 
cost 

Gross 
unrealized 
gains  

Gross 
unrealized 
losses 

Fair 
value 

Amortized 
cost 

Gross 
unrealized 
gains 

Gross 
unrealized 
losses 

Fair 
value

$  2,665 
279 

$ 

– 
  2,039 
819 
  9,002 
  2,004 
  9,855 
  2,715 
656 

12 
– 

– 
10 
1 
30 
2 
45 
191 
– 

$ 

(1)  $  2,676 
278 
(1) 

$  3,649 
  1,687 

$ 

– 
(48) 
(2) 
(60) 
(67) 
(101) 
(32) 
(4) 

– 
  2,001 
818 
  8,972 
  1,939 
  9,799 
  2,874 
652 

536 
  1,678 
758 
 11,805 
  3,164 
 11,162 
  2,537 
656 

29 
248 

– 
5 
4 
17 
11 
238 
110 
2 

$ 

(1)  $  3,677 
  1,935 
– 

(28) 
(35) 
(1) 
(130) 
(4) 
(40) 
(55) 
– 

508 
  1,648 
761 
 11,692 
  3,171 
 11,360 
  2,592 
658

$ 30,034 

$ 

291 

$ 

(316)  $ 30,009 

$ 37,632 

$ 

664 

$ 

(294)  $ 38,002

Available-for-sale securities, including loan substitutes, are carried at fair value and held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. Prior to November 1, 2006, both available-
for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were classified as Investment securities and were carried at amortized cost. The prior period comparative amounts have not been restated.
Includes $5 million held-to-maturity securities.

(1) 

(2) 
.

Realized gains and losses on sale of Available-for-sale securities (1)

Realized gains 
Realized losses and writedowns 

Net gain on sale of Available-for-sale securities 

2007 

187 
(124) 

63 

$ 

$ 

2006 

2005

177 
(89) 

88 

$ 

$ 

141 
(56)

85

$ 

$ 

(1) 

Available-for-sale securities, including loan substitutes, are carried at fair value and held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. Prior to November 1, 2006, both available-
for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were classified as Investment securities and were carried at amortized cost. The prior period comparative amounts have not been restated.

Fair value and unrealized losses position for Available-for-sale securities as at October 31, 2007

Less than 12 months 

12 months or more 

Total

Fair value  Unrealized losses 

Fair value  Unrealized losses 

Fair value  Unrealized losses

Canadian government debt
    Federal 
    Provincial and municipal 
U.S. government debt 
    Federal  
    State, municipal and agencies 
Other OECD government debt 
Mortgage-backed securities 
Asset-backed securities 
Corporate debt and other debt 
Equities 

$ 

$ 

1,231 
210 

– 
– 
47 
941 
853 
2,162 
432 

1 
1 

– 
– 
2 
14 
5 
57 
30 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 

– 
265 
– 
994 
501 
434 
3 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 

– 
48 
– 
46 
62 
48 
2 

1,231 
210 

– 
265 
47 
1,935 
1,354 
2,596 
435 

Total temporarily impaired securities 

$ 

5,876 

$ 

110 

$ 

2,197 

$ 

206 

$ 

8,073 

$ 

1
1

–
48
2
60
67
105
32

316

The unrealized losses for Canadian government debt and U.S. govern-
ment debt were caused by increases in interest rates and appreciation 
of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar. The contractual terms of 
some of these investments either do not permit the issuer to settle the 
securities at a price less than the amortized cost of the investment, or 
permit prepayment of contractual amounts owing only with prepay-
ment penalties assessed to recover interest foregone. As a result, it is 
not expected that these investments would be settled at a price less 
than the amortized cost. Further, a substantial amount of the U.S.  
dollar-denominated debt is hedged against the foreign currency risk 
and, accordingly, the unrealized losses are not considered to be other-
than-temporarily impaired as at October 31, 2007.  

Unrealized losses for mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed 

securities, corporate debt and other debt were due to interest rate 
changes and widening credit spreads caused by the recent disruption 
in the financial markets, the weakening of the U.S. housing market, 

credit rating downgrades of certain securities in the marketplace, and 
appreciation of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar. However, 
given that a substantial portion of these securities are investment-
grade securities and we have the ability and intent to hold these 
investments until there is a recovery of fair value, which may be at 
maturity, we believe it is probable that we will be able to collect the 
principal amount of these securities according to the contractual terms 
of the investments. Accordingly, we do not consider these investments 
to be other-than-temporarily impaired as at October 31, 2007.

Unrealized losses on equity securities are primarily due to the 
timing of the market prices, foreign exchange movements, or the early 
years in the business cycle of the investees for certain investments. 
We do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily 
impaired as at October 31, 2007, as we have the ability and intent  
to hold them for a reasonable period of time until they recover their  
fair value.

128

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents interest and dividends on Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity securities:

Interest and dividends on Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity securities (1)

Taxable interest income 
Non-taxable interest income 
Dividends 

$ 

2007 

968 
2 
74 

$ 

2006 

1,087 
2 
44 

$ 

$ 

1,044 

$ 

1,133 

$ 

2005

862 
2
31

895

(1) 

Available-for-sale securities, including loan substitutes, are carried at fair value and held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. Prior to November 1, 2006, both available-
for-sale and held-to-maturity securities were classified as Investment securities and were carried at amortized cost. The prior period comparative amounts have not been restated.

Note 4    Loans

Retail (1)  
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (2) 

Wholesale (1) 
    Business (3), (4) 
    Bank 
    Sovereign (5) 

2007 

2006

Canada  United States 

Other 
International 

Total 

Canada  United States 

Other
International 

Total

$  107,453  $ 
  42,506 
8,142 
2,652 

1,402  $ 
5,283 
119 
– 

890  $  109,745  $  94,272  $ 
954 
61 
– 

  37,946 
6,966 
2,318 

  48,743 
8,322 
2,652 

1,518  $ 
6,011 
123 
– 

885  $  96,675 
  44,902 
945 
7,155 
66 
2,318
– 

 160,753 

  6,804 

  1,905 

 169,462 

 141,502 

  7,652 

  1,896 

 151,050

 39,877 
  3,114 
416 

  17,741 
686 
– 

  6,239 
  1,547 
347 

 63,857 
  5,347 
763 

 35,245 
  2,031 
553 

 13,611 
236 
– 

  5,894 
985 
334 

 54,750 
  3,252 
887

 43,407 

 18,427 

  8,133 

 69,967 

 37,829 

 13,847 

  7,213 

 58,889

Total loans (6) 
Allowance for loan losses 

 204,160 
(1,101) 

 25,231 
(321) 

 10,038 
(71) 

 239,429 
  (1,493) 

 179,331 
  (1,086) 

 21,499 
(266) 

  9,109 
(57) 

 209,939 
  (1,409)

Total loans net of allowance for loan losses  $  203,059  $  24,910  $ 

9,967  $  237,936  $  178,245  $  21,233  $ 

9,052  $ 208,530

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Included under Canada for 2007 are loans totalling $1,202 million to a variable interest entity administered by us.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.
Loans are net of unearned income of $113 million (2006 – $62 million).

Loan maturities and rate sensitivity

As at October 31, 2007 

Retail    
Wholesale 

Maturity term (1) 

Rate sensitivity

Under 
1 year 

1 to 5 
years 

Over 5 
years (2) 

Total 

Floating 

Fixed 
rate 

Non-rate- 
sensitive 

Total

$  63,737  $  92,337  $  13,388  $  169,462  $  66,256  $  101,496  $ 

  39,908 

  22,269 

7,790 

  69,967 

  48,625 

  21,342 

1,710  $  169,462
  69,967

– 

Total loans 
Allowance for loan losses 

$  103,645  $  114,606  $  21,178  $  239,429  $  114,881  $  122,838  $ 

– 

– 

– 

(1,493) 

– 

– 

1,710  $  239,429
(1,493)

– 

Total loans net of allowance for loan losses   $  103,645  $  114,606  $  21,178  $  237,936  $  114,881  $  122,838  $ 

1,710  $  237,936

(1) 
(2) 

Based on the earlier of contractual repricing or maturity date.
Included in Wholesale are loans totalling $1,202 million to a variable interest entity administered by us, with maturity terms exceeding five years.

Impaired loans (1), (2)

Retail    
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal  
    Small business (3) 

Wholesale 
    Business (4) 
    Bank 
    Sovereign (5) 

Total      

Gross 

210 
189 
19 

418 

722 
– 
– 

722 

1,140 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2007 

Specific 
allowances 

(23)  $ 
(96) 
(9) 

(128)  $ 

(223)  $ 
– 
– 

(223)  $ 

(351)  $ 

2006

Net

152 
104 
4

260

311 
– 
–

311

571

Net 

187 
93 
10 

290 

499 
– 
– 

499 

789 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

There are $353 million (2006 – $305 million) of loans that are contractually 90 days past due but are not considered impaired. 
Average balance of gross impaired loans was $959 million (2006 – $805 million). 
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

129

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
            
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
Note 4    Loans (continued)

Allowance for loan losses 

Retail
    Residential mortgages 
    Personal 
    Credit cards 
    Small business (2) 

Wholesale
    Business (3) 
    Bank 
    Sovereign (4) 

Specific allowances 
General allowance (5) 

Total allowance for credit losses 
Allowance for off-balance sheet and other items (6) 

Total allowance for loan losses 

2007 

Write-offs 

Recoveries 

Provision 
for credit 

Other 
losses  adjustments (1) 

Balance 
at end 
of year 

2006

Balance 
at end 
of year

Balance at 
beginning 
of year 

$ 

13 
101 
– 
9 

 1

23 

$ 

(5)  $ 

(444) 
(268) 
(42) 

(759) 

$ 

140 
– 
– 

$ 

263 
  1,223 

$  1,486 
(77) 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(109)  $ 
– 
– 

(868)  $ 
– 

(868)  $ 
– 

$  1,409 

$ 

(868)  $ 

1 
74 
46 
7 

128 

42 
– 
– 

170 
– 

170 
– 

170 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

13 
364 
223 
34 

634 

148 
– 
– 

782 
9 

791 
(2) 

$ 

$ 

1 
1 
(1) 
1 

2 

2 
– 
– 

$ 

23 
96 
– 
9 

13
101 
– 
9

128 

$ 

123

223 
– 
– 

$ 

140
– 
–

4 
(11) 

$ 

351 
  1,221 

$ 

263 
  1,223

(7)  $  1,572 
(79) 
– 

$  1,486 
–

$ 

789 

$ 

(7)  $  1,493 

$  1,486

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

Primarily represent the translation impact of foreign currency-denominated allowance for loan losses.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks. 
Includes $79 million (2006 – $77 million) related to off-balance sheet and other items.
The allowance for off-balance sheet and other items is reported separately under Other liabilities.

During the year ended October 31, 2007, assets acquired in respect of problem loans amounted to $36 million (2006 – $9 million).

Net interest income after provision for credit losses

Net interest income 
Provision for credit losses 

Net interest income after provision for credit losses 

2007 

7,532 
791 

$ 

2006 

6,796 
429 

$ 

2005

6,793
455

6,741 

$ 

6,367 

$ 

6,338

$ 

$ 

Note 5    Securitizations

The following table summarizes our securitization activities for 2007, 2006 and 2005:

Securitized and sold 
Net cash proceeds received 
Asset-backed securities purchased 
Retained rights to future excess interest 
Pre-tax gain (loss) on sale 

2007 (1) 

Canadian 
residential 
mortgage 
loans (2), (3) 

$  6,188 
  6,097 
– 
146 
55 

Commercial 
mortgage 
loans (4) 

$  1,937 
  1,876 
47 
– 
(14) 

Credit 
card 
 loans (5) 

$  1,200 
400 
794 
9 
3 

2006 

Canadian 
residential 
mortgage 
loans (2), (3) 

$  6,329 
  6,210 
– 
121 
2 

Commercial 
mortgage 
loans 

Credit  
card 
loans (5) 

$ 

718 
729 
– 
– 
11 

$  1,200 
600 
596 
8 
4 

2005

Canadian 
residential 
mortgage 
loans (2), (3) 

$  3,752 
  3,739 
– 
100 
87 

Commercial 
mortgage 
loans

$ 

655 
667
–
– 
12

(1)  We did not securitize any credit card loans during the year.
(2) 
(3) 

All Canadian residential mortgage loans securitized are insured. 
Canadian insured residential mortgage loans securitized during the year through the creation of mortgage-backed securities and retained as at October 31, 2007 were $3,110 million 
(2006 – $4,869 million, 2005 – $1,050 million). These securities are carried at fair value; prior to November 1, 2006, these securities were carried at amortized cost.
The net cash proceeds received represent gross proceeds of $1,923 million less funds used to purchase notes of $47 million (principal value of $48 million). We did not purchase any 
notes as part of our securitization activities in 2006 or 2005.
The net cash proceeds received represent gross proceeds of $1,200 million in 2006 (2005 – $1,200 million) less funds used to purchase notes issued by Golden Credit Card Trust with a 
principal value of $800 million in 2006 (2005 – $600 million).

(4) 

(5) 

In addition to the above securitization transactions, we sold $815 million of residential mortgage loans in 2006, resulting in a pre-tax loss of  
$3 million. None were sold in 2007. 

130

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from securitizations (1)

2007 

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans 

Variable rate 

Fixed rate 

Credit
card
loans 

2006 

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans 

Variable rate 

Fixed rate 

Credit
card
loans 

2005

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans

Variable rate 

Fixed rate

Credit
card
loans 

Proceeds reinvested in revolving  
  securitizations 
Cash flows from excess spread (2) 

$ 15,684 
256 

$  1,043 
66 

$  3,559 
168 

$  17,107 
263 

$ 

466 
11 

$  2,251 
134 

$ 12,076 
242 

$ 

419 
3 

$  1,520 
100

(1) 
(2) 

This analysis is not applicable for commercial mortgage loans securitizations as we have not retained rights to future excess spread in these transactions.
Includes servicing fees received.

The key assumptions used to value the retained interests at the date of the securitization activities are as follows: 

Key assumptions (1), (2)

2007 (3) 

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans 

Variable rate 

Fixed rate 

2006 

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans 

Variable rate 

Fixed rate 

Credit
card
loans 

2005

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans

Variable rate 

Fixed rate

Credit
card
loans 

Expected weighted average life of 
  prepayable receivables (in years) 
Payment rate 
Excess spread, net of credit losses 
Expected credit losses  
Discount rate 

2.63 
29.20% 
.88 
– 
4.71% 

3.69 
14.38% 
.83 
– 
4.80% 

.16 
 40.02% 
5.13 
2.15 
  10.00 

2.61 
 30.00% 
1.18 
– 
  4.32 

  3.60 
 15.39%  
.99 
– 
  4.36 

.15 
 40.06% 
  6.88 
1.75 
  10.00 

  3.48 
 13.52% 
.20 
– 
  3.64 

3.59
 13.36%
  1.06 
– 
3.59

All rates are annualized except the payment rate for credit card loans which is monthly.
This analysis is not applicable for commercial mortgage loans securitizations as we have not retained rights to future excess spread in these transactions.

(1) 
(2) 
(3)  We did not securitize any credit card loans during the year.

Static pool credit losses include actual incurred and projected credit 
losses divided by the original balance of the loans securitized. The 
expected static pool credit loss ratio for securitized credit card loans at 
October 31, 2007 was .52%. Static credit pool losses are not applicable 
to residential mortgages as substantially all the mortgages are govern-

ment guaranteed.

The following table summarizes the loan principal, past due and 

net write-offs for total loans reported on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets and securitized loans that we manage as at October 31, 2007 
and 2006:

Loans managed 

Retail    
Wholesale 

Total loans managed (2) 
Less: Loans securitized and managed 
    Credit card loans 
    Canadian residential mortgage-backed securities  
      created and sold 
    Canadian residential mortgage-backed securities  
      created and retained 

2007 

2006

Loan principal 

Past due (1) 

Net write-offs 

Loan principal 

Past due (1) 

Net write-offs

$  192,633 
69,967 

$ 

$ 

754 
739 

  262,600 

1,493 

3,650 

  14,239 

5,282 

– 

– 

– 

718 
66 

784 

86 

– 

– 

$  172,118 
  58,889 

$ 

  231,007 

3,650 

  12,186 

5,232 

$ 

654 
485 

1,139 

– 

– 

– 

597 
(4)

593 

85

–

–

Total loans reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets  $  239,429 

$ 

1,493 

$ 

698 

$  209,939 

$ 

1,139 

$ 

508

(1) 
(2) 

Includes impaired loans as well as loans that are contractually 90 days past due but are not considered impaired.
Excludes any assets we have temporarily acquired with the intent at acquisition to sell to SPEs. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

131

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 5    Securitizations (continued)

Sensitivity of key assumptions
Key assumptions are used to determine the fair value of our retained 
interests. The following table is a summary of the key assumptions 

used as at October 31, 2007 and the sensitivity of the current fair value 
of our retained interests to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes 
in these key assumptions. 

Increase (decrease) in fair value of retained interests due to adverse changes in key assumptions (1), (2)

2007

Canadian residential 
mortgage loans

  Variable rate 

Fixed rate

Credit
card
 loans 

Fair value of retained interests 
Weighted average remaining service life (in years) 
Payment rate 
    Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change 
    Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change 

Excess spread, net of credit losses 
    Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change 
    Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change 

Expected credit losses 
    Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change 
    Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change 

Discount rate 
    Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change 
    Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change 

$ 

$ 

27.5 
.25 
  37.39% 
(1.6) 
(3.2) 

$ 

27.9 
 2.63–3.27 
29.20–40.00% 
(.8) 
(1.5) 

$ 

$ 

386.7 
 3.05–3.97
9.25–18.00%

$ 

(9.4) 
(18.6)

$ 

$ 

5.72% 
(5.0) 
(10.0) 

2.18% 
(1.2) 
(2.3) 

$ 

.68–.88% 
(14.0) 
(28.0) 

$ 

.84–.89%
(37.1)
74.3

$ 

–% 
– 
– 

$ 

–%
– 
–

$ 

  10.00% 
– 
(.1) 

4.71–6.81% 
(.2) 
$ 
(.3) 

4.69–4.71%
$ 

(2.3) 
(4.5)

(1) 
(2) 

All rates are annualized except for the credit card loans payment rate which is monthly.
This analysis is not applicable for commercial mortgage loans securitizations as we have not retained rights to future excess spread in these transactions.

These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be used with caution. 
Changes in fair value based on a variation in assumptions generally  
cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in 
assumptions to the change in fair value may not be linear. The effect of 

a variation in a particular assumption on the fair value of the retained 
interests is calculated without changing any other assumptions. 
Generally, the changes in one factor may result in changes in another, 
which may magnify or counteract the sensitivity.

Note 6    Variable interest entities (VIEs)

The following table provides information about VIEs as at October 31,  
2007 and 2006, in which we have significant variable interests, 
and those we consolidate under CICA Accounting Guideline 15, 

Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (AcG-15), because we are 
the Primary Beneficiary.

 Maximum exposure 

to loss as at   Total assets as at 
  Total assets as at 
  October 31, 2007  October 31, 2007  October 31, 2006 

  Maximum exposure 
to loss as at  
October 31, 2006

Unconsolidated VIEs in which we have significant variable interests (1): 
    Multi-seller conduits (2) 
    Third-party conduits 
    Credit investment product VIEs 
    Investment funds 
    Structured finance VIEs 
    Other 

Consolidated VIEs (3), (4): 
    Investment funds (5) 
    Structured finance VIEs 
    Credit investment product VIEs 
    Compensation vehicles 
    Other 

$  41,785 
4,264 
2,676 
1,517 
407 
60 

$  42,912 
1,625 
1,733 
324 
407 
80 

$  34,258 
2,697 

 –

$  35,031
1,018 

 –

3,390 
2,592 
128 

303
1,465
84

$  50,709 

$ 

47,081 

$  43,065 

$ 

37,901

$ 

995 
560 
276 
83 
144 

$ 

1,851 
409 
689 
355 
151 

$ 

2,058 

$ 

3,455 

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

(5) 

132

The maximum exposure to loss resulting from our significant variable interests in these VIEs consists mostly of investments, loans, liquidity facilities and fair value of derivatives.  
We have recognized $2,165 million (2006 – $2,130 million) of this exposure on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Total assets represent maximum assets that may have to be purchased by the conduits under purchase commitments outstanding as at October 31, 2007. Actual assets held by these 
conduits as at October 31, 2007, were $29,290 million (2006 – $24,811 million).
The assets that support the obligations of the consolidated VIEs are reported on our Consolidated Balance Sheets primarily as follows: Interest-bearing deposits with banks of  
$75 million (2006 – $120 million), Trading securities of $1,185 million (2006 – $2,483 million), Available-for-sale securities of $315 million (2006 – $409 million) and Other assets of 
$401 million (2006 – $287 million). The compensation vehicles hold $83 million (2006 – $156 million) of our common shares, which are reported as Treasury shares. The obligation to 
provide common shares to employees is recorded as an increase to Contributed surplus as the expense for the corresponding stock-based compensation plan is recognized.
Investors have recourse only to the assets of the related VIEs and do not have recourse to our general assets unless we breach our contractual obligations relating to those VIEs, provide 
liquidity facilities or credit enhancement facilities to, or enter into derivative transactions with, the VIEs. 
The implementation of EIC-163 (refer to Note 1) resulted in the deconsolidation of certain investment funds during 2007. As at October 31, 2006, the total assets and maximum exposure 
to loss of these deconsolidated funds were $363 million and $36 million, respectively.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
Multi-seller and third-party conduits
We administer seven multi-seller asset-backed commercial paper conduit 
programs (multi-seller conduits). These conduits primarily purchase 
financial assets from clients and finance those purchases by issuing 
asset-backed commercial paper. Our clients primarily utilize multi-seller 
conduits to diversify their financing sources and to reduce funding costs.
The multi-seller conduits also finance assets that are either in the 

form of securities including collateralized debt obligations or instru-
ments that closely resemble securities such as credit-linked notes. In 
these situations, the multi-seller conduit is often one of many inves-
tors in the securities or security-like instruments. 

An unrelated third party (expected loss investor) absorbs credit 

losses, up to a maximum contractual amount, that may occur in the 
future on the assets in the multi-seller conduits (multi-seller conduit 
first-loss position) before the multi-seller conduits’ debt holders and 
us. In return for assuming this multi-seller conduit first-loss position, 
each multi-seller conduit pays the expected loss investor a return com-
mensurate with its risk position. The expected loss investor absorbs 
a majority of each multi-seller conduit’s expected losses, when com-
pared to us; therefore, we are not the Primary Beneficiary and do not 
consolidate these conduits under AcG-15. However, we continue to 
hold a significant variable interest in these multi-seller conduits result-
ing from our provision of backstop liquidity facilities, partial credit 
enhancement and entitlement to residual fees. 

We hold significant variable interests in third-party asset-backed 

security conduits primarily through providing liquidity support 
and credit enhancement facilities. However we are not the Primary 
Beneficiary and do not consolidate these conduits under AcG-15.

The liquidity and credit enhancement facilities are included and 

described in our disclosure on guarantees in Note 27.

Investment funds 
We enter into derivatives with third parties including mutual funds, 
unit investment trusts and other investment funds to provide their 
investors with the desired exposure and hedge our exposure from 
these derivatives by investing in other funds. We are the Primary 
Beneficiary when our participation in the derivative or our invest-
ment in other funds exposes us to a majority of the respective 
expected losses. 

Structured finance VIEs 
We finance VIEs that are part of transactions structured to achieve 
a desired outcome such as limiting exposure to specific assets or 

Note 7    Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities

risks, obtaining indirect exposure to financial assets, supporting an 
enhanced yield, funding specific assets and meeting client require-
ments. We consolidate structured finance VIEs in which our interests 
expose us to a majority of the expected losses. 

Creation of credit investment products
We use VIEs to generally transform credit derivatives into cash 
instruments, to distribute credit risk and to create customized credit 
products to meet investors’ specific requirements. We enter into 
derivative contracts with these entities in order to convert various 
risk factors such as yield, currency or credit risk of underlying assets 
to meet the needs of the investors. We transfer assets to these VIEs 
as collateral for notes issued but the transfer of assets does not meet 
sale recognition criteria under AcG-12. In certain instances, we invest 
in the notes issued by these VIEs, which requires us to consolidate 
them when we are the Primary Beneficiary. 

Compensation vehicles
We use compensation trusts, which primarily hold our own common 
shares, to economically hedge our obligation to certain employees 
under some of our stock-based compensation programs. We consoli-
date the trusts in which we are the Primary Beneficiary. 

Capital trusts
RBC Subordinated Notes Trust (Trust III) was created in 2007 to issue 
$1 billion of innovative subordinated debentures and RBC Capital  
Trust II (Trust II) was created in 2003 to issue $900 million of innova-
tive capital instruments. We issued senior deposit notes of the same 
amounts to Trust II, and a senior deposit note of $999.8 million to  
Trust III. Although we own the common equity and voting control 
of these trusts, we are not the Primary Beneficiary since we are not 
exposed to the majority of the expected losses, and we do not have a 
significant interest in these trusts. For details on our innovative capital 
instruments, refer to Note 17.

Securitization of our financial assets
We employ SPEs in the process of securitizing our assets, none of 
which are consolidated under AcG-15. One entity is a QSPE under 
AcG-12, which is specifically exempt from consolidation under AcG-15, 
and our level of participation in each of the remaining SPEs relative to 
others does not expose us to a majority of the expected losses. We 
also do not have significant interests in these SPEs. For details on our 
securitization activities, refer to Note 5.

Derivative financial instruments are financial contracts whose value is 
derived from an underlying interest rate, foreign exchange rate, equity 
or commodity instrument or index.

Equity forwards and futures are contractual obligations to buy or 
sell at a fixed value (the contracted price) of an equity index, a basket 
of stocks or a single stock at a predetermined future date. 

Types of derivatives
Forwards and futures
Forward contracts are effectively tailor-made agreements that are 
transacted between counterparties in the over-the-counter market, 
whereas futures are standardized contracts with respect to amounts 
and settlement dates, and are traded on regular future exchanges. 
Examples of forwards and futures are described below:

Interest rate forwards (forward rate agreements) and futures are 
contractual obligations to buy or sell an interest-rate sensitive financial 
instrument on a predetermined future date at a specified price. 

Foreign exchange forwards and futures are contractual obligations 

to exchange one currency for another at a specified price for settle-
ment at a predetermined future date. 

Swaps
Swaps are over-the-counter contracts in which two counterparties 
exchange a series of cash flows based on agreed upon rates to a 
notional amount. The various swap agreements that we enter into are 
as follows: 

Interest rate swaps are agreements where two counterparties  

exchange a series of payments based on different interest rates 
applied to a notional amount in a single currency. Cross currency 
swaps involve the exchange of fixed payments in one currency for the 
receipt of fixed payments in another currency. Cross currency interest  
rate swaps involve the exchange of both interest and principal 
amounts in two different currencies.

Equity swaps are contracts in which one counterparty agrees to 

pay or receive from the other cash flows based on changes in the value 
of an equity index, a basket of stocks or a single stock.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

133

Note 7    Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities (continued)

Options
Options are contractual agreements under which the seller (writer) 
grants the purchaser the right, but not the obligation, either to buy 
(call option) or sell (put option), a security, exchange rate, interest 
rate, or other financial instrument or commodity at a predetermined 
price, at or by a specified future date. The seller (writer) of an option 
can also settle the contract by paying the cash settlement value of the 
purchaser’s right. The seller (writer) receives a premium from the  
purchaser for this right. The various option agreements that we enter 
into include interest rate options, foreign currency options and  
equity options.

Credit derivatives
Credit derivatives are over-the-counter contracts that transfer credit 
risk related to an underlying financial instrument (referenced asset) 
from one counterparty to another. Examples of credit derivatives include 
credit default swaps, credit default baskets and total return swaps.
Credit default swaps provide protection against the decline in 
value of the referenced asset as a result of specified credit events such 
as default or bankruptcy. It is similar in structure to an option whereby 
the purchaser pays a premium to the seller of the credit default swap 
in return for payment related to the deterioration in the value of the 
referenced asset. Credit default baskets are similar to credit default 
swaps except that the underlying referenced financial instrument is a 
group of assets instead of a single asset.

Total return swaps are contracts where one counterparty agrees 

to pay or receive from the other cash flows based on changes in the 
value of the referenced asset.

Other derivative products
We also transact in other derivative products including precious metal 
and commodity derivative contracts in both the over-the-counter and 
exchange markets. Certain warrants and loan commitments that meet 
the definition of derivative are also included as derivative instruments.

Derivatives issued for trading purposes
Most of our derivative transactions relate to sales and trading activities. 
Sales activities include the structuring and marketing of derivative 
products to clients to enable them to transfer, modify or reduce current  
or expected risks. Trading involves market-making, positioning and 
arbitrage activities. Market-making involves quoting bid and offer 
prices to other market participants with the intention of generating 
revenue based on spread and volume. Positioning involves managing 
market risk positions with the expectation of profiting from favourable  
movements in prices, rates or indices. Arbitrage activities involve iden-
tifying and profiting from price differentials between markets  
and products. 

Hedge activities 

Fair value hedges 
    Ineffective portion 
Cash flow hedges 
    Ineffective portion 
    Effective portion 
    Reclassified to income during the year (1) 
Net investment hedges
    Foreign currency losses 
    Gains from hedges 

An after-tax equivalent amount of $31 million was reclassified from AOCI.

(1) 
n.a.  not applicable

134

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Derivatives issued for other than trading purposes
We also use derivatives for purposes other than trading, primarily for 
hedging, in conjunction with the management of interest rate, credit 
and foreign exchange risk related to our own asset/liability manage-
ment, funding and investment activities.

Interest rate swaps are used to adjust exposure to interest rate 
risk by modifying the repricing or maturity characteristics of existing  
and/or anticipated assets and liabilities, including funding and invest-
ment activities. Purchased interest rate options are used to hedge 
redeemable deposits and other options embedded in consumer 
products. We manage our exposure to foreign currency risk with cross 
currency swaps and foreign exchange forward contracts. We use credit 
derivatives to manage our credit exposures and for risk diversification 
in our lending portfolio.

Certain derivatives and cash instruments are specifically desig-
nated and qualify for hedge accounting. We apply hedge accounting 
to minimize significant unplanned fluctuations in earnings caused by 
changes in interest rates or foreign exchange rates. Interest rate and 
currency fluctuations will either cause assets and liabilities to appreci-
ate or depreciate in market value or cause variability in anticipated 
cash flows. When a hedging instrument functions effectively, gains, 
losses, revenue and expenses of the hedging instrument will offset 
the gains, losses, revenue and expenses of the hedged item. When 
derivatives are designated as the hedging instrument, all components 
of each derivative’s change in fair value are included in the assessment 
and measurement of hedge effectiveness. When cash instruments are 
designated for hedges of currency risks, only changes in their value 
due to currency risk are included in the assessment and measurement 
of hedge effectiveness. 

We did not apply hedge accounting to any anticipated transac-
tions or firm commitments during the year. As at October 31, 2007, 
after-tax net unrealized gains of $24 million were recognized in AOCI, 
representing the cumulative effective portions of our cash flow 
hedges. The net amount of gains and losses reported in AOCI that is 
expected to be reclassified to Net interest income within the next  
12 months is not estimated to be material. 

From time to time, we also enter into derivative transactions to  

economically hedge certain business strategies that do not otherwise 
qualify for hedge accounting, or where hedge accounting is not con-
sidered economically feasible to implement. In such circumstances, 
changes in fair value are reflected in Non-interest income.

2007

Net gains (losses) 
included in 

Net gains (losses) 
included in 
Non-interest income  Net interest income 

After-tax
unrealized
gains (losses)
included in OCI

  $ 

(14) 

$ 

n.a. 

$ 

(9) 
n.a. 
n.a. 

n.a. 
n.a. 

n.a. 
n.a. 
(47) 

n.a. 
n.a. 

n.a.

n.a.
80
n.a.

(2,965)
1,804

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notional amount of derivatives by term to maturity 

Over-the-counter contracts 
    Interest rate contracts 
        Forward rate agreements 
        Swaps 
        Options purchased 
        Options written 
    Foreign exchange contracts 
        Forward contracts 
        Cross currency swaps 
        Cross currency interest rate swaps 
        Options purchased 
        Options written 
    Credit derivatives (2) 
    Other contracts (3) 
Exchange-traded contracts 
    Interest rate contracts 
        Futures – long positions 
        Futures – short positions 
        Options purchased 
        Options written 
    Foreign exchange contracts 
        Futures – long positions 
        Futures – short positions 
    Other contracts (3) 

Term to maturity 

2007 

2006

Within 
1 year 

1 to  
5 years 

Over 5 
years (1) 

Total 

Trading 

Other than 
trading 

Trading 

Other than 
trading

$  197,733 
  896,816 
22,986 
38,403 

$ 

4,120 
  907,875 
35,405 
39,854 

$ 

– 
  449,855 
32,197 
71,485 

$  201,853 
 2,254,546 
90,588 
  149,742 

$  201,853 
 2,096,153 
89,585 
  149,169 

$ 

– 
  158,393 
1,003 
573 

$  315,378 
 1,874,206 
99,172 
73,566 

$ 

– 
  140,232 
86 
– 

  706,342 
2,648 
53,818 
28,961 
30,500 
18,548 
22,614 

68,553 
  112,912 
14,945 
4,656 

100 
9,521 
  252,784 

21,149 
7,978 
  141,584 
7,472 
7,559 
  183,650 
20,129 

14,285 
7,521 
82,936 
330 
296 
  197,026 
31,203 

  741,776 
18,147 
  278,338 
36,763 
38,355 
  399,224 
73,946 

  710,961 
17,748 
  242,319 
36,756 
38,355 
  393,247 
73,804 

  30,815 
399 
  36,019 
7 
– 
5,977 
142 

8,806 
19,278 
19 
– 

227 
168 
1,396 

5 
2 
– 
– 

– 
– 
26 

77,364 
  132,192 
14,964 
4,656 

77,086 
  132,008 
14,964 
4,656 

327 
9,689 
  254,206 

327 
9,689 
  254,206 

278 
184 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

  626,484 
18,553 
  228,090 
65,572 
68,337 
  219,054 
  86,548 

  146,886 
  211,131 
71,926 
  119,194 

6,070 
  26,088 
  257,154 

  33,033 
1,072 
  20,707 
71 
51 
2,722 
573 

524 
901 
– 
– 

– 
– 
–

$ 2,482,840 

$ 1,406,669 

$  887,167 

$  4,776,676 

$ 4,542,886 

$  233,790 

$ 4,513,409 

$  199,972

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

Includes contracts maturing in over 10 years with a notional value of $205,976 million (2006 – $135,951 million). The related gross positive replacement cost is $10,910 million  
(2006 – $3,857 million).
Comprises credit default swaps, total return swaps and credit default baskets, including credit derivatives given guarantee treatment for the OSFI regulatory reporting purposes.  
Credit derivatives with a notional value of $5,530 million (2006 – $2,116 million) are economic hedges.
Comprises precious metal, commodity and equity-linked derivative contracts other than embedded equity-linked contracts.

The following table provides the fair value of our derivative financial instruments:

Fair value of derivative instruments

Held or issued for trading purposes 
    Interest rate contracts 
        Forward rate agreements 
        Swaps 
        Options purchased 
        Options written 

    Foreign exchange contracts 
        Forward contracts 
        Cross currency swaps 
        Cross currency interest rate swaps 
        Options purchased 
        Options written 

2007 

2006

Average fair value 
for year ended (1) 

Year-end 
fair value 

Average fair value 
for year ended (1) 

Year-end 
fair value

Positive 

Negative 

Positive 

Negative 

Positive 

Negative 

Positive 

Negative

$ 

44 
  13,938 
621 
– 

$ 

49 
  14,241 
– 
786 

$ 

72 
  14,250 
488 
– 

$ 

25 
  14,446 
– 
625 

$ 

52 
  12,150 
795 
– 

$ 

50 
  12,003 
– 
888 

$ 

44 
  12,258 
602 
– 

$ 

60 
  11,969 
– 
698

  14,603 

  15,076 

  14,810 

  15,096 

  12,997 

  12,941 

  12,904 

  12,727

8,342 
2,231 
8,987 
1,044 
– 

8,508 
1,522 
9,419 
– 
1,028 

  14,503 
3,066 
  13,634 
1,221 
– 

  14,410 
2,141 
  14,250 
– 
1,302 

6,740 
2,041 
7,010 
1,571 
– 

6,969 
1,522 
8,275 
– 
1,582 

5,493 
2,151 
6,703 
1,055 
– 

5,758 
1,522 
8,319 
– 
994

  20,604 

  20,477 

  32,424 

  32,103 

  17,362 

  18,348 

  15,402 

  16,593

    Credit derivatives (2) 
    Other contracts (3) 

3,964 
6,096 

3,508 
9,537 

  10,416 
4,925 

9,375 
  10,317 

1,139 
5,623 

975 
8,803 

1,795 
5,798 

1,580 
9,221

$  45,267 

$  48,598 

$  62,575 

$  66,891 

$  37,121 

$  41,067 

$  35,899 

$  40,121

Held or issued for other than trading purposes 
    Interest rate contracts 
        Swaps 
        Options purchased 
       Options written 

    Foreign exchange contracts 
        Forward contracts 
        Cross currency swaps 
        Cross currency interest rate swaps 
        Options purchased  
        Options written 

    Credit derivatives (2) 
    Other contracts (3) 

Total gross fair values before netting (4) 
    Impact of master netting agreements 
        With intent to settle net or simultaneously (5) 
        Without intent to settle net or simultaneously (6) 

Total       

$ 

1,110 
6 
– 

1,116 

921 
2 
1,371 
– 
– 

2,294 

36 
20 

$ 

760 
– 
25 

785 

503 
9 
3,635 
– 
– 

4,147 

30 
42 

3,466 

5,004 

  66,041 

  71,895 

(473) 
  (38,256) 

(473) 
  (38,256) 

$  27,312 

$  33,166 

$ 

$ 

1,100 
– 
– 

1,100 

102 
5 
607 
1 
– 

715 

20 
85 

940 
– 
–

940

236 
5 
631 
– 
1

873

30 
281

1,920 

2,124

  37,819 

  42,245 

(137) 
  (18,952) 

(137) 
  (18,952)

$  18,730 

$  23,156

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

(5) 

(6) 

Average fair value amounts are calculated based on monthly balances.
Comprises credit default swaps, total return swaps and credit default baskets, including credit derivatives given guarantee treatment for the OSFI regulatory reporting purposes.
Comprises precious metal, commodity and equity-linked derivative contracts. Certain warrants and loan commitments that meet the definition of derivatives are also included.
The positive year-end fair value excludes margin requirements of $1,017 million (2006 – $721 million) and the negative year-end fair value excludes market and credit valuation  
adjustments of $588 million (2006 – $366 million).
Impact of offsetting credit exposures on contracts where we have both a legally enforceable master netting agreement in place and we intend to settle the contracts on either a net basis 
or simultaneously. 
Additional impact of offsetting credit exposures on contracts where we have a legally enforceable master netting agreement in place but do not intend to settle the contracts on a net 
basis or simultaneously.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

135

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 7    Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities (continued)

Derivative-related credit risk
Credit risk from derivative transactions is generated by the potential 
for the counterparty to default on its contractual obligations when one 
or more transactions have a positive market value to us. Therefore, 
derivative-related credit risk is represented by the positive fair value 
of the instrument and is normally a small fraction of the contract’s 
notional amount.

We subject our derivative-related credit risk to the same credit 
approval, limit and monitoring standards that we use for managing 
other transactions that create credit exposure. This includes evaluat-
ing the creditworthiness of counterparties, and managing the size, 
diversification and maturity structure of the portfolio. Credit utilization 
for all products is compared with established limits on a continual 
basis and is subject to a standard exception reporting process.  
We utilize a single internal rating system for all credit risk exposure.  
In most cases, these internal ratings approximate the external risk  
ratings of public rating agencies.

Netting is a technique that can reduce credit exposure from 
derivatives and is generally facilitated through the use of master net-
ting agreements. The master netting agreement provides for a single 
net settlement of all financial instruments covered by the agreement 
in the event of default. However, credit risk is reduced only to the 
extent that our financial obligations to the same counterparty can be 
set off against obligations of the counterparty to us. The two main 
categories of netting are close-out netting and settlement netting. 
Under the close-out netting provision, if the counterparty defaults, 
we have the right to terminate all transactions covered by the master 
netting agreement at the then-prevailing market values and to sum the 
resulting market values, offsetting negative against positive values, 
to arrive at a single net amount owed by either the counterparty or 
us. Under the settlement netting provision, all payments and receipts 
in the same currency and due on the same day between specified 
branches are netted, generating a single payment in each currency, 
due either by us or the counterparty. We maximize the use of master 

netting agreements to reduce derivative-related credit exposure. Our 
overall exposure to credit risk that is reduced through master netting 
agreements may change substantially following the reporting date as 
the exposure is affected by each transaction subject to the agreement 
as well as by changes in underlying market rates. Measurement of our 
credit exposure arising out of derivative transactions is reduced to 
reflect the effects of netting in cases where the enforceability of that 
netting is supported by appropriate legal analysis as documented in 
our trading credit risk policies.

The use of collateral is another significant credit mitigation 
technique for managing derivative-related counterparty credit risk. 
Marked-to-market provisions in our agreements with some counter-
parties, typically in the form of a Credit Support Annex, provide RBC 
with the right to request that the counter party pay down or collateral-
ize the current market value of its derivatives positions when the value 
passes a specified threshold amount.

During 2007, 2006 and 2005, neither our actual credit losses aris-

ing from derivative transactions nor the level of impaired derivative 
contracts were significant. The tables below show replacement cost, 
credit equivalent and risk-adjusted amounts of our derivatives both 
before and after the impact of netting. 

Replacement cost represents the total fair value of all outstanding  

contracts in a gain position, before factoring in the master netting 
agreements. The amounts in the table below exclude fair value of  
$955 million (2006 – $734 million) relating to exchange-traded instru-
ments as they are subject to daily margining and are deemed to have 
no credit risk. 

The credit equivalent amount is defined as the sum of the replace-

ment cost plus an add-on amount for potential future credit exposure 
as defined by the OSFI.

The risk-adjusted amount is determined by applying the standard 

OSFI-defined measures of counterparty risk to the credit equivalent 
amount. 

Derivative-related credit risk

Interest rate contracts 
    Forward rate agreements 
    Swaps 
    Options purchased 

Foreign exchange contracts 
    Forward contracts 
    Swaps 
    Options purchased 

Credit derivatives (1) 
Other contracts (2) 

2007 

2006

Replacement  Credit equivalent 
amount 

cost 

Risk-adjusted 
balance 

Replacement  Credit equivalent 
amount 

cost 

Risk-adjusted
balance

$ 

72 
  15,360 
364 

$ 

92 
  23,484 
1,032 

$ 

22 
5,213 
248 

$ 

44   $ 

  13,358 
591 

109 
  21,031 
1,164 

  15,796 

  24,608 

5,483 

  13,993 

  22,304 

  15,424 
  18,073 
1,221 

  22,222 
  32,901 
1,832 

5,674 
6,138 
466 

  34,718 

  56,955 

  12,278 

10,416 
4,120 

  35,026 
6,723 

8,465 
2,251 

5,595 
9,466 
1,056 

16,117 

1,795 
5,160 

  12,413 
  22,697 
2,244 

37,354 

6,975 
8,696 

$ 

22 
4,452 
260

4,734

3,310 
4,305 
502

8,117

2,009 
2,760

Derivatives before master netting agreements 
Impact of master netting agreements 

$  65,050 
  (38,729) 

$  123,312 
  (65,339) 

$  28,477 
  (14,020) 

$ 

37,065 
(19,089) 

$  75,329 
(31,831) 

$ 

17,620 
(7,188)

Total derivatives after master netting agreement (3) 

$   26,321 

$ 

57,973 

$  14,457 

$ 

17,976 

$  43,498 

$  10,432

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

Comprises credit default swaps, total return swaps and credit default baskets. The above excludes credit derivatives issued for other than trading purposes related to bought and sold 
protection with a replacement cost of $36 million (2006 – $20 million). Credit derivatives issued for other than trading purposes related to sold protection with a replacement cost of  
$.4 million (2006 – $20 million) had a credit equivalent amount of $447 million (2006 – $283 million) and risk-adjusted asset amount of $447 million (2006 – $283 million) which were 
given guarantee treatment per the OSFI guidance.
Comprises precious metal, commodity and equity-linked derivative contracts. 
The total credit equivalent amount after netting includes collateral applied of $2,228 million (2006 – $1,310 million). 

136

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Replacement cost of derivative financial instruments by risk rating and by counterparty type

Risk rating (1)  

Counterparty type (2)

As at October 31, 2007 

AAA, AA 

A 

BBB 

BB or 
lower 

Total 

OECD 
Banks  governments 

Other 

Total

Gross positive replacement cost 
Impact of master netting agreements 

  $ 

42,142  $  14,731  $ 
(28,042) 

(8,047) 

6,149  $ 
(2,367) 

2,064  $ 
(273) 

65,086  $ 
(38,729) 

38,250  $ 
(31,193) 

8,188  $ 
– 

18,648  $ 
(7,536) 

65,086 
(38,729)

Replacement cost (after netting agreements) (3) 

  $ 

14,100  $ 

6,684  $ 

3,782  $ 

1,791  $ 

26,357  $ 

7,057  $ 

8,188  $ 

11,112  $ 

26,357

Replacement cost (after netting agreements) – 2006 (3)  $ 

8,573  $ 

5,393  $ 

2,270  $ 

1,760  $ 

17,996  $ 

5,678  $ 

5,891  $ 

6,427  $ 

17,996

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

Our internal risk ratings for major counterparty types approximate those of public rating agencies. Ratings of AAA, AA, A and BBB represent investment grade ratings and ratings of BB 
or lower represent non-investment grade ratings.
Counterparty type is defined in accordance with the capital adequacy requirements of the OSFI.
Includes credit derivatives issued for other than trading purposes with a total replacement cost of $36 million (2006 – $20 million).

Note 8    Premises and equipment

Land      
Buildings 
Computer equipment 
Furniture, fixtures and other equipment 
Leasehold improvements 

2007 

Accumulated 
depreciation 

$ 

$ 

– 
333 
1,986 
764 
727 

$ 

Cost 

133 
553 
3,049 
1,059 
1,147 

Net book 
value 

133 
220 
1,063 
295 
420 

$ 

Cost 

134 
511 
2,462 
1,012 
1,127 

2006

Accumulated 
depreciation 

$ 

$ 

– 
321 
1,698 
736 
673 

Net book 
value

134 
190 
764 
276 
454

$ 

5,941 

$ 

3,810 

$ 

2,131 

$ 

5,246 

$ 

3,428 

$ 

1,818

The depreciation expense for premises and equipment for 2007 was $434 million (2006 – $405 million; 2005 – $414 million).

Note 9    RBC Dexia Investor Services joint venture

RBC Dexia Investor Services
We operate our institutional and investor services business (IIS) 
through our joint venture, RBC Dexia Investor Services (RBC Dexia 
IS). During the year, RBC Dexia IS finalized the net assets contribution 
requirement outlined in the joint venture agreement. As a result, it was 
determined that we had contributed €27 million ($41 million) of net 
assets in excess of the amount required. This excess was settled by 
RBC Dexia IS in cash and recognized by us as a reduction in our invest-
ment in the joint venture. 

Assets and liabilities representing our interest in RBC Dexia IS 
and our proportionate share of its financial results before adjusting for 
related party transactions are presented in the following tables:

For the 
year ended 
October 31,  
2007 

For the nine
months ended
October 31,
2006 (1)

Consolidated Statements of Income
   Net interest income 
   Non-interest income 
   Non-interest expense 
   Net income 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
   Cash flows from (used in) operating  
       activities 
   Cash flows from (used in) investing  
       activities 
   Cash flows from (used in) financing  
       activities 

  $ 

$ 

116 
600 
529 
125 

  $ 

(546) 

$ 

(2,299) 

2,856 

75
363 
315 
73

(71)

(97) 

165

As at

(1) 

October 31, 
2007 

October 31,
2006

For the year ended October 31, 2006, we did not report our proportionate share of 
RBC Dexia IS results for our quarter ended January 31, 2006 as the joint venture was 
formed on January 2, 2006, and we report its results on a one-month lag basis. 

Consolidated Balance Sheets
   Assets (1) 
   Liabilities 

$  15,544  $  12,354 
  11,396 

  14,533 

(1) 

Includes $69 million (2006 – $69 million) of goodwill and $179 million (2006 –  
$208 million) of intangible assets. 

We provide certain services to RBC Dexia IS, which include administra-
tive and technology support, human resources, and credit and banking 
facilities to support its operations. RBC Dexia IS also provides certain 
services to us, including custody and trusteeship, fund and investment 
administration, transfer agency and investor services. These services 
and facilities are provided by the respective parties in the normal 
course of operations on terms similar to those offered to non-related 
parties. The amount of income earned and expenses incurred by  
RBC Dexia IS related to transactions with RBC are as follows:

Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
Non-interest expense 

For the 
year ended 
October 31,  
2007 

For the nine
months ended
October 31,
2006 (1)

  $ 

  $ 

157 
26 
34 

99
16 
28

(1)  

For the year ended October 31, 2006, we did not report the amounts of income earned 
and expenses incurred by RBC Dexia IS related to transactions with RBC for our quar-
ter ended January 31, 2006 as the joint venture was formed on January 2, 2006, and 
we report its results on a one-month lag basis.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

137

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 10    Goodwill and other intangibles

Effective February 7, 2007, as discussed in Note 30, our previous three 
business segments were reorganized into four business segments. 
This reorganization resulted in the realignment of certain reporting 
units. Accordingly, we have reallocated our goodwill to the new  

reporting units using the relative fair value approach. The following 
table discloses the changes in goodwill during 2006 and 2007, includ-
ing the reallocation of goodwill to the new reporting units:

Goodwill 

Balance at October 31, 2005 
Goodwill acquired during the year 
Other adjustments (1), (2) 

Balance at October 31, 2006 

RBC 
Canadian 
Personal and 
Business 

RBC U.S. and
International 
Personal and 
Business 

RBC
Capital
Markets 

   $ 

$ 

2,419 
– 
72 

$ 

831 
86 
(17) 

$ 

953 
– 
(40) 

Total

4,203
86
15

$ 

2,491 

$ 

900 

$ 

913 

$ 

4,304

Goodwill acquired between November 1, 2006 and January 31, 2007  
Other adjustments (3) 

– 
9 

406 
58 

121 
34 

527
101

Balance at January 31, 2007 

$ 

2,500 

$ 

1,364 

$ 

1,068 

$ 

4,932

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

Other adjustments in 2006 primarily include the impact of foreign exchange translations on foreign currency-denominated goodwill, changes in goodwill related to our IIS business with 
RBC Dexia IS (refer to Note 9), and the transfer of $6 million of housing tax credit syndication business goodwill from RBC U.S. and International Personal and Business to RBC Capital 
Markets. Refer to Note 30. 
During 2006, we adjusted the foreign exchange translation of certain foreign currency-denominated goodwill of RBC Canadian Personal and Business to better align with the nature 
of the net assets supporting the segment. This resulted in an increase of $182 million of goodwill for RBC Canadian Personal and Business. A corresponding increase was made to 
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments on our Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity.
Other adjustments in the first quarter of 2007 primarily include the impact of foreign exchange translations on foreign currency-denominated goodwill. 

As a result of the application of the relative fair value approach for the business reorganization, goodwill as at January 31, 2007 has been  
reallocated as follows:

Reallocation of goodwill 

Goodwill 
balance before 
business 
reorganization 

Canadian 
Banking 

Wealth 
Management 

U.S. & 
International 
Banking 

RBC Canadian Personal and Business 
RBC U.S. and International Personal and Business 
RBC Capital Markets 

$ 

$ 

2,500 
1,364 
1,068 

 $ 

2,069 
– 
– 

$ 

431 
583 
– 

$ 

– 
781 
109 

Goodwill
balance after
business
reorganization

$ 

2,500
1,364
1,068

Capital 
Markets 

– 
– 
959 

Balance at January 31, 2007 

$ 

4,932 

$ 

2,069 

$ 

1,014 

$ 

890 

$ 

959 

$ 

4,932

Goodwill acquired between February 1 and  
  October 31, 2007 
Other adjustments (1) 

372 
(552) 

– 
(19) 

31 
(163) 

323 
(217) 

18 
(153) 

372
(552)

Balance at October 31, 2007 

$ 

4,752 

$ 

2,050 

$ 

882 

$ 

996 

$ 

824 

$ 

4,752

(1) 

Other adjustments in the last three quarters of 2007 primarily include the impact of foreign exchange translations on foreign currency-denominated goodwill. 

We have also completed the annual assessment for goodwill impairment in all reporting units and have determined that there was no goodwill impair-
ment for the year ended October 31, 2007 (2006 – nil; 2005 – nil).

Other intangibles

Core deposit intangibles 
Customer lists and relationships  
Mortgage servicing rights 

2007 

2006

Gross carrying 
amount 

Accumulated 
amortization (1) 

Net carrying 
amount 

Gross carrying 
amount 

Accumulated 
amortization (1) 

Net carrying 
amount

$ 

$ 

376 
605 
47 

(170)  $ 
(200) 
(30) 

$ 

206 
405 
17 

$ 

324 
625 
44 

(163)  $ 
(156) 
(32) 

$ 

1,028 

$ 

(400)  $ 

628 

$ 

993 

$ 

(351)  $ 

161 
469 
12

642

(1) 

Total amortization expense for 2007 was $96 million (2006 – $76 million; 2005 – $50 million).

The projected amortization of Other intangibles for each of the years ending October 31, 2008 to October 31, 2012 is approximately $86 million. 
There were no writedowns of intangible assets due to impairment for the year ended October 31, 2007 (2006 – nil; 2005 – nil). 

138

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 11    Significant acquisitions and dispositions 

2007
In December 2006, we completed the acquisition of Atlanta, Georgia-
based Flag Financial Corporation (Flag) and its subsidiary, Flag Bank, 

and in March 2007, we completed the acquisition of 39 branches of 
AmSouth Bank in Alabama (AmSouth branches). Details of these 
acquisitions are as follows:

Acquisition date 

Business segment 

Percentage of shares acquired 

Flag 

AmSouth branches (1)

December 8, 2006  

March 9, 2007

U.S. & International Banking  U.S. & International Banking

 100% 

n.a.

Purchase consideration in the currency of the transaction 

Cash payment of US$435  

Cash payment of US$343

Purchase consideration in Canadian dollar equivalent 

Fair value of tangible assets acquired 
Fair value of liabilities assumed 

Fair value of identifiable net assets acquired (net liabilities assumed) 
Core deposit intangibles and other intangibles (2), (3) 
Goodwill 

Total purchase consideration 

$ 

$ 

$ 

498  

1,912 
(1,870) 

42  
50  
406  

498  

$ 

$ 

$ 

405 

2,368
(2,369)

(1)
83
323

405

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

The purchase price allocation for the AmSouth branches is preliminary; it will be finalized once the valuations of certain assets and liabilities are completed. 
Core deposit intangibles are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated average useful life of seven years. 
Included in the acquisition of Flag was $7 million of Other intangibles ($nil for AmSouth branches) which relates to non-compete agreements and are amortized over the term of the 
agreements for a maximum of three years. 

n.a. n ot applicable

Other acquisitions
Capital Markets
During 2007, we completed three acquisitions for a total cost of 
US$150 million (C$170 million), which were paid in cash: (i) Ohio-
based Seasongood & Mayer, LLC, a public finance firm and leading 
underwriter of municipal debt, and its wholly owned subsidiary, 
Seasongood Asset Management, an investment advisor to public 
funds clients, (ii) the broker-dealer business and certain other assets 
of the Carlin Financial Group, a New York-based broker-dealer, and 
(iii) Colorado-based Daniels & Associates, L.P., an M&A advisory firm 
specializing in the communications, media and entertainment, and 
technology sectors. These acquisitions are not material to Capital 
Markets and resulted in goodwill of $160 million. 

Wealth Management
On May 18, 2007, we completed the acquisition of New Jersey-based 
J.B. Hanauer & Co., a privately held financial services firm which  
specializes in retail fixed income and wealth management services, for 
US$42 million (C$45 million) in cash. The acquisition is not material to 
Wealth Management and resulted in goodwill of $18 million.

Pending acquisitions
U.S. & International Banking
On April 17, 2007, we announced our intention to acquire a 50% inter-
est in Fidelity Merchant Bank & Trust Limited, the Bahamas-based 
wholly owned subsidiary of Fidelity Bank & Trust International Limited 
to form a joint venture to be called Royal Fidelity Merchant Bank & 
Trust Limited which will provide certain corporate finance and advi-
sory, investment management, stock brokerage, share registrar and 
transfer agency, pension and mutual fund administration services. 
This transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2008.

On September 6, 2007, RBC Centura Banks, Inc. announced 
the signing of a definitive merger agreement pursuant to which RBC 
Centura Banks, Inc. agreed to acquire Birmingham-based Alabama 
National BanCorporation (ANB), parent of 10 subsidiary banks and 
other affiliated businesses in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. Under the 
agreement, shareholders of ANB will receive US$80 per share payable 
in cash, RBC common shares or a combination of each, valuing the 
deal at approximately US$1.6 billion (C$1.5 billion as at October 31, 
2007), with the total transaction consideration consisting of one-half 
cash and one-half RBC common shares. The acquisition is subject to 
customary closing conditions, including approval by U.S. and Canadian 
regulators and by ANB shareholders. The transaction is expected to 
close in early calendar year 2008.

On October 2, 2007, we and the RBTT Financial Group (RBTT) 
announced an agreement to combine our Caribbean retail banking 
operations with RBTT’s through the acquisition of RBTT for a total 
purchase price of TT$13.8 billion (C$2 billion as at October 31, 2007). 
RBTT is a Caribbean-owned banking and financial services group 
which offers a complete range of banking and financial intermed iate 
services to customers in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean. 
Under the agreement, RBTT shareholders will receive per share con-
sideration of TT$40 payable 60% in cash and 40% in RBC common 
shares. The number of RBC common shares to be received by RBTT 
shareholders is subject to a plus/minus 10% “collar” based on our 
share price of US$54.42. The acquisition is subject to customary clos-
ing conditions, including approval by the Trinidad and Tobago and 
Canadian and other regulators and RBTT shareholders. This transac-
tion is expected to close by the middle of calendar year 2008.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

139

 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 11    Significant acquisitions and dispositions (continued)

2006 
Acquisitions 
Wealth Management
In November 2005, we completed the acquisition of operations of 
Abacus Financial Services Group Limited (Abacus) in London, Jersey, 
Guernsey, Edinburgh and Cheltenham. Abacus is based in Jersey, 
Channel Islands, and provides wealth management and fiduciary  

services to private and corporate clients primarily in the British Isles 
and Continental Europe.

In October 2006, we completed the acquisition of American 
Guaranty & Trust (AG&T) which is based in Wilmington, Delaware, and 
offers complete personal trust and custody services through a unique 
strategic partnership with professional advisors. 

The details of these acquisitions are as follows: 

Acquisition date 

Business segment 

Percentage of shares acquired 

Abacus 

 AG&T

November 30, 2005  

October 3, 2006

Wealth Management (1) 

Wealth Management (1)

100% 

100%

Purchase consideration in the currency of the transaction 

Cash payment of £$105 (2) 

 Cash payment of US$12.5

Purchase consideration in Canadian dollar equivalent 

Fair value of tangible assets acquired 
Fair value of liabilities assumed 

Fair value of identifiable net tangible assets acquired 
Customer lists and relationships (3) 
Goodwill  

Total purchase consideration 

$ 

$ 

213 

43 
(23) 

20 
116 
77 

$ 

$ 

14

3
–

3
2
9

$ 

213 

$ 

14

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

These acquisitions, which were previously included in the operations of RBC U.S. and International Personal and Business segment, are included in the Wealth Management business 
segment effective February 2, 2007 upon reorganization of our business segments. Refer to Note 30. 
Includes £20 million placed in an escrow account for future payments of claims as agreed to in the purchase agreement. Amounts remaining in the escrow account will be released to the 
vendors over a three-year period after completion of the acquisition. 
Customer lists and relationships are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated average useful life of 15 years. 

Dispositions 
On September 2, 2005, we completed the sale of RBC Mortgage 
Company (RBC Mortgage) to New Century Mortgage Corporation 
and Home123 Corporation (Home123), pursuant to which Home123 
acquired certain assets of RBC Mortgage including its branches, and 
hired substantially all of its employees. RBC Mortgage disposed of 
substantially all of its remaining assets and obligations by the end of 

2006 and the residual balances of RBC Mortgage in 2007 are immate-
rial. These residual balances are no longer recorded separately in  
our Consolidated Financial Statements for 2007 and changes in  
the amounts are now reported in Corporate Support. Prior to 2007, 
the results of RBC Mortgage are presented separately as discontinued 
operations. 

Note 12    Other assets

Receivable from brokers, dealers and clients 
Accrued interest receivable 
Investment in associated corporations and limited partnerships 
Insurance-related assets (1) 
Net future income tax asset (refer to Note 24) 
Prepaid pension benefit cost (2) (refer to Note 20) 
Cheques and other items in transit 
Other    

$ 

$ 

2007 

4,048 
2,608 
1,420 
827 
1,251 
590 
– 
7,109 

2006

3,172 
2,229 
1,614 
702 
1,104 
761 
489 
5,346

$ 

17,853 

$ 

15,417

(1) 

(2) 

Insurance-related assets include policy loan balances, premiums outstanding, amounts due from other insurers in respect of reinsurance contracts and pooling arrangements, and 
deferred acquisition costs.
Prepaid pension benefit cost represents the cumulative excess of pension fund contributions over pension benefit expense.

140

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 13    Deposits

The following table details our deposit liabilities:

Personal 
Business and government (4), (5) 
Bank     

Non-interest-bearing 
    Canada 
    United States 
    Other International 
Interest-bearing  
    Canada (4), (5) 
    United States 
    Other International 

Demand (1) 

Notice (2) 

Term (3) 

Total 

2007 

2006

Total

$  14,022 
  64,934 
4,135 

$  36,537 
  16,930 
221 

$  65,998 
  138,022 
  24,406 

$  116,557 
  219,886 
  28,762 

$  114,040
  189,140 
  40,343

$  83,091 

$  53,688 

$  228,426 

$  365,205 

$  343,523

$  28,254 
2,285 
1,693 

$  19,088
2,293 
1,241 

  155,190 
41,514 
  136,269  

  174,170 
  50,123 
96,608

$  365,205 

$  343,523

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

(4) 

(5) 

Deposits payable on demand include all deposits for which we do not have the right to notice of withdrawal. These deposits are primarily chequing accounts.
Deposits payable after notice include all deposits for which we can legally require notice of withdrawal. These deposits are primarily savings accounts.
Term deposits include deposits payable on a fixed date. These deposits include term deposits, guaranteed investment certificates and similar instruments. At October 31, 2007, the bal-
ance of term deposits also includes senior deposit notes we have issued to provide long-term funding of $51.5 billion (2006 – $33.4 billion).
The senior deposit note of $900 million issued to Trust II (refer to Note 17) is included in Business and government deposits. This senior deposit note bears interest at an annual rate of 
5.812% and will mature on December 31, 2053. The note is redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on and after December 31, 2008, subject to the approval of the OSFI. It may be 
redeemed earlier, at our option in certain specified circumstances, subject to the approval of the OSFI. Each $1,000 of the note principal is convertible at any time into 40 of our Non-
cumulative redeemable First Preferred Shares Series U at the option of Trust II. Trust II will exercise this conversion right in circumstances in which holders of RBC Trust Capital Securities 
Series 2013 (RBC TruCS 2013) exercise their holder exchange right. Refer to Note 17 for more information on RBC TruCS 2013.
Business and government deposits also include a senior deposit note of $999.8 million issued to RBC Subordinated Notes Trust (Trust III) (refer to Note 17). This senior deposit note 
bears interest at an annual rate of 4.72% and will mature on April 30, 2017. Subject to the OSFI’s approval, the note is redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, on or after April 30, 
2012, at the Redemption Price and may also be redeemed earlier at our option at the Early Redemption Price. The Redemption Price is an amount equal to $1,000 plus the unpaid distri-
butions to the redemption date. The Early Redemption Price is an amount equal to the greater of (i) the Redemption Price, and (ii) the price calculated to provide an annual yield, equal to 
the yield on Government of Canada bonds from the redemption date to April 30, 2012, plus 11 basis points.

The contractual maturities of the term deposits are as follows: 

Term deposits (1)

Within 1 year 
1 to 2 years 
2 to 3 years 
3 to 4 years 
4 to 5 years 
Over 5 years 

Total      

2007

$  171,929 
17,484 
  15,290 
9,501 
8,552 
5,670

$  228,426

(1) 

The aggregate amount of term deposits in denominations of $100,000 or more as at October 31, 2007 was $186 billion.

The following table presents the average deposit balances and average rates of interest paid during 2007 and 2006: 

Average deposit balances and rates

Canada 
United States 
Other International 

Average balances 
2007 

2006 

$  190,754 
  54,812 
  122,910 

$  183,085 
  48,272 
  91,942 

$  368,476 

$  323,299 

Average rates

2007 

2.97% 
4.68 
4.50 

3.74% 

2006

2.74%
4.18
3.99

3.31%

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

141

 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 14    Insurance

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities

Life and health 
Property and casualty 
Reinsurance 

Total     

Future policy benefit liabilities 
Claims liabilities 

Total     

2007 

6,664 
417 
202 

7,283 

6,610 
673 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2006

6,655
386
296

7,337

6,605
732

7,283 

$ 

7,337

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

The net decrease in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities over 
the prior year comprised: (i) the favourable impact of the stronger  
Canadian dollar on U.S. dollar-denominated liabilities, (ii) a net 
decrease in reinsurance liabilities reflecting claim payments related  
to hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma, and (iii) the net increase in 
life and health and property and casualty liabilities attributable to  
business growth and market movements on assets backing life and 
health liabilities.

Furthermore, the review of various actuarial assumptions and com-
pletion of certain actuarial experience studies resulted in a net decrease 
of $57 million life and $32 million health insurance liabilities. This was 
predominantly driven by the impact of ongoing experience studies, 
refinements to cash flow models and methods, investment portfolio 
changes and updated interest rate assumptions, and includes a cumula-
tive valuation adjustment of $92 million relating to prior periods.

The changes in the insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities 
are included in the Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisi-
tion expense in our Consolidated Statement of Income in the period in 
which the estimates changed. 

Reinsurance
In the ordinary course of business, our insurance operations reinsure  
risks to other insurance and reinsurance companies in order to provide 
greater diversification, limit loss exposure to large risks, and provide  
additional capacity for future growth. These ceding reinsurance 
arrangements do not relieve our insurance subsidiaries from their 
direct obligation to the insureds. We evaluate the financial condition  
of the reinsurers and monitor our concentrations of credit risks to  
minimize our exposure to losses from reinsurer insolvency.

Reinsurance recoverables related to property and casualty insur-

ance business, which are included in Other assets, include amounts 
related to paid benefits and unpaid claims. Reinsurance recoverables 
related to life insurance business are included in Insurance claims and 
policy benefit liabilities to offset the related liabilities.

Reinsurance amounts (ceded premiums) included in Non-interest 

income for the years ended October 31 are shown in the table below: 

Net premiums

Gross premiums 
Ceded premiums 

Note 15    Other liabilities

Short-term borrowings of subsidiaries 
Payable to brokers, dealers and clients 
Accrued interest payable 
Accrued pension and other post-employment benefit expense (1) (refer to Note 20) 
Insurance-related liabilities 
Dividends payable 
Payroll and related compensation 
Trade payables and related accounts 
Taxes payable 
Other    

2007 

3,445 
(852) 

$ 

2006 

3,405 
(810) 

$ 

2005

3,329 
(765)

2,593 

$ 

2,595 

$ 

2,564

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2007 

3,784 
3,941 
2,908 
1,266 
408 
661 
3,960 
1,854 
1,078 
8,623 

2006

3,929 
3,382 
2,556 
1,250 
491 
526 
3,551 
709 
78 
6,177

$  28,483 

$  22,649

(1) 

Accrued pension and other post-employment benefit expense represents the cumulative excess of pension and other post-employment benefit expense over pension and other post-
employment fund contributions.

142

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 16    Subordinated debentures

The debentures are unsecured obligations and are subordinated in 
right of payment to the claims of depositors and certain other credi-
tors. All redemptions, cancellations and exchanges of subordinated 
debentures are subject to the consent and approval of the OSFI. All 
subordinated debentures are redeemable at our option. As a result of 
adopting the new financial instruments accounting standards effective  

November 1, 2006, Subordinated debentures are now presented on 
our Consolidated Balance Sheets net of deferred financing costs. Prior 
to November 1, 2006, deferred financing costs were recognized in 
Other assets. The prior period comparative amounts have not been 
restated. The amounts presented below are net of our holdings in these 
securities which have not been cancelled and are still outstanding.

Maturity 

March 15, 2009 
November 8, 2011 
June 4, 2012 
January 22, 2013 
January 27, 2014 
June 1, 2014 
November 14, 2014 
January 25, 2015 
June 24, 2015 
April 12, 2016 
November 4, 2018 
June 8, 2023 
June 26, 2037 
October 1, 2083 
June 6, 2085 
June 18, 2103 

Deferred financing costs 

Earliest par value redemption date 

November 8, 2006 
(1) 
June 4, 2007 
(1) 
January 22, 2008  (2) 
January 27, 2009  (4) 
June 1, 2009  (5) 

January 25, 2010  (6) 
June 24, 2010  (4) 
April 12, 2011   (7) 
November 4, 2013  (8) 

June 26, 2017  (9) 
  (11) 
  (11) 
June 18, 2009 (14) 

Interest 
rate 

6.50% 

6.75% 
6.10%  (3) 
3.96%  (3) 
4.18%  (3) 

10.00% 

7.10%  (3) 
3.70%  (3) 
6.30%  (3) 
5.45%  (3) 
9.30% 
2.86%  (10) 
  (12) 
 (13) 
5.95% (15) 

Denominated in 
foreign currency 

US$125 
US$400 

$ 

JPY 10,000 

US$189 

$ 

2007 

118 
– 
– 
483 
495 
976 
257 
515 
775 
389 
1,021 
110 
77 
224 
179 
622 

2006

140
449 
483 
497 
493 
997 
200 
495 
791
400 
985 
110
–
224
239 
600

$ 

$ 

6,241 
(6) 

$ 
 –

7,103

6,235 

$ 

7,103

The terms and conditions of the debentures are as follows:
(1)  Redeemed on the earliest par value redemption date at par value.
(2)  Redeemable at any time prior to the earliest par value redemption 

date at the greater of (i) the fair value of the subordinated debentures 
based on the yield on Government of Canada bonds plus 18 basis 
points and (ii) par value, and thereafter at any time at par value. 
Interest at stated interest rate until earliest par value redemption 
date, and thereafter at a rate of 1.00% above the 90-day Bankers’ 
Acceptance rate.

(3) 

(8)  Redeemable at any time prior to the earliest par value redemption 

date at the greater of (i) the fair value of the subordinated debentures 
based on the yield on Government of Canada bonds plus 14 basis 
points and (ii) par value, and thereafter at any time at par value.

(9)  Redeemable on or after June 26, 2017, at par value.
(10)  Fixed interest rate at 2.86% per annum, payable semi-annually.
(11)  Redeemable on any interest payment date at par value.
(12)  Interest at a rate of 40 basis points above the 30-day Bankers’ 

(4)  Redeemable at any time prior to the earliest par value redemption 

Acceptance rate.

date at the greater of (i) the fair value of the subordinated debentures 
based on the yield on Government of Canada bonds plus 8 basis 
points and (ii) par value, and thereafter at any time at par value.

(5)  Redeemable at any time prior to the earliest par value redemption 

date at the greater of (i) the fair value of the subordinated debentures 
based on the yield on Government of Canada bonds plus 9 basis 
points and (ii) par value, and thereafter at any time at par value.

(6)  Redeemable at any time prior to the earliest par value redemption 

date at the greater of (i) the fair value of the subordinated debentures 
based on the yield on Government of Canada bonds plus 12.5 basis 
points and (ii) par value, and thereafter at any time at par value.

(13)  Interest at a rate of 25 basis points above the U.S. dollar 3-month 
LIMEAN. In the event of a reduction of the annual dividend we 
declare on our common shares, the interest payable on the deben-
tures is reduced pro rata to the dividend reduction and the interest 
reduction is payable with the proceeds from the sale of newly issued 
common shares.

(14)  Redeemable on June 18, 2009, or every fifth anniversary of such  

date at par value. Redeemable on any other date at the greater of par 
and the yield on a non-callable Government of Canada bond plus  
21 basis points if redeemed prior to June 18, 2014, or 43 basis points 
if redeemed at any time after June 18, 2014.

(7)  Redeemable at any time prior to the earliest par value redemption 

(15)  Interest at a rate of 5.95% until earliest par value redemption date 

date at the greater of (i) the fair value of the subordinated debentures 
based on the yield on Government of Canada bonds plus 22 basis 
points and (ii) par value, and thereafter at any time at par value.

and every 5 years thereafter at the 5-year Government of Canada 
yield plus 172 basis points. 

Maturity schedule
The aggregate maturities of subordinated debentures, based on the 
maturity dates under the terms of issue, are as follows: 

At October 31, 2007 

Within 1 year 
1 to 5 years 
5 to 10 years 
Thereafter 

Total

$ 

– 
118 
  3,890 
  2,233

$ 

 6,241

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

143

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
           
Note 17    Trust capital securities

We issue innovative capital instruments, RBC Trust Capital Securities 
(TruCS) and RBC Trust Subordinated Notes (TSNs), through three  
SPEs: RBC Capital Trust (Trust), RBC Capital Trust II (Trust II) and  
RBC Subordinated Notes Trust (Trust III). 

On April 30, 2007, we issued $1 billion innovative subordinated 

debentures, TSNs – Series A, through Trust III. Trust III is a closed-end 
trust established under the laws of the Province of Ontario. The issue 
was priced at $99.982 with a yield to April 30, 2012 of 4.584%. The 
proceeds were used to purchase a senior deposit note from us. Trust III  
is a VIE under AcG-15. We do not consolidate Trust III as we are not its 
Primary Beneficiary (refer to Note 6); therefore, the TSNs – Series A 
issued by Trust III are not reported on our Consolidated Balance Sheet 
but the senior deposit note issued by us to Trust III is reported as a 
Business and government deposit liability (refer to Note 13). 

In prior years, we issued non-voting RBC Trust Capital Securities 

Series 2010, 2011 and 2015 (RBC TruCS 2010, 2011 and 2015) through 
our consolidated subsidiary RBC Capital Trust, a closed-end trust 
established under the laws of the Province of Ontario. RBC TruCS 2010 
and 2011 are classified as Trust capital securities. The proceeds of the 
RBC TruCS 2010 and 2011 were used to fund the Trust’s acquisition 
of trust assets. Holders of RBC TruCS 2010 and 2011 are eligible to 
receive semi-annual non-cumulative fixed cash distributions.

Unlike the RBC TruCS 2010 and 2011, the holders of RBC TruCS 
2015 do not have any conversion rights or any other redemption rights. 

As a result, upon consolidation of the Trust, RBC TruCS 2015 are  
classified as Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries (refer to Note 19).  
Holders of RBC TruCS 2015 are eligible to receive semi-annual  
non-cumulative fixed cash distributions until December 31, 2015  
and a floating-rate cash distribution thereafter.

Trust II, an open-end trust, has issued non-voting RBC TruCS 
2013, the proceeds of which were used to purchase a senior deposit 
note from us. Trust II is a VIE under AcG-15 (refer to Note 6). We do 
not consolidate Trust II as we are not the Primary Beneficiary; there-
fore, the RBC TruCS 2013 issued by Trust II are not reported on our 
Consolidated Balance Sheets, but the senior deposit note is reported 
in Deposits (refer to Note 13). Holders of RBC TruCS 2013 are eligible 
to receive semi-annual non-cumulative fixed cash distributions.

No cash distributions will be payable by the trusts on TruCS if we 

fail to declare regular dividends (i) on our preferred shares, or (ii) on 
our common shares if no preferred shares are then outstanding. In this 
case, the net distributable funds of the trusts will be distributed to us 
as holders of residual interest in the trusts. Should the trusts fail to 
pay the semi-annual distributions in full, we will not declare dividends 
of any kind on any of our preferred or common shares for a specified 
period of time.

The table below presents the significant terms and conditions of 

TruCS and TSNs as at October 31, 2007 and 2006:

Issuer 

Issuance date 

Distribution dates 

Redemption date 

Conversion date 

Annual 
yield 

At the option of 
the issuer 

At the option 
of the holder 

2007
Principal	
	amount	

2006
Principal
amount

RBC	Capital	Trust (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7) 
Included in Trust capital securities  
    650,000 Trust Capital Securities – Series 2010 
July 24, 2000 
    750,000 Trust Capital Securities – Series 2011  December 6, 2000 

June 30, December 31 
June 30, December 31 

7.288% 
7.183% 

December 31, 2005  December 31, 2010 
December 31, 2005  December 31, 2011 

$	
$	

650	
750 

$ 
$  

650 
750

Included in Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
    1,200,000 Trust Capital Securities –  
      Series 2015 

October 28, 2005 

June 30, December 31  4.87% (8) 

December 31, 2010  Holder does not have  
conversion option 

$	 1,400	

$  1,400

$	 1,200	

$  1,200

$	 2,600	

$  2,600

RBC	Capital	Trust	II (2), (3), (4), (6), (7), (9) 

  900,000 Trust Capital Securities – Series 2013 

July 23, 2003 

June 30, December 31 

5.812% 

December 31, 2008 

Any time 

$	

900	

RBC	Subordinated	Notes	Trust (3), (4), (6), (7), (10), (11) 

  $1 billion 4.58% Trust Subordinated Notes – 

April 30, 2007 

April 30, October 30 

4.584% 

      Series A 

Any time  Holder does not have  
conversion option 

$	 1,000	

$ 

$ 

900

–

The significant terms and conditions of the TruCS and TSNs are as follows:
(1)  Subject to the approval of the OSFI, the Trust may, in whole (but not in 
part), on the Redemption date specified above, and on any Distribution 
date thereafter, redeem the RBC TruCS 2010, 2011 and 2015, without the 
consent of the holders. 

(2)  Subject to the approval of the OSFI, upon occurrence of a special event 

(3) 

as defined, prior to the Redemption date specified above, the trusts may 
redeem all, but not part of, RBC TruCS 2010, 2011, 2013 or 2015 without 
the consent of the holders.
Issuer Redemption Price: The RBC TruCS 2010 and 2011 may be redeemed 
for cash equivalent to (i) the Early Redemption Price if the redemption 
occurs earlier than six months prior to the conversion date specified above 
or (ii) the Redemption Price if the redemption occurs on or after the date 
that is six months prior to the conversion date as indicated above. The 
RBC TruCS 2013 and 2015 may be redeemed for cash equivalent to (i) the 
Early Redemption Price if the redemption occurs prior to December 31, 
2013 and 2015, respectively, or (ii) the Redemption Price if the redemption 
occurs on or after December 31, 2013 and 2015, respectively. The TSNs –  
Series A may be redeemed, in whole or in part, subject to the approval 
of the OSFI, for cash equivalent to (i) the Early Redemption Price if the 
notes are redeemed prior to April 30, 2012, or (ii) the Redemption Price 
if the notes are redeemed on or after April 30, 2012. Redemption Price 
refers to an amount equal to $1,000 plus the unpaid distributions to the 
Redemption date. Early Redemption Price refers to an amount equal to  
the greater of (i) the Redemption Price and (ii) the price calculated to pro-
vide an annual yield, equal to the yield on a Government of Canada bond 
issued on the Redemption date with a maturity date of June 30, 2010 and 
2011, plus 33 basis points and 40 basis points, for RBC TruCS 2010 and 
2011, respectively, and a maturity date of December 31, 2013 and 2015, 
plus 23 basis points and 19.5 basis points, for RBC TruCS 2013 and 2015,  

respectively; and a maturity date of April 30, 2012, plus 11 basis points for 
TSNs – Series A.

(4)  Automatic Exchange Event: Without the consent of the holders, each RBC 
TruCS 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2015 will be exchanged automatically for 40 
of our non-cumulative redeemable First Preferred Shares Series Q, R, T 
and Z, respectively, and each TSN – Series A will be exchanged automati-
cally for an equal principal amount of Bank Series 10 Subordinated Notes 
upon occurrence of any one of the following events: (i) proceedings are 
commenced for our winding-up; (ii) the OSFI takes control of us; (iii) we 
have Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 5% or Total capital ratio of less than 
8%; or (iv) the OSFI has directed us to increase our capital or provide 
additional liquidity and we elect such automatic exchange or we fail to 
comply with such direction. The First Preferred Shares Series T and Z pay 
semi-annual non-cumulative cash dividends and Series T is convertible at 
the option of the holder into a variable number of common shares.
From time to time, we purchase some of the innovative capital instru-
ments and hold them on a temporary basis. As at October 31, 2007, 
we held $nil of RBC TruCS 2011 (2006 – $17 million) and $6 million of 
RBC TruCS 2015 (2006 – $12 million) as treasury holdings which were 
deducted from regulatory capital. 

(5) 

(6)  Regulatory capital: According to the OSFI guidelines, innovative capital 
instruments can comprise up to 15% of net Tier 1 capital with an  
additional 5% eligible for Tier 2B capital. Any amount in excess of the  
20% limitation is not recognized for regulatory capital purposes. TSN – 
Series A qualifies as Tier 2B capital. As at October 31, 2007, $3,494 million 
(2006 – $3,222 million) represents Tier 1 capital, $1,027 million (2006 –  
$249 million) represents Tier 2B capital and $6 million (2006 – $29 million)  
of our treasury holdings of innovative capital is deducted for regulatory 
capital purposes. As at October 31, 2007, none of our innovative capital 
instruments exceeds the OSFI’s limit of 20% (2006 – nil ).

144

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

	
	
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	 	 	 	 	 	 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
(7)  Holder Exchange Right: Holders of RBC TruCS 2010 and 2011 may 

(9)  Subject to the approval of the OSFI, Trust II may, in whole or in part, on 

exchange, on any Distribution date on or after the conversion date speci-
fied above, RBC TruCS 2010 and 2011 for 40 non-cumulative redeemable 
Bank First Preferred Shares, Series Q and Series R, respectively. Holders 
of RBC TruCS 2013 may, at any time, exchange all or part of their holdings 
for 40 non-cumulative redeemable First Preferred Shares Series U, for 
each RBC TruCS 2013 held. The First Preferred Shares Series Q, R and U 
pay semi-annual non-cumulative cash dividends as and when declared 
by our Board of Directors and are convertible at the option of the holder 
into a variable number of common shares. Holders of RBC TruCS 2015 
and TSNs – Series A do not have similar exchange rights.

(8)  The non-cumulative cash distribution on the RBC TruCS 2015 will be 

4.87% paid semi-annually until December 31, 2015, and at one half of the 
sum of 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 1.5%, thereafter.

the Redemption date specified above, and on any Distribution date there-
after, redeem any outstanding RBC TruCS 2013, without the consent of 
the holders. 

(10)  The cash distribution on the TSNs – Series A will be 4.58% paid semi- 
annually until April 30, 2012, and at 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate 
plus 1% thereafter paid quarterly until their maturity on April 30, 2017.

(11)  We will guarantee the payment of principal, interest, the redemption 
price, if any, and any other amounts of the TSNs – Series A when they 
become due and payable, whether at stated maturity, call for redemp-
tion, Automatic Exchange or otherwise according to the terms of the Bank 
Subordinated Guarantee and the Trust Indenture.

Note 18    Preferred share liabilities and share capital

Authorized share capital 
Preferred – An unlimited number of First Preferred Shares and Second 
Preferred Shares without nominal or par value, issuable in series; the 
aggregate consideration for which all the First Preferred Shares and  
all the Second Preferred Shares that may be issued may not exceed 
$20 billion and $5 billion, respectively. 

Issued	and	outstanding	shares

Common – An unlimited number of shares without nominal or par value 
may be issued.

Preferred	share	liabilities
	 	 First	preferred	
        Non-cumulative Series N 
        Treasury shares – sales 
        Treasury shares – purchases  

Number	
of	shares	
(000s)	

2007 

Amount	

Dividends 
declared 
per	share 

Number 
of shares 
(000s) 

2006 

Amount 

Dividends 
declared 
per share 

Number 
of shares 
(000s) 

2005

Amount 

Dividends 
declared 
per share

11,916	 $	
152	
(68)	

298	 $	
4	
(2)	

1.18	

	 12,000  $ 

– 
(84) 

300  $ 
– 
(2) 

1.18 

  12,000  $ 

– 
– 

1.18 

300  $ 
– 
– 

Preferred	share	liabilities,	net	of	treasury	holdings 

	 12,000	 $	

300	

11,916  $ 

298 

  12,000  $ 

300 

Preferred	shares
	 	 First	preferred	
        Non-cumulative Series O (1) 
        Non-cumulative Series S (2) 
        Non-cumulative Series W (3) 
        Non-cumulative Series AA (4) 
        Non-cumulative Series AB (5) 
        Non-cumulative Series AC (6) 
        Non-cumulative Series AD (7) 
        Non-cumulative Series AE (8) 
        Non-cumulative Series AF (9) 
        Non-cumulative Series AG (10) 

–	 $	
–	
	 12,000	
	 12,000	
	 12,000	
8,000	
	 10,000	
	 10,000	
8,000	
	 10,000	

–	 $	
–	
300	
300	
300	
200	
250	
250	
200	
250	

–	
–	
1.23	
1.11	
1.18	
1.22	
1.06	
.95	
.77	
.65	

6,000  $ 
– 
	 12,000 
  12,000 
	 12,000 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

150  $ 
– 
300 
300 
300 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

1.38 
1.33	
1.23 
.71	
.41	
–	
–	
–	
–	
–	

6,000  $ 

	 10,000 
	 12,000 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

150  $ 
250 
300 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

1.38 
1.53
.99
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

	 $	

2,050	

	 $ 

1,050 

  $ 

700 

Common	shares 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Issued under the stock option plan (11)   
    Purchased for cancellation 

1,280,890	 $	
7,215	
(11,845)	

7,196	
170	
(66)	

 1,293,502  $ 
5,617 
(18,229) 

7,170 
127	
(101)	

 1,289,496  $ 
9,917 
(5,911) 

6,988 
214 
(32) 

    Balance at end of year 

1,276,260	 $	

7,300	 $	

1.82	

 1,280,890  $ 

7,196  $ 

1.44 

 1,293,502  $ 

7,170  $ 

1.18

Treasury	shares	–	Preferred	shares 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Sales  
    Purchases 

    Balance at end of year 

Treasury	shares	–	Common	shares 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Sales  
    Purchases 
    Initial adoption of AcG-15	

(94)	 $	

1,345	
(1,500)	

(249)	 $	

(5,486)	 $	
4,756	
(1,714) 
–	

(2)	
33	
(37)	

(6)	

(180)	
175	
(96) 
–	

(91)  $ 

2,082 
(2,085) 

(94)  $ 

(7,053)  $ 
5,097 
(3,530) 
– 

(2) 
51 
(51)	

(2)	

(216)	
193 
(157)	
–	

    Balance at end of year 

(2,444)	 $	

(101)	

(5,486)  $ 

(180)	

–  $ 
– 
(91) 

(91)  $ 

– 
– 
(2) 

(2) 

(9,726)  $ 
5,904 
(1,326) 
(1,905) 

(294) 
179 
(47) 
(54) 

(7,053)  $ 

(216) 

(1) 

(2) 

On November 24, 2006, we redeemed Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series O. The excess of the redemption price over carrying value of $3 million was charged to retained  
earnings in preferred share dividends. 
On October 6, 2006, we redeemed Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series S. The excess of the redemption price over carrying value of $10 million was charged to retained  
earnings in preferred share dividends.
On January 31, 2005, we issued 12 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series W at $25 per share.
(3) 
On April 4, 2006, we issued 12 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AA at $25 per share. 
(4) 
On July 20, 2006, we issued 12 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AB at $25 per share. 
(5) 
On November 1, 2006, we issued 8 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AC at $25 per share.
(6) 
On December 13, 2006, we issued 10 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AD at $25 per share.
(7) 
On January 19, 2007, we issued 10 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AE at $25 per share.
(8) 
(9) 
On March 14, 2007, we issued 8 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AF at $25 per share.
(10)  On April 26, 2007, we issued 10 million Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares Series AG at $25 per share.
(11) 

Includes the exercise of stock options from tandem stock appreciation rights (SARs) awards, resulting in a reversal of the accrued liability, net of related income taxes, of $10 million 
(2006 – $8 million), and from renounced tandem SARs, net of related income taxes, of $6 million (2006 – $2 million).

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

145

 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
             
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
 
Note 18    Preferred share liabilities and share capital (continued)

Terms	of	preferred	share	liabilities	and	preferred	shares

Preferred	share	liabilities
	 	 First	preferred 
        Non-cumulative Series N 

Preferred	shares
	 	 First	preferred 
        Non-cumulative Series W 
        Non-cumulative Series AA 
        Non-cumulative Series AB 
        Non-cumulative Series AC 
        Non-cumulative Series AD 
        Non-cumulative Series AE 
        Non-cumulative Series AF 
        Non-cumulative Series AG 

Dividend 
per share (1) 

Redemption 
date (2) 

Redemption 
price (2), (3) 

At the option of 
the bank (2), (4) 

At the option of
the holder (5)

Conversion date

$ 

$ 

$ 

.293750 

August 24, 2003 

$ 

.306250 
.278125 
.293750 
.287500 
.281250 
.281250 
.278125 
.281250 

February 24, 2010 
May 24, 2011 
August 24, 2011 
November 24, 2011 
February 24, 2012 
February 24, 2012 
May 24, 2012 
May 24, 2012 

25.00 

August 24, 2003 

August 24, 2008

26.00 
26.00 
26.00 
26.00 
26.00 
26.00 
26.00 
26.00 

February 24, 2010 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 

Not convertible
Not convertible 
Not convertible
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible 
Not convertible
Not convertible

(1)  Non-cumulative preferential dividends on Series N, W, AA, AB, AC, 

AD, AE, AF and AG are payable quarterly, as and when declared by the 
Board of Directors, on or about the 24th day of February, May, August 
and November.

(2)  The redemption price represents the price as at October 31, 2007 or 

the contractual redemption price, whichever is applicable. Subject 
to the consent of the OSFI and the requirements of the Act, we may, 
on or after the dates specified above, redeem First Preferred Shares. 
These may be redeemed for cash, in the case of Series N at a price  
per share of $26, if redeemed during the 12 months commencing  
August 24, 2003, and decreasing by $.25 each 12-month period 
thereafter to a price per share of $25 if redeemed on or after  
August 24, 2007; and in the case of Series W, at a price per share of 
$26, if redeemed during the 12 months commencing February 24, 
2010, and decreasing by $.25 each 12-month period thereafter to 
a price per share of $25 if redeemed on or after February 24, 2014; 
and in the case of Series AA, at a price per share of $26, if redeemed 
during the 12 months commencing May 24, 2011, and decreasing by 
$.25 each 12-month period thereafter to a price per share of $25 if 
redeemed on or after May 24, 2015; and in the case of Series AB, at a 
price per share of $26, if redeemed during the 12 months commenc-
ing August 24, 2011, and decreasing by $.25 each 12-month period 
thereafter to a price per share of $25 if redeemed on or after  
August 24, 2015; and in the case of Series AC, at a price per share of 
$26, if redeemed during the 12 months commencing November 24, 
2011, and decreasing by $.25 each 12-month period thereafter to a 
price per share of $25 if redeemed on or after November 24, 2015; 
and in the case of Series AD, at a price per share of $26, if redeemed 
during the 12 months commencing February 24, 2012, and decreasing  
by $.25 each 12-month period thereafter to a price per share of $25 if 
redeemed on or after February 24, 2016; and in the case of Series AE, 
at a price per share of $26, if redeemed during the 12 months  

commencing February 24, 2012, and decreasing by $.25 each 
12-month period thereafter to a price per share of $25 if redeemed  
on or after February 24, 2016; and in the case of Series AF, at a price 
per share of $26, if redeemed during the 12 months commencing  
May 24, 2012, and decreasing by $.25 each 12-month period thereaf-
ter to a price per share of $25 if redeemed on or after May 24, 2016; 
and in the case of Series AG, at a price per share of $26, if redeemed 
during the 12 months commencing May 24, 2012, and decreasing by 
$.25 each 12-month period thereafter to a price per share of $25 if 
redeemed on or after May 24, 2016. 

(3)  Subject to the consent of the OSFI and the requirements of the Act, 

we may purchase the First Preferred Shares Series N, W, AA, AB,  
AC, AD, AE, AF and AG for cancellation at the lowest price or prices  
at which, in the opinion of the Board of Directors, such shares  
are obtainable.

(4)  Subject to the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange, we may, on  

or after the dates specified above, convert First Preferred Shares  
Series N and W into our common shares. First Preferred Shares may 
be converted into that number of common shares determined by 
dividing the then-applicable redemption price by the greater of $2.50 
and 95% of the weighted average trading price of common shares at 
such time.

(5)  Subject to our right to redeem or to find substitute purchasers, 

the holder may, on or after the dates specified above, convert First 
Preferred Shares into our common shares. Series N may be con-
verted, quarterly, into that number of common shares determined by 
dividing the then-applicable redemption price by the greater of $2.50 
and 95% of the weighted average trading price of common shares at 
such time. 

Restrictions on the payment of dividends
We are prohibited by the Act from declaring any dividends on our  
preferred or common shares when we are, or would be placed as a 
result of the declaration, in contravention of the capital adequacy and 
liquidity regulations or any regulatory directives issued under the Act. 
We may not pay dividends on our common shares at any time unless all 
dividends to which preferred shareholders are then entitled have been 
declared and paid or set apart for payment.

In addition, we may not declare or pay a dividend without the 

approval of the OSFI if, on the day the dividend is declared, the total 
of all dividends in that year would exceed the aggregate of our net 
income up to that day and of our retained net income for the preceding 
two years. 

We have agreed that if RBC Capital Trust or RBC Capital Trust II 
fail to pay any required distribution on the trust capital securities in 
full, we will not declare dividends of any kind on any of our preferred or 
common shares. Refer to Note 17.

Currently, these limitations do not restrict the payment of  

dividends on our preferred or common shares. 

We have also agreed that if, on any day we report financial results 

for a quarter, (i) we report a cumulative consolidated net loss for the 

immediately preceding four quarters; and (ii) during the immediately 
preceding quarter we fail to declare any cash dividends on all of  
our outstanding preferred and common shares, we may defer pay-
ments of interest on the Series 2014-1 Reset Subordinated Notes 
(matures on June 18, 2103). During any period while interest is being 
deferred, (i) interest will accrue on these notes but will not compound; 
(ii) we may not declare or pay dividends (except by way of stock divi-
dend) on, or redeem or repurchase, any of our preferred or common 
shares; and (iii) we may not make any payment of interest, principal or 
premium on any debt securities or indebtedness for borrowed money 
issued or incurred by us that rank subordinate to these notes.

Regulatory capital
We are subject to the regulatory capital requirements defined by the 
OSFI. Two measures of capital strength established by the OSFI, based 
on standards issued by the Bank for International Settlements, are 
risk-adjusted capital ratios and the assets-to-capital multiple. 

The OSFI requires Canadian banks to maintain a minimum Tier 1 
and Total capital ratio of 4% and 8%, respectively. However, the OSFI 
has also formally established risk-based capital targets for deposit-
taking institutions in Canada. These targets are a Tier 1 capital ratio of 

146

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7% and a Total capital ratio of 10%. At October 31, 2007, our Tier 1 and 
Total capital ratios were 9.4% and 11.5%, respectively (2006 – 9.6% 
and 11.9%, respectively).

As at October 31, 2007, our assets-to-capital multiple was 19.9 
(2006 – 19.7), which remains below the maximum ratio of 23 permitted  
by the OSFI.

Dividend reinvestment plan
Our dividend reinvestment plan (plan), which was announced on 
August 27, 2004, provides registered common shareholders with a 
means to automatically reinvest the cash dividends paid on their com-
mon shares in the purchase of additional common shares. The plan  
is only open to registered shareholders residing in Canada or the 
United States. 

Management has the flexibility to fund the plan through open 

market share purchases or treasury issuances.

Shares available for future issuances 
As at October 31, 2007, 36.6 million common shares are available for 
future issue relating to our plan and potential exercise of stock options 
outstanding. 

Normal Course Issuer Bid
Details of common shares repurchased under Normal Course Issuer 
Bids (NCIB) during 2007, 2006 and 2005 are given below.

2007

Number	of	
	 shares	eligible	
	 for	repurchase	
(000s)	

Number	of	
shares	
	repurchased		
(000s)	

Average	
cost	
per	share	

Amount

	 40,000	

	 11,845	

$	

54.59	

$	

646

2006

Pre-stock dividend 

Post-stock dividend 

Total

Number of 
shares eligible 
for repurchase 
(000s) 

Number of 
shares 
repurchased 
(000s) 

Average 
cost 
per share 

7,000 
	 10,000 

– 
4,387 

 $ 

– 
90.48 

4,387 

$ 

90.48 

Amount 

$ 

$ 

– 
397 

397 

Number of 
shares 
 repurchased  
(000s) 

Average 
cost 
per share 

Amount

6,595 
2,859 

$ 

47.12 
47.52 

9,454 

$ 

47.24 

$ 

$ 

311 
136 

447 

$ 

$ 

311
533

844

NCIB period	

November 1, 2006 – October 31, 2007 

NCIB period 

June 26, 2006 – October 31, 2006 
June 24, 2005 – June 23, 2006 

NCIB period	

June 24, 2005 – June 23, 2006 
June 24, 2004 – June 23, 2005 

(1) 

The 2005 number of shares and average cost per share are pre-stock dividend. 

Note 19    Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries

RBC Trust Capital Securities (TruCS) Series 2015 
Consolidated VIEs 
Others   

2005 (1)

Number of 
shares eligible 
for repurchase 
(000s) 

Number of
shares 
repurchased 
(000s) 

Average 
cost 
per share 

  10,000 
  25,000	

1,950 
1,005 

$ 

83.50 
63.24 

2,955 

$ 

76.61 

Amount

$ 

$ 

163 
63

226

$	

2007	

1,214	
188	
81	

$ 

2006

1,207 
506 
62

$	

1,483	

$ 

1,775

We consolidate VIEs in which we are the Primary Beneficiary. These 
VIEs include structured finance VIEs, investment funds, credit invest-
ment product VIEs and compensation vehicles as described in Note 6.

We issued RBC TruCS 2015 in 2005 which are reported as Non-
controlling interest in subsidiaries upon consolidation as discussed 
in Note 17. As at October 31, 2007, $20 million (2006 – $19 million) of 
accrued interest net of $6 million (2006 – $12 million) of treasury hold-
ings was included in RBC Trust Capital Securities Series 2015.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

147

 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
             
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
             
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 20    Pensions and other post-employment benefits

We offer a number of defined benefit and defined contribution plans, 
which provide pension and post-employment benefits to eligible 
employees. Our defined benefit pension plans provide benefits based 
on years of service, contributions and average earnings at retirement. 
Our other post-employment benefit plans include health, dental,  
disability and life insurance coverage. 

During 2006, we changed our post-retirement benefit  

program in Canada. The changes reduced our benefit obligations by 
$505 million. 

We fund our registered defined benefit pension plans in  
accordance with actuarially determined amounts required to satisfy 
employee benefit obligations under current pension regulations. For 
our principal pension plans, the most recent actuarial valuation per-
formed for funding purposes was completed on January 1, 2007. The 

Plan	assets,	benefit	obligation	and	funded	status

next actuarial valuation for funding purposes will be completed on 
January 1, 2008. 

For 2007, total contributions to our pension and other post- 
employment benefit plans were $208 million and $57 million (2006 –  
$594 million and $58 million), respectively. For 2008, total contribu-
tions to defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment 
benefit plans are expected to be approximately $128 million and  
$55 million, respectively. 

For financial reporting purposes, we measure our benefit obliga-

tions and pension plan assets as at September 30 each year. 

The following tables present financial information related to all 

of our material pension and other post-employment plans worldwide, 
including executive retirement arrangements: 

Change	in	fair	value	of	plan	assets 
    Opening	fair	value	of	plan	assets 
    Actual return on plan assets 
    Company contributions 
    Plan participant contributions 
    Benefits paid 
    Business acquisitions 
    Other  
    Change in foreign currency exchange rate 

    Closing	fair	value	of	plan	assets 

Change	in	benefit	obligation 
    Opening	benefit	obligation 
    Service cost 
    Interest cost 
    Plan participant contributions 
    Actuarial (gain) loss  
    Benefits paid 
    Plan amendments and curtailments 
    Business acquisitions 
    Other  
    Change in foreign currency exchange rate 

    Closing	benefit	obligation 

Funded	status 
    Excess of benefit obligation over plan assets 
    Unrecognized net actuarial loss  
    Unrecognized transitional (asset) obligation 
    Unrecognized prior service cost 
    Contributions between September 30 and October 31 

    Prepaid	asset	(accrued	liability)	as	at	October	31 

Amounts	recognized	in	our	Consolidated	Balance	Sheets	consist	of: 
    Other assets 
    Other liabilities 

    Net	amount	recognized	as	at	October	31 

Weighted	average	assumptions	to	calculate	benefit	obligation 
    Discount rate 
    Rate of increase in future compensation (3) 

Pension plans (1) 
2007 

2006 

Other post-employment plans (2)
2006

2007 

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

6,407	
638	
146	
25	
(333)	
–	
(34)	
(65)	

6,784	

6,838	
178	
362	
25	
(115)	
(333)	
(9)	
5	
(27)	
(78)	

6,846	

(62)	
488	
(10)	
95	
2	

513	

590	
(77)	

513	

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

5,719 
445 
518 
24 
(323) 
21 
2 
1	

6,407 

6,524 
173 
345	
24	
38	
(323)	
24	
31 
5 
(3)	

6,838 

(431) 
963 
(12)	
131 
14	

665 

761	
(96)	

665	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

5.60%	
3.30%	

5.25% 
3.30% 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

41 
4 
56	
5	
(54)	
–	
–	
– 

52 

1,468 
19 
75 
5  
3 
(54)  
– 
–	
– 
(12) 

1,504	

(1,452) 
564 
1 
(307) 
5 

(1,189) 

–	
(1,189) 

(1,189)	

5.62% 
3.30% 

29 
3 
59 
6 
(56) 
– 
– 
–

41

1,891 
26 
77 
6 
38 
(56) 
(515) 
5 
– 
(4)

1,468

(1,427) 
598 
1 
(330) 
4

(1,154)

– 
(1,154)

(1,154)

5.26%
3.30%

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

For pension plans with funding deficits, the benefit obligations and fair values of plan assets totalled $5,850 million (2006 – $6,156 million) and $5,687 million (2006 – $5,665 million), 
respectively.
For our other post-employment plans, the assumed health care cost trend rates for the next year used to measure the expected cost of benefits covered by the post-employment health 
and life plans were 7.2% for medical decreasing to an ultimate rate of 5.0% in 2016 and 4.5% for dental.
The actual assumption for rate of increase in future compensation is an age-related scale. Although the underlying assumption has not been changed, we have revised our presentation 
of the disclosed equivalent single rate to be more consistent with the methodology used by other Canadian financial institutions.

The following table presents our estimates of the benefit payments for defined benefit pension and other post-employment plans: 

Benefits	payment	projection

2008     
2009     
2010     
2011     
2012     
2013–2017 

148

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Other
  post-employment
plans

Pension	plans 

$	

$	

318	
349	
357	
365	
373	
2,086 

61
69 
74 
77 
81 
458

 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
Composition of defined benefit pension plan assets
The defined benefit pension plan assets are primarily composed of 
equity and fixed income securities. The equity securities include  
1.5 million (2006 – 1.9 million) of our common shares having a fair 
value of $84 million (2006 – $94 million). Dividends amounting to  

$2.6 million (2006 – $2.5 million) were received on our common shares 
held in the plan assets during the year. 

The following table presents the allocation of the plan assets by 

securities category:

Asset	category

Equity securities 
Debt securities 

Total     

Actual

2007 

60%	
40%	

100% 

2006

60%
40%

100%

Investment policy and strategies
Pension plan assets are invested prudently over the long term in order 
to meet pension obligations at a reasonable cost. The asset mix policy 
takes into consideration a number of factors including the following:
(i) 

investment characteristics including expected returns, volatilities 
and correlations between plan assets and plan liabilities;

(ii) 

the plan’s tolerance for risk, which dictates the trade-off  
between increased short-term volatility and enhanced long-term 
expected returns;

(iii)  diversification of plan assets to minimize the risk of large losses;
(iv)  the liquidity of the portfolio relative to the anticipated cash flow 

requirements of the plan; and 

(v)  actuarial factors such as membership demographics and future 

salary growth rates. 

Pension and other post-employment benefit expense
The following tables present the composition of our pension benefit and other post-employment benefit expense: 

Pension	benefit	expense

Service cost 
Interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets 
Amortization of transitional asset 
Amortization of prior service cost 
Amortization of actuarial loss (gain) 
Other      

Defined benefit pension expense 
Defined contribution pension expense 

Pension benefit expense 

Weighted	average	assumptions	to	calculate	pension	benefit	expense
Discount rate 
Assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets 
Rate of increase in future compensation 

Other	post-employment	benefit	expense

Service cost 
Interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets 
Amortization of transitional obligation 
Amortization of actuarial loss (gain) 
Amortization of prior service cost 
Curtailment gain 

Other post-employment benefit expense 

$	

$	

$	

$	

2007 

2006 

2005

178	
362	
(411)	
(2)	
29	
129	
7	

292	
74	

366	

$ 

$	

$ 

173	
345	
(364)	
(2)	
32 
138	
3	

325	
65	

390	

$	

$	

$	

138 
344 
(328) 
(2) 
32 
90 
3

277 
63

340

5.25%	
7.00%	
3.30%	

5.25%	
7.00%	
3.30%	

6.25% 
7.00% 
3.30%

2007 

2006 

2005

$ 

19	
75	
(3)	
–	
36	
(23)	
–	

$	

26	
77 
(2) 
3	
31	
(20)	
(8) 

$	

104	

$ 

107	

$	

49 
101 
(2) 
17 
30 
1 
(1)

195

Weighted	average	assumptions	to	calculate	other	post-employment	benefit	expense
Discount rate 
Rate of increase in future compensation (1) 

5.26% 
3.30%	

5.41% 
3.30%	

6.35% 
3.30%

(1) 

The actual assumption for rate of increase in future compensation is an age-related scale. Although the underlying assumption has not changed, we have revised our presentation of the 
disclosed equivalent single rate to be more consistent with the methodology used by other Canadian financial institutions.

Significant assumptions
Our methodologies to determine significant assumptions used in 
calculating the defined benefit pension and other post-employment 
expense are as follows:

Overall	expected	long-term	rate	of	return	on	assets
The assumed expected rate of return on assets is determined by 
considering long-term expected returns on government bonds and a 
reasonable assumption for an equity risk premium. The expected long-
term return for each asset class is then weighted based on the target 
asset allocation to develop the expected long-term rate of return on 
assets assumption for the portfolio. This resulted in the selection of an 
assumed expected rate of return of 7% for 2008 (7% for 2004 to 2007). 

Discount	rate
For the Canadian and U.S. pension and other post-employment plans, 
all future expected benefit payment cash flows at each measurement 
date are discounted at spot rates developed from a yield curve of 
AA corporate debt securities. It is assumed that spot rates beyond 
30 years are equivalent to the 30-year spot rate. The discount rate is 
selected as the equivalent level rate that would produce the same  
discounted value as that determined by using the applicable spot 
rates. This methodology does not rely on assumptions regarding  
reinvestment rates.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

149

 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
Note 20    Pensions and other post-employment benefits (continued)

Sensitivity	analysis
The following table presents the sensitivity analysis of certain key assumptions on defined benefit pension and post-employment obligation and expense: 

2007	Sensitivity	of	key	assumptions
Pension 

Impact of .25% change in discount rate assumption 
Impact of .25% change in rate of increase in future compensation assumption  
Impact of .25% change in the long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption 
Other	post-employment 

Impact of .25% change in discount rate assumption 
Impact of .25% change in rate of increase in future compensation assumption  
Impact of 1.00% increase in health care cost trend rates 
Impact of 1.00% decrease in health care cost trend rates 

Change	in	obligation	

Change	in	expense

$	

229	
23 
– 

$ 

29	
6	
15

Change	in	obligation	

Change	in	expense

$	

55	
– 
157	
(129)	

$ 

10	
–	
9	
(7)

Reconciliation of defined benefit expense recognized with defined 
benefit expense incurred
The cost of pension and other post-employment benefits earned 
by employees is actuarially determined using the projected benefit 
method pro-rated on services. The cost is computed using the dis-
count rate determined in accordance with the methodology described 
in significant assumptions, and is based on management’s best esti-
mate of expected plan investment performance, salary escalation, 
retirement ages of employees and costs of health, dental, disability 
and life insurance. 

Actuarial gains or losses arise over time due to differences in 

actual experience compared to actuarial assumptions. Prior service  
costs arise as a result of plan amendments. Adoption of CICA Handbook 
Section 3461, Employee	Future	Benefits, resulted in recognition of a 
transitional asset and obligation at the date of adoption.

The actuarial gains or losses, prior service costs and transitional 

asset or obligation are amortized over the expected average remaining 
service lifetime of active members expected to receive benefits under 
the plan. The following tables show the impact on our annual benefit 
expense if we had recognized all costs and expenses as they arose.

Defined	benefit	pension	expense	incurred

Defined benefit pension expense recognized 
Difference between expected and actual return on plan assets 
Difference between actuarial losses (gains) amortized and actuarial losses (gains) arising   
Difference between prior service costs amortized and prior service costs arising 
Amortization of transitional asset 

Defined benefit pension expense incurred 

Other	post-employment	benefit	expense	incurred

Other post-employment benefit expense recognized 
Difference between expected and actual return on plan assets 
Difference between actuarial losses (gains) amortized and actuarial losses (gains) arising   
Difference between prior service costs amortized and prior service costs arising 
Amortization of transitional obligation 

Other post-employment benefit expense incurred 

Note 21    Stock-based compensation

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

$ 

292	
(227)	
(246)	
(38)	
2	

$	

325	
(81)	
(100)	
(2) 
2	

$	

(217)	

$ 

144	

$	

277 
(423) 
708 
(31) 
2

533

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

$ 

104	
(1)	
(33)	
23	
–	

$	

107	
(1)	
7	
(485) 
(3)	

$	

93	

$ 

(375)	

$	

195 
(2) 
150 
(1) 
(17)

325

We offer stock-based compensation to certain key employees and to 
our non-employee directors. We use derivatives and compensation 
trusts to manage our economic exposure to volatility in the price of our 
common shares under many of these plans. The stock-based compen-
sation amounts recorded in Non-interest expense – Human resources  
in our Consolidated Statements of Income are net of the impact of 
these derivatives.

Stock option plans
We have stock option plans for certain key employees and for non-
employee directors. On November 19, 2002, the Board of Directors 
discontinued all further grants of options under the non-employee 
directors plan. Under the employee stock option plan, options are  
periodically granted to purchase common shares. The exercise price 
for each grant is determined as the higher of the volume-weighted 
average of the trading prices per board lot (100 shares) of our common 
shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange (i) on the day preceding the day 
of grant; and (ii) the five consecutive trading days immediately preced-

ing the day of grant. Stock options are normally granted at the end of 
the year, with the exercise price determined at least five business days 
after the release of the year-end financial results. The options vest 
over a four-year period for employees and are exercisable for a period 
not exceeding 10 years from the grant date.

For options issued prior to November 1, 2002, that were not 
accompanied by tandem stock appreciation rights (SARs), no compen-
sation expense was recognized as the option’s exercise price was not 
less than the market price of the underlying stock on the day of grant. 
When the options are exercised, the proceeds received are credited to 
common shares.

Between November 29, 1999 and June 5, 2001, grants of options 

under the employee stock option plan were accompanied by tandem 
SARs. With tandem SARs, participants could choose to exercise a SAR 
instead of the corresponding option. In such cases, the participants 
received a cash payment equal to the difference between the closing 
price of common shares on the day immediately preceding the day of 
exercise and the exercise price of the option. During the last quarter of 

150

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
2002 and first quarter of 2003, certain executive participants volun-
tarily renounced their SARs while retaining the corresponding options. 
SARs obligations are now fully vested and give rise to compensation 
expense as a result of changes in the market price of our common 

shares. The compensation expense for these grants, which are  
accompanied by tandem SARs, was $19 million for the year ended 
October 31, 2007 (2006 – $27 million; 2005 – $42 million). 

A	summary	of	our	stock	option	activity	and	related	information

Outstanding at beginning of year 
Granted 
Exercised – Common shares (1), (2) 
              – SARs 
Cancelled 

Outstanding at end of year 

Exercisable at end of year 
Available for grant 

2007 

2006 

2005

Number	
of	options	
(000s)	

Weighted 
average 
	exercise	price 

Number 
 of options 
(000s) 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 

Number 
 of options 
(000s) 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price

	 32,243	
1,835	
(7,215)	
(204)	
(36)	

	 26,623	

	 21,924	
21,527	

$	

$	

$	

24.66	
55.06	
21.10	
21.50	
36.42	

27.71	

24.17	

  36,481 
1,756 
(5,617) 
(143) 
(234) 

	 32,243 

	 26,918 
23,121 

$ 

$ 

$ 

23.15	
44.13	
20.40	
21.60	
24.36	

24.66	

22.57	

	 44,744 
2,054 
(9,917) 
(320) 
(80) 

	 36,481 

	 28,863 
	 24,500 

$ 

$ 

$ 

22.02 
31.70
19.85 
21.01
30.44

23.15

21.56 

(1) 
(2) 

Cash received for options exercised during the year was $152 million (2006 – $115 million; 2005 – $197 million). 
New shares were issued for all options exercised in 2007, 2006 and 2005. Refer to Note 18. 

Options	outstanding	and	options	exercisable	as	at	October	31,	2007	by	range	of	exercise	price

$8.47 – $8.91 (1) 
$15.00 – $19.82 
$21.79 – $25.00 
$26.10 – $31.70 
$44.13 – $57.90 

Total      

Options	outstanding	

Options	exercisable

Number	
outstanding	
(000s)	

Weighted 
average 
	exercise	price 

Weighted 
average 
	remaining	
contractual	life	

$	

393	
6,071	
9,533	
7,062	
3,564	

8.76	
17.75	
24.58	
30.42	
49.75	

  26,623 

$	

27.71	

2.0	
1.5	
3.4	
5.6	
8.6	

4.2	

Number	
exercisable	
(000s)	

Weighted	
	average	
exercise	price

$	

393	
6,071	
9,533	
5,501	
426	

8.76
17.75
24.58 
30.09 
44.13

	 21,924	

$	

24.17

(1) 

The weighted average exercise prices have been revised to reflect the conversion of foreign currency-denominated options at the exchange rate as at our Consolidated Balance  
Sheet date.

Fair value method
CICA 3870 requires recognition of an expense for option awards using 
the fair value method of accounting. Under this method, the fair value 
of an award at the grant date is amortized over the applicable vesting 
period and recognized as compensation expense. We adopted the fair 
value method of accounting prospectively for new awards granted after 
November 1, 2002. The fair value compensation expense recorded for 
the year ended October 31, 2007, in respect of these plans was $13 
million (2006 – $13 million; 2005 – $14 million). The compensation 
expenses related to non-vested awards were $14 million at October 31, 

2007 (2006 – $13 million; 2005 – $16 million), to be recognized over 
the weighted average period of 2.2 years (2006 – 2.0 years; 2005 –  
1.7 years).

CICA 3870 permits the use of other recognition methods, includ-
ing the intrinsic value method, provided pro forma disclosures of net 
income and earnings per share calculated in accordance with the fair 
value method are presented. For awards granted before November 1, 
2002, pro forma net income and earnings per share are presented in 
the following table. 

Net income from continuing operations 
Net loss from discontinued operations (3) 

Net income 

Basic earnings (loss) per share 
    From continuing operations 
    From discontinued operations 

    Total  

Diluted earnings (loss) per share  
    From continuing operations 
    From discontinued operations 

    Total  

2007 

5,492	
– 

As reported 
2006 

$	

4,757	
(29)	

$	

2005 

3,437 
(50) 

Pro forma (1), (2)
2005

 $	

3,424 
(50)

5,492	

$	

4,728	

$	

3,387 

$	

3,374

4.24	
–	

$	

3.67	
(.02)	

$ 

2.65 
(.04) 

$	

4.24	

$	

3.65	

$	

2.61 

$	

4.19	
–	

$	

3.61	
(.02)	

$	

2.61 
(.04) 

$	

4.19	

$	

3.59	

$	

2.57 

$	

2.64 
(.04)

2.60

2.60 
(.04)

2.56

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

Compensation expense under the fair value method is recognized over the vesting period of the related stock options. Accordingly, the pro forma results of applying this method may not 
be indicative of future amounts. 
During the first quarter of 2006, all awards granted prior to adopting the fair value method of accounting were fully vested and their fair values at the grant dates had been fully  
amortized; therefore, there are no pro forma results to disclose for the year ended October 31, 2007 and 2006. 
Refer to Note 11.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

151

 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
Note 21    Stock-based compensation (continued)

The weighted average fair value of options granted during  
2007 was estimated at $7.84 (2006 – $6.80; 2005 – $4.66) using an 
option pricing model on the date of grant. The following assumptions 
were used: 

For the year ended October 31 

2007	

2006 

2005

Weighted	average	assumptions
Risk-free interest rate 
Expected dividend yield 
Expected share price volatility 
Expected life of option 

3.82%	
3.06%	
16%	
	 6	years	

3.98% 
3.16% 
17% 
	 6 years 

3.75%	
3.25% 
17%	
  6 years

Employee savings and share ownership plans
We offer many employees an opportunity to own our shares through 
savings and share ownership plans. Under these plans, the employees 
can generally contribute between 1% and 10% of their annual salary 
or benefit base for commissioned employees. For each contribution 
between 1% and 6%, we will match 50% of the employee contributions 
in our common shares. For the RBC Dominion Securities Savings Plan  
our maximum annual contribution is $4,500 per employee. For the  
RBC U.K. Share Incentive Plan our maximum annual contribution is 
£1,500 per employee. In 2007, we contributed $64 million (2006 –  
$60 million; 2005 – $56 million), under the terms of these plans, 
towards the purchase of our common shares. As at October 31,  
2007, an aggregate of 34.4 million common shares were held under 
these plans.

Deferred share and other plans
We offer deferred share unit plans to executives, non-employee  
directors and to certain key employees. Under these plans, the execu-
tives or directors may choose to receive all or a percentage of their 
annual variable short-term incentive bonus or directors’ fee in the 
form of deferred share units (DSUs). The executives or directors must 
elect to participate in the plan prior to the beginning of the year. DSUs 
earn dividend equivalents in the form of additional DSUs at the same 
rate as dividends on common shares. The participant is not allowed to 
convert the DSUs until retirement, permanent disability or termination 
of employment/directorship. The cash value of the DSUs is equivalent 
to the market value of common shares when conversion takes place. 
The value of the DSUs liability as at October 31, 2007, was $285 million 
(2006 – $232 million; 2005 – $172 million). The share price fluctua-
tions and dividend equivalents compensation expense recorded  
for the year ended October 31, 2007, in respect of these plans was  
$37 million (2006 – $45 million; 2005 – $42 million).

We have a deferred bonus plan for certain key employees within 

Capital Markets. Under this plan, a percentage of each employee’s 
annual incentive bonus is deferred and accumulates dividend equiva-
lents at the same rate as dividends on common shares. The employee 
will receive the deferred bonus in equal amounts paid within 90 days 
of the three following year-end dates. The value of the deferred bonus 
paid will be equivalent to the original deferred bonus adjusted for 
dividends and changes in the market value of common shares at the 
time the bonus is paid. The value of the deferred bonus liability as at 
October 31, 2007, was $490 million (2006 – $401 million; 2005 –  
$320 million). The share price fluctuations and dividend equivalents 
compensation expense for the year ended October 31, 2007, in respect 
of this plan was $62 million (2006 – $51 million; 2005 – $57 million).
We offer performance deferred share award plans to certain key 
employees, all of which vest at the end of three years. Awards under 
the plans are deferred in the form of common shares which are held in 
trust until they fully vest or in the form of DSUs. A portion of the award  
under some plans can be increased or decreased up to 50%, depend-
ing on our total shareholder return compared to a defined peer group 
of North American financial institutions. The value of the award paid 
will be equivalent to the original award adjusted for dividends and 
changes in the market value of common shares at the time the award 
vests. The number of our common shares held in trust as at October 31, 
2007, was 2.3 million (2006 – 5.3 million; 2005 – 7.3 million). The value 
of the DSUs liability as at October 31, 2007 was $250 million (2006 – 
$153 million; 2005 – $38 million). The compensation expense 
recorded for the year ended October 31, 2007, in respect of these 
plans was $168 million (2006 – $148 million; 2005 – $109 million).

We maintain a non-qualified deferred compensation plan for key 

employees in the United States under an arrangement called the  
RBC U.S. Wealth Accumulation Plan. This plan allows eligible employ-
ees to make deferrals of a portion of their annual income and allocate 
the deferrals among various fund choices, which include a share unit 
fund that tracks the value of our common shares. Certain deferrals 
may also be eligible for matching contributions, all of which are allo-
cated to the RBC share unit fund. Our liability for the RBC share units 
held under the plan as at October 31, 2007, was $285 million (2006 –  
$289 million; 2005 – $236 million). The compensation expense 
recorded for the year ended October 31, 2007, was $157 million (2006 –  
$110 million; 2005 – $90 million).

For other stock-based plans, compensation expense of $9 million 
was recognized for the year ended October 31, 2007 (2006 – $10 million; 
2005 – $8 million). The liability for the share units held under these 
plans as at October 31, 2007, was $21 million (2006 – $4 million;  
2005 – $19 million). The number of  our common shares held under 
these plans was .3 million (2006 – .3 million; 2005 – .3 million). 

152

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

	
	
 
	
	
 
	
	
 
Note 22    Trading revenue

Total trading revenue includes both trading-related Net interest 
income and trading revenue reported in Non-interest income. Net 
interest income arises from interest and dividends related to trading 
assets and liabilities and amortization of premiums and discounts 

arising on their acquisition or issuance. Non-interest income includes 
realized and unrealized gains and losses on trading securities and 
trading derivative financial instruments.

Trading	revenue	

Net interest income 
Non-interest income  

Total      

By product line 
    Interest rate and credit 
    Equities 
    Foreign exchange and commodities (1) 

Total      

(1) 

Includes precious metals.

Note 23    Business realignment charges

$	

$	

$	

2007	

2006 

(390)	 $ 
2,261 

(539)  $ 
2,574 

2005

21 
1,594

1,871 

$ 

2,035	

$	

1,615

$ 

693 
823 
355 

$ 

1,174 
561 
300 

1,025
355
235

$	

1,871 

$ 

2,035 

$ 

1,615

The following table sets out the changes in our business realignment 
charges since November 1, 2004. These charges are recorded in 
Other liabilities and include the income-protection payments for the 
2,015 employees who have been terminated as of October 31, 2007. 
Although the majority of the initiatives were substantially completed 
during 2006, the associated income-protection payments to 

severed employees and certain lease obligations continue. Prior 
to 2007, the charges pertaining to RBC Mortgage were recorded in 
Liabilities of operations held for sale. These charges include the 
remaining lease obligations in connection with its former Chicago 
headquarters and 40 of its branches which we vacated but remain 
the lessee. 

Business	realignment	charges

Continuing	operations
    Balance at beginning of year  
    Employee-related charges 
    Premises-related charges 
    Other adjustments including foreign exchange 
    Cash payments 

    Balance at end of year 

Discontinued	operations
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Employee-related charges 
    Premises-related charges 
    Cash payments 

    Balance at end of year 

Employee-related 
Premises-related 

Total     

2007	

2006 

2005

$	

$ 

$	

$ 

$ 

$	

$ 

43 
– 
– 
– 
(35) 

$ 

118 
(3) 
3 
(1) 
(74) 

8 

$ 

43 

$ 

$ 

$ 

13 
– 
6 
(5) 

$ 

14 

$ 

14 
– 
(4) 
(3) 

7 

7
8

15

177
40
– 
(5)
(94)

118

15
1
12
(15)

13

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

153

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 24    Income taxes

Income	taxes	in	Consolidated	Statements	of	Income 
Continuing operations 
Current 
    Canada – Federal 

– Provincial 

    International 

Future 
    Canada – Federal 

– Provincial 

    International  

Subtotal 

Discontinued operations 
Current 
    International 
Future   
    International 

Subtotal 

Income	taxes	(recoveries)	in	Consolidated	Statements	of	Comprehensive	Income	and		
	 Changes	in	Shareholders’	Equity	
Continuing operations
    Other comprehensive income (1) 
        Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities 
        Reclassification of (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities to income 
        Net foreign currency translation gains (losses), net of hedging activities 
        Net unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 
        Reclassification to income of (gains) losses on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 
    Issuance costs 
    Stock appreciation rights 
    Wealth accumulation plan gains 
    Other 

Subtotal 

Total	income	taxes 

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

$ 

696	
416	
322	

$ 

506	
331 
435	

739 
431 
478

1,434	

1,272	

1,648

14	
3	
(59)	

(42)	

104	
31	
(4)	

131 

(206) 
(96) 
(68)

(370)

1,392	

1,403 

1,278

–	

–	

(20) 

2 

(35)

3

1,392	

1,385 

1,246

	(26) 
	15  
911 
43	 
	16	 
(12)	
5	
–	
(6)	

946	

n.a.  
 n.a.  
130  
 n.a.  
n.a.  
(4)	
4	
–	
6	

136	

 n.a. 
n.a. 
 204 
 n.a. 
 n.a.  
2 
5 
7 
2

220

$	

2,338	

$ 

1,521	

$	

1,466

(1) 

Other comprehensive income was introduced under GAAP upon the adoption of Section 1530 on November 1, 2006 (refer to Note 1). Accordingly, there are no comparative figures for 
prior periods, other than the figures related to foreign currency translation gains (losses), which are now included as part of OCI.

n.a.  not applicable 

Sources	of	future	income	taxes

Future	income	tax	asset 
    Allowance for credit losses 
    Deferred compensation 
    Pension related 
    Business realignment charges 
    Tax loss carryforwards 
    Deferred income 
    Enron litigation provision 
    Other (1) 

Valuation allowance 

Future	income	tax	liability 
    Premises and equipment 
    Deferred expense 
    Other (1) 

Net	future	income	tax	asset 

$	

2007 

2006

$ 

460	
642	
188	
10	
91	
115	
204	
460	

2,170	

(10)	

2,160	

(245)	
(138)	
(526)	

(909)	

439 
616 
101 
27 
68 
151 
253 
335

1,990

(10)

1,980

(214) 
(225) 
(437)

(876)

$	

1,251	

$ 

1,104

(1) 

Includes deferred taxes from the transition adjustment and other comprehensive income as a result of the adoption of the new financial instruments accounting standards on  
November 1, 2006.

154

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

	
 
 
 
 
 
	
             
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
             
   
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
             
   
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
   
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
   
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
   
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
		
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
   
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
   
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net future income tax assets are included in Other assets (refer 

We believe that, based on all available evidence, it is more likely 

to Note 12) and result from temporary differences between the tax 
basis of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts on our 
Consolidated Balance Sheets. Included in the tax loss carryforwards 
amount is $91 million of future income tax assets related to losses 
in our Canadian, U.K. and U.S. operations (2006 – $31 million) which 
expire starting in 2008. There is no tax asset related to capital losses 
in 2007 (2006 – $27 million).

than not that all of the future income tax assets, net of the valuation 
allowance, will be realized through a combination of future reversals of 
temporary differences and taxable income.

Reconciliation	to	statutory	tax	rate

Income taxes at Canadian statutory tax rate 
(Decrease) increase in income taxes resulting from 
    Lower average tax rate applicable to subsidiaries 
    Tax-exempt income from securities 
    Tax rate change 
Other 	 	

Income taxes reported in Consolidated Statements  
  of Income before discontinued operations 
  and effective tax rate 

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

2,431	

34.6%	

$ 

2,152 

34.7%	

$	

1,632 

34.7%

(734)	
(272)	
30	
(63)	

(10.4)	
(3.9)	
.4	
(.9)	

(599) 
(184) 
13 
21 

(9.6)	
(3.0) 
.2 
.3	

(251) 
(85) 
– 
(18) 

(5.3) 
(1.8) 
– 
(.4)

$	

1,392	

19.8%	

$ 

1,403 

22.6%	

$ 

1,278 

27.2%

International earnings of certain subsidiaries would be taxed only 
upon their repatriation to Canada. We have not recognized a future 
income tax liability for these undistributed earnings as we do not  
currently expect them to be repatriated. Taxes that would be payable  

if all foreign subsidiaries’ accumulated unremitted earnings were  
repatriated are estimated at $843 million as at October 31, 2007  
(2006 – $822 million; 2005 – $745 million).

Note 25    Earnings per share

Basic	earnings	per	share
    Net income from continuing operations 
    Net loss from discontinued operations (1) 

    Net income 

    Preferred share dividends 
    Net gain on redemption of preferred shares 

    Net income available to common shareholders 

    Average number of common shares (in thousands) 
    Basic earnings (loss) per share 
        Continuing operations 
        Discontinued operations 

        Total	

Diluted	earnings	per	share 
    Net income available to common shareholders 

    Average number of common shares (in thousands) 
    Stock options (2)  
    Issuable under other stock-based compensation plans 

    Average number of diluted common shares (in thousands) 

    Diluted earnings (loss) per share 
        Continuing operations 
        Discontinued operations 

        Total	

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

$	

$ 

5,492	
–	

5,492	

(88)	
–	

4,757	
(29) 

4,728 

(60) 
– 

3,437
(50)

3,387

(42)
4

$	

5,404	

$ 

4,668	

$ 

3,349

	1,273,185	

1,279,956 

1,283,433

$	

$	

$ 

4.24	
–	

$	

3.67	
(.02)	

4.24	

$ 

3.65	

$	

2.65
(.04)

2.61

$	

5,404	

$ 

4,668	

$	

3,349

	1,273,185 
	 13,254	
2,875	

1,279,956	
	 14,573 
5,256 

1,283,433
  13,686 
7,561

	1,289,314	

1,299,785	

1,304,680

$	

$	

$ 

4.19	
–	

$	

3.61	
(.02) 

4.19	

$ 

3.59	

$	

2.61
(.04)

2.57

(1) 
(2) 

Refer to Note 11. 
The dilutive effect of stock options was calculated using the treasury stock method. For 2007, we excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share 16,224 average options out-
standing with an exercise price of $57.90 as the exercise price of these options was greater than the average market price of our common shares. During 2006 and 2005, no option  
was outstanding with an exercise price exceeding the average market price of our common shares. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

155

 
	
 
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
	
	
 
	
 
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
Note 26    Concentrations of credit risk

Concentrations of credit risk exist if a number of clients are engaged 
in similar activities, or are located in the same geographic region or 
have comparable economic characteristics such that their ability to 
meet contractual obligations would be similarly affected by changes 
in economic, political or other conditions. Concentrations of credit risk 

indicate the relative sensitivity of our performance to developments 
affecting a particular industry or geographic location. The amounts of 
credit exposure associated with our on- and off-balance sheet financial 
instruments are summarized in the following table:

2007 

2006

  Canada	

%	

United 
States	 %	

Europe	

Other 
Inter- 
%	 national	

%	

Total 

  Canada 

% 

United 
States 

% 

Europe 

Other 
Inter- 
%  national 

% 

Total

On-balance	sheet	assets		
	 other	than	derivatives (1) $	227,206	 72%	 $	 41,518	 13%	 $	 40,658	 13%	 $	 6,146	 2%	 $	315,528	 $ 204,488  73%  $  41,467  15%  $  27,358  10%  $  5,112  2%  $ 278,425
    Derivatives before  
     maste r netting  
     agreement  (2), (3) 

  9,855  27 

  15,891  42 

  9,171  25 

  2,148  6 

	 14,690	 23	

	 29,501	 45	

	 15,096	 23	

	 65,050	

  37,065

	 5,763	

9	

  $241,896   64%  $  56,614  15%  $  70,159  18%  $  11,909  3%  $ 380,578  $ 214,343  68%  $  50,368  16%  $  43,249  14%  $  7,260  2%  $ 315,490

Off-balance	sheet		
	 credit	instruments (4) 
    Committed and 
      uncommitted (5) 
    Other  

	 $	 81,251	 55%	 $	 52,393	 35%	 $	 12,725	 9%	 $	 2,329	 1%	 $	148,698	 $  78,851  55%  $  51,224  35%  $  12,997  9%  $  1,802  1%  $ 144,874
  60,640

  19,776  33 

  11,563  19 

	 28,563  47 

	 14,226	 24	

	 31,194	 53	

	 13,418	 23	

	 58,925	

738  1 

87	

–	

	 $	112,445	 54%	 $	 65,811	 32%	 $	 26,951	 13%	 $	 2,416	 1%	 $	207,623	 $ 107,414  52%  $  62,787  31%  $  32,773  16%  $  2,540  1%  $ 205,514

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Includes assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed, loans and customers’ liability under acceptances. The largest concentrations in Canada are 
Ontario at 51% (2006 – 52%), the Prairies at 16% (2006 – 14%), British Columbia at 15% (2006 – 14%) and Quebec at 14% (2006 – 15%). No industry accounts for more than 10% of total 
on-balance sheet credit instruments.
The largest concentration of credit exposure by counterparty type is banks at 60% (2006 – 59%).
Excludes credit derivatives classified as other than trading with a replacement cost of $36 million (2006 – $20 million).
Represents financial instruments with contractual amounts representing credit risk.
Of the commitments to extend credit, the largest industry concentration relates to financial services of 40% (2006 – 38%), mining and energy of 12% (2006 – 13%), commercial real 
estate of 7% (2006 – 6%), government of 4% (2006 – 5%), wholesale of 4% (2006 – 5%), manufacturing of 4% (2006 – 4%) and transportation of 3% (2006 – 3%).

Note 27    Guarantees, commitments and contingencies

Guarantees
In the normal course of our business, we enter into numerous agree-
ments that may contain features that meet the definition of a guarantee 
pursuant to AcG-14. AcG-14 defines a guarantee to be a contract 
(including an indemnity) that contingently requires us to make pay-
ments (in cash, other assets, our own shares or provision of services) 
to a third party based on: (i) changes in an underlying interest rate, 
foreign exchange rate, equity or commodity instrument, index or other 
variable, that is related to an asset, a liability or an equity security 
of the counterparty; (ii) failure of another party to perform under an 
obligating agreement; or (iii) failure of another third party to pay its 
indebtedness when due. Effective November 1, 2006, a liability is now 
recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at the inception of a 
guarantee for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the 
guarantee. No subsequent remeasurement at fair value is required 

Credit derivatives and written put options (2), (3) 
Backstop liquidity facilities 
Stable value products (3) 
Financial standby letters of credit and performance guarantees (4) 
Credit enhancements 
Mortgage loans sold with recourse 

unless the financial guarantee qualifies as a derivative. If the financial 
guarantee meets the definition of a derivative, it is remeasured at fair 
value at each balance sheet date and reported as a derivative in Other 
assets or Other liabilities as appropriate. 

As the carrying value of these financial guarantees is not 
indicative of the maximum potential amount of future payments, we 
continue to consider financial guarantees as off-balance sheet credit 
instruments. The maximum potential amount of future payments 
represents the maximum risk of loss if there was a total default by 
the guaranteed parties, without consideration of possible recoveries 
under recourse provisions, insurance policies or from collateral  
held or pledged.

The table below summarizes significant guarantees we have  

provided to third parties:

2007 

2006

Maximum		
	 potential	amount	
of	future		
payments	

$	

$	 70,242	
	 43,066	
17,369	
	 16,661	
4,814	
230	

Maximum
	 potential amount
of future 
 payments 

Carrying		
amount	

2,657	
41 
– 
57 
30 
– 

$  54,723 
  34,342 
  16,098 
  15,902 
4,155 
204 

$ 

Carrying
amount (1)

352 
– 
– 
17  
– 
–

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

For credit derivatives and written put options, the prior period comparatives represent the fair values of the derivatives; for financial standby letters of credit and performance  
guarantees, they represent unamortized premiums received. 
The carrying amount is included in Other – Derivatives on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 
The notional amount of these contracts approximates the maximum potential amount of future payments.
The carrying amount is included in Other – Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

156

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
              
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
	
 
	
 
	
	
 
	
 
	
 
	
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
	
	
 
 
In addition to the above guarantees, we transact substantially 
all of our securities lending activities in which we act as an agent for 
the owners of securities through our joint venture, RBC Dexia IS. As 
at October 31, 2007, RBC Dexia IS securities lending indemnifications 
totalled $63,462 million (2006 – $45,614 million); we are exposed to 
50% of this amount.

Credit	derivatives	and	written	put	options
Our clients may enter into credit derivatives or written put options 
for speculative or hedging purposes. AcG-14 defines a guarantee to 
include derivative contracts that contingently require us to make pay-
ments to a guaranteed party based on changes in an underlying that 
is related to an asset, a liability or an equity security of a guaranteed 
party. We have only disclosed amounts for transactions where it 
would be probable, based on the information available to us, that the 
client would use the credit derivative or written put option to protect 
against changes in an underlying that is related to an asset, a liability 
or an equity security held by the client. 

We enter into written credit derivatives that are over-the-counter 
contractual agreements to compensate another party for its financial 
loss following the occurrence of a credit event in relation to a specified 
reference obligation, such as a bond or loan. The terms of these credit 
derivatives vary based on the contract and can range up to 15 years. 

We enter into written put options that are contractual agreements 

under which we grant the purchaser the right, but not the obligation 
to sell, by or at a set date, a specified amount of a financial instrument 
at a predetermined price. Written put options that typically qualify 
as guarantees include foreign exchange contracts, equity-based 
contracts and certain commodity-based contracts. The term of these 
options varies based on the contract and can range up to five years. 

Collateral we hold for credit derivatives and written put options 

is managed on a portfolio basis and may include cash, government 
T-bills and bonds.

Backstop	liquidity	facilities
Backstop liquidity facilities are provided to asset-backed commercial 
paper conduit programs (programs) administered by us and third 
parties, as an alternative source of financing in the event that such 
programs are unable to access commercial paper markets, or in lim-
ited circumstances, when predetermined performance measures of 
the financial assets owned by these programs are not met. We gener-
ally provide liquidity facilities for a term of one year. 

Backstop liquidity facilities are also provided to non-asset-backed 
programs such as variable rate demand notes issued by third parties. 
These standby facilities provide liquidity support to the issuer to buy 
the notes if the issuer is unable to remarket the notes, as long as the 
instrument and/or the issuer maintains the investment grade rating. 

The terms of the backstop liquidity facilities do not require us 

to advance money to these programs in the event of bankruptcy or to 
purchase non-performing or defaulted assets. None of the backstop 
liquidity facilities that we have provided have been drawn upon.  

Stable	value	products
We sell stable value products that offer book value protection  
primarily to plan sponsors of Employee	Retirement	Income	Security	
Act	of	1974 (ERISA)-governed pension plans such as 401(k) plans and  
457 plans. The book value protection is provided on portfolios of 
intermediate/short-term investment-grade fixed income securities 
and is intended to cover any shortfall in the event that plan partici-
pants withdraw funds when market value is below book value. We 
retain the option to exit the contract at any time. For stable value 
products, collateral we hold is managed on a portfolio basis and may 
include cash, government T-bills and bonds.

Financial	standby	letters	of	credit	and	performance	guarantees
Financial standby letters of credit and performance guarantees repre-
sent irrevocable assurances that we will make payments in the event 
that a client cannot meet its obligations to third parties. The term of 

these guarantees can range up to eight years. Our policy for requiring 
collateral security with respect to these instruments and the types 
of collateral security held is generally the same as for loans. When 
collateral security is taken, it is determined on an account by account 
basis according to the risk of the borrower and the specifics of the 
transaction. Collateral security may include cash, securities and other 
assets pledged. 

Credit	enhancements
We provide partial credit enhancement to multi-seller programs 
administered by us to protect commercial paper investors in the event 
that the collection on the underlying assets, the transaction specific 
credit enhancement or the liquidity proves to be insufficient to pay 
for maturing commercial paper. Each of the asset pools is structured 
to achieve a high investment-grade credit profile through credit 
enhancement related to each transaction. The term of these credit 
facilities is between one and four years. 

Mortgage	loans	sold	with	recourse
Through our various agreements with investors, we may be required 
to repurchase U.S. originated mortgage loans sold to an investor if  
the loans are uninsured for greater than one year, or refund any  
premium received where mortgage loans are prepaid or in default 
within 120 days. The mortgage loans are fully collateralized by resi-
dential properties. 

Securities	lending	indemnifications
We generally transact securities lending transactions through our 
joint venture, RBC Dexia IS. In these transactions, RBC Dexia IS 
acts as an agent for the owner of a security, who agrees to lend the 
security to a borrower for a fee, under the terms of a pre-arranged 
contract. The borrower must fully collateralize the security loaned at 
all times. As part of this custodial business, an indemnification may 
be provided to securities lending customers to ensure that the fair 
value of securities loaned will be returned in the event that the  
borrower fails to return the borrowed securities and the collateral 
held is insufficient to cover the fair value of those securities. These 
indemnifications normally terminate without being drawn upon. 
The term of these indemnifications varies, as the securities loaned 
are recallable on demand. Collateral held for our securities lending 
transactions typically includes cash or securities that are issued or 
guaranteed by the Canadian government, U.S. government or other 
OECD countries.

Indemnifications
In the normal course of our operations, we provide indemnifications 
which are often standard contractual terms to counterparties in trans-
actions such as purchase and sale contracts, service agreements,  
director/officer contracts and leasing transactions. These indemnifi-
cation agreements may require us to compensate the counterparties 
for costs incurred as a result of changes in laws and regulations 
(including tax legislation) or as a result of litigation claims or 
statutory sanctions that may be suffered by the counterparty as a 
consequence of the transaction. The terms of these indemnification 
agreements will vary based on the contract. The nature of the indem-
nification agreements prevents us from making a reasonable estimate 
of the maximum potential amount we could be required to pay to 
counterparties. Historically, we have not made any significant pay-
ments under such indemnifications.

Other off-balance sheet credit instruments
In addition to financial guarantees, we utilize other off-balance sheet 
credit instruments to meet the financing needs of our clients. The con-
tractual amounts of these credit instruments represent the maximum 
possible credit risk without taking into account the fair value of any 
collateral, in the event other parties fail to perform their obligations 
under these instruments. Our credit review process, our policy for 
requiring collateral security and the types of collateral security held 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

157

Note 27    Guarantees, commitments and contingencies (continued)

are generally the same as for loans. Many of these instruments expire 
without being drawn upon. As a result, the contractual amounts may 
not necessarily represent our actual future credit risk exposure or cash 
flow requirements.

Commitments to extend credit represent unused portions of 

authorizations to extend credit in the form of loans, bankers’ accep-
tances or letters of credit.

In securities lending transactions, we lend our own or our clients’ 

securities to a borrower for a fee under the terms of a pre-arranged 
contract. The borrower must fully collateralize the security loaned at 
all times.

Uncommitted amounts represent an amount for which we retain 

the option to extend credit to a borrower.

Documentary and commercial letters of credit, which are written 

undertakings by us on behalf of a client authorizing a third party to 
draw drafts on us up to a stipulated amount under specific terms and 
conditions, are collateralized by the underlying shipment of goods to 
which they relate.

A note issuance facility represents an underwriting agreement 
that enables a borrower to issue short-term debt securities. A revolv-
ing underwriting facility represents a renewable note issuance facility 
that can be accessed for a specified period of time.

The following table summarizes the contractual amounts of our other off-balance sheet credit instruments: 

Other	off-balance	sheet	credit	instruments

Commitments to extend credit (1)  
    Original term to maturity of 1 year or less  
    Original term to maturity of more than 1 year 
Securities lending  
Uncommitted amounts (2) 
Documentary and commercial letters of credit  
Note issuances and revolving underwriting facilities 

2007 

2006

$	 55,281	
	 46,307	
	 36,187	
47,110	
501	
–	

$ 

57,154 
	 42,222 
  38,185 
	 45,498 
713 
8

$	 185,386	

$  183,780

(1) 
(2) 

Includes liquidity facilities.
Includes uncommitted liquidity loan facilities of $42.2 billion (2006 – $34.6 billion) provided to RBC-administered multi-seller conduits. As at October 31, 2007, $758 million (2006 – $nil) 
was drawn upon on these facilities and is included in Loans.

Pledged assets
In the ordinary course of business, we pledge assets recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Details of assets pledged against liabilities are 
shown in the following tables:

Pledged	assets

Cash and due from banks 
Interest-bearing deposits with banks 
Loans    
Securities 
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements 
Other assets 

Assets pledged to: 
    Foreign governments and central banks  
    Clearing systems, payment systems and depositories 
Assets pledged in relation to: 
    Securities borrowing and lending 
    Obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements 
    Derivative transactions 
    Other 

2007 

2006

$	

305	
3,443	
1,733	
51,695	
	 40,698	
1,132	

$ 

100 
1,936 
187 
	 56,580 
	 36,788 
941

$	 99,006	

$  96,532

2007 

2006

$	

1,981	
1,772	

$ 

1,794 
2,309 

	 34,881	
	 48,479	
8,502	
3,391	

38,118 
	 44,651 
6,547 
3,113

$	 99,006	

$  96,532

158

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
	
Collateral
As at October 31, 2007, the approximate market value of collateral 
accepted that may be sold or repledged by us was $122.4 billion 
(2006 – $109.1 billion). This collateral was received in connection with 
reverse repurchase agreements, securities borrowings and loans,  
and derivative transactions. Of this amount, $56.5 billion (2006 – 
$48.0 billion) has been sold or repledged, generally as collateral under 
repurchase agreements or to cover short sales.

Lease commitments
Minimum future rental commitments for premises and equipment 
under long-term non-cancellable operating and capital leases for the 
next five years and thereafter are as follows:

Lease	commitments (1)

2008     
2009     
2010     
2011     
2012     
Thereafter 

 $ 

494
453 
382 
329 
279
1,224

 $ 

3,161

(1) 

Substantially all of our lease commitments are related to operating leases. 

Litigation
Enron	Corp.	(Enron)	litigation
A purported class of purchasers of Enron who publicly traded equity 
and debt securities between January 9, 1999, and November 27, 2001, 
has named Royal Bank of Canada and certain related entities as defen-
dants in an action entitled Regents	of	the	University	of	California v. 
Royal	Bank	of	Canada in the United States District Court, Southern 

Note 28    Contractual repricing and maturity schedule

District of Texas (Houston Division). In addition, Royal Bank of Canada 
and certain related entities have been named as defendants in several 
other Enron-related cases, which are filed in various courts in the 
U.S., asserting similar claims filed by purchasers of Enron securities. 
Royal Bank of Canada is also a third-party defendant in cases in which 
Enron’s accountants, Arthur Andersen LLP, filed third-party claims 
against a number of parties, seeking contribution if Arthur Andersen LLP  
is found liable to plaintiffs in these actions. 

We review the status of these matters on an ongoing basis and 

will exercise our judgment in resolving them in such a manner as 
we believe to be in our best interests. As with any litigation, there 
are significant uncertainties surrounding the timing and outcome. 
Uncertainty is exacerbated as a result of the large number of cases, 
the multiple defendants in many of them, the novel issues presented, 
and the current difficult litigation environment. Although it is not pos-
sible to predict the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits, the timing of 
their resolution or our exposure, during the fourth quarter of 2005, we 
established a litigation provision of $591 million (US$500 million)  
or $326 million after-tax (US$276 million). We believe the ultimate 
resolution of these lawsuits and other proceedings, while not likely to 
have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, 
may be material to our operating results for the particular period in 
which the resolution occurs, notwithstanding the provision established  
in the fourth quarter of 2005. We will continue to vigorously defend our-
selves in these cases.

Other
Various other legal proceedings are pending that challenge certain of 
our practices or actions. We consider that the aggregate liability result-
ing from these other proceedings will not be material to our financial 
position or results of operations.

The following table details our exposure to interest rate risk as  
defined and prescribed by CICA Handbook Section 3861, Financial	
Instruments	–	Disclosure	and	Presentation. On- and off-balance sheet 
financial instruments are reported based on the earlier of their con-
tractual repricing date or maturity date. Effective interest rates have 
been disclosed where applicable. The effective rates shown represent  
historical rates for fixed-rate instruments carried at amortized cost  
and current market rates for floating-rate instruments or instruments  
carried at fair value. The following table does not incorporate  

management’s expectation of future events where expected repricing 
or maturity dates differ significantly from the contractual dates.  
We incorporate these assumptions in the management of interest rate 
risk exposure. These assumptions include expected repricing of trad-
ing instruments and certain loans and deposits. Taking into account 
these assumptions on the consolidated contractual repricing and 
maturity schedule at October 31, 2007, would result in a change in 
the under-one-year gap from $(74.4) billion to $(53.3) billion (2006 – 
$(79.8) billion to $(40.2) billion).

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

159

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
Note	28				Contractual	repricing	and	maturity	schedule	 (continued)

Carrying amount by earlier of contractual repricing or maturity date

Immediately  
interest 
rate-sensitive 

Under 3 
months 

3 to 6 
months 

Over 6 to  
12 months 

Over 1 to  
5 years 

Over 5 
years 

Non-rate- 
sensitive 

Total

Assets 
    Cash and deposits with banks 
        Effective interest rate 
    Securities 
        Trading 
            Effective interest rate 
        Available-for-sale 
            Effective interest rate 
    Assets purchased under reverse repurchase 
      agreements and securities borrowed 
        Effective interest rate 
    Loans (net of allowance for loan losses) (1) 
        Effective interest rate 
    Derivatives 
        Effective interest rate 
    Other assets 

$ 

–  $  14,317 
  4.71% 
– 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 

–  $ 
– 

$ 

– 
– 

–  $  1,790  $   16,107
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
 101,692 
– 
  28,591 
– 
– 

  27,559 
  4.66% 
  8,263 
  4.68% 

  62,393 
  4.81% 
  25,664 
  5.46% 
  2,480 
  4.79% 
– 

  4,856 
  4.74% 
  1,958 
  4.84% 

  1,920 
  4.67% 
  8,079 
  5.54% 
– 
– 
– 

  5,208 
  4.63% 
  2,096 
  4.77% 

– 
– 
 14,071 
  5.31% 
– 
– 
– 

  22,790 
  4.71% 
  12,240 
  4.78% 

– 
– 
  80,795 
  5.38% 
6 
  4.62% 
– 

 26,149 
  4.97% 
  2,326 
  4.92% 

– 
–	
  7,418 
  6.04%	
– 
– 
– 

  61,684 
– 
  3,126 
– 

– 
– 
217 
– 
  35,508 
– 
  37,150 

 148,246

  30,009

  64,313

 237,936

  66,585

  37,150

$$ 130,283  $ 140,676 

$ 16,813 

$ 21,375  $ 115,831 

$ 35,893  $ 139,475  $ 600,346

Liabilities 
    Deposits 
        Effective interest rate 
    Obligations related to assets sold under 
      repurchase agreements and securities 
      loaned 
        Effective interest rate 
    Obligations related to securities sold short 
        Effective interest rate 
    Derivatives  
        Effective interest rate 
    Other liabilities 
        Effective interest rate 
    Subordinated debentures 
        Effective interest rate 
    Trust capital securities 
        Effective interest rate 
    Preferred share liabilities 
        Effective interest rate 
    Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
        Effective interest rate 
    Shareholders’ equity 
        Effective interest rate 

$$ 148,072  $ 112,388 
  4.45% 

– 

$ 23,461 
  4.42% 

$ 24,779  $  49,219 
  4.18% 

  4.36% 

$  5,915  $  1,371  $ 365,205

  4.81% 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
  29,346 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

  34,748 
  4.77% 
  1,402 
  4.72% 
  4,404 
  4.80% 
250 
  4.82% 
886 
  5.64% 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

  1,838 
  4.76% 
316 
  4.71% 
– 
– 
106 
  4.85% 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

396 
  4.79% 
596 
  4.59% 
– 
– 
273 
  4.64% 
– 
– 
– 
– 
300 
  4.72% 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
  10,892 
  4.54% 
4 
  4.60% 
649 
  4.65% 
  3,892 
  5.01% 
  1,400 
  7.23% 
– 
– 
  1,200 
  4.87% 
– 
– 

– 
– 
 11,097 
  4.87% 
13 
  4.96% 
214 
  5.10% 
  1,465 
  6.40% 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
  2,050 
  4.14% 

51 
– 
  20,386 
– 
  38,243 
– 
  46,060 
– 
(8) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
283 
– 
  22,389 
– 

  37,033 

  44,689

  72,010

  47,552

  6,235

  1,400

300

  1,483 

  24,439

$ 20,754  $ 128,775  $ 600,346

Total	gap	based	on	contractual	repricing 
Canadian dollar 
Foreign currency 

Total	gap 
Canadian dollar – 2006	 
Foreign currency – 2006	 
Total gap – 2006 

$$ 177,418  $ 154,078  $  25,721 
$$ (47,135)  $ (13,402)  $  (8,908)  $ (4,969)  $  48,575 
  22,680 
  25,895 

$ 26,344  $  67,256 

  9,417 
 (22,819) 

  11,450 
 (20,358) 

 (23,067) 
 (24,068) 

  (6,183) 
  1,214 

$$ (47,135)  $ (13,402)  $  (8,908)  $ (4,969)  $  48,575 
$  (1,764)  $  52,937 
  14,282 

$ (26,367)  $ (24,559)  $  5,204 
 (19,898) 
  8,856 

 (18,902) 

  (2,372) 

$ 15,139  $  10,700  $  

 (6,296) 
 21,435 

  (8,000) 
  18,700 

$ 15,139  $  10,700  $  

$ 11,628  $ (17,083)  $  

 21,917 

  (3,879) 

$$ (45,269)  $ (15,703)  $ (14,694)  $  (4,136)  $  67,219 

$ 33,545  $ (20,962)  $  

–

1 
(1)

–

(4)
4

–

(1) 

Includes loans totalling $1,202 million to a variable interest entity administered by us, with maturity terms exceeding five years.

Note	29				Related	party	transactions

In the ordinary course of business, we provide normal banking services 
and operational services, and enter into other transactions with associ-
ated and other related corporations, including our joint venture entities, 
on terms similar to those offered to non-related parties. Refer to Note 9 
for more information regarding our joint venture, RBC Dexia IS.

We grant loans to directors, officers and other employees at rates 

normally accorded to preferred clients. As at October 31, 2007, the 
aggregate indebtedness, excluding routine indebtedness, to RBC  
or its subsidiaries of current directors and executive officers was 
approximately $3.2 million. Routine indebtedness includes (i) loans 
made on terms no more favourable than loans to employees generally, 

but not exceeding $50,000 to any director or executive officer;  
(ii) loans to employees, fully secured against their residence and not 
exceeding their annual salary; (iii) loans, other than to employees, 
on substantially the same terms available to other customers with 
comparable credit ratings and involving no more than the usual risk of 
collectibility; and (iv) loans for purchases on usual trade terms, or for 
ordinary travel or expense advances, with usual commercial repayment 
arrangements. We also offer deferred share and other plans to non-
employee directors, executives and certain other key employees.  
Refer to Note 21.

160

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	 	 	 	 	 	  
 
 
 
Note 30    Results by business and geographic segment

2007	

Net interest income	
Non-interest income 

Total revenue 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses  
Insurance policyholder benefits,  
  claims and acquisition expense 
Non-interest expense 

Net income (loss) before income taxes 
Income taxes 
Non-controlling interest 

Net	income	
    Less: Preferred dividends 

Net income (loss) available to  
  common shareholders	

Average assets	(2)	

Total	average	assets	 

Canadian	
Wealth	
Banking	 Management	

U.S.	&
	International	
Banking	

Capital	
Markets	(1)	

Corporate		
Support	(1)	

Total	

Canada	 United	States	

Other	
International

$	

$	

6,353	
6,168	

12,521	
788	

2,173	
5,285	

4,275	
1,288	
–	

2,987	
34	

$	

$	

427	
3,565	

3,992	
1	

–	
2,902	

1,089	
327	
–	

762	
9	

$	

$	

1,031	
884	

1,915	
109	

–	
1,481	

325	
74	
9	

242	
14	

$	

$	

453	
3,936	

4,389	
(22)	

–	
2,769	

1,642	
278	
72	

1,292	
20	

$	

2,953	

$	

753	

$	

228	

$	

1,272	

$	 220,000	

$	 16,600	

$	 39,700	

$	 311,200	

$	 220,000	

$	 16,600	

$	 39,700	

$	 311,200	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	

(732)	
377	

(355)	
(85)	

–	
36	

(306)	
(575)	
60	

209	
11	

$	

$	

7,532	
14,930	

22,462	
791	

2,173	
12,473	

7,025	
1,392	
141	

5,492	
88	

$	

$	

6,435	
8,605	

15,040	
696	

1,230	
7,409	

5,705	
1,705	
83	

3,917	
56	

$	

$	

412	
4,322	

4,734	
90	

474	
3,405	

765	
(62)	
49	

778	
24	

$	

$	

685 
2,003

2,688 
5 

469 
1,659

555 
(251) 
9

797
8

198	

$	

5,404	

$	

3,861	

$	

754	

$	

789

(6,500)	

$	 581,000	

$	 317,900	

$	 135,100	

$	 128,000

(6,500)	

$	 581,000	

$	 317,900	

$	 135,100	

$	 128,000

2006 

Net interest income	
Non-interest income 

Total revenue 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses  
Insurance policyholder benefits,  
  claims and acquisition expense 
Non-interest expense 
Business realignment charges 

Net income (loss) before income taxes 
Income taxes 
Non-controlling interest 

Net income (loss) from continuing operations $ 
Net loss from discontinued operations 

Net	income		
    Less: Preferred dividends 

Net income (loss) available to  
  common shareholders	

Average assets from continuing  
  operations	(2)	
Average assets from discontinued  
  operations	(2) 

Canadian 

Wealth 
Banking  Management 

U.S. &
 International 
Banking 

Capital 
Markets (1) 

Corporate  
Support (1) 

Total 

Canada  United States 

Other 
International

$ 

5,816 
5,880 

11,696 
604 

2,509 
5,027 
– 

3,556 
1,130 
– 

2,426 
– 

2,426 
24 

$ 

$ 

397 
3,090 

3,487 
1 

– 
2,613 
1 

872 
268 
– 

604 
– 

604 
6 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

940 
688 

1,628 
25 

– 
1,216 
– 

387 
117 
9 

261 
(29) 

232 
7 

131 
4,005 

4,136 
(115) 

– 
2,603 
(1) 

1,649 
317 
(23) 

1,355 
– 

1,355 
13 

$ 

$ 

(488) 
178 

(310) 
(86) 

– 
36 
– 

(260) 
(429) 
58 

111 
– 

111 
10 

$ 

$ 

6,796 
13,841 

20,637 
429 

2,509 
11,495 
– 

6,204 
1,403 
44 

4,757 
(29) 

4,728 
60 

$ 

6,045 
7,518 

13,563 
456 

1,379 
7,056 
– 

4,672 
1,458 
37 

3,177 
– 

3,177 
40 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

108 
4,397 

4,505 
(28) 

683 
3,038 
– 

812 
14 
(1) 

799 
(29) 

770 
15 

643 
1.926

2,569 
1 

447 
1,401 
–

720 
(69) 
8

781
–

781
5

$ 

2,402 

$ 

598 

$ 

225 

$ 

1,342 

$ 

101 

$ 

4,668 

$ 

3,137 

$ 

755 

$ 

776

$  199,200 

$ 

15,100 

$  32,600 

$  260,600 

$ 

(5,400) 

$  502,100 

$  287,200 

$  113,300 

$  101,600

– 

– 

200 

– 

– 

200 

– 

200 

–

Total	average	assets 

$  199,200 

$ 

15,100 

$  32,800 

$  260,600 

$ 

(5,400) 

$  502,300 

$  287,200 

$  113,500 

$  101,600

2005 

Net interest income 
Non-interest income 

Total revenue 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses  
Insurance policyholder benefits,  
  claims and acquisition expense 
Non-interest expense 
Business realignment charges 

Net income (loss) before income taxes 
Income taxes 
Non-controlling interest 

Net income (loss) from continuing operations 
Net loss from discontinued operations 

Net	income	(loss)	 
    Less: Preferred dividends 

Net income (loss) available to  
  common shareholders 

Average assets from continuing  
  operations (2) 
Average assets from discontinued  
  operations (2) 

Canadian 

Wealth 
Banking  Management 

U.S. &
 International 
Banking 

Capital 
Markets (1) 

Corporate  
Support (1) 

Total 

Canada  United States 

Other 
International

$ 

5,233  
 5,765  

$ 

 10,998  
542  

2,625 
 4,830 
 7  

 2,994 
987  
– 

2,007  
–  

2,007  
15  

$ 

$ 

374  
2,777 

 3,151  
 2 

–  
 2,440  
 1 

708  
206  
–  

 502 
 – 

502  
4 

$ 

923  
654  

$ 

 1,577  
49 

– 
 1,136  
 (3)  

 395  
133  
6  

256  
(50)  

206  
5 

$ 

$ 

557 
3,005 

3,562 
 (91) 

 –  
2,890 
1  

762 
95  
(19)  

686 
–  

686 
8  

$ 

(294)   $ 
 190  

6,793  
12,391 

$ 

 (104) 
(47) 

 –  
 61  
39 

 (157)  
(143)  
– 

(14)  
– 

 19,184  
 455 

 2,625  
11,357 
 45  

 4,702  
 1,278  
 (13) 

 3,437  
 (50)  

$ 

(14)   $ 

6 

 3,387  
38 

$ 

$ 

5,628  
 6,878  

12,506  
433  

1,270  
 6,685  
45 

4,073 
1,329 

 (30)  

 2,774  
– 

 2,774  
25 

$ 

608  
3,955 

 4,563 
23 

809  
 3,595  
– 

136 
(76)  
 12 

 200  
(50)  

150  
10  

$ 

$ 

557
1,558

2,115 
(1) 

546 
1,077 
–

493 
25 
5

463
–

463
3

$ 

1,992  

$ 

498  

$ 

201  

$ 

678 

$ 

(20) 

$ 

3,349  

$ 

2,749 

$ 

140 

$ 

460

$  181,100 

$  13,200 

$ 

 25,900  

$   229,100 

$ 

 (4,000)   $   445,300  

$  263,200 

$  92,400  

$  89,700

–  

– 

1,800  

–  

 – 

1,800  

– 

1,800  

–

Total	average	assets 

$  181,100  

 $  13,200  

$  27,700  

$  229,100  

$ 

(4,000)   $  447,100 

$  263,200  

$  94,200  

$  89,700

(1) 
(2) 

Taxable equivalent basis. 
Calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

161

	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 30    Results by business and geographic segment (continued)

Revenue	by	business	line

Banking	(1) 
Wealth management 
Global insurance 
Global markets (2) 
Global investment banking and equity markets (2), (3) 
RBC Dexia IS (4) 
Other (5) 

Total      

$ 

2007	

$	 10,485	
3,992	
3,192	
2,455	
1,675	
759	

(96)	

$	

2006 

9,418	
3,487 
3,348 
2,579 
1,382 
558 
(135) 

2005

8,761
3,151
3,311
2,256
1,098
500
104

$	 22,462	

$  20,637	

$	

19,184

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

(5) 

Includes cards and payment solutions.
Taxable equivalent basis.
Includes our National Clients business, which was transferred from our Other line of business in the second quarter of 2007.
The amount for 2006 includes two months of revenue from IIS and our 50% proportionate share of nine months of revenue from RBC Dexia IS for the year ended October 31, 2006. 
Comparative amounts for 2005 only represent revenue from IIS.
Consists of Global Credit and Research business, and includes the tax equivalent basis adjustment which is discussed below. 

Changes in 2007 
Composition	of	business	segments
Effective February 7, 2007, our previous three business segments  
(RBC Canadian Personal and Business, RBC U.S. and International 
Personal and Business, and RBC Capital Markets) were reorganized into 
the following four business segments: 

Canadian Banking comprises our domestic, personal and busi-
ness banking operations, certain retail investment businesses and our 
global insurance operations. 

Wealth Management comprises businesses that directly serve 

the growing wealth management needs of affluent and high net worth 
clients in Canada, the U.S. and outside North America, and businesses 
that provide asset management and trust products through RBC and 
external partners. 

U.S. & International Banking comprises our banking businesses  
outside Canada, including our banking operations in the U.S. and the 
Caribbean. In addition, this segment includes our 50% ownership in 
RBC Dexia IS. 

Capital Markets comprises our global wholesale banking business 

segment, which provides a wide range of corporate and investment 
banking, sales and trading, research and related products and services 
to corporate, public sector and institutional clients in North America, 
and specialized products and services in select global markets. 

The comparative results have been revised to conform to our new 

basis of segment presentation.

All other enterprise level activities that are not allocated to these 
four business segments, such as enterprise funding securitization, net 
funding associated with unattributed capital, and consolidation adjust-
ments, including the elimination of the taxable equivalent basis (teb) 
gross-up amounts, are included in Corporate Support. Teb adjustments 
gross up Net interest income from certain tax-advantaged sources 
(Canadian taxable corporate dividends) to their effective tax equiva-
lent value with the corresponding offset recorded in the provision for 
income taxes. Management believes that these adjustments are neces-
sary for Capital Markets to reflect how it is managed. The use of the teb 
adjustments enhances the comparability of revenue across our taxable 
and tax-advantaged sources. The use of teb adjustments and measures 
may not be comparable to similar GAAP measures or similarly adjusted 
amounts at other financial institutions. The teb adjustment for 2007 
was $332 million (2006 – $213 million, 2005  – $109 million).

During 2007, we also reclassified the following balances in report-

ing our business segments: (i) certain amounts reported in Capital 
Markets from Interest income to Interest expense with no impact on Net 
interest income; (ii) certain amounts related to interest settlements on 
swaps in fair value hedge relationships from Non-interest income to Net 
interest income which had no impact on the prior years’ results;  
(iii) certain deposits in Capital Markets and U.S. & International Banking 
related to RBC Dexia IS in accordance with the business realignment 
that occurred in the second quarter of 2007; (iv) expenses related to 
internally developed software from Non-interest expense – Other to the 
more specific Non-interest expense lines. Only Corporate Support was 
impacted by this reclassification and there was no impact on total  

162

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Non-interest expense; and (v) certain amounts related to trustee 
services within Canadian Banking have been reclassified from Non-
interest income – Investment management and custodial fees to Net 
interest income to reflect their nature. All comparative amounts have 
been revised to reflect these reclassifications. 

Visa	restructuring
In connection with the restructuring of Visa Inc., which was completed  
on October 3, 2007, RBC’s membership interest in Visa Canada 
Association was exchanged for shares of Visa Inc., resulting in a gain 
of $326 million ($269 million net of taxes). The gain, which is based 
on an independent valuation of RBC’s shares in Visa Inc., is included in 
Canadian Banking’s Total revenue and recorded in Non-interest income –  
Other in our Consolidated Statement of Income. The shares of Visa Inc. 
are classified as Available-for-sale securities. Refer to Note 3. 

Management reporting framework
Our management reporting framework is intended to measure the per-
formance of each business segment as if it was a stand-alone business 
and reflect the way that business segment is managed. This approach 
ensures our business segments’ results reflect all relevant revenue and 
expenses associated with the conduct of their business and depicts 
how management views those results. These items do not impact our 
consolidated results. 

The expenses in each business segment may include costs or 
services directly incurred or provided on their behalf at the enterprise 
level. For other costs not directly attributable to one of our business 
segments, we use a management reporting framework that uses 
assumptions, estimates and methodologies for allocating overhead 
costs and indirect expenses to our business segments and that assists 
in the attribution of capital and the transfer pricing of funds to our 
business segments in a manner that fairly and consistently measures 
and aligns the economic costs with the underlying benefits and risks 
of that specific business segment. Activities and business conducted 
between our business segments are generally at market rates. All other 
enterprise level activities that are not allocated to our four business 
segments are reported under Corporate Support. 

Our assumptions and methodologies used in our management 

reporting framework are periodically reviewed by management to 
ensure they remain valid. The capital attribution methodologies involve 
a number of assumptions and estimates that are revised periodically. 

Geographic segments
For geographic reporting, our segments are grouped into Canada, 
United States and Other International. Transactions are primarily 
recorded in the location that best reflects the risk due to negative 
changes in economic conditions, and prospects for growth due to posi-
tive economic changes. This location frequently corresponds with the 
location of the legal entity through which the business is conducted 
and the location of our clients. Transactions are recorded in the local 
currency and are subject to foreign exchange rate fluctuations with 
respect to the movement in the Canadian dollar. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 	
	
 
 
 
 
 
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles

Our Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with 
Subsection 308 of the Bank	Act	(Canada), which states that except as 
otherwise specified by the OSFI, our Consolidated Financial Statements 
are to be prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. As required by the 
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), material differences 

between Canadian and U.S. GAAP are quantified and described below. 
We adopted SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 on November 1, 
2006. Refer to the discussion under the Significant accounting changes 
section later in this note. 

Condensed	Consolidated	Balance	Sheets

Assets 
Cash	and	due	from	banks	 

$	

4,226	

$	

(78)	 $	

4,148	

$ 

4,401 

$ 

(101)  $ 

4,300

Interest-bearing	deposits	with	banks 

	 11,881	

(4,436)	

7,445	

	 10,502 

(4,223) 

6,279

2007 

2006

Canadian	GAAP	

Differences	

U.S.	GAAP 

Canadian GAAP 

Differences 

U.S. GAAP

Securities	 
    Trading  
    Available-for-sale 
    Investments 

	 148,246	
	 30,009	
–	

	 178,255	

(5,348)	
6,326	
–	

	 142,898	
	 36,335	
–	

  147,237 
–	
37,632	

 –

(282) 

(97) 

  146,955 
 –

37,535

978	

	 179,233	

  184,869 

(379) 

  184,490

Assets	purchased	under	reverse	repurchase	agreements		
	 and	securities	borrowed 

	 64,313	

(2,263)	

	 62,050	

59,378 

(2,148) 

57,230

Loans	(net	of	allowance	for	loan	losses) 

	 237,936	

(2,188)	

	 235,748	

  208,530 

(111) 

  208,419

Other 
    Customers’ liability under acceptances 
    Derivatives 
    Premises and equipment, net 
    Goodwill 
    Other intangibles 
    Reinsurance recoverables  
    Separate account assets 
    Assets of operations held for sale 
    Other assets  

Liabilities	and	shareholders’	equity 
Deposits 

Other 
    Acceptances 
    Obligations related to securities sold short 
    Obligations related to assets sold under  
      repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
    Derivatives 
    Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities 
    Separate account liabilities 
    Liabilities of operations held for sale 
    Other liabilities  

Subordinated	debentures	 
Trust	capital	securities	 
Preferred	share	liabilities 
Non-controlling	interest	in	subsidiaries 
Shareholders’	equity (1) 

11,786	
	 66,585	
2,131	
4,752	
628	
–	
–	
–	
17,853	

–	
(295)	
(102)	
(61)	
(180)	
1,140	
114	
–	
	 30,590	

11,786	
	 66,290	
2,029	
4,691	
448	
1,140	
114	
–	
	 48,443	

9,108 
37,729 
1,818 
4,304 
642 
– 
– 
82 
15,417 

– 
717 
(86) 
(61) 
(211) 
1,182 
111 
– 
  24,893 

9,108 
  38,446 
1,732 
4,243 
431 
1,182 
111 
82 
  40,310

	 103,735	

	 31,206	

	 134,941	

69,100 

  26,545 

  95,645

$	 600,346	

$	 23,219	

$	 623,565	

$  536,780 

$  19,583 

$  556,363

$	 365,205	

$	

(12,276)	 $	 352,929	

$  343,523 

$ 

(9,466)  $  334,057

11,786	
	 44,689	

37,033	
	 72,010	
7,283	
–	
–	
	 28,483	

–	
829	

11,786	
45,518	

9,108 
  38,252 

(1,290)	
(312)	
2,530	
114	
–	
33,712	

35,743	
	 71,698	
9,813	
114	
–	
	 62,195	

41,103 
  42,094 
7,337 
– 
32 
  22,649 

– 
(1,188) 

(1,141) 
312 
2,686 
111 
– 
27,877 

9,108 
37,064 

  39,962 
  42,406 
  10,023 
111 
32 
  50,526

	 201,284	

	 35,583	

	 236,867	

	 160,575 

  28,657 

  189,232

6,235	
1,400	
300	
1,483	
	 24,439	

6	
(1,400)	
(300)	
1,405	
201	

6,241	
–	
–	
2,888	
	 24,640	

7,103 
1,383 
298 
1,775 
22,123 

300 
(1,383) 
(298) 
1,083 
690 

7,403 
– 
– 
2,858 
  22,813

$	 600,346	

$	 23,219	

$	 623,565	

$  536,780 

$  19,583 

$  556,363

(1) 

Included in our consolidated earnings as at October 31, 2007 was $407 million (2006 – $293 million) of undistributed earnings of our joint ventures and investments accounted for using 
the equity method under U.S. GAAP.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

163

 
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
     	 	 	 	
	
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
             
 
             
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
             
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
             
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles (continued)

Condensed	Consolidated	Statements	of	Income

Net income from continuing operations, Canadian GAAP  
Differences: 
Net interest income 
    Derivative instruments and hedging activities 
    Joint ventures  
    Liabilities and equity 
Non-interest income 
    Insurance accounting 
    Derivative instruments and hedging activities 
    Reclassification of financial instruments (1) 
    Variable interest entities 
    Limited partnerships  
    Joint ventures  
    Reclassification of foreign currency translation 
    Other  
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses 
    Joint ventures  
    Other 
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense 
    Insurance accounting  
Non-interest expense 
    Stock appreciation rights 
    Insurance accounting  
    Joint ventures  
    Variable interest entities 
    Other 
Income taxes and net difference in income taxes due to the above items  
Non-controlling interest in net income of subsidiaries  
    Variable interest entities 
    Joint ventures 
    Liabilities and equity 

Net income from continuing operations, U.S. GAAP 

Net loss from discontinued operations, Canadian GAAP (2) 
Difference – Other 

Net loss from discontinued operations, U.S. GAAP (2) 

Net income, U.S. GAAP 

Basic earnings per share (3) 
    Canadian GAAP 
    U.S. GAAP 
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations 
    Canadian GAAP 
    U.S. GAAP 
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (2) 
    Canadian GAAP 
    U.S. GAAP 

Diluted earnings per share (3) 
    Canadian GAAP 
    U.S. GAAP 
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations 
    Canadian GAAP 
    U.S. GAAP 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (2) 
    Canadian GAAP 
    U.S. GAAP 

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

5,492	

$ 

4,757	

$ 

3,437 

(17)	
(115)	
115	

(202)	
56	
9	
4 
60	
(650)	
(41) 
(31)	

4	
(8) 

 –

(22)	
(75) 
115	

(544)	
(31)	
14	
(10) 
(3) 
(458) 
(4) 
(29) 

2 

471	

16 
75 
440 
2 
29 
95 

8 
3 
(101) 

36 
– 
115 

(606) 
11 
27 
– 
(9) 
(171) 
– 
(4) 

18 

584 

25 
72 
118 
– 
– 
(13) 

– 
– 
(101)

 –

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

4,750	

$	

3,539

(29)  $ 

– 

(29)  $ 

(50) 
5

(45)

4,721	

$ 

3,494

3.65 
3.62 

3.67 
3.64 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

2.61 
2.67 

2.65 
2.71 

(.02)  $ 
(.02)  $ 

(.04) 
(.04) 

3.59 
3.57 

3.61 
3.59 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 

2.57 
2.63 

2.61 
2.67 

(.02)  $ 
(.02)  $ 

(.04) 
(.04)

137	

11	
69	
653	
2 
31	
66	

(6) 
3 
(101)	

5,541	

– 
–	

–	

5,541	

4.24	
4.26	

4.24 
4.26	

–	
–	

4.19	
4.21	

4.19	
4.21	

–	
–	

$	

$	

$	

$	

$	
$	

$	
$	

$	
$	

$	
$	

$	
$	

$	
$	

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

Reclassification of financial instruments reflects differences in classification arising from the use of the fair value option and reclassification of securities. Prior to the adoption of the 
new financial instruments accounting standards on November 1, 2006, this item reflected the reclassification of securities only. Please refer to material differences between Canadian 
and U.S. GAAP for details of this reclassification of securities. 
Refer to Note 11.
The impact of calculating earnings per share using the two-class method reduced U.S. GAAP basic and diluted earnings per share for all periods presented by less than one cent. Please 
refer to material differences between Canadian and U.S. GAAP for details of this two-class method.

164

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed	Consolidated	Statements	of	Cash	Flows	(1)

Cash	flows	from	(used	in)	operating	activities,	Canadian	GAAP 
U.S. GAAP adjustment for net income 
Adjustments to determine net cash from (used in) operating activities 
    Provision for credit losses 
    Depreciation 
    Future income taxes 
    Amortization of other intangibles 
    Net gain on sale of investment securities 
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities 
        Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities 
        Net change in accrued interest receivable and payable 
        Current income taxes 
        Derivative assets 
        Derivative liabilities  
        Trading securities 
        Reinsurance recoverable 
        Net change in brokers and dealers receivable and payable  
        Other  

Net	cash	from	(used	in)	operating	activities,	U.S.	GAAP 

Cash	flows	from	(used	in)	investing	activities,	Canadian	GAAP  
    Change in interest-bearing deposits with banks  
    Change in loans, net of loan securitizations  
    Proceeds from sale of investment securities  
    Proceeds from maturity of investment securities  
    Purchases of investment securities  
    Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities  
    Proceeds from maturity of available-for-sale securities  
    Purchases of available-for-sale securities  
    Net acquisitions of premises and equipment  
    Change in assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed  

Net	cash	from	(used	in)	investing	activities,	U.S.	GAAP  

Cash	flows	from	financing	activities,	Canadian	GAAP  
    Change in deposits  
    Change in deposits – Canada  
    Change in deposits – International  
    Issue of RBC Trust Capital Securities 
    Issue of preferred shares 
    Redemption of preferred shares for cancellation 
    Issuance costs 
    Issue of common shares 
    Sales of treasury shares 
    Purchase of treasury shares 
    Dividends paid 
    Change in obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned   
    Dividends/distributions paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests  
    Change in obligations related to securities sold short  
    Change in short-term borrowings of subsidiaries 

$	

2007 

19,473	
49 

4	
(24)	
(416)	
(26) 
– 

(156)	
293	
64 
1,012	
(624)	
(5,546)	
(42)	
344	
(437)	

2006 

2005

$  (14,996)  $ 

(8) 

(2) 
(20) 
271 
(20) 
– 

43	
(120) 
– 
440 
(267) 
(695) 
(8) 
3,872 
2,446 

(29,527)
102 

(18) 
(4) 
(135) 
– 
3 

(438) 
(1) 
– 
41 
(90) 
(710) 
(511) 
(2,504) 
2,099

	 13,968	

(9,064) 

(31,693)

	 (36,690)	
213	
2,084	
(7,565)	
	 (18,784)	
	 24,097	
7,565	
	 18,784	
	 (19,964)	
40	
115 

(43,235) 
4,191 
1,050	
(14,709) 
	 (28,203) 
	 38,474 
	 14,727 
28,185 
	 (38,383) 
73 
2,148 

 (

7,727) 
48 
28 
(25,628) 
  (18,405) 
 3 6,373 
25,651 
  18,379 
(36,130) 
12 
–

30,105	

(35,682) 

(7,399)

17,374	
(17,831) 
(2,792)	
17,813	
– 
(16) 
5 
11 
(1) 
3 
(1) 
(15)	
(149) 
(101)	
2,017	
–	

57,711 
  (36,663) 
(299) 
	 27,468 
– 
(7) 
– 
7 
1 
– 
(2) 
(13) 
(1,141) 
(102) 
(2,835) 
– 

  38,666 
(35,001) 
15,522 
  19,791 
(1,200) 
– 
– 
3 
(1) 
– 
7 
(14)  
– 
(102)  

2,837 
(4)

$	

$	

$	

$	

16,317	

$	 44,125 

$  40,504

(332)	 $	

(80)  $ 

(122) 

(152) 
4,300	

4,148	

$	

$ 

(701) 
5,001 

4,300	

$ 

$ 

1,290 
3,711 

5,001

Net	cash	from	financing	activities,	U.S.	GAAP  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and due from banks  

Net	change	in	cash	and	due	from	banks	 
Cash and due from banks at beginning of year 

Cash	and	due	from	banks	at	end	of	year,	U.S.	GAAP 

(1)  We did not have any discontinued operations during 2007.

Accumulated	other	comprehensive	(loss),	net	of	taxes	(1)

Transition adjustment 
Unrealized (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities 
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses),  
  net of hedging activities 
Gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 
Additional pension obligation 

2007

Canadian	GAAP	

Differences	

U.S.	GAAP	

2006 (1) 

2005 (1)

$	

(45)	 $	
(65)	

$	

45	
133	

$ 

–	
68	

$	

–	
191	

–
83

(3,207)	
111	
–	

(4)	
(91)	
(541)	

(3,211) 
20	
(541)	

(2,000) 
(52) 
(62) 

(1,768)
(165)
(313)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes  $	

(3,206)	 $	

(458)	 $	

(3,664)	 $ 

(1,923)  $ 

(2,163)

(1) 

The concept of AOCI was introduced under Canadian GAAP upon the adoption of Section 1530 on November 1, 2006 (refer to Note 1). Accordingly, there is no reconciliation for the prior 
periods presented. 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

165

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
 
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles (continued)

Consolidated	Statements	of	Comprehensive	Income

Net income 
Other comprehensive income, net of taxes 
    Net unrealized (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities, 
      net of reclassification adjustments 
    Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) 
    Reclassification of (gains) losses on foreign currency translation  
      to income 
    Net foreign currency translation gains (losses) from hedging activities 
    Net gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges  
    Reclassification to income of (gains) losses on derivatives 
      designated as cash flow hedges  
    Additional pension obligation 

Total comprehensive income 

Income taxes (recovery) deducted from the above items:
    Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities  
    Net foreign currency translation gains (losses), net of hedging activities 
    Net unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as  
      cash flow hedges  
    Reclassification to income of (gains) losses on derivatives  
      designated as cash flow hedges  
    Additional pension obligation 

$ 

$ 

2007

Canadian	GAAP	

Differences	

U.S.	GAAP	

2006 (1) 

2005 (1)

$ 

5,492 

$ 

49 

$	

5,541	

$ 

4,721	

$ 

3,494 

(65) 
(2,965) 

(42) 
1,804 
80 

31	
– 

(58)	
(49) 

41 
–	
1	

(5) 
50 

(123)	
(3,014) 

(1) 
1,804 
81	

26 
50 

108	
(507) 

6 
269 
(35) 

148 
251 

(95) 
(623)  

5 
401  
(97) 

124 
(246)

4,335 

$ 

29 

$	

4,364	

$ 

4,961	

$ 

2,963

(11)  $ 
911 

43 

16 
– 

(37)  $	

–	

–	

(3) 
27 

(48)  $ 
911 

$ 

57 
130 

43	

13 
27 

(15) 

75 
134 

(55) 
 204 

(51) 

66 
(132)

 32

Total income taxes (recovery) 

$ 

959 

$ 

(13)  $	

946	

$ 

381	

$ 

(1) 

A new Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income was introduced under Canadian GAAP upon adoption of Section 1530 on November 1, 2006 (refer to Note 1). Accordingly, there 
is no reconciliation for the prior periods presented. 

Material	balance	sheet	reconciling	items
The following tables present the increases or (decreases) in assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity by material differences between Canadian 
and U.S. GAAP:

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(375)	

(2,262)	
(2,931)	
(4,818)	

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(2,594)	
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239	

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37	

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2,422	

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(1,400)	
(300)	
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339	
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90	 $	31,206

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	–	 $	 1,405
201

	163	 $	

As at October 31, 2007

Assets
Cash and due from banks 
Interest-bearing deposits 	
  with banks 
Securities 
Assets purchased under reverse  
  repurchase agreements and  
  securities borrowed 
Loans      
Other assets 
Liabilities	and	shareholders’	equity
Deposits  
Other liabilities 
Subordinated debentures 
Trust capital securities 
Preferred share liabilities 
Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
Shareholders’ equity 

(1) 

(2) 

Reclassification of financial instruments reflects differences in classification arising from the use of the fair value option and reclassification of securities. Prior to the adoption of the 
new financial instruments accounting standards on November 1, 2006, this column reflected the reclassification of securities only. Refer to the material differences between Canadian 
and U.S. GAAP for details of this reclassification of securities. 
Other minor differences include cumulative translation adjustment of $41 million (2006 – $4 million) and $8 million ($nil for 2006) related to loans held for sale which are recorded at 
the lower of cost or market under U.S. GAAP and recorded at amortized cost under Canadian GAAP.

166

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
	
 
  
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
As at October 31, 2006

Assets
Cash and due from banks 
Interest-bearing deposits 	
  with banks 
Securities 
Assets purchased under reverse  
  repurchase agreements and  
  securities borrowed 
Loans      
Other assets 
Liabilities	and	shareholders’	equity
Deposits  
Other liabilities 
Subordinated debentures 
Trust capital securities 
Preferred share liabilities 
Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries 
Shareholders’ equity 

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(1) 

Reclassification of financial instruments reflects differences in classification arising from the use of the fair value option and reclassification of securities. Prior to the adoption of the 
new financial instruments accounting standards on November 1, 2006, this column reflected the reclassification of securities only. Refer to the material differences between Canadian 
and U.S. GAAP for details of this reclassification of securities. 

Material differences between Canadian and U.S. GAAP

No. 

Item 

U.S. GAAP 

Canadian GAAP

The accounting for VIEs is consistent in all material 
aspects with U.S. GAAP. In the second quarter of 2007,  
we adopted EIC-163 which is substantially the same as  
FSP FIN 46(R)-6. Refer to Note 1.

1 

Variable interest 
entities

We consolidate VIEs where we are the entity’s Primary 
Beneficiary under Financial Accounting Standards Board 
(FASB) Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation	of	Variable	
Interest	Entities (FIN 46R). VIEs are entities in which equity 
investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling 
financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the 
entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated 
financial support from other parties. The Primary Beneficiary 
is the party that has exposure to a majority of the expected 
losses and/or expected residual returns of the VIE. 

In the fourth quarter of 2006, we adopted FASB Staff 

Position FIN 46(R)-6, Determining	the	Variability	to	be	
Consolidated	in	Applying	FASB	Interpretation	No.	46(R)  
(FSP FIN 46(R)-6). This guidance provides additional 
clarification on how to analyze VIEs and their consolidation 
requirements. Upon adoption of this guidance, we deconsoli-
dated certain investment funds. 

2 

Liabilities and 
equity  

Shares issued with conversion or conditional redemption  
features are classified as equity. Shares that are mandatorily 
redeemable because there is an unconditional obligation 
requiring the issuer to redeem the instrument by transferring 
its assets upon a specified date or upon an event that is  
certain to occur are classified as liabilities.

Financial instruments that can be settled by a variable 
number of our common shares upon their conversion by 
the holder are classified as liabilities under Canadian 
GAAP. As a result, certain of our preferred shares and 
TruCS are classified as liabilities. Dividends and yield 
distributions on these instruments are included in Interest 
expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income. 

3 

Derivative  
instruments and 
hedging activities

All derivatives are recorded on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets at fair value, including certain derivatives embedded 
within hybrid instruments. For derivatives that do not qualify 
for hedge accounting, changes in their fair value are recorded 
in Non-interest income. For derivatives that are designated 
and qualify as cash flow hedges, changes in fair value related 
to the effective portion of the hedge are recorded in AOCI 
within Shareholders’ equity, and will be subsequently rec-
ognized in Net interest income in the same period when the 
cash flow of the hedged item affects earnings. The ineffec-
tive portion of the hedge is reported in Non-interest income. 

Prior to November 1, 2006, derivatives embedded 
within hybrid instruments generally were not separately 
accounted for except for those related to equity-linked 
deposit contracts. For derivatives that did not qualify 
for hedge accounting, changes in their fair value were 
recorded in Non-interest income. Non-trading derivatives 
where hedge accounting had not been applied upon adop-
tion of Accounting Guideline 13, Hedging	Relationships, 
were recorded at fair value with transition gains or losses 
being recognized in income as the original hedged item 
affects Net interest income. Where derivatives had been 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

167

	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles (continued)

Material differences between Canadian and U.S. GAAP	(continued)

No. 

Item 

U.S. GAAP 

Canadian GAAP

3 

Derivative  
instruments and 
hedging activities

(continued)

For derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value 
hedges, the carrying amount of the hedged item is adjusted by 
gains or losses attributable to the hedged risk and recorded in 
Non-interest income. This change in fair value of the hedged 
item is generally offset by changes in the fair value of the 
derivative.

designated and qualified as effective hedges, they were 
accounted for on an accrual basis with gains or losses 
deferred and recognized over the life of the hedged assets 
or liabilities as adjustments to Net interest income. The 
ineffective portion of the hedge was not required to be 
recognized.

Upon the adoption of Section 3855 and Section 3865 
on November 1, 2006, Canadian GAAP is substantially har-
monized with U.S. GAAP. Refer to Note 1.

4 

Joint ventures

Investments in joint ventures other than VIEs are accounted 
for using the equity method.

Investments in joint ventures other than VIEs are propor-
tionately consolidated.

Prior to November 1, 2006, fixed income and equity invest-
ments were classified as Investment account securities. 
Fixed income investments were carried at amortized cost, 
and equity investments at cost except for those that sup-
port life insurance liabilities whose carrying values were 
adjusted quarterly by 5% of the difference between market 
value and previously adjusted carrying cost. Realized gains 
and losses on disposal of fixed income investments that 
support life insurance liabilities were deferred and amor-
tized to Non-interest income over the remaining term to 
maturity of the investments sold to a maximum period of 
20 years. Realized gains and losses on disposal of equity 
investments were deferred and recognized as Non-interest 
income at the quarterly rate of 5% of unamortized deferred 
gains and losses. 

Upon adoption of Section 3855 on November 1, 2006, 
fixed income and equity securities are classified as 
available-for-sale securities except for those supporting 
the policy benefit liabilities of life and health insurance 
contracts which are designated as held-for-trading using 
the fair value option, as described in Note 1.

Insurance	claims	and	policy	benefit	liabilities: Liabilities 
for life insurance contracts are determined using the 
Canadian Asset Liability Method, which incorporates 
assumptions for mortality, morbidity, policy lapses, 
surrenders, investment yields, policy dividends and main-
tenance expenses. To recognize the uncertainty in the 
assumptions underlying the calculation of the liabilities, a 
margin (provision for adverse deviations) is added to each 
assumption. These assumptions are reviewed at least 
annually and updated in response to actual experience 
and market conditions. Property and casualty claim liabili-
ties represent the estimated amounts required to settle all 
unpaid claims, and are recorded on a discounted basis.

5 

 Insurance  
accounting 

Fixed income and equity investments are included in 
Available-for-sale securities and are carried at estimated fair 
value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of income taxes, are 
reported in AOCI within Shareholders’ equity. Realized gains 
and losses are included in Non-interest income when realized.  

Insurance	claims	and	policy	benefit	liabilities: Liabilities for  
life insurance contracts, except universal life and investment-
type contracts, are determined using the net level premium 
method, which includes assumptions for mortality, morbidity, 
policy lapses, surrenders, investment yields, policy divi-
dends and direct operating expenses. These assumptions 
are not revised unless it is determined that existing deferred 
acquisition costs cannot be recovered. For universal life and 
investment-type contracts, liabilities represent policyholder 
account balances and include a net level premium reserve for 
some contracts. The account balances represent an accumu-
lation of gross deposits received plus credited interest less 
withdrawals, expenses and mortality charges. Underlying 
reserve assumptions of these contracts are subject to review 
at least annually. Property and casualty claim liabilities rep-
resent the estimated amounts required to settle all unpaid 
claims, and are recorded on an undiscounted basis.

168

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
Material differences between Canadian and U.S. GAAP	(continued)

No. 

Item 

U.S. GAAP 

Canadian GAAP

5 

 Insurance  
accounting

(continued)

Insurance	revenue: Amounts received for universal life and 
other investment-type contracts are not included as rev-
enue, but are reported as deposits to policyholders’ account 
balances in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities. 
Revenue from these contracts are limited to amounts 
assessed against policyholders’ account balances for mor-
tality, policy administration and surrender charges, and are 
included in Non-interest income when earned. Payments 
upon maturity or surrender are reflected as reductions in the 
Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities. 

Policy	acquisition	costs: Acquisition costs are deferred in 
Other assets. The amortization method of the acquisition 
costs is dependent on the product to which the costs are 
related. For long-duration contracts, they are amortized in 
proportion to premium revenue. For universal life and  
investment-type contracts, amortization is based on a  
constant percentage of estimated gross profits. 

Value	of	business	acquired:	The value of business acquired 
(VOBA) is determined at the acquisition date and recorded as 
an asset. The VOBA asset is amortized and charged to income 
using the same methodologies used for policy acquisition 
cost amortization but reflecting premiums or profit margins 
after the date of acquisition only. 

Reinsurance:	Reinsurance recoverables are recorded as an 
asset on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

Insurance	revenue:	Premiums for universal life and other 
investment-type contracts are recorded as Non-interest 
income, and a liability for future policy benefits is established 
as a charge to Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and 
acquisition expense. 

Policy	acquisition	costs: The costs of acquiring new life insur-
ance and annuity business are implicitly recognized as a 
reduction in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities.

Value	of	business	acquired: The value of life insurance in-
force policies acquired in a business combination is implicitly 
recognized as a reduction in policy benefit liabilities.

Reinsurance: Reinsurance recoverables of life insurance 
business related to the risks ceded to other insurance or 
reinsurance companies are recorded as an offset to Insurance 
claims and policy benefit liabilities. 

Separate	accounts:	Separate accounts are recognized on our 
Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

Separate	accounts:	Assets and liabilities of separate 
accounts (known as segregated funds in Canada) are not  
recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

6 

 Reclassification  
of securities  
and the  
application of 
the fair value 
option

Securities are classified as Trading account or Available-for-
sale, and are carried on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at 
their estimated fair value. The net unrealized gain (loss) on 
Available-for-sale securities, net of related income taxes, is 
reported in AOCI within Shareholders’ equity except where 
the Available-for-sale securities qualify as hedged items in 
fair value hedges. These hedged unrealized gains (losses) 
are recorded in Non-interest income where they are generally 
offset by the changes in fair value of the hedging derivatives. 
Writedowns to reflect other-than-temporary impairment in 
the value of Available-for-sale securities are included in Non-
interest income. 

Prior to November 1, 2006, securities were classified as 
Trading account (carried at estimated fair value), Investment 
account (carried at amortized cost) or Loan substitute. 
Writedowns to reflect other-than-temporary impairments 
in the value of Investment account securities were included 
in Non-interest income. Loan substitute securities were 
accorded the accounting treatment applicable to loans and,  
if required, were reduced by an allowance. 

On November 1, 2006, we adopted Financial Accounting 
Standards Board (FASB) Statement No. 155,	Accounting	for	
Certain	Hybrid	Financial	Instruments	–	an	amendment	of	
FASB	Statements	No.	133	and	140	(FAS 155). FAS 155 allows 
an entity to measure any hybrid financial instrument that con-
tains an embedded derivative that requires bifurcation at its 
fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in earnings.

On November 1, 2006, we also adopted FASB Statement 

No. 156, Accounting	for	Servicing	of	Financial	Assets	–	an	
amendment	of	FASB	Statement	No.	140 (FAS 156). Under  
FAS 156, an entity is required to initially measure its servicing 
rights at fair value and can elect to subsequently amortize 
its initial fair value over the term of the servicing rights, or 
remeasure them at fair value with changes recognized in 

With the adoption of Section 3855 on November 1, 2006, 
Canadian GAAP is substantially harmonized with U.S. GAAP. 
The significant difference subsequent to the adoption of this 
new Canadian standard primarily relates to the use of the fair 
value option. As described in Note 1, Section 3855 allows the 
designation of any financial instrument as held-for-trading on 
its initial recognition or upon adoption of the new standard. 
The fair value option can be applied to any financial instru-
ment under Canadian GAAP (except for certain restrictions 
imposed by the OSFI) whereas U.S. GAAP only allows the use 
of the fair value option for servicing rights and certain hybrid 
financial instruments. The principal categories of financial 
instruments where we have applied the fair value option 
under Canadian GAAP are described in Note 1.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

169

 
 
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles (continued)

Material differences between Canadian and U.S. GAAP	(continued)

No. 

Item 

U.S. GAAP 

Canadian GAAP

6 

 Reclassification  
of securities  
and the  
application of 
the fair value 
option 

(continued)

Net income. The ability to remeasure servicing rights at fair 
value through Net income eliminates the accounting mismatch 
between the servicing rights and the related derivatives that 
would otherwise result in the absence of hedge accounting.
Upon adoption of FAS 155 and FAS 156, certain hybrid 
financial instruments and servicing rights are measured at fair 
value. The adoption of these standards did not materially impact 
our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

7 

Limited  
partnerships

The equity method is used to account for investments in limited 
partnerships that are non-VIEs or unconsolidated VIEs, if we own 
at least 3% of the total ownership interest. 

8 

Stock  
appreciation 
rights (SARs)

9 

Pension and  
other post-  
employment
obligations

Between November 29, 1999, and June 5, 2001, grants of  
options under the employee stock option plan were accompa-
nied with tandem SARs, whereby participants could choose 
to exercise a SAR instead of the corresponding option. In such 
cases, the participants would receive a cash payment equal to 
the difference between the closing price of our common shares 
on the day immediately preceding the day of exercise and the 
exercise price of the option. For such a plan, compensation 
expense would be measured using estimates based on past 
experience of participants exercising SARs rather than the  
corresponding options. 

On November 1, 2005, we adopted FASB Statement  
No. 123 (revised 2004) Share-Based	Payment (FAS 123(R )) and 
its related FASB Staff Positions (FSPs) prospectively for new 
awards and the unvested portion of existing awards. FAS 123(R) 
requires that the compensation expense should be measured 
assuming that all participants will exercise SARs. Under the 
transition guidelines of the new standard, the requirements of 
the new accounting standard are applicable to awards granted 
after the adoption of the new standard. Since these SARs were 
awarded prior to adoption of the new accounting standard,  
these will continue to be accounted for under the previous 
accounting standard. 

On October 31, 2007, we adopted the recognition requirements 
of FASB Statement No. 158, Employers’	Accounting	for	Defined	
Benefit	Pension	and	Other	Post-retirement	Plans	–	an	amend-
ment	of	FASB	Statements	No.	87,	88,	106	and	132(R)	(FAS 158), 
which require an entity to: (i) recognize the funded status of a 
benefit plan on the balance sheet; and (ii) recognize in OCI the 
existing unrecognized net actuarial gains and losses, prior ser-
vice costs and credits, and net transitional assets or obligations. 
The measurement requirement of FAS 158, which requires an 
entity to measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as 
at the year-end date, will be effective for us prospectively at the 
end of 2009. The impact of adopting FAS 158 is disclosed  
in the Pensions and other post-employment benefits section of 
this note.

Prior to 2007, for defined benefit pension plans, an 
unfunded accumulated benefit obligation was recorded as an 

170

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

We use the equity method to account for investments in 
limited partnerships that are non-VIEs or unconsolidated 
VIEs, if we have the ability to exercise significant influ-
ence, generally indicated by an ownership interest of 
20% or more.

For such a plan, a liability is recorded for the potential 
cash payments to participants and compensation 
expense is measured assuming that all participants will 
exercise SARs.

Canadian GAAP does not have the same requirements as 
FAS 158.

For a defined benefit plan, the plan assets and the  
benefit obligations may be measured as of a date not 
more than three months prior to the year-end. We mea-
sure our benefit obligations and pension plan assets as 
at September 30 each year.

 
 
 
Material differences between Canadian and U.S. GAAP	(continued)

No. 

Item 

U.S. GAAP 

Canadian GAAP

9 

Pension and  
other post-  
employment
obligations

(continued)

additional minimum pension liability, an intangible asset 
was recorded up to the amount of unrecognized prior service 
cost, and the excess of unfunded accumulated benefit obliga-
tion over unrecognized prior service cost was recorded as a 
reduction in Other comprehensive income. 

10  Trade date 
accounting

For securities transactions, trade date basis of accounting 
is used for both our Consolidated Balance Sheets and our 
Consolidated Statements of Income. 

For securities transactions, settlement date basis of account-
ing is used for our Consolidated Balance Sheets whereas 
trade date basis of accounting is used for our Consolidated 
Statements of Income. 

11  Non-cash  

collateral

Non-cash collateral received in securities lending transac-
tions is recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as an 
asset and a corresponding obligation to return it is recorded 
as a liability, if we have the ability to sell or repledge it. 

Non-cash collateral received in securities lending  
transactions is not recognized on our Consolidated Balance 
Sheets. 

12  Right of offset 

When financial assets and liabilities are subject to a legally 
enforceable right of offset and we intend to settle these 
assets and liabilities with the same party either on a net 
basis or simultaneously, the financial assets and liabilities 
may be presented on a net basis. 

Net presentation of financial assets and liabilities is required 
when the same criteria under U.S. GAAP are met. In addition, 
the netting criteria may be applied to a tri-party transaction.

13  Guarantees

For guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002, 
a liability is recognized at the inception of a guarantee, for 
the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the 
guarantee.  

Prior to November 1, 2006, Canadian GAAP only provides for 
disclosure requirements. 

Upon the adoption of Section 3855 on November 1, 2006, 

Canadian GAAP is substantially harmonized with U.S. GAAP.

14  Loan  

commitments

For loan commitments entered into after March 31, 2004  
and issued for loans that will be held for sale when funded, 
revenue associated with servicing assets embedded in  
these commitments should be recognized only when the 
servicing asset has been contractually separated from the 
underlying loans. 

15  Two-class 
method of  
calculating  
earnings per  
share

When calculating earnings per share, we are required to give 
effect to securities or other instruments or contracts that 
entitle their holders to participate in undistributed earnings 
when such entitlement is nondiscretionary and objectively 
determinable. 

Upon adoption of Section 3855, loan commitments that can 
be settled net or when there is a past practice of selling the 
assets resulting from the loan commitments shortly after 
origination can be treated as derivatives and such treatment 
applies to all loan commitments in the same class. 

In addition, loan commitments can be designated as 

held-for-trading on their initial recognition or upon adoption 
of the new standard using the fair value option (refer to Item 
No. 6 above). 

Canadian GAAP does not have such a requirement. 

16 

Income taxes

In addition to the tax impact of the differences outlined 
above, the effects of changes in tax rates on deferred income 
taxes are recorded when the tax rate change has been 
passed into law. 

These effects are recorded when the tax rate change has 
been substantively enacted.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

171

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles (continued)

Restricted net assets
Certain of our subsidiaries and joint ventures are subject to regulatory 
requirements of the jurisdictions in which they operate. When these sub-
sidiaries and joint ventures are subject to such requirements, they may 
be restricted from transferring to us our share of their assets in the form 
of cash dividends, loans or advances. At October 31, 2007, restricted net 
assets of these subsidiaries were $10.3 billion (2006 – $7.1 billion).

Pensions and other post-employment benefits
The following information on our defined benefit plans is in addition to 
that disclosed in Note 20.

On October 31, 2007, we adopted the recognition and disclo-

sure provisions of FAS 158 which require the recognition of a plan’s 
over-funded or under-funded status as an asset or liability with an 
offsetting adjustment to AOCI net of tax. The adjustments to AOCI at 
adoption represent the net actuarial gains and losses, prior service 
costs or credits, and transitional assets or obligations that were  

previously unrecognized. These amounts will be subsequently rec-
ognized as pension expense as they are amortized over the expected 
average remaining service life of employee groups covered by the 
plans. Further, actuarial gains and losses that arise in subsequent peri-
ods and are not recognized as pension expense in the same periods 
will be recognized as a component of OCI. These amounts will be sub-
sequently recognized as a component of pension expense on the same 
basis as the amounts recognized in AOCI on adoption of FAS 158. 

The incremental effects of adopting the provisions of FAS 158 

on our Consolidated Balance Sheet at October 31, 2007 are pre-
sented in the following table, including the effect of recognizing the 
additional minimum liability of $30 million prior to adopting FAS 158. 
The incremental effects of adopting the provision of FAS 158 on our 
Consolidated Balance Sheet at October 31, 2007 had no effect on our 
Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended October 31, 
2007, or for any year presented. 

Other	assets 
    Prepaid pension benefit cost (1) 

Other	liabilities 
    Accrued pension and other post-employment benefit expense (2) 

Accumulated	other	comprehensive	loss (3) 

2007	

	 Before	application		
of	FAS	158	

Adjustments 

	 After	application
of	FAS	158

$	

578	

$	

(479)	 $	

99

1,262	

330	

1,592

$	

18	

$	

809	

$	

827

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Includes the reversal of $12 million unrecognized prior service costs reported as intangible asset. 
Includes the reversal of the additional minimum liability adjustment of $30 million. 
Includes employee benefit plan adjustments of $549 million, net of tax, and the reversal of the additional minimum liability adjustment of $20 million, net of tax. 

The under-funded status of the pension plans and other post- 
employment plans of $52 million and $1,441 million, respectively, are 
recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheet in Other liabilities. The 
accumulated benefit obligations for the pension plans is $6,299 mil-
lion at October 31, 2007 (2006 – $6,277 million). 

The pre-tax amounts included in AOCI at October 31, 2007 are as 

follows: 

Net actuarial loss 
Prior service cost (benefit) 
Transitional (asset) obligation 

2007

Other	post-	
Pension	plans	 employment	plans 

$	

$	

484	
95	
(10)	

$	

564	
(307)	
1	

Total

1,048
(212)
(9)

Pre-tax	amount	recognized	in	Accumulated	other	comprehensive	loss	(1)	 	

$	

569	

$	

258	

$	

827

(1) 

Amount recognized in AOCI, net of tax is $541 million. 

172

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
		
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
The estimated net actuarial loss and prior service cost for the 
pension plans that will be amortized from AOCI, on a pre-tax basis, 
into pension expense during 2008 are $94 million and $22 million, 
respectively, and pension expense will be reduced by $2 million  
relating to the amortization of transitional assets. The estimated  
net actuarial loss and transitional obligation for the Other post- 
employment plans that will be amortized from AOCI, on a pre-tax 
basis, into pension expense during 2008 are $37 million and $nil, 
respectively, and pension expense will be reduced by $23 million 
relating to the amortization of prior service benefit. 

Hedging activities
Upon adoption of Section 3855 and Section 3865 on November 1, 
2006, Canadian GAAP is substantially harmonized with U.S. GAAP.  
The criteria in applying hedge accounting and the accounting for each 
of the permitted hedging strategies are described in Note 1.

Prior to November 1, 2006, there were material differences 
between Canadian and U.S. GAAP and such differences are quantified 
as follows:

Fair	value	hedge
For the year ended October 31, 2006, the ineffective portion recog-
nized in Non-interest income amounted to a net unrealized gain of  
$11 million (2005 – $4 million). All components of each derivative’s 
change in fair value have been included in the assessment of fair value 
hedge effectiveness. We did not hedge any firm commitments for the 
year ended October 31, 2006.

Cash	flow	hedge
For the year ended October 31, 2006, a net unrealized gain of  
$1 million (2005 – $97 million loss) was recorded in OCI for the effec-
tive portion of changes in fair value of derivatives designated as cash 
flow hedges. The amounts recognized in OCI are reclassified to Net 
interest income in the periods in which Net interest income is affected 
by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item. A net loss of  
$108 million (2005 – $124 million loss) was reclassified to Net income 
during the year. A net loss of $26 million (2005 – $111 million loss) 
deferred in AOCI as at October 31, 2006, is expected to be reclassified 
to Net income during the next 12 months.

For the year ended October 31, 2006, a net unrealized loss of  
$23 million (2005 – $3 million loss) was recognized in Non-interest 
income for the ineffective portion of cash flow hedges. All components 
of each derivative’s change in fair value have been included in the 
assessment of cash flow hedge effectiveness. We did not hedge any 
forecasted transactions for the year ended October 31, 2006. 

Hedges	of	net	investments	in	foreign	operations
For the year ended October 31, 2006, we experienced foreign currency 
losses of $507 million (2005 – $623 million) related to our net invest-
ments in foreign operations, which were offset by gains of $269 million 
(2005 – $401 million) related to derivative and non-derivative instru-
ments designated as hedges for such foreign currency exposures. The 
net foreign currency gains (losses) are recorded as a component of OCI. 

Average	assets,	U.S.	GAAP

Canada 
United States 
Other International 

2007 

2006 

2005

Average	
assets	

%	of	total	
average	assets	

Average	
assets 

% of total	
average assets 

Average	
assets 

% of total
average assets

$	 338,545	
	 139,569	
	 125,743	

56% 
23%	
21%	

$  297,740 
	 119,614 
  104,533 

57%	
23%	
20% 

$  277,442 
97,002 
	 101,961 

58%
20%
22%

$	 603,857	

100%	

$  521,887 

100% 

$	 476,405 

100%

Significant accounting changes
Guidance	for	quantifying	financial	statement	misstatements
In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, 
Considering	the	Effects	of	Prior	Year	Misstatements	when	Quantifying	
Misstatements	in	Current	Year	Financial	Statements (SAB 108). It 
provides guidance on how to evaluate prior period financial statement 
misstatements for the purpose of assessing their materiality in the 
current period. SAB 108 requires registrants to evaluate the material-
ity of identified adjusted errors using both of the follow methods: the 
“rollover” approach, which quantifies errors based on the amount of 
the errors originating in the current-year income statement without 
considering the effects of correcting the portion of the current-year 
balance sheet for misstatements that originated in prior years, and 
the “iron curtain” approach, which quantifies an error based on the 
effects of correcting the misstatement existing in the balance sheet 
at the end of the current year, irrespective of when it arose. SAB 108 
permits companies to adjust for the cumulative effect of errors that 
the company previously determined to be immaterial by adjusting the 
carrying amount of assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the 
current year, with an offsetting adjustment to the opening balance of 
retained earnings.

We adopted SAB 108 on November 1, 2006, and reduced our 

opening retained earnings and AOCI by $42 million and $35 million, 
respectively, and increased other liabilities by $77 million. These 
adjustments pertain to errors that arose between 2001 and 2006 
when certain criteria were not met in order for hedge accounting to be 
achieved. We previously deemed these errors to be immaterial to our 
Consolidated Financial Statements using the rollover method.

Future accounting changes
Guidance	on	accounting	for	income	taxes
FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting	for	Uncertainty		
in	Income	Taxes	–	an	interpretation	of	FASB	Statement	No.	109  
(FIN 48), on July 13, 2006, and its related Staff Position FIN 48-1, 
Definition	of	Settlement	in	FASB	Interpretation	No.	48 (FSP FIN 48-1), 
on May 2, 2007. FIN 48 and FSP FIN 48-1 provide additional guidance 
on how to recognize, measure and disclose income tax benefits. The 
cumulative effect of applying the provisions of FIN 48 will be reported 
as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. FIN 48 
became effective for us on November 1, 2007, and is not expected  
to materially impact our consolidated financial position and results  
of operations. 

Accounting	for	deferred	acquisition	costs	for	insurance	operations
On September 19, 2005, the Accounting Standards Executive 
Committee of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants 
(AICPA) issued Statement of Position (SOP) 05-1, Accounting	by	
Insurance	Enterprises	for	Deferred	Acquisition	Costs	in	Connection	
with	Modifications	or	Exchanges	of	Insurance	Contracts (SOP 05-1). 
SOP 05-1 provides guidance on accounting for deferred acquisition 
costs on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts 
other than those specifically described in FASB Statement No. 97, 
Accounting	and	Reporting	by	Insurance	Enterprises	for	Certain	Long-
Duration	Contracts	and	for	Realized	Gains	and	Losses	from	the	Sale	
of	Investments. SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modi-
fication in product benefits, features, rights or coverages that occurs 
by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, by amendment or 
endorsement, rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or cov-
erage within a contract. A replacement contract that is substantially 

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

173

 
 
	
	
 
 
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
	 	 	 	 	 	 	
	
 
 
Note 31    Reconciliation of the application of Canadian and United States generally accepted accounting principles (continued)

changed from the replaced contract is accounted for as an extinguish-
ment of the replaced contract, resulting in the unamortized deferred 
acquisition costs, unearned revenue liabilities, and deferred sales 
inducement assets from extinguished contracts being expensed. This 
SOP became effective for us on November 1, 2007 on a prospective 
basis, and is not expected to materially impact our consolidated finan-
cial position and results of operations.

Guidance	for	written	loan	commitments	recorded	at	fair	value		
through	earnings
On November 5, 2007, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin  
No. 109, Written	Loan	Commitments	Recorded	at	Fair	Value	Through	
Earnings (SAB 109). It requires that the expected net future cash flows 
related to the associated servicing of the loan should be included in 
the measurement of all written loan commitments that are accounted 
for at fair value through earnings. In addition, internally developed 
intangible assets should not be recorded as part of the fair value of a 
derivative loan commitment. SAB 109 is effective for us on February 1, 
2008. We are currently assessing the impact that this SAB will have on 
our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Framework	on	fair	value	measurement	
On September 15, 2006, FASB issued FASB Statement No. 157, Fair	
Value	Measurements (FAS 157), which establishes a framework for 
measuring fair value in U.S. GAAP, and is applicable to other account-
ing pronouncements where fair value is considered to be the relevant 
measurement attribute. FAS 157 also expands disclosures about fair 
value measurements and will be effective for us on November 1, 2008. 
We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this standard on our 
consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Fair	value	option	for	financial	assets	and	liabilities
On February 15, 2007, FASB issued Statement No. 159, The	Fair	Value	
Option	for	Financial	Assets	and	Liabilities (FAS 159). FAS 159 provides 
an entity the option to report selected financial assets and liabilities 
at fair value and establishes new disclosure requirements for assets 
and liabilities to which the fair value option is applied. FAS 159 will be 
effective for us on November 1, 2008. We are currently assessing the 
impact of adopting this standard on our consolidated financial position  
and results of operations. 

Offsetting	of	amounts	related	to	certain	contracts
On April 30, 2007, FASB issued a Staff Position FIN 39-1, Amendment	
of	FASB	Interpretation	No.	39	(FSP FIN 39-1), which amends certain 
aspects of FIN 39, Offsetting	of	Amounts	Related	to	Certain	Contracts, 
to permit a reporting entity to offset fair value amounts recognized  
for the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation  
to return cash collateral (a payable) against fair value amounts recog-
nized for derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty 
under the same master netting agreement. FSP FIN 39-1 will be 
effective for us on November 1, 2008. We are currently assessing the 
impact of adopting this standard on our consolidated financial position 
and results of operations. 

Income	tax	benefits	of	dividends	on	share-based	payment	awards
At the June 27, 2007 meeting, the FASB ratified the consensus reached 
by the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) on Issue 06-11, Accounting	
for	Income	Tax	Benefits	of	Dividends	on	Share-Based	Payment	Awards	
(EITF 06-11), on realized tax benefits on dividend payments related 
to certain share-based payment arrangements which can be treated 
as deductible compensation expense for income tax purposes. Under 
EITF 06-11, a realized tax benefit from dividends or dividend equiva-
lents that are charged to retained earnings and paid to employees for 
equity-classified non-vested equity shares, non-vested equity share 
units, and outstanding share options should be recognized as an 
increase to additional paid-in capital (APIC). Those tax benefits are 
considered excess tax benefits (“windfall”) under FAS 123(R). The 
EITF also reached a final consensus that if an entity’s estimate of for-
feitures increases (resulting in compensation expense), the amount of 
associated tax benefits that are reclassified from APIC to the income 
statement should be limited to the entity’s pool of excess tax benefits. 
This EITF will be effective for us on November 1, 2008. We are currently 
assessing the impact of adopting this standard on our consolidated 
financial position and results of operations. 

174

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 32   Parent company information

The following table presents information regarding the legal entity of Royal Bank of Canada with its subsidiaries presented on an equity  
accounted basis: 

Condensed	Balance	Sheets

Assets 
Cash and due from banks 
Interest-bearing deposits with banks 
Securities  
Investments in bank subsidiaries and associated corporations 
Investments in other subsidiaries and associated corporations 
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements 
Loans, net of allowances 
Net balances due from bank subsidiaries 
Net balances due from other subsidiaries 
Other assets 

Liabilities	and	shareholders’	equity 
Deposits 
Other liabilities  

Subordinated debentures  
Preferred share liabilities 
Shareholders’ equity  

Condensed	Statements	of	Income

Interest income (1) 
Interest expense 

Net	interest	income 
Non-interest income (2) 

Total	revenue 

Provision for credit losses 
Non-interest expense 
Business realignment charges 

Income	from	continuing	operations	before	income	taxes 
Income taxes 

Net	income	before	equity	in	undistributed	income	of	subsidiaries 
Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries (3) 

2007 

2006

$	

2,992 
5,154 
	 94,603 
12,151 
	 22,347 
	 10,609 
	 196,414 
	 18,194 
9,078 
	 86,502 

$	

2,924
2,920
	 90,076 
	 10,345
	 21,830 
9,221
	 166,528
	 24,750
	 10,845
	 54,545

$	 458,044	

$  393,984

$	 306,123	
	 121,065 

$  285,898 
	 78,699

$	 427,188	

$  364,597

$	

6,117 
300 
	 24,439 

$	

6,966 
298 
22,123

$	 458,044	

$  393,984

2007 

2006 

$	

17,563 
  12,940 

$  14,007 
10,351 

$ 

4,623 
4,408 

9,031 

702 
5,905 
– 

2,424 
454 

1,970	
3,522 

3,656 
3,935 

7,591 

410 
5,720 
2 

1,459 
424 

1,035	
3,693 

2005

11,616
6,867

4,749
3,412

8,161

392 
6,001
44

1,724
528

1,196
2,191

Net	income 

$	

5,492	

$ 

4,728 

$ 

3,387

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Includes dividend income from investments in subsidiaries and associated corporations of $420 million, $17 million and $20 million for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
Includes income from associated corporations of $4 million, $8 million and $49 million for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
Includes net loss from discontinued operations related to RBC Mortgage of $29 million and $50 million for 2006 and 2005, respectively. Refer to Note 11.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

175

 
	
	
	 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	 	 	 	 	 	 	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
	
 
	
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
Note 32   Parent company information (continued)

Condensed	Statements	of	Cash	Flows	

Cash	flows	from	operating	activities 
    Net income 
    Adjustments to determine net cash from (used in) operating activities: 
        Change in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries 
        Other operating activities, net 

Net	cash	from	(used	in)	operating	activities 

Cash	flows	from	investing	activities 
    Change in interest-bearing deposits with banks 
    Change in loans, net of loan securitizations 
    Proceeds from loan securitizations 
    Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities 
    Proceeds from sale of investment securities 
    Proceeds from maturity of available-for-sale securities 
    Proceeds from maturity of investment securities 
    Purchase of available-for-sale securities 
    Purchase of investment securities 
    Net acquisitions of premises and equipment 
    Change in assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 
    Net cash from (used in) investments in subsidiaries 
    Change in net funding provided to subsidiaries 

Net	cash	used	in	investing	activities 

Cash	flows	from	financing	activities 
    Change in deposits 
    Issue of subordinated debentures 
    Repayment of subordinated debentures 
    Issue of preferred shares 
    Redemption of preferred shares for cancellation 
    Issuance costs 
    Issue of common shares 
    Purchase of common shares for cancellation 
    Sale of treasury shares 
    Purchase of treasury shares 
    Dividends paid 
    Change in obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
    Change in obligations related to securities sold short 

Net	cash	from	financing	activities 

Net	change	in	cash	and	due	from	banks 
Cash and due from banks at beginning of year 

Cash	and	due	from	banks	at	end	of	year 

Supplemental	disclosure	of	cash	flow	information	
	 	 Amount of interest paid in year 
    Amount of income taxes (recovered) paid in year 

2007 

2006 

2005

$	

5,492	

$ 

4,728 

$ 

3,387 

(3,522)	
11,100	

(3,693) 
(7,397) 

(2,191) 
(17,184)

	 13,070	

(6,362) 

  (15,988)

	(2,234) 
  (38,896) 
6,113 
2,376 
– 
4,891 
– 
(10,365) 
– 
	(481) 
 (1,388) 
	(2,101) 
	8,062	 

 (1,192) 
(23,417) 
 5,963  
– 
11,233 
 – 
  18,195 
 – 
(25,445) 
 (401) 
 (388) 
 (946) 
 (8,734) 

 1,878 
   (23,439)
 3,213 
 – 
17,149
–
7,434
–
(16,374)
 (310)
 516 
 (326)
   (13,639)

  	(34,023)	 

   (25,132) 

   (23,898)

	20,225	 
	87	 
	(989)	
	1,150	 
	(150) 
	(23) 
	155	 
	(646) 
	208	 
	(133) 
 (2,278) 
(553) 
	3,968  

 28,989  
 – 
 (953) 
 600 
 (250) 
 (6) 
 116  
 (844) 
 244  
 (208) 
 (1,807) 
 3,955  
 1,059  

   36,542 
 800 
 (786)
 300 
 (132)
(3)
198 
(226)
 179 
 (49)
 (1,469)
1,137 
3,658 

 21,021	 

 30,895  

   40,149 

	68	 
	2,924		

 (599) 
 3,523  

 263 
3,260

$	

2,992	

$ 

2,924	

$	

3,523

$	 13,061 $
$	

(165) $  

8,971 
656 

$ 6
$ 

,540
1,106

176

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Consolidated Financial Statements

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplementary information

Consolidated Balance Sheets

As at October 31 (C$ millions) 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2004 

2003 

2002 

2001 

2000 

1999 

1998 

1997

Assets 
Cash and deposits with banks (1) 
Securities (1) 
Assets purchased under reverse  
  repurchase agreements and  
  securities borrowed 
Loans (2) 
    Retail  
    Wholesale 

$  16,107  $  14,903  $  10,238   $ 

9,978   $ 

6,013   $ 

6,659   $ 

6,244   $ 

  178,255 

  184,869 

  160,495 

  128,946 

  128,931 

  108,464 

   91,798  

7,149   $  16,591   $  13,389   $  18,390 
  36,039 

  57,010  

  44,405  

  69,467  

  64,313 

  59,378 

  42,973  

  46,949 

   41,182  

  38,929  

  40,177 

   20,749  

  23,091  

  23,008  

  20,107 

  169,462 
  69,967 

  151,050 
  58,889 

  140,239  
  51,675  

  127,230  
  45,330 

  114,127  
  48,322 

  108,342  
   59,431 

  103,120 
   65,261 

  94,737  
   60,350 

  86,958 
   56,623  

   81,774  
  63,732  

  76,557  
  61,813 

    Allowance for loan losses 

  239,429 
(1,493) 

  209,939 
(1,409) 

  191,914  
(1,498) 

  172,560  
(1,644) 

  162,449  
(2,055) 

  167,773 
(2,203) 

  168,381  
(2,278) 

  155,087 
(1,871) 

  143,581 
(1,884) 

  145,506  
(2,026) 

  138,370   
(1,769)

  237,936 

  208,530 

  190,416 

  170,916 

  160,394  

  165,570  

  166,103  

  153,216  

  141,697 

  143,480  

  136,601 

Other 
    Customers’ liability under  
      acceptances 
    Derivatives  
    Premises and equipment, net 
    Goodwill 
    Other intangibles 
    Assets of operations  
      held for sale (3) 
    Other assets 

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity 
Deposits 
    Personal 
    Business and government 
    Bank   

Other 
    Acceptances 
    Obligations related to 
      securities sold short 
    Obligations related to assets sold  
      under repurchase agreements  
      and securities loaned 
    Derivatives 
    Insurance claims and  
      policy benefit liabilities 
    Liabilities of operations  
      held for sale (3) 
    Other liabilities 

Subordinated debentures 

Trust capital securities 

Preferred share liabilities 

Non-controlling interest  
  in subsidiaries 

Shareholders’ equity 
    Preferred shares 
    Common shares 
    Contributed surplus 
    Treasury shares – preferred  

– common 

    Retained earnings 
    Accumulated other  
      comprehensive income (loss) 

  11,786 
  66,585 
2,131 
4,752 
628 

9,108 
  37,729 
1,818 
4,304 
642 

7,074 
  38,834  
1,708 
4,203 
409 

   6,184  
  38,897  
   1,738  
4,280  
521  

5,943 
  35,616  
1,648  
4,356 
566  

8,051  
  30,258  
1,653  
   5,004  
665  

9,923  
  27,240  
1,602  
4,919  
619 

  11,628 
  19,155 
1,249  
648  
208  

9,257  
   15,151  
1,320 
611 
–  

  10,620  
  30,413  
   1,872  
551  
–  

  10,561  
  14,776   
1,696 
607 
–  

– 
  17,853 

82 
  15,417 

263 
  12,908  

   2,457  
  15,356 

3,688  
   11,510  

–  
  10,221  

–  
  10,314 

–  
   6,271 

–  
   5,922 

–  
6,661 

–  
   5,997

  103,735 

  69,100 

  65,399  

  69,433 

   63,327  

  55,852 

   54,617  

  39,159 

   32,261 

   50,117  

  33,637 

$ 600,346  $  536,780  $  469,521   $  426,222   $  399,847   $  375,474   $  358,939   $  289,740   $  270,650   $  274,399   $  244,774 

$  116,557  $  114,040  $  111,618   $  111,256   $  106,709   $  101,892   $  101,381   $  89,632   $  87,359   $  85,910   $  86,106  
  64,368   
  119,581  
  22,755 
  22,003  

   93,618  
   19,646  

   76,107  
  17,988  

  160,593  
  34,649  

  129,860  
   22,576  

  86,223 
  14,315  

  107,141 
  24,925 

  189,140 
  40,343 

  133,823 
  25,880 

  219,886 
  28,762 

  365,205 

  343,523 

 306,860  

  270,959  

  259,145 

  243,476  

  233,447 

  202,896 

  187,897  

  180,005  

  173,229 

  11,786 

9,108 

7,074  

6,184 

5,943  

8,051  

9,923 

   11,628 

9,257  

  10,620 

   10,561  

  44,689 

  38,252 

  32,391  

  25,005 

   22,855 

   19,110  

  16,443  

  13,419 

   17,885  

  14,404  

  11,152   

  37,033 
  72,010 

  41,103 
  42,094 

  23,381  
  42,592  

  26,473 
  42,201 

   24,496  
   37,775  

  24,056  
  32,137 

  22,672  
   28,646  

9,895 
  18,574  

   11,093 
  15,219  

   13,756  
  29,370 

9,669   
   14,732   

7,283 

7,337 

7,117  

6,488  

4,775  

2,407  

2,268  

144  

113  

427 

107   

– 
  28,483 

32 
  22,649 

40  
  18,408  

62  
  20,172  

50  
  17,850 

–  
   19,405  

–  
  19,417  

–  
  13,128 

–  
   11,872  

–  
9,339  

–   
  10,176  

  201,284 

  160,575 

  131,003 

  126,585 

  113,744  

  105,166 

   99,369  

  66,788  

  65,439  

  77,916  

  56,397 

6,235 

1,400 

300 

7,103 

1,383 

298 

8,167  

8,116  

6,243 

6,614  

6,513  

5,825  

4,596  

4,087  

4,227  

1,400  

2,300  

2,300  

1,400  

1,400 

650  

–  

–  

– 

300 

300  

300  

989  

1,315  

1,585 

1,562 

   1,844  

1,484 

1,483 

1,775 

1,944  

58 

40  

35 

45  

40 

103  

499  

531  

2,050 
7,300 
235 
(6) 
(101) 
  18,167 

1,050 
7,196 
292 
(2) 
(180) 
  15,771 

700 
7,170  
265  
(2) 
(216) 
  13,704  

532  
6,988  
169  
–  
(294) 
  12,065 

532 
7,018 
85  
–  
–  
   11,333  

556  
   6,979  
78  
–  
–  
  10,235  

709  
6,940  
33  
–  
–  
9,206 

452  
3,076  
–  
–  
–  
   8,464  

447  
3,065  
–  
–  
–  
7,579 

300  
2,925  
–  
–  
–  
6,857  

300  
2,907   
–  
–  
–  
5,728  

(3,206) 

(2,004) 

(1,774) 

(1,556) 

(893) 

(54) 

(38) 

(36) 

(38) 

(34) 

(29)

  24,439 

  22,123 

  19,847 

   17,904  

  18,075  

  17,794  

  16,850  

  11,956 

   11,053 

   10,048  

8,906  

$ 600,346  $  536,780  $  469,521   $  426,222   $  399,847   $  375,474   $  358,939   $  289,740   $  270,650   $  274,399   $  244,774 

(1)  
(2) 
(3)  

As the information is not reasonably determinable, amounts for years prior to 2001 have not been fully restated to reflect the reclassification of certificates of deposits.
As the information is not reasonably determinable, amounts for years prior to 2003 have not been fully reclassified as either Retail or Wholesale.
Relates to assets and liabilities of RBC Mortgage Company. As at October 31, 2006, we substantially disposed of the assets and obligations related to RBC Mortgage Company that were 
not transferred to Home123 Corporation. As the information is not reasonably determinable, amounts for years prior to 2003 have not been restated to reflect the presentation of assets 
and liabilities of operations held for sale.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Supplementary information

177

 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
             
             
             
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
             
9,354 
2,163 

568 
971 

452  
606   

397  
354  

756 
690   

416  

211  
332  
169  
–   

–  

35   
222 

4,640  

9,513  

380  

Consolidated Statements of Income

For the year ended October 31  
(C$ millions, except per share amounts) 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2004 

2003 

2002 

2001 

2000 

1999 

1998 

1997

Interest income 
    Loans  
    Securities 
    Assets purchased under  
      reverse repurchase agreements  
      and securities borrowed 
    Deposits with banks 

 $  14,724  $  12,708   $  10,790  $ 
6,189 

4,606  

7,665 

9,535   $ 
3,593  

9,900   $  10,394   $  12,001   $  11,538   $  10,394   $  10,474   $ 
3,045  

   2,845  

1,960  

2,364  

3,189  

3,521 

3,450 
538 

2,827 
480 

1,354  
231 

656  
103  

873 
101  

725  
156  

1,258 
337 

1,078 
577  

893  
513  

1,169  
673  

  26,377 

  22,204 

  16,981 

  13,887 

   13,919 

   14,464 

   17,117 

   16,038 

   14,164  

  14,276 

   13,056  

Interest expense 
    Deposits 
    Other liabilities 
    Subordinated debentures 

  13,770 
4,737 
338 

  10,708 
4,281 
419 

6,946 
2,800  
442  

   5,142  
1,897  
429  

Net interest income 

7,532 

6,796 

6,793  

  18,845 

  15,408 

  10,188  

7,468  

6,419 

Non-interest income 
    Insurance premiums,  
      investment and fee income  
    Trading revenue 
    Investment management 
      and custodial fees 
    Mutual fund revenue 
    Securities brokerage  
      commissions 
     Service charges 
    Underwriting and other  
      advisory fees 
    Foreign exchange revenue, 
      other than trading  
    Card service revenue 
    Credit fees 
     Securitization revenue 
    Net gain (loss) on sale of  
      available-for-sale securities 
    Net gain (loss) on sale of  
      investment securities 
    Other  

3,152 
2,261 

1,579 
1,473 

1,353 
1,303 

1,217 

533 
491 
293 
261 

63 

– 
951 

3,348 
2,574 

1,301 
1,242 

1,243 
1,216 

1,024 

438 
496 
241 
257 

– 

88 
373 

3,270 
1,594 

   2,870  
   1,563  

1,232  
962 

1,105 
850  

1,163 
1,153  

   1,166 
1,089 

1,026 

407  
579 
187  
285  

–  

85  
448 

918  

331  
555  
198  
200  

–  

20  
518  

5,452  
1,735  
376  

7,563  

6,356 

2,356 
1,908  

1,078  
673  

1,031  
1,122  

813  

279  
518  
227  
165  

–  

31  
431  

5,709  
1,562  
406  

8,712  
1,868 
410  

9,057  
1,551  
344  

7,677  

  10,990  

  10,952  

6,787  

6,127 

   5,086  

7,636 
1,291  
286  

9,213 

4,951  

7,732  
1,296  
339  

9,367  

6,548  
1,251 
384 

8,183 

4,909 

   4,873 

2,043  
1,689  

1,139  
723  

1,187  
1,088  

755  

276  
496  
223  
174 

– 

(111) 
623  

1,824 
1,770 

1,058  
692 

1,000  
920  

573 

303  
458  
237  
123  

– 

(130) 
921  

973  
1,594  

737  
1,106  

822  
624  

841  
778 

643  

299  
420  
212  
115  

– 

(16) 
185  

621  
556  

625  
708  

403  

243  
362 
189 
222  

– 

27  
250  

578  
748  

597  
537  

549  
664  

369  

218  
305  
183  
218  

– 

342 
146  

Non-interest income 

  14,930 

  13,841 

  12,391  

  11,383  

  10,632  

  10,305 

9,749 

7,490  

6,049 

5,454  

Total revenue 

  22,462 

  20,637 

  19,184  

  17,802  

  16,988 

   17,092 

   15,876  

  12,576  

  11,000  

  10,363  

Provision for credit losses 

791 

429 

455 

346  

721 

1,065  

1,119 

691  

760 

575  

2,173 

2,509 

2,625 

   2,124  

1,696 

1,535  

1,344 

687  

530  

438  

346

Insurance policyholder benefits,  
  claims and acquisition expense 

Non-interest expense 
    Human resources 
    Equipment 
    Occupancy 
    Communications 
    Professional fees 
    Outsourced item processing 
    Amortization of goodwill 
    Amortization of other intangibles 
    Other  

7,860 
1,009 
839 
723 
530 
308 
– 
96 
1,108 

7,268 
957 
792 
687 
546 
298 
– 
76 
871 

6,682 
960  
749 
632 
500  
296  
–  
50  
1,488 

   6,638  
906  
765  
672  
465  
294  
–  
69  
   1,024  

6,234 
882  
721 
707 
431 
292  
–  
71  
827  

   6,264  
893  
759  
768  
404  
306  
–  
72  
954 

  12,473 

  11,495 

  11,357  

  10,833 

   10,165 

   10,420  

5,667 
807  
704 
673  
398 
303  
210  
36 
919 

9,717 

–  

38  

   4,597 
679 
556  
695  
267  
–  
76  
11  
700 

   4,013  
677  
564  
699  
298  
–  
66  
–  
743  

3,594  
585  
508  
665  
262  
–  
62  
–  
723  

3,365   
605  
559 
587 
228 
–  
59 
–  
650 

7,581 

7,060  

6,399  

6,053 

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

– 

–  

Business realignment charges 

Goodwill impairment 

– 

– 

– 

– 

45  

–  

177  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

Income from continuing operations  
  before income taxes 
Income taxes 

Net income before 
  non-controlling interest 
Non-controlling interest in net  
  income of subsidiaries 

Net income from continuing  
  operations 
Net income (loss) from  
  discontinued operations 

7,025 
1,392 

6,204 
1,403 

4,702  
1,278 

4,322  
   1,287 

4,406  
1,439 

4,072  
1,365  

3,658  
1,340  

3,617  
1,445  

2,650  
1,015 

2,951  
1,175  

2,734  
1,090

5,633 

4,801 

3,424 

   3,035  

2,967  

2,707  

2,318  

2,172  

1,635 

1,776 

   1,644 

141 

44 

(13) 

12  

12  

5  

11  

7  

8  

76  

77  

5,492 

4,757 

3,437  

3,023  

2,955  

2,702  

2,307  

2,165  

1,627  

1,700 

1,567 

– 

(29) 

(50) 

(220) 

13  

n.a. 

n.a. 

n.a. 

n.a.  

n.a. 

n.a. 

Net income 

$ 

5,492  $ 

4,728  $ 

3,387   $ 

2,803   $ 

2,968   $ 

2,702   $ 

2,307   $ 

2,165   $ 

1,627   $ 

1,700   $ 

1,567 

Preferred dividends 
Net gain on redemption of  
  preferred shares 

Net income available to  
  common shareholders 

(88) 

 –

(60) 

– 

(42) 

4  

(31) 

–  

(31) 

–  

(38) 

–  

(31) 

–  

(25) 

–  

(27) 

–  

(21) 

–  

(19) 

–  

$ 

5,404  $ 

4,668  $ 

3,349   $ 

2,772   $ 

2,937   $ 

2,664   $ 

2,276   $ 

2,140   $ 

1,600   $ 

1,679   $ 

1,548 

Average number of common shares  
  (in thousands) (1) 
Basic earnings per share (in dollars)   $ 
Basic earnings per share from  
  continuing operations (in dollars)  $ 
Basic earnings (loss) per share from 
  discontinued operations (in dollars)  $ 
Average number of diluted common 
  shares (in thousands) (1) 
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars)  $ 
Diluted earnings per share from 
  continuing operations (in dollars)  $ 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from 
  discontinued operations (in dollars)  $ 

1,273,185 

1,279,956  1,283,433  1,293,465 

1,324,159   1,345,143   1,283,031  1,212,777 

4.24  $ 

3.65  $ 

2.61  $ 

2.14   $ 

2.22  $ 

1.98   $ 

1.77  $ 

1.77  $ 

1,252,316   1,234,648   1,235,624 
1.25  

1.36   $ 

1.28  $ 

4.24  $ 

3.67  $ 

2.65   $ 

2.31  $ 

2.21   $ 

1.98   $ 

1.77   $ 

1.77   $ 

1.28   $ 

1.36   $ 

1.25 

–  $ 

(.02)  $ 

(.04)  $ 

(.17)  $ 

.01  

n.a.  

n.a.  

n.a.  

n.a. 

n.a.  

n.a.

1,289,314 

1,299,785  1,304,680   1,311,016 

4.19  $ 

3.59  $ 

2.57  $ 

2.11   $ 

1,338,032  1,356,241   1,294,432   1,219,730   1,264,610   1,267,253  1,264,103  
1.23

1.96   $ 

1.34   $ 

2.20  $ 

1.27   $ 

1.76   $ 

1.76   $ 

4.19  $ 

3.61  $ 

2.61   $ 

2.28   $ 

2.19   $ 

1.96  $ 

1.76   $ 

1.76   $ 

1.27   $ 

1.34   $ 

1.23 

–  $ 

(.02)  $ 

(.04)  $ 

(.17)  $ 

.01 

n.a.  

n.a. 

n.a.  

n.a. 

n.a.  

Dividends per share (in dollars) (1)  $ 

1.82  $ 

1.44  $ 

1.18   $ 

1.01   $ 

.86   $ 

.76   $ 

.69   $ 

.57   $ 

.47   $ 

.44   $ 

(1)  

The average number of common shares, average number of diluted common shares, basic and diluted earnings per share, as well as dividends per share, have been adjusted retroac-
tively for the stock dividend paid on April 6, 2006. Refer to Note 25. 

n.a.  not available

178

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Supplementary information

n.a. 

.38 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
             
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended October 31 
(C$ millions) 
    Net income 
    Other comprehensive income,  
      net of taxes 
       Net unrealized gains (losses) on   
         available-for-sale securities  
        Reclassification of (gains)  
          losses on available-for-sale  
          securities to income 

 $ 

        Unrealized foreign currency 
          translation gains (losses) 
        Reclassification of (gains)  
          losses on foreign currency  
          translation to income 
        Net foreign currency  
          translation gains (losses)  
          from hedging activities 

        Net gains (losses) on  
          derivatives designated as  
          cash flow hedges 
       Reclassification to income of   
          (gains) losses on derivatives  
          designated as cash flow  
         hedges  

        Other comprehensive income  
         (loss)     
Total comprehensive income 

$ 

2007 
 5,492 

 $ 

2006 
4,728    $ 

2005 
3,387    $ 

2004 
2,803  

 $ 

2003 
2,968    $ 

2002 
2,702    $ 

2001 
2,307    $ 

2000 
2,165    $ 

1999 
1,627    $ 

1998 
1,700    $ 

1997
1,567 

(93) 

28 
(65) 

 – 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

–

–
–

(2,965) 

 (501) 

(624) 

(1,341) 

 (2,991) 

(59) 

463  

(2) 

(205) 

 164  

129 

 (42) 

2  

 5  

–  

 3  

– 

 10  

1,804 
(1,203) 

 269  
 (230) 

401  
 (218) 

 678  
 (663) 

 2,149  
(839) 

 43  
 (16) 

 (475) 
 (2) 

80 

31 
111 

 – 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

 –  

 4  
 2  

– 

– 
– 

–  

 – 

 – 

201  
 (4) 

 (169) 
 (5) 

(135)
 (6)

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

–

– 
–

(1,157)  
 4,335 

 $ 

(230) 
4,498    $ 

 (218) 
3,169    $ 

(663) 
2,140  

 $ 

 (839) 
2,129    $ 

 (16) 
2,686    $ 

 (2) 
2,305    $ 

 2  
2,167    $ 

 (4) 
1,623    $ 

(5) 
1,695    $ 

 (6)
1,561 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

 (

– 

$ 

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

7  

6) 

26 

78 

– 
– 

– 
– 

(2) 

(6) 

14  

85  

31  

33  

33  

56  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

265 

292 

7  
–  

(18) 

169  

(46) 

–  
–  
–  

–  
–  
–  

–  
34  

2007 

2002 

2001 

2003 

2005 

2006 

1998 

1999 

–  
– 
–  
–  

2000 

2004 

–  
–  
85  

–  
–  
33  

–  
–  
78  

– 
47 
292 

–  
– 
(2) 
(2) 

54  
15  
265 

–  
(6) 
169  

– 
(5) 
235 

(2) 
51 
(51) 
(2) 

(2) 
33 
(37) 
(6) 

7,170 
127 
(101) 
7,196 

7,196 
170 
(66) 
7,300 

3,065  
109  
(98) 
3,076 

6,979  
193  
(154) 
7,018  

6,940 
191  
(152) 
6,979  

3,076  
3,976  
(112) 
6,940 

6,988  
214 
(32) 
7,170  

7,018  
127  
(157) 
6,988  

300   $ 
–  
–  
–  
300  

556   $ 
–  
–  
(24) 
532 

447   $ 
–  
–  
5  
452  

452   $ 
250  
–  
7  
709  

532   $ 
–  
–  
–  
532  

   2,907  
18  
–  
2,925  

2,925 
192  
(52) 
   3,065  

532   $ 
300  
(132) 
–  
700  

709   $ 
–  
(150) 
(3) 
556  

300   $ 
296  
(150) 
1  
447  

700  $ 
600 
(250) 
– 
1,050 

1,050  $ 
1,150 
(150) 
– 
2,050 

For the year ended October 31 
(C$ millions) 
Preferred shares 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Issued 
    Redeemed for cancellation 
    Translation adjustment 
    Balance at end of year 
Common shares 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Issued 
    Purchased for cancellation 
    Balance at end of year 
Contributed surplus 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Renounced stock appreciation 
     rights  
    Stock-based compensation  
      awards 
    Gain on redemption of  
      preferred shares 
    Reclassified amounts 
    Initial adoption of AcG-15,  
     Consolidation of Variable 
      Interest Entities 
    Other  
    Balance at end of year 
Treasury shares – preferred
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Sales  
    Purchases 
    Balance at end of year 
Treasury shares – common 
    Balance at beginning of year 
    Sales  
    Purchases 
    Reclassified amounts 
    Initial adoption of AcG-15,  
     Consolidation of Variable  
      Interest Entities 
    Balance at end of year 
Retained earnings 
    Balance at beginning of year  
    Transition adjustment –  
      Financial instruments  
    Net income 
    Preferred share dividends 
    Common share dividends 
    Premium paid on common shares 
      purchased for cancellation 
    Issuance costs and other 
    Cumulative effect of initial  
      adoption of Employee Future  
     Benefits  
    Cumulative effect of adopting  
     AcG-17,  Equity-Linked Deposit  
      Contracts 
    Balance at end of year 
Accumulated other comprehensive  
  income (loss) 
    Transition adjustment –  
      Financial instruments 
    Unrealized gains and losses on  
      available-for-sale securities 
    Unrealized foreign currency  
      translation gains and losses,  
      net of hedging activities 
    Gains and losses on derivatives  
      designated as cash flow hedges 
    Balance at end of year 
Retained earnings and Accumulated  
  other comprehensive income (loss)  
Shareholders’ equity at end of year  $  24,439  $  22,123  $  19,847   $  17,904   $  18,075   $  17,794   $  16,850   $  11,956   $  11,053   $  10,048   $ 

– 
   1,700 
(21) 
(543) 

(86) 
5,492 
(88) 
(2,321) 

– 
4,728 
(60) 
(1,847) 

– 
2,803  
(31) 
(1,303) 

– 
2,702  
(38) 
(1,022) 

– 
2,968  
(31) 
(1,137) 

– 
3,387  
(42) 
(1,512) 

– 
2,307 
(31) 
(897) 

– 
1,627 
(27) 
(588) 

– 
2,165 
(25) 
(689) 

–  
248 
(238)  
(304) 

(294) 
179 
(47)  
–  

 – 
   (2,004) 

(2) 
  12,065  

–  
  13,704  

–  
  11,333 

–  
   8,464 

–  
   10,235  

(180) 
175 
(96) 
– 

(216) 
193 
(157) 
– 

– 
  15,771 

– 
  18,167 

111 
(3,206)  

– 
 (1,774) 

– 
(1,556) 

–  
9,206 

–  
6,857 

– 
 (893) 

–  
7,579  

–  
(294) 

– 
(180) 

(54) 
(216) 

– 
(101) 

(580) 
(21) 

(698) 
(4) 

(194) 
–  

(562) 
(4) 

(735) 
–  

(397) 
(19) 

(281) 
(9) 

(612) 
(1) 

(743) 
(11) 

– 
(38) 

– 
(38) 

– 
(54) 

– 
(34) 

– 
(36) 

  12,065  

   6,823  

   10,440  

   10,181  

   8,464  

    13,767  

  13,704 

   10,235 

  15,771 

  11,333 

  14,961 

–  
– 
–  
–  

–  
– 
–  
–  

–  
– 
–  
–  

–  
– 
–  
–  

–  
– 
–  
–  

–  
– 
–  
–  

 10,509  

 (2,004) 

 11,930  

 (3,207) 

–  
– 
–  
– 

–  
– 
–  
– 

–  
– 
–  
– 

–  
– 
–  
– 

–  
– 
–  
– 

–  
– 
–  
– 

(1,556) 

(1,774) 

 8,428  

 9,168  

–  
–  
–  

5,728  

6,857  

 (893) 

– 
(7) 

7,541  

9,206 

7,579 

(221) 

 (38) 

 (36) 

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

–  
–  

(65) 

(45) 

(38) 

(54) 

(34) 

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

–  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1997

300 
–  
–  
–  
300 

2,876   
69   
(38) 
2,907  

–   

–   

–   

–  
–   

–   
–  
–  

–  
– 
–  
– 

–
– 
–  
–

–  
–  

4,809  

– 
1,567   
(19)
(469)

(160) 
–  

–  

–  
   5,728 

– 

–

(29)

– 
(29)

   5,699 
8,906

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Supplementary information

179

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
              
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
             
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
Financial highlights

(C$ millions, except per share  
and percentage amounts) 

Performance ratios 
    Return on common equity 
    Return on assets 
    Return on assets after 
      preferred dividends 
    Net interest margin (1) 
    Non-interest income as a % of  
      total revenue  
Average balances and year-end  
  off-balance sheet data 
    Averages (2) 
        Assets  
        Assets from continuing  
          operations 
        Loans, acceptances and  
          reverse repurchase  
         agreements  
        Deposits  
        Common equity 
        Total equity 
    Assets under administration   

2007 

2006 

2005 

2004 

2003 

2002 

2001 

2000 

1999 

1998 

1997

  24.6% 
.95 

  23.5% 
.94 

.93 
1.30 

.93 
1.35 

.76 

.75 
1.53  

.67  

.66  
1.53  

  18.0% 

  15.6% 

  16.7% 

  15.8% 

  16.4% 

  19.8% 

.76 

.74  

.71 

.77 

  15.6% 
.60 

.75  
1.64 

.73  
1.86  

.70  
1.90  

.76  
1.80  

.59  
1.83  

  18.4% 

  19.3%

.65  

.64  
1.88  

.65

.65 
2.03

  66.5% 

67.1% 

  64.6% 

  63.9% 

  62.6% 

  60.3% 

  61.4% 

  59.6% 

  55.0% 

  52.6% 

  48.8%

$  581,000  $  502,300  $  447,100   $  421,400   $  390,700   $  364,000   $  322,900   $  281,900  $  269,900   $  261,300   $  239,500  

$  581,000  $  502,100  $  445,300   $  418,200   $  387,700   $  364,000   $  322,900   $  281,900  $  269,900   $  261,300   $  239,500 

  305,265 
  368,476 
21,985 
  23,737 

  261,911 
  323,299 
19,898 
20,709 

  230,484  
  288,197  
18,592 
19,451 

  215,733 
  268,202  
   17,790  
   18,622 

   209,161 
  250,777  
17,551 
   18,761 

   208,184  
  240,397  
   16,809  
   18,522 

  196,861 
  218,425 
13,843  
   15,916  

   181,240 
   193,762 
10,814  
12,789 

   177,052 
   184,796  
10,264 
12,475  

   178,822  
  178,688  
9,107  
11,078  

  154,809 
  166,249  
8,003   
9,744 

  RBC   

  548,200 

  525,800 

 1,778,200  

 1,593,900  

 1,483,800  

 1,365,900   1,342,500  

 1,175,200  

  967,800  

  829,200  

  783,300 

    Assets under administration   

  RBC Dexia IS 

    Assets under management  
Capital ratios (3) 
    Tier 1 capital 
    Total capital 
    Total risk-adjusted assets 
    Tier 1 capital ratio 
    Total capital ratio 
Common share information 
    Shares outstanding  
      (in thousands) 
        End of year 
        Average basic 
        Average diluted 
     Dividends per share 
    Book value per share 
    Common share price (RY on TSX)  
        High (4)   
        Low (4) 
        Close  
    Price/earnings multiple (5) 
    Dividend yield (6) 
    Dividend payout ratio (7) 
Number of
    Employees (8) 
    Automated teller machines 
    Bank branches (9) 
        Canada 
        U.S. and Other international 

 2,713,100 
  161,500 

 2,421,100 
  143,100 

– 
  118,800 

– 
   102,900  

– 
  94,400  

– 
  93,300 

– 
   100,000  

– 
  92,300 

– 
81,600 

– 
   73,400  

–
67,700  

21,478  $ 

$  23,383  $ 
28,571 
  247,635 
9.4% 
11.5 

  26,664 
  223,709 
9.6% 
11.9 

18,901   $  16,272   $ 
25,813 
  197,004  
9.6% 
13.1 

   22,733  
  183,409  
8.9% 
12.4  

16,259   $ 
21,374  
  166,911  
9.7%  
12.8 

15,380   $ 
21,012  
  165,559  
9.3%  

12.7  

14,851   $ 
20,171  
  171,047 
8.7%  
11.8  

13,567  $ 
19,044  
   158,364  
8.6%  
12.0  

11,593   $ 

12,026   $ 
16,698  
  149,078  
8.1%  

  16,480  
  157,064  
7.4% 

11.2 

10.5  

10,073  
14,705  
  147,672 
6.8%
10.0  

 1,276,260  1,280,890  1,293,502   1,289,496   1,312,043   1,330,514  1,348,042   1,204,796   1,235,535 
1,324,159 
 1,273,185 
 1,289,314 

1,235,162   1,233,342 
1,279,956  1,283,433   1,293,465 
1,345,143  1,283,031   1,212,777   1,252,316  1,234,648   1,235,624  
1,299,785  1,304,680   1,311,016   1,338,032   1,356,241   1,294,432   1,219,730   1,264,610   1,267,253   1,264,103
.38  
6.98

1.44  $ 
16.52 

1.82  $ 
17.58 

.44   $ 
7.89  

1.01   $ 

1.18  $ 

.47   $ 

14.89  

12.96  

.86   $ 

13.57  

.69   $ 

.76   $ 

13.37 

11.97 

.57  $ 

8.58  

9.55 

$ 

61.08 
49.50 
56.04 
13.4 
3.3% 
43 

51.49 
41.29 
49.80 
13.9 
3.1% 
40 

43.34 
30.45 
41.67  
16.2 
3.2% 
45  

32.95  
29.02 
31.70  
15.0  
3.3% 
47  

32.50  
26.63 
31.74  
14.4 
2.9% 
39  

29.45  
22.53  
27.21  
13.9  
2.9% 
38  

26.63 
20.80  
23.40  
13.3  
2.9% 
39 

24.44 
13.63 
24.15 
13.7  
3.0% 
32  

21.06  
14.83 
15.86  
12.5  
2.6% 
37  

23.05  
14.38  
17.78  
13.3  
2.4% 
32  

19.11 
11.00 
18.84 
15.3 
2.5%
30  

65,045 
4,419 

60,858 
4,232 

60,012  
4,277  

61,003 
4,432  

60,812  
4,469  

59,549 
4,572 

   57,568  
4,697 

49,232  
4,517  

51,891  
4,585 

51,776  
4,317  

  48,816  
4,248  

1,146 
395 

1,117 
326 

1,104 
315  

1,098  
317 

1,104 
282  

1,117 
278  

1,125 
283  

1,333  
306 

1,410 
99  

1,422 
106  

1,453  
105  

Calculated using guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada.
Intra-day high and low share prices.
Average of high and low common share price divided by diluted earnings per share.

(1)   Net interest income as a percentage of average assets from continuing operations.
(2)   Based on methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period.
(3)  
(4)  
(5)  
(6)   Dividends per common share divided by the average of high and low share price.
(7)  
Common dividends as a percentage of net income after preferred dividends.
(8)   On a full-time equivalent basis.
(9)   Bank branches which provide full or limited banking services dealing directly with clients. Bank branches prior to 2001 are reported on the basis of service delivery units.

180

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Supplementary information

 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
Glossary

Acceptances
A bill of exchange or negotiable instrument 
drawn by the borrower for payment at matu-
rity and accepted by a bank. The acceptance 
constitutes a guarantee of payment by the 
bank and can be traded in the money market. 
The bank earns a “stamping fee” for providing 
this guarantee.

Allowance for credit losses
The amount deemed adequate by manage-
ment to absorb identified credit losses as 
well as losses that have been incurred but 
are not yet identifiable as at the balance 
sheet date. This allowance is established to 
cover the lending portfolio including loans, 
acceptances, guarantees, letters of credit, 
and unfunded commitments. The allowance 
is increased by the provision for credit losses, 
which is charged to income and decreased by 
the amount of write-offs, net of recoveries in 
the period.

Assets-to-capital multiple
Total assets plus specified off-balance sheet 
items, as defined by the OSFI, divided by total 
regulatory capital.

Assets under administration (AUA)
Assets administered by us which are benefi-
cially owned by clients. Services provided in 
respect of assets under administration are  
of an administrative nature, including safe-
keeping, collecting investment income,  
settling purchase and sale transactions, and 
record keeping.

Assets under management (AUM)
Assets managed by us which are benefi-
cially owned by clients. Services provided in 
respect of assets under management include 
the selection of investments and the provi-
sion of investment advice. We have assets 
under management that are also adminis-
tered by us and included in assets under 
administration.

Average balances
Average balances are calculated using meth-
ods intended to approximate the average of 
the daily balances of the period.

Average earning assets
The average carrying value of assets that 
give rise to our reported net interest income 
including deposits with banks, securities, 
assets purchased under reverse repurchase 
agreements and securities borrowed, and 
loans based on daily balances for the period 
ending October 31 in each financial year.

Basis point (bp)
One one-hundredth of a percentage point (.01%).

Canadian GAAP
Canadian generally accepted accounting 
principles.

Capital adequacy
The level of capital that is sufficient to 
underpin risk and accommodate potential 
unexpected increases in risk within specified 
regulatory targets while maintaining our busi-
ness plans. This includes risks for which mini-
mum regulatory capital requirements may not 
be specified.

Capital position
Quantifies the extent to which illiquid 
assets are funded by non-core liabilities 
and represents a formula-based measure of 
both comparative and directional structural 
liquidity risk.

Cash capital position
Quantifies the extent to which illiquid assets 
are funded by non-core liabilities and rep-
resents a formula-based measure of both 
comparative and directional structural liquid-
ity risk.

Collateral
Assets pledged as security for a loan or other 
obligation. Collateral can take many forms, 
such as cash, highly rated securities, prop-
erty, inventory, equipment and receivables.

Collateralized debt obligation (CDO)
An investment grade security that is backed 
by a pool of bonds, loans and/or any other 
type of debt instrument.

Covered bonds
Full recourse on-balance sheet obligations 
issued by banks and credit institutions that 
are also fully collateralized by assets over 
which investors enjoy a priority claim in the 
event of an issuer’s insolvency.

Commitments to extend credit
Unutilized amount of credit facilities available 
to clients either in the form of loans, bank-
ers’ acceptances and other on-balance sheet 
financing, or through off-balance sheet prod-
ucts such as guarantees and letters of credit.

Derivative
A contract between two parties which 
requires little or no initial investment and 
where payments between the parties are 
dependent upon the movements in price of 
an underlying instrument, index or finan-
cial rate. Examples of derivatives include 
swaps, options, forward rate agreements 
and futures. The notional amount of the 
derivative is the contract amount used as a 
reference point to calculate the payments to 
be exchanged between the two parties, and 
the notional amount itself is generally not 
exchanged by the parties.

Dividend payout ratio
Common dividends as a percentage of net 
income after preferred share dividends.

Dividend yield
Dividends per common share divided by the 
average of the high and low share prices in 
the relevant period.

Documentary and commercial letters of credit
Written undertakings by a bank on behalf of 
its client (typically an importer), authorizing 
a third party (typically an exporter) to draw 
drafts on the bank up to a stipulated amount 
under specific terms and conditions. Such 
undertakings are established for the purpose 
of facilitating international trade.

Earnings per share (EPS), basic
Calculated as net income less preferred share 
dividends divided by the average number of 
shares outstanding.

Earnings per share (EPS), diluted
Calculated as net income less preferred share 
dividends divided by the average number of 

shares outstanding adjusted for the dilutive  
effects of stock options and other convertible 
securities.

Economic Capital
An estimate of the amount of equity capital 
required to underpin risks. It is calculated by 
estimating the level of capital that is neces-
sary to support our various businesses, given 
their risks, consistent with our desired sol-
vency standard and credit ratings.

Fair value
The amount of consideration that would be 
agreed upon in an arm’s-length transaction 
between knowledgeable, willing parties who 
are under no compulsion to act.

Guarantees and standby letters of credit
Primarily represent irrevocable assurances 
that a bank will make payments in the event 
that its client cannot meet its financial obliga-
tions to third parties. Certain other guaran-
tees, such as bid and performance bonds, 
represent non-financial undertakings.

Hedge
A risk management technique used to insu-
late financial results from market, interest 
rate or foreign currency exchange risk (expo-
sure) arising from normal banking operations. 
The elimination or reduction of such exposure 
is accomplished by establishing offsetting 
positions. For example, assets denominated 
in foreign currencies can be offset with liabili-
ties in the same currencies or through the 
use of foreign exchange hedging instruments 
such as futures, options or foreign exchange 
contracts.

Hedge funds
A type of fund, usually used by wealthy indi-
viduals and institutions, which is allowed to 
use aggressive strategies that are unavailable 
to mutual funds, including selling short, lever-
age, program trading, swaps, arbitrage and 
derivatives. 

Impaired loans
Loans are classified as impaired when there 
has been a deterioration of credit quality to 
the extent that management no longer has 
reasonable assurance of timely collection of 
the full amount of principal and interest in 
accordance with the contractual terms of the 
loan agreement. Credit card balances are not 
classified as impaired as they are directly writ-
ten off after payments are 180 days past due. 

Innovative capital instruments
Capital instruments issued by special  
purpose entities (SPEs), whose primary 
purpose is to raise capital. We issue inno-
vative capital instruments, RBC Trust 
Capital Securities (TruCS) and RBC Trust 
Subordinated Notes (TSNs), through three 
SPEs: RBC Capital Trust, RBC Capital Trust II 
and RBC Subordinated Notes Trust. As per the 
OSFI guidelines, innovative capital can com-
prise up to 15% of net Tier 1 capital with an 
additional 5% eligible for Tier 2 capital.

Managed basis
We report our segments on a managed basis, 
which is intended to measure the perfor-
mance of each business segment as if it were 
a stand-alone business and reflect the way 
each segment is managed.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Glossary

181

Mark-to-market
Valuation of financial instruments using pre-
vailing market prices or fair value as of the 
balance sheet date.

Return on common equity (ROE)
Net income, less preferred share dividends, 
expressed as a percentage of average com-
mon equity.

Master netting agreement
An agreement between us and a counterparty 
designed to reduce the credit risk of multiple 
derivative transactions through the creation 
of a legal right of offset of exposure in the 
event of a default.

Net interest income
The difference between what is earned on 
assets such as loans and securities and what 
is paid on liabilities such as deposits and sub-
ordinated debentures.

Net interest margin (average assets)
Net interest income as a percentage of total 
average assets.

Net interest margin (average earning assets)
Net interest income as a percentage of total 
average earning assets.

Non-bank sponsored asset-backed  
commercial paper
A short-term promissory note issued primar-
ily by corporations, which is securitized with 
loans or other receivables.

Normal course issuer bid (NCIB)
A program for the repurchase of our own com-
mon shares, for cancellation through a stock 
exchange, that is subject to the various rules 
of the relevant stock exchange and securities 
commission.

Notional amount
The contract amount used as a reference 
point to calculate payments for derivatives.

Off-balance sheet financial instruments
A variety of credit-related arrangements 
offered to clients, which generally provides 
liquidity protection.

Office of the Superintendent of Financial
Institutions Canada (OSFI)
The primary regulator of federally chartered 
financial institutions and federally adminis-
tered pension plans in Canada. The OSFI’s mis-
sion is to safeguard policyholders, depositors 
and pension plan members from undue loss.

Options
A contract or a provision of a contract that 
gives one party (the option holder) the right, 
but not the obligation, to perform a specified 
transaction with another party (the option 
issuer or option writer) according to specified 
terms.

Prepaid pension benefit cost
The cumulative excess of amounts contrib-
uted to a pension fund over the amounts 
recorded as pension expense.

Provision for credit losses
The amount charged to income necessary to 
bring the allowance for credit losses to a level 
determined appropriate by management. This 
includes both specific and general provisions.

Repurchase agreements
Involve the sale of securities for cash at a near 
value date and the simultaneous repurchase 
of the securities for value at a later date.

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Securities created through the securitization 
of residential mortgage loans.

182

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Glossary

Reverse repurchase agreements
Involve the purchase of securities for cash at 
a near value date and the simultaneous sale 
of the securities for value at a later date.

Risk
Financial institutions face a number of differ-
ent risks that expose them to possible losses. 
These risks include credit risk, market risk, 
operational risk, liquidity and funding risk, 
reputation risk, regulatory and legal risk,  
environmental risk, insurance risk, strategic 
risk, competitive risk and systemic risk.

Risk-adjusted assets
As prescribed by the OSFI guidelines and used 
in the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. 
The face value of on-balance sheet assets is 
discounted using specified risk-weighting fac-
tors that reflect the relative risk of the asset. 
The risk inherent in off-balance sheet instru-
ments is also recognized, first by determining 
a credit equivalent amount, and then by apply-
ing appropriate risk-weighting factors.

Securities lending
Transactions in which the owner of a security 
agrees to lend it under the terms of a prear-
ranged contract to a borrower for a fee. The 
borrower must collateralize the security loan 
at all times. An intermediary such as a bank 
often acts as agent for the owner of the secu-
rity. There are two types of securities lending 
arrangements: lending with and without 
credit or market risk indemnification. In secu-
rities lending without indemnification, the 
bank bears no risk of loss. For transactions in 
which the bank provides an indemnification,  
it bears risk of loss if the borrower defaults 
and the value of the collateral declines  
concurrently.

Securities sold short
A transaction in which the seller sells securi-
ties and then borrows the securities in order 
to deliver them to the purchaser upon settle-
ment. At a later date, the seller buys identical 
securities in the market to replace the bor-
rowed securities.

Securitization
The process by which high-quality financial 
assets are packaged into newly issued securi-
ties backed by these assets.

Special purpose entities (SPEs)
Entities that are typically organized for a sin-
gle discrete purpose, have a limited life and 
serve to legally isolate the financial assets 
held by the SPE from the selling organization. 
SPEs are principally used to securitize finan-
cial and other assets in order to obtain access 
to funding, to mitigate credit risk and to man-
age capital.

Structured investment vehicle
Managed investment vehicle that holds 
mainly highly rated asset-backed securities 
and funds itself using the short-term commer-
cial paper market as well as the medium-term 
note (MTN) market.

Subprime loans
Subprime lending is the practice of making 
loans to borrowers who do not qualify for the 
best market interest rates because of their 
deficient credit history. Subprime lending  

carries more risk for both lenders and borrow-
ers due to the combination of higher interest 
rates, poorer credit histories, and adverse 
financial situations usually associated with 
subprime applicants.

Survival horizon
Measures the length of time over which we 
would have sufficient funds to repay our 
maturing liabilities and finance off-balance 
sheet commitments if access to wholesale 
unsecured funding became suddenly unavail-
able and liquid assets, but no portion of mort-
gages and loans, were monetized.

Synthetic securitization
The transfer of risks relating to selected ele-
ments of our financial assets to unaffiliated 
third parties through the use of certain finan-
cial instruments such as credit default swaps 
and guarantees.

Taxable equivalent basis (teb)
Income from certain specified tax-advantaged 
sources is increased to a level that would 
make it comparable to income from taxable 
sources. There is an offsetting adjustment 
in the tax provision, thereby generating the 
same after-tax net income.

Tier 1 capital and Tier 1 capital ratio 
Tier 1 capital is considered to be the most 
permanent in nature without creating a fixed 
charge against income. As defined by the 
OSFI, it includes common equity, retained 
earnings, non-cumulative preferred shares, 
and innovative capital instruments. The Tier 1  
capital ratio is calculated by dividing Tier 1 
capital by risk-adjusted assets.

Total capital ratio
The percentage of risk-adjusted assets sup-
ported by capital using the guidelines of the 
OSFI based on standards issued by the Bank 
for International Settlements and Canadian 
GAAP financial information.

Trust Capital Securities (TruCS)
Transferable trust units issued by special pur-
pose entities, RBC Capital Trust or RBC Capital 
Trust II, for the purpose of raising innovative 
Tier 1 capital.

Trust Subordinated Notes (TSNs)
Transferable trust units issued by RBC 
Subordinated Notes Trust for the purpose of 
raising innovative Tier 2 capital.

U.S. GAAP
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Value-at-Risk (VaR)
A generally accepted risk-measurement con-
cept that uses statistical models based on 
historical information to estimate within a 
given level of confidence the maximum loss 
in market value we would experience in our 
trading portfolio from an adverse one-day 
movement in market rates and prices.

Variable interest entity (VIE)
An entity which either does not have suf-
ficient equity at risk to finance its activities 
without additional subordinated financial 
support, or where the holders of the equity 
at risk lack the characteristics of a controlling 
financial interest.

 
Directors and executive officers

Directors

W. Geoffrey Beattie (2001)
Toronto, Ontario
President and Chief Executive 
Officer
The Woodbridge Company 
Limited
Deputy Chairman
The Thomson Corporation

George A. Cohon,  
O.C., O.Ont. (1988)
Toronto, Ontario
Founder
McDonald’s Restaurants
of Canada Limited

Douglas T. Elix, A.O. (2000)
Ridgefield, Connecticut
Senior Vice-President and
Group Executive
Sales & Distribution
IBM Corporation

John T. Ferguson, F.C.A. (1990)
Edmonton, Alberta
Chairman of the Board
Princeton Developments Ltd.
Princeton Ventures Ltd.

Group executive

The Hon. Paule Gauthier,
P.C., O.C., O.Q., Q.C. (1991)
Quebec, Quebec
Senior Partner
Stein Monast L.L.P. 

Timothy J. Hearn (2006)
Calgary, Alberta
Chairman, President and  
Chief Executive Officer
Imperial Oil Limited

Alice D. Laberge (2005)
Vancouver, British Columbia
Company Director

Jacques Lamarre, O.C. (2003)
Outremont, Quebec
President and  
Chief Executive Officer
SNC-Lavalin Group Inc.

Brandt C. Louie, F.C.A. (2001)
West Vancouver,  
British Columbia
President and  
Chief Executive Officer
H.Y. Louie Co. Limited
Chairman and  
Chief Executive Officer
London Drugs Limited

Michael H. McCain (2005)
Toronto, Ontario
President and  
Chief Executive Officer
Maple Leaf Foods Inc.

Gordon M. Nixon (2001)
Toronto, Ontario
President and  
Chief Executive Officer
Royal Bank of Canada

David P. O’Brien (1996)
Calgary, Alberta
Chairman of the Board
Royal Bank of Canada
Chairman of the Board
EnCana Corporation

Robert B. Peterson (1992)
Toronto, Ontario
Company Director

J. Pedro Reinhard (2000)
Key Biscayne, Florida
President
Reinhard & Associates

Kathleen P. Taylor (2001)
Toronto, Ontario
President and  
Chief Operating Officer
Four Seasons Holdings Inc.

Victor L. Young, O.C. (1991)
St. John’s, Newfoundland  
and Labrador
Company Director

The date appearing after the name of  
each director indicates the year in which  
the individual became a director. 

Peter Armenio
Group Head  
U.S. & International Banking

M. George Lewis 
Group Head  
Wealth Management

Gordon M. Nixon 
President and Chief Executive 
Officer 

W. James Westlake
Group Head  
Canadian Banking 

Janice R. Fukakusa
Chief Financial Officer

Martin J. Lippert
Group Head, Global Technology 
and Operations

Barbara G. Stymiest
Chief Operating Officer

Charles M. Winograd
Group Head  
Capital Markets

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Directors and executive officers

183

 
Principal subsidiaries

Principal subsidiaries (1) 

Royal Bank Mortgage Corporation (4) 
RBC Capital Trust 
RBC Dominion Securities Limited (4) 
    RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 
        RBC Investment Services (Asia) Limited 
        RBC Sec Australia Pty Limited 
Royal Bank Holding Inc. 
    Royal Mutual Funds Inc. 
    Royal Trust Corporation of Canada 
    The Royal Trust Company 
    RBC Insurance Holding Inc. 
        RBC General Insurance Company 
        RBC Insurance Company of Canada 
        RBC Life Insurance Company 
    RBC Direct Investing Inc. 
    RBC Asset Management Inc. 
    RBC Private Counsel Inc. 
    R.B.C. Holdings (Bahamas) Limited 
        RBC Caribbean Investment Limited 
            Royal Bank of Canada Insurance Company Limited 
        Finance Corporation of Bahamas Limited 
        Royal Bank of Canada Trust Company (Bahamas) Limited 
    Investment Holdings (Cayman) Limited 
        RBC (Barbados) Funding Ltd. 
            Royal Bank of Canada (Caribbean) Corporation 
        Royal Bank of Canada Trust Company (Cayman) Limited 
    RBC Alternative Asset Management Inc. 
    RBC Holdings (USA) Inc. (2) 
        RBC USA Holdco Corporation (2) 
            RBC Dain Rauscher Corp. (2) 
                J.B. Hanauer & Co. 
                RBC Dain Rauscher Inc. 
            RBC Capital Markets Corporation 
                RBC Daniels L.P. 
            Prism Financial Corporation 
            RBC Trust Company (Delaware) Limited 
            RBC Insurance Holdings (USA) Inc.  
                Liberty Life Insurance Company 
    RBC Capital Markets Arbitrage SA 
    Royal Bank of Canada (Asia) Limited 
RBC Centura Banks, Inc. (5) 
    RBC Centura Bank  
RBCF L.P.      
Royal Bank of Canada Financial Corporation 
RBC Finance B.V. 
    Royal Bank of Canada Holdings (U.K.) Limited 
        Royal Bank of Canada Europe Limited 
        Royal Bank of Canada Investment Management (U.K.) Limited 
        Royal Bank of Canada Trust Corporation Limited 
        RBC Asset Management UK Limited 
    RBC Holdings (Channel Islands) Limited 
        Royal Bank of Canada (Channel Islands) Limited 
            RBC Treasury Services (C.I.) Limited 
        RBC Offshore Fund Managers Limited 
            RBC Fund Services (Jersey) Limited 
        Royal Bank of Canada Investment Management (Guernsey) Limited 
            Abacus Investment Services Limited 
            RBC Regent Fund Managers Limited 
        RBC Trust Company (International) Limited 
            Regent Capital Trust Corporation Limited 
            RBC Trust Company (Jersey) Limited 
            RBC Trustees (Guernsey) Limited 
            RBC Regent Tax Consultants 
            RBC Wealth Planning International Limited 
        RBC cees Limited 
            RBC cees International Limited 
            RBC cees Fund Managers (Jersey) Limited 
    Royal Bank of Canada Trust Company (Asia) Limited 
    RBC Reinsurance (Ireland) Limited 
    Royal Bank of Canada (Suisse) 
        Roycan Trust Company S.A. 
RBC Investment Management (Asia) Limited 
RBC Capital Markets (Japan) Limited 

Principal  
office address (2) 

Carrying value of voting shares
owned by the bank (3)

Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Hong Kong, China 
Sydney, Australia 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Nassau, Bahamas 
George Town, Grand Cayman 
St. Michael, Barbados 
Nassau, Bahamas 
Nassau, Bahamas 
George Town, Grand Cayman 
St. Michael, Barbados 
St. Michael, Barbados 
George Town, Grand Cayman
Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.
New York, New York, U.S. 
New York, New York, U.S. 
Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S. 
Parsippany, New Jersey, U.S. 
Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S. 
New York, New York, U.S. 
Denver, Colorado, U.S.
Dover, Delaware, U.S.
Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. 
Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. 
Greenville, South Carolina, U.S. 
Steinsel, Luxembourg
Singapore, Singapore 
Rocky Mount, North Carolina, U.S. 
Rocky Mount, North Carolina, U.S. 
Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. 
St. Michael, Barbados 
Amsterdam, Netherlands 
London, England 
London, England 
London, England 
London, England 
London, England 
Guernsey, Channel Islands 
Guernsey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Guernsey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Guernsey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands
Guernsey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Jersey, Channel Islands 
Hong Kong, China 
Dublin, Ireland 
Geneva, Switzerland 
Geneva, Switzerland 
Hong Kong, China 
St. Michael, Barbados 

$ 

1,002 
1,051 
 2,896 

  20,659 

3,933

205 
 3
2,319 

 10 
18 

(1)  
(2)  

(3) 
(4)  
(5) 

184

The bank directly or indirectly owns 100% of the voting shares of each subsidiary except Finance Corporation of Bahamas Limited (75%).
Each subsidiary is incorporated or organized under the laws of the state or country in which the principal office is situated, except for RBC Holdings (USA) Inc., RBC USA Holdco 
Corporation and RBC Dain Rauscher Corp., which are incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware, U.S., and RBCF L.P., which is organized under the laws of the State of Nevada.
The carrying value (in millions of dollars) of voting shares is stated as the bank’s equity in such investments.
The subsidiaries have outstanding non-voting shares of which the bank, directly or indirectly, owns 100%.
RBC USA Holdco Corporation owns 4.78% and Prism Financial Corporation owns 5.17% of RBC Centura Banks, Inc.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2007
Principal subsidiaries

 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Financial 
highlights

(C$ millions, except per share 

  and percentage amounts) 

  operating performance
  Total revenue  
  Provision for credit losses 
  Non-interest expense  
  Net income 
  Return on common equity (ROE)  
  Earnings per share (EPS) – diluted 

2007 

2006 

2005 

2007 vs. 2006 
increase (decrease)

$  22,462 
791 
12,473 
5,492 
24.6% 
4.19 

$ 

$  20,637  
 429  
 11,495  
 4,728  
23.5% 
3.59  

$ 

$  19,184 
455  
 11,357 
 3,387 
18.0% 
2.57  

$ 

$ 

 $  

9%
1,825 
84%
362 
9%
978 
16%
764 
n.m.  110 bps
17%

.60 

	 Capital
  Tier 1 capital ratio 
  Total capital ratio 
  Risk-adjusted assets 

9.4% 
11.5% 
$  247,635 

9.6% 
11.9% 
$  223,709  

9.6% 
13.1% 
$  197,004 

 n.m. 
n.m. 
$  23,926  

(20)bps
(40)bps
11%

	 Key	drivers
  Total loans (before allowance for  

  loan losses) 
  Total deposits 
  Total assets 
  Assets under management 
  Assets under administration – RBC 

	 Common	share	information
  Share price (RY on the TSX)

    High 
    Low 
    Close 

  Dividends per share  
  Book value per share 
  Market capitalization (C$ millions) 

n.m.  not meaningful

$  239,429 
  365,205 
  600,346 
  161,500 
  548,200 

$  209,939  
 343,523  
 536,780  
 143,100  
  525,800  

$  191,914  
   306,860  
 469,521  
 118,800  
  417,100  

$  29,490 
21,682 
63,566 
18,400 
22,400 

14%
6% 
12%
13%
4%

$ 

61.08 
49.50 
56.04 
1.82 
17.58 
71,522 

$ 

51.49  
41.29  
49.80  
1.44  
16.52  
 63,788  

$ 

43.34 
30.45 
41.67 
1.18 
14.89 
 53,894 

 $  

9.59 
8.21 
6.24 
.38 
1.06 
7,734 

19%
20%
13%
26%
6%
12%

Note: All data in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.
(1) 
(2) 

TSR – Total shareholder return is price appreciation plus dividends reinvested, annualized.
Five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

2007 vs. 2006  5-year CAGR (2)

16% 

19%

2007 vs. 2006  5-year CAGR (2)

17% 

14% 

Shareholder information

Corporate headquarters
Street address:
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M5J 2J5
Tel: (416) 974-5151
Fax: (416) 955-7800

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 1
Royal Bank Plaza
Toronto, Ontario 
Canada  M5J 2J5

website:
rbc.com

Transfer Agent 
and Registrar

Main Agent
Computershare Trust 
Company of Canada

1500 University Street 
Suite 700
Montreal, Quebec  
Canada  H3A 3S8
Tel: (514) 982-7555, or
1-866-586-7635
Fax: (514) 982-7635

website:
computershare.com

Co-Transfer Agent (U.S.) 
Computershare Trust  
Company, N.A.
350 Indiana Street  
Suite 800
Golden, Colorado  
U.S.A.  80401
Tel: 1-800-962-4284

Co-Transfer Agent 
(United Kingdom)
Computershare Investor  
Services PLC
Securities Services – Registrars 
P.O. Box No. 82, The Pavilions 
Bridgwater Road, Bristol
BS99 7NH  England

Stock exchange listings
(Symbol: RY)

Common shares are listed on:
Canada
Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) 
U.S.
New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) 
Switzerland
Swiss Exchange (SWX) 

All preferred shares are listed  
on the Toronto Stock Exchange. 

Valuation Day price
For capital gains purposes, the 
Valuation Day (December 22, 
1971) cost base for our common 
shares is $7.38 per share. This 
amount has been adjusted to 
reflect the two-for-one share split 
of March 1981 and the two-for-one 
share split of February 1990. The 
one-for-one share divi dend paid  
in October 2000 and April 2006 
did not affect the Valuation Day 
value for our common shares.

Shareholder contact
For information about stock  
transfers, address changes,  
dividends, lost stock certificates, 
tax forms, estate transfers,  
contact: Computershare Trust 
Company of Canada
100 University Avenue, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1
Tel: (514) 982-7555 or  
1-866-586-7635

For other shareholder inquiries, 
contact: Shareholder Relations
Royal Bank of Canada 
200 Bay Street, 9th Floor 
South Tower 
Toronto, Ontario
Canada  M5J 2J5
Tel: (416) 955-7806
Fax: (416) 974-3535

For financial information  
inquiries, contact: 
Investor Relations
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street 
14th Floor, South Tower  
Toronto, Ontario 
Canada  M5J 2J5  
Tel: (416) 955-7802
Fax: (416) 955-7800 or  
visit our website at  
rbc.com/investorrelations

dividends.” Unless stated other-
wise, all dividends (and deemed 
dividends) paid by us hereafter 
are designated as “eligible  
dividends” for the purposes of  
such rules.

Common share repurchases
We are engaged in a Normal 
Course Issuer Bid through the 
facilities of the Toronto Stock 
Exchange. During the one-year 
period commencing November 1, 
2007, we may repurchase up to 
20 million common shares in the 
open market at market prices. We 
determine the amount and timing 
of the purchases.

A copy of our Notice of Intention 
to file a Normal Course Issuer Bid 
may be obtained, without charge, 
by contacting RBC’s Secretary at 
our Toronto mailing address.

2008 Annual Meeting
Our Annual Meeting of Common 
Shareholders will be held at  
9:00 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time) 
on Friday, February 29, 2008, at 
the Metro Toronto Convention 
Centre, North Building,  
255 Front Street West, Toronto, 
Ontario, Canada.

2008 Quarterly earnings  
release dates
First quarter 
Second quarter 
Third quarter 
Fourth quarter 

February 29 
May 29 
August 28 
December 5

Direct deposit service
Shareholders in Canada and 
the U.S. may have their divi-
dends deposited by electronic 
funds transfer. To arrange for 
this service, please contact our 
Transfer Agent and Registrar, 
Computershare Trust Company  
of Canada.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Our Dividend Reinvest ment Plan 
provides our registered common  
shareholders residing in Canada 
and the United States with the 
means to purchase additional  
RBC common shares through the 
automatic reinvestment of their 
cash dividends.

For more information on  
participation in the Dividend 
Reinvestment Plan, please  
contact our Plan Agent:

Computershare Trust Company  
of Canada
Attn: Dividend Reinvestment Dept.
100 University Avenue, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada  M5J 2Y1
Tel: 1-866-586-7635 (Canada  
and U.S.) or (514) 982-7555
Fax: (416) 263-9394 or 
1-888-453-0330
e-mail:  
service@computershare.com

Eligible Dividend Designation
For purposes of the enhanced 
dividend tax credit rules contained 
in the Income Tax Act (Canada) 
and any corresponding provincial 
and territorial tax legislation, all 
dividends (and deemed dividends) 
paid by us to Canadian residents 
on our common and preferred 
shares after December 31, 2005, 
are designated as “eligible 

Dividend dates for 2008
Subject to approval by the Board of Directors

Common and preferred 
shares series N, W, AA, AB, AC, 
AD, AE, AF and AG 

La Banque Royale publie aussi son  
Rapport annuel en français.

Legal Deposit, fourth quarter, 2007
Bibliothèque nationale du Québec

Record dates 

Payment dates

January 24 
April 24 
July 24 
October 27 

February 22
May 23
August 22
November 24

Printed in Canada
This annual report is printed on acid-free 
paper and the entire book is recyclable.

Information contained in or otherwise accessible through the websites mentioned in this report to shareholders does not form a part of this report. All references in this report to shareholders to 
websites are inactive textual references and are for your information only.

EQuAl EMPloyMEnT oPPoRTuniTy: As required by our Code of Conduct, which applies to all RBC companies and applies equally to employees, we are committed to providing equal opportunity in all  
dealings with employees, clients, suppliers and others. In the U.S., our subsidiaries are committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunity in compliance with relevant U.S. federal legislation and 
regulations (EEO rules) to all employees and applicants for employment. Consistent with this commitment, all employment decisions of our U.S. subsidiaries are based upon skill and performance with-
out regard to race, colour, national origin or ancestry, religion, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, status as a veteran or any other factors or characteristics protected by law. Our U.S. subsidiaries 
are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with U.S. federal, state and municipal employment laws, including regulations applicable to federal contractors. Disclosure in our 2007 Annual Report to 
Shareholders about our U.S. subsidiaries’ Equal Employment Opportunity practices is required pursuant to EEO rules.

Trademarks used in this annual report include the LION & GLOBE Symbol, ROYAL BANK OF CANADA, ROYAL BANK, RBC, RBC ROYAL BANK OF CANADA, RBC BLUEPRINT FOR DOING BETTER, RBC 
BLUE WATER PROJECT, RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, RBC CAPITAL TRUST, RBC CARLIN, RBC CENTURA, RBC COMMUNITY BLUEPRINT, RBC DAIN RAUSCHER, RBC DANIELS, RBC DOMINION SECURITIES, 
RBC ENVIRONMENTAL BLUEPRINT, RBC FOUNDATION, RBC HEDGE 250 INDEX, RBC HOMELINE, RBC INSURANCE, RBC MORTGAGE, RBC NEXT GREAT INNOVATOR CHALLENGE, RBC REWARDS, RBC 
SUBORDINATED NOTES TRUST, RBC TSNs and RBC TruCs which are trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada used by Royal Bank of Canada and/or by its subsidiaries under license. All other trademarks 
mentioned in this report, which are not the property of Royal Bank of Canada, are owned by their respective holders. RBC Dexia IS and affiliated Dexia companies are licensed users of the RBC trademark.

d
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e
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n

I

16.7%15.6%18.0%23.5%24.6%$2.20$2.11$2.57$3.59$4.1920032004200520062007200320042005200620072003200420052006200720032004200520062007$2,968$2,803$3,387$4,728$5,492$120$124$168$207$240Return on equity (ROE)Diluted earnings per share (EPS)Net income Total shareholder return (TSR) (on a $100 investment on November 1, 2002) (1)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
R
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Royal Bank of Canada  
2007 Annual Report

Finding  
better ways

Royal Bank of Canada (RY on TSX and NYSE) and its 
subsidiaries operate under the master brand name of RBC 
and may be referred to in this text as RBC. We are Canada’s 
largest bank as measured by assets and market capitalization 
and one of North America’s leading diversified financial 
services companies. We provide personal and commercial 
banking, wealth management services, insurance, corporate 
and investment banking and transaction processing services 

on a global basis. Our Global Technology and Operations 
and Global Functions teams enable business growth with 
expert professional advice and state-of-the-art processes 
and technology. We employ more than 70,000 full- and part-
time employees who serve more than 15 million personal, 
business, public sector and institutional clients through  
offices in Canada, the U.S. and 36 other countries. 

 Fold  Financial highlights
Better for our clients
  2 
Better for our shareholders
  4 
Better for our employees
  6 
Better for our communities
  8 
Chief Executive Officer’s 
 10 
message
Performance compared to 
objectives
Business discussion
Chairman’s message
Corporate governance
Corporate responsibility

 16 
 21 
 22 
 24 

 15 

33  Management’s Discussion 

110  Consolidated Financial  

and Analysis

Statements

177  Supplementary  
information

34  Overview
38 

43 
51 

Accounting and control 
matters
Financial performance
Quarterly financial 
information
Business segment results
53 
Financial condition
71 
80 
Risk management 
102  Additional risks that may 
affect future results 
104  Additional financial 
information

111  Management’s responsibility 
for financial reporting

181  Glossary
183  Directors and executive  

officers

184  Principal subsidiaries
185  Shareholder information

111  Report of Independent 
Registered Chartered 
Accountants

112  Management’s report on 

internal control over financial 
reporting

112  Report of Independent 
Registered Chartered 
Accountants

113  Consolidated Balance Sheets
114  Consolidated Statements of 

Income

115  Consolidated Statements of 
Comprehensive Income 
115  Consolidated Statements of 

Changes in Shareholders’ 
Equity 

116  Consolidated Statements of  

Cash Flows

117  Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements

This is a carbon neutral publication. Net carbon dioxide equivalent emissions  
associated with the production and distribution of this report have been neutralized 
through Zerofootprint using ISO 14064-2 reforestation carbon offsets. 

Form #81104 (12/2007)

This report is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. FSC fibre used in the  
manufacture of the paper stock comes from well-managed forests independently  
certified by SmartWood according to Forest Stewardship Council rules.

 V ision

  Values

  Strategic  goals

•  Always earning the right to 
be our clients’ first choice

•  Excellent service to clients  

•  To be the undisputed leader  

and each other

•  Working together to succeed
•  Personal responsibility for  

high performance

•  Diversity for growth and 

innovation

•  Trust through integrity in 

everything we do

in financial services in 
Canada

•  To build on our strengths 

in banking, wealth 
management and capital 
markets in the United States
•  To be a premier provider of 
selected global financial 
services

This annual report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the “safe harbour”  
provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation.  
We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of important factors could cause our actual results to 
differ materially from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. Additional information about these factors can 
be found under “Caution regarding forward-looking statements” on page 33.