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Royal Bank of Canada

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FY2017 Annual Report · Royal Bank of Canada
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Royal Bank 
of Canada

Annual Report 2017

Who we are

Royal Bank of Canada is a global
financial institution with a purpose-
driven, principles-led approach to
delivering leading performance. Our
success comes from the 80,000+
employees who bring our vision,
values and strategy to life so we
can help our clients thrive and
communities prosper. As Canada’s
biggest bank, and one of the largest
in the world based on market
capitalization, we have a diversified
business model with a focus on
innovation and providing exceptional
experiences to our 16 million clients
in Canada, the U.S. and 35 other
countries.

Why invest?

› Market leader with a focused

growth strategy

› Diversified business model with

leading client franchises

› Financial strength underpinned by
prudent risk and cost management

› Innovation is in our DNA

› Leading corporate citizen

Connect with us:

facebook.com/rbc

instagram.com/rbc

twitter.com/@RBC

www.youtube.com/user/RBC 

linkedin.com/company/rbc

Strategy

p.1

Chair message

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Exceptional
client experience

p.7

Simplify.
Agile.
Innovate.

p.9

CEO message

p.2

Sustainable
growth

p.5

Best talent

p.8

Community &
social impact

p.10

CONTENTS

Management’s Discussion and Analysis 11

Ten-Year Statistical Review

Enhanced Disclosure Task Force
Recommendations Index

Reports and Consolidated
Financial Statements

116

117

Glossary

Principal Subsidiaries

Shareholder Information

205

206

208

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Our purpose

Guided by our vision to be among the world’s most trusted and successful financial institutions, and driven
by our purpose of helping clients thrive and communities prosper, we aim to be:

The undisputed financial
services leader in Canada

The preferred partner to
corporate, institutional and
high net worth clients in
the U.S.

A leading financial services
partner valued for our
expertise in select global
financial centres

Our strategy

Our purpose, vision and values are aligned to strategic initiatives that
drive our competitive advantage in a changing marketplace.

Sustainable
growth

Exceptional
client
experience

Best talent

Simplify.
Agile.
Innovate.

Community &
social impact

Our values

› Client First

› Collaboration

› Accountability

› Diversity & Inclusion

› Integrity

Our business segments

Personal & Commercial Banking

Capital Markets

› Financial services leader in Canada with
a presence in the Caribbean and the U.S.

› Number 1 or 2 market share in all key
Canadian Banking product categories

› Premier North American investment bank with
select global reach in Europe, Asia and other
international locations

› 9th largest global investment bank by fees(1)

Investor & Treasury Services

Insurance

› Leading global asset services

› Canada’s largest bank-

provider and Canadian
transaction bank with an
integrated client offering

› Provides short-term funding
and liquidity management
services for RBC

owned insurer and among the
fastest growing insurance
organizations in the country

› Offers reinsurance solutions

for clients globally

Wealth Management

› Largest mutual fund company
and wealth advisory business
in Canada

› Growing presence in U.S.
private and commercial
banking and wealth
management

› Top-five wealth manager

globally(2)

(1)
(2)

Dealogic, based on global investment bank fees, Fiscal 2017.
Scorpio Partnership Global Private Banking Benchmark, 2017.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

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Message from Dave McKay

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On behalf of my 80,000+ colleagues, I am
honoured to share the story of our record
2017 and our ongoing journey to position
RBC for the future.

We reported record earnings of
$11.5 billion, up 10% from the prior year.
This demonstrated the strength of our
diversified business model, our disciplined
approach to risk and cost management,
and above all, our purpose of helping
clients thrive and communities prosper.

We delivered a return on equity of 17%
and strengthened our Common Equity
Tier 1 capital ratio to 10.9%. In November
2017, we were designated as a Global
Systemically Important Bank by the
Financial Stability Board, reflecting the
size and scale of our global operations.
As we already meet the requirement of a
1% buffer, we do not expect any
significant impact to our capital position.

We also returned a record $8.2 billion of
capital in dividends and share buybacks,
reflecting our commitment to shareholders
while executing on our growth strategies.
We delivered compound annual Total
Shareholder Returns of 12% and 17% over
three and five years, outperforming our
global peer group.

The favourable macroeconomic
environment contributed to our success,
with strong GDP growth, high
employment and interest rate increases
leading to low credit losses, strong
demand for credit and stronger margins.

Beyond our performance, we believe how
we achieve success is as important as
what we achieve; this is critical in
creating a path for sustained growth over
the long term. It is heartening as CEO to
see how our principles-led approach and
our values, including the importance of
diversity and inclusion, drive our daily
decision-making from the Board to the
branch and everywhere in between.

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Sustainable growth
We have a focused strategy that targets
high-growth client segments within our
priority markets of Canada, the U.S., and
in select global financial centres. Across
geographies, we are deepening
relationships with our clients and
bringing the strength, breadth and depth
of RBC to meet their goals.

In Canada, where we are number one or
two in all key banking segments, we are
not being complacent but looking to
transform our physical network and
digitize our operations to meet changing
customer needs. We’ve expanded our
insurance offering and we see
opportunities for further growth within
Personal & Commercial Banking,
specifically in commercial banking,
investments, deposits and credit cards.

We are also exploring ways to add new
sources of value for our clients. We are
increasingly collaborating with strategic
partners to create the ecosystems in
which our customers live and work. For
example, we have recently started
offering employee health care expense
management for commercial clients, and
we have integrated invoicing, accounting
and financial insights into our business
banking platform so that entrepreneurs
can spend more time growing their
businesses.

In our leading Canadian wealth
management franchise, we are adding
more value to clients through our
unmatched wealth planning expertise,
including business succession and
intergenerational wealth transfers. We are
also building out our top-performing
asset management capabilities.

In the U.S., the successful integration of
City National is allowing us to serve more
commercial and high net worth clients. In
2017, City National deepened its
presence in its core markets of California
and New York City while also expanding
in Washington, D.C. and Minneapolis and
building on synergies with other parts of
the firm, including Capital Markets.

Our U.S. capital markets business
continues to grow. It accounts for more
than half of overall Capital Markets
earnings. Globally, RBC Capital Markets
has been ranked as one of the top 10
investment banks by fees for the last five
years. Together, our U.S. capital markets

and wealth management businesses
(including City National) position us well
to be the preferred partner to corporate,
institutional and high net worth clients
and their businesses in the U.S.

We also continue to improve our
competitive position in select markets in the
U.K., Europe and Asia, by focusing on key
client segments served by our wealth and
asset management, capital markets and
investor and treasury services businesses.

Exceptional client experiences
More than ever before, we are building
from the customer in, creating a Digitally
Enabled Relationship Bank that is simple
to deal with and that adds more value to
clients.

We believe how we achieve
success is as important as
what we achieve; this is
critical in creating a path
for sustained growth over
the long term.

Group Executive Officers
David McKay
President & Chief Executive Officer

Rod Bolger
Chief Financial Officer

Michael Dobbins
Chief Strategy & Corporate
Development Officer

Helena Gottschling
Chief Human Resources Officer

Douglas Guzman
Group Head, Wealth
Management & Insurance

Mark Hughes
Group Chief Risk Officer

Douglas McGregor
Group Head, Capital Markets and
Investor & Treasury Services

Neil McLaughlin
Group Head, Personal &
Commercial Banking

Bruce Ross
Group Head, Technology
and Operations

Jennifer Tory
Chief Administrative Officer

We are learning from and working with
our clients to develop the next generation
of products. Our size and scale gives us
an advantage in using data to better
understand our clients, anticipate their
future needs and offer them increasingly
personalized solutions, while investing in
keeping their information secure.

Our digital and innovation strategies are
fundamental to creating exceptional client
experiences, driving customer loyalty and
acquiring new clients. In Personal &
Commercial Banking, we have grown our
sales force in advice roles, we have
significantly grown our mobile users, and
today 84% of our financial transactions are
performed in self-serve channels. The work
we’ve done to serve clients as we move to a
digital future helped us win Highest in
Customer Satisfaction Among the Big Five
Retail Banks in J.D. Power’s 2017 Canadian
Retail Banking Satisfaction survey for the
second year in a row.

Simplify. Agile. Innovate
As we integrate into our customers’
digital lives, we are collaborating with an
ever broader range of global partners,
bringing exciting new opportunities to our
clients across all of our business lines.

We are working in new ways to design
and build products, processes,
technology and services in a faster,
simpler, more adaptable and cost
effective way. In an unprecedented time
of change in our industry, customer
expectations and preferences are shifting
almost daily. I believe one of my greatest
responsibilities as CEO is to ensure that
the cadence and speed of change inside
RBC matches that of the wider world. So,
as we reimagine our future and the role
that we play in our customers’ lives, we
are changing the way that we work.

We’re proud to be a champion for
Canadian innovation, particularly the
transformational technologies of
blockchain and artificial intelligence
(AI). As one of the leading voices on
AI in Canada, we have established the
research institute Borealis AI to pursue
curiosity-driven research in machine
learning. This will help to not only drive
our own innovation, but also secure
Canada’s position as a global destination
for AI research and ventures.

Best talent
We know that our best ideas come when
we unlock the potential of our people,
allowing the full diversity of our
organization to thrive. To accelerate this
journey we are simplifying our structure,
redefining our leadership model and
tapping into the strengths and talent of
our employees. By creating an
environment where employees are
encouraged to be bolder and use their full
expertise, capabilities and experiences,
we will be able to succeed in hiring and
retaining top talent and provide them
with meaningful work.

Community and social impact
As a purpose-driven company, we believe
we are accountable for creating a positive
social impact in the communities where
we operate. Among countless examples
across our businesses and regions in
2017, none articulated this focus more
clearly than RBC Future Launch, our
$500-million commitment to empower
Canadian youth for the jobs of tomorrow.
Over the next 10 years, we are dedicating
our knowledge, skills and resources to
help young people access meaningful
employment. Investing in the next
generation is both a business imperative
and the right thing to do.

Thank you
I offer a sincere thank you to the
16 million clients who continue to put
their trust in RBC. I also want to thank my
colleagues for their ideas and their
commitment to seeing those clients
succeed. As always, I appreciate the
guidance and insight from our diverse
board of directors. And finally, to you our
shareholders, I reiterate our commitment
to executing on our strategy and
delivering sustainable earnings growth in
line with our purpose.

David McKay
President and Chief Executive Officer

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Key metrics in 2017

Sustainable growth
Diluted EPS

$7.56

ROE

17.0%

CET1 ratio

10.9%

Dividend payout ratio

46%

Three-year TSR

12%

See page 5 for more information

Exceptional client experience

#1 Client
Satisfaction

among Big Five Canadian retail
banks in 2017 J.D. Power survey

Best talent

94%

employees who are proud
to be a part of RBC(1)

Community and social impact

150,000+

employee volunteer hours(2)

$98+ million

in cash donations and
community investments(3)

(1)
(2)

(3)

2017 Employee Opinion Survey.
Includes non-work time hours reported by
employees globally and retirees in Canada
through RBC’s formal volunteering programs.
Includes employee volunteer grants and gifts
in-kind, as well as non-profit contributions to
non-registered charities. Figure does not
include sponsorships.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

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Message from Katie Taylor

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Dear fellow shareholders,

RBC has a clear purpose: to help clients
thrive and communities prosper. This
simple statement unites your board of
directors, the management team and
dedicated employees as we focus on
delivering long-term shareholder value by
ensuring positive outcomes for all
stakeholders. Change has become a
hallmark of our times and in 2017 RBC
successfully executed on its key
strategies, moved forward on its
transformation priorities and welcomed
new talent to its senior management
team.

Overseeing our strategy
One of the board’s most critical roles is to
provide oversight and stewardship of
RBC’s strategic direction. We provide
guidance to management as it builds a
Digitally Enabled Relationship Bank and
focuses on markets and segments where
RBC is positioned to succeed. In order to
anticipate and respond to a dynamic,
global marketplace, we advise
management on its strategic plans,
challenge assumptions, and assist in
identifying and building pathways to
sustainable growth within the bank’s
risk appetite.

Focusing on talent
Talent management, including senior
management succession planning, is a
key board responsibility, essential to
supporting RBC’s strategic objectives.
We take a comprehensive approach to
pipeline development that includes early
identification of key candidates and
in-depth evaluations of the skills and
expertise required for both the near and

medium term. As the banking industry
continues to evolve, a diversity of
experiences, perspectives and
backgrounds represented at all levels
of management becomes a critical
advantage and key to successfully
executing on the bank’s strategy.

Robust risk management
The board assesses management’s plans to
ensure business opportunities are
balanced against sound risk management
priorities and an effective enterprise-wide
framework. We actively engage with
management to assure that a strong risk
culture is supported at all levels of RBC and
that the bank’s risk management function
is independent from the businesses. We
also provide guidance on, and approve the
bank’s risk appetite, and maintain open
communications with regulators.

Good governance
Your board champions RBC’s culture of
‘doing what’s right’ and our core values of
integrity and accountability. We help
establish and promote ethical standards
and behaviour across all levels of the
organization, working to foster an
approach to business that considers
impacts to society, the economy and the
environment. Diversity of gender, thought
and experience is critical to successful
board oversight, and our board culture
encourages transparency, active
engagement and productive debate.
Once again in 2017, we were recognized
for our approach, winning Best Overall
Governance at the Excellence in
Governance Awards in Toronto and Best
Overall Corporate Governance –
International at the Corporate Governance
Awards in New York.

We also continue to refine the skills and
experience needed to provide orderly board
succession and strengthen our ranks to
support RBC’s future strategic goals. To this
end, we were pleased to welcome
Jeffery Yabuki to the RBC board. As the
president and CEO of Fiserv Inc. - a leading
provider of financial services - Jeff brings us
deep experience in financial services,
technology solutions and strategic advice.

We were also saddened this year by the
passing of our esteemed colleague
Richard (Rick) George. Rick was a true
leader in Canadian business and a
trusted advisor on the RBC board. He is
greatly missed by all.

Shareholder engagement
Working with our stakeholders is an
important component of our governance
process, notable this year for the
collaborative efforts that produced the
RBC Proxy Access Policy. Committed to
the creation of long-term value, we will
continue to look for new and effective
ways to meaningfully engage with
investors, clients and the communities
we serve.

On behalf of the board, I would like to
thank Dave McKay and his leadership
team for their commitment and
dedication to helping realize RBC’s vision
of being recognized as one of the world’s
most trusted and successful financial
institutions. We would also like to
express the board’s deep appreciation to
RBC employees around the world who
deliver the very best to our clients and
communities every day.

Kathleen Taylor
Chair of the Board

RBC Board of Directors

Andrew Chisholm

Jacynthe Coˆte´

Toos Daruvala

David Denison

Alice Laberge

Michael McCain

David McKay

Heather Munroe-Blum

Thomas Renyi

Kathleen Taylor

Bridget van Kralingen

Thierry Vandal

Jeffery Yabuki

  FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: rbc.com/governance 

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

 
Sustainable growth

RBC continued to achieve high-quality earnings growth by focusing on our clients, deploying capital
effectively and investing for the future, while carefully managing risks and costs.

Strong Earnings
Net Income (C$ billion)

Profitable Growth
Return on Equity (ROE)

Solid Returns to
Shareholders
Dividends Declared per
share (C$)

2017

$11.5

2016: $10.5

2017

17.0%

2016: 16.3%

2017

$3.48

2016: $3.24

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2017

$7.56

2016: $6.78

2017

10.9%

2016: 10.8%

Diluted Earnings per Share
(C$)

Financial Strength
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) Ratio

Annualized dividend increase of:
7% — one year
7% — ten year(1)

Earnings by business segment(2)

Financial Performance Metrics(3)

50% Personal & Commercial Banking

   22% Capital Markets
   16% Wealth Management
   6% Insurance
   6% Investor & Treasury Services

Diluted EPS Growth

Return on Equity

Capital Ratio (CET 1)

Dividend Payout Ratio

Total Shareholder Return(4)

Three-year

Five-year

Medium-Term Objectives

2017 Results

7%+

16%+

Strong

40% – 50%

11.5%

17.0%

10.9%

46%

RBC

12%

17%

Global Peer Average

10%

15%

(1)
(2)
(3)

(4)

Compound Annual Growth Rate.
Excludes Corporate Support.
Our focus is to maximize total shareholder returns (TSR) through the achievement of top half performance compared to
our global peer group over the medium term (3-5 years), which we believe reflects a longer term view of strong and
consistent financial performance.
Reflects annualized TSR and is calculated based on the TSX common share price appreciation plus reinvested dividend
income. Source: Bloomberg, as at October 31, 2017. RBC is compared to our global peer group. The peer group average
excludes RBC; for the list of peers, please refer to our financial performance objectives section of our 2017
Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: www.rbc.com/investorrelations

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

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Sustainable growth

We are committed to distributing economic value to create a better future for our clients and communities.
We do this with a simple equation. We earn money through the products and services that we provide, and
distribute a portion of that revenue to those we rely on for our success. The remainder, our profit, is then
paid out to shareholders through dividends and repurchases or reinvested for future growth.

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In 2017, we earned revenue of  $40.7 billion

$29.2 billion  was spent on:

$13.3 billion

SALARIES & BENEFITS

• We employ more than 80,000 employees in 37 countries

• 1 in 5 people in the Canadian financial services
  sector works at RBC

33%

The remainder of our profit of
$11.5 billion
goes to shareholders or is reinvested:

21%

$8.5 billion

DIVIDENDS(1) AND REPURCHASES

• Returned over 75% of profits to our one million
  shareholders, of whom 70% are based in Canada

• Returned a record amount of capital to 
  shareholders, the most in our history

$8.5 billion

EXPENSES

• We are allocating more resources into digital initiatives
  to continue building a more convenient, simple and 
  secure client experience

• Investing to meet increasing requirements for
  cybersecurity and regulations

• 1,235 branches in Canada, 73 in the U.S. and 68 globally

$3.2 billion 

INCOME TAXES

• We support communities as one of the largest taxpayers
  in Canada, and as a taxpayer in other countries where
  we operate(2)

$3.0 billion

INSURANCE POLICYHOLDER BENEFITS,
CLAIMS AND ACQUISITION EXPENSE

• The funds we provide to support our clients in their
  time of need so they can focus on what matters most

$1.2 billion

PROVISIONS FOR CREDIT LOSSES

• Funds we set aside to cover loans that are unlikely
  to be repaid

• The cost of lending to support our clients’ economic growth

21%

 7%

$3.0 billion

AVAILABLE TO REINVEST IN ORGANIC GROWTH

• Remaining funds available to reinvest in our
  business for future growth

8%

7%

3%

(1)
(2)

Includes dividends paid on both common and preferred shares. Dividends were $5.1 billion on common shares and $0.3 billion on preferred shares.
See page 90 for RBC’s total tax contribution.

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Exceptional client experience

Our business is about people and always earning the right to be our clients’ first choice. We aim to deliver
excellent service, including meaningful, personalized interactions that build life-long client relationships.
Whether it’s day-to-day personal, business or corporate banking, we want to be the best bank to help our
clients achieve their goals.

Reshaping how we engage

Digital experience

We are reshaping our physical and advisor networks and adding new ways to
serve our clients. This includes rethinking how we support the specific needs of
surrounding communities and important client demographics such as retirees,
newcomers and students.

We are building a Digitally Enabled
Relationship Bank. Life moves quickly so we’re
making sure that we focus on speed of service
and simplifying everyday client needs.

Providing personalized advice

We’re providing personalized advice and solutions to help our clients manage
their day-to-day finances and products but also anticipate their future banking
needs. This is backed by local expertise in the markets where we operate and
an understanding of each client’s needs to offer the right advice and solutions
to help them succeed.

This means re-imagining how we serve our
clients no matter how they choose to interact
with us. We are also developing innovative
partnerships and investing in online and
mobile channels, new branch formats and
more expert advisors.

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The client is at the centre of everything we do

P&CB

CAPITAL MARKETS

INVESTOR & TREASURY SERVICES

INSURANCE

Alternative branch
formats
› We’re taking a different approach to
banking by creating tailored spaces
on campuses across Canada to
support students’ financial wellness.
We aim to provide today’s youth with
the tools, resources and knowledge
to prepare for their financial future
while building life-long relationships.
We opened the first branch of this
kind at McMaster University,
followed by the University of British
Columbia and University of Calgary,
with more locations to come in 2018.

“ I came in asking for advice on

banking. I left with a connection.
You don’t get that everywhere.”

Pawel, a student at McMaster
University

Developing a cleaner
economy
› Acting as sole financial advisor to
ENGIE North America and Axium
Infrastructure, RBC led an innovative
50-year public private partnership to
position Ohio State University as a
leader in sustainability. As the
largest university energy privatization
deal in the U.S., the deal is funding
the development of an energy
research centre and will improve
energy efficiency on the Columbus
campus by 25% within the next
10 years.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Clients are part of the solution
› Through the Advanced Client

Experience program – one of our
largest technology investments – we
are involving clients directly in our
innovation labs to build digital
solutions to evolve with their needs.
By simplifying processes and
providing data analytics, we are
able to produce timely and relevant
insights to help our clients grow
their businesses.

Things don’t always go
as planned
› Ahmed and Sara had to cancel
a vacation and instead book
emergency flights to deal with
a family situation. RBC helped
with logistics and ensured they
paid no penalties.

“ The staff at RBC Insurance showed
me why they are the best. All I can
say is thank you so very much to my
advisor - for your kind words, how
you handled everything and what
you have done to help us.”

Ahmed & Sara, RBC clients

Supporting life transitions
› Richard and Stuart were overwhelmed by the responsibility of settling and ultimately
managing their parents’ estate and family legacy. They relied on the knowledge and
judgment of their RBC PH&N Investment Counsellor to support them and their families
through this challenging financial and life transition, ensuring they had a plan to
provide for future generations.

“ Our role beyond investment management is to educate and guide – to translate
complex issues and connect families to the right people for advice, that helps to
manage their burden.”

Susan, RBC PH&N Investment Counsellor

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

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Best talent

We are attracting, inspiring and empowering our people to deliver their best. RBC has a diverse
workforce and inclusive culture that promotes sharing different perspectives and experiences to
enable innovation and creative thinking.

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Our talent strategy

Our success begins and ends with engaged
employees. Our 80,000+ colleagues bring our
vision, values and strategy to life so we can help
our clients thrive and communities prosper.

We recognize the value a diverse workforce
brings. That’s why we continually strive to create
an inclusive environment where everyone feels
valued, engaged and empowered to pursue a
meaningful career.

We encourage employees to have an always-
learning mindset, speak up for the good of
RBC and set ambitious goals. In the past year,
we’ve stepped up our focus on changing the way
we work to ensure our people are equipped with
the skills to be successful today and in the future.

An organization of our size offers a world of
opportunities, including: mentorship, coaching,
employee resources groups, and making a
difference in our communities. We develop our
talent through:

› Engaging careers with opportunities for growth
› Investments in learning and development to
enhance knowledge, skills and capabilities

› Competitive compensation and benefits
› Diversity and inclusion

94%

Employees who are proud
to be part of RBC(1)

(1)

2017 Employee Opinion Survey.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: rbc.com/careers

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Investing in youth

RBC believes that all young people should have work integrated
learning experiences prior to graduation. Career Launch – our one-
year, paid internship program – provides just that to 100 recent
graduates annually.

In 2016, we introduced RBC Amplify, an intensive four-month
internship in Toronto where students were assigned to some of our
toughest business challenges. The program is now global, expanding
to Minneapolis, Jersey City and Luxembourg in 2017. This is a
window into the future of RBC.

Workplace recognition awards

Ranked #1 “Best Places to Work in Canada” (Indeed)

One of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers –
Employment Equity Achievement Award (EEAA) – for
outstanding achievement in initiatives for women;
visible minorities; Indigenous peoples; and persons
with disabilities.
(Government of Canada)

Named one of the Best Workplaces in Canada
(The Great Place to Work® Institute Canada)

Simplify. Agile. Innovate.

Innovation is more than a buzzword at RBC. We’re not just digitizing our existing products, but building new
business models across our platforms. We’re investing in smarter, simpler ways to interact and add value
for our clients, communities and people. This means changing the way we work and using data to create
new insights and services, but also thinking bigger and partnering with startups and universities to drive
Canada’s role in global innovation.

Leading in Artificial Intelligence

Delivering Value for our Clients

We’re using artificial intelligence (AI) and
machine learning to better understand
our clients and offer relevant and timely
offerings and services:

› Launched NOMI Insights™ and NOMI
Find & Save™, two AI-enabled services
that provide personalized advice to our
clients, helping to manage their day-to-
day finances and make saving simpler

› Established Borealis AI, an RBC
Institute for Research, to pursue
curiosity-driven research in machine
learning and increase collaboration
with world-class research centres
› Supporting initiatives like NextAI
and the Vector Institute to ensure
Canada remains a global destination
for the study of AI and becomes home
for AI-focused ventures, entrepreneurs
and scientists

› Piloted NORA, an AI bot that helps the
Wealth Management team to better
serve potential clients

› First bank in Canada to enable bill
payments and Interac e-Transfer
using Siri voice commands

› Connecting clients to a mutual fund
advisor using live video through
MyAdvisor, our online advice platform

› Teamed up with Petro-Canada to

deliver exclusive savings and loyalty
benefits, adding more value for
clients using our award-winning RBC
Rewards® program

› Working with Wave, our small

business clients have access to an
integrated financial management
platform within online banking, a
first among North American banks
› Providing travellers with peace of mind
through RBC Insurance PATH, a travel
app that provides up-to-date
advisories, emergency and medical
assistance and the ability to send
automated emails to family and friends

› Using machine learning to identify
sales and trading opportunities for
our Capital Markets clients

.
e
t
a
v
o
n
n
I

.
e
l
i
g
A

.
y
f
i
l
p
m
S

i

Driving Innovation and Research

› Committed to shaping the Canadian

innovation ecosystem through
partnerships like OneEleven and C100,
which support the growth of start-ups
› Working with the best, brightest and

boldest minds in universities to launch
programs like ONRamp that help
students and graduate entrepreneurs
develop and commercialize their ideas

› Exploring how to use emerging

technologies like blockchain with
industry leaders, the Fintech community
and the Canadian government across all
of our businesses

› Created an in-house RBC GAM

innovation lab to incubate digital
capabilities and drive innovation
› Using robotics, Investor & Treasury
Services has dedicated teams in
Malaysia, Luxembourg and Canada
using software applications to handle
repetitive tasks and to deliver
operational excellence

2017: By the numbers

6+ million

active digital users(1)

$3 billion

spent on technology

84%

financial transactions
performed through
self-serve
channels

80+

patents pending
or issued 

20+ new

mobile app capabilities

(1)

Represents the 90-Day Active customers in Canadian Banking only.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

9

Community & social impact

As a purpose-driven company, creating a positive social impact – not just an economic one – is
integral to how we do business. It is fundamental to our philosophy and is at the very heart of our
corporate citizenship approach.

Breakthrough investment in youth

s
o
c
i
a
l

i

m
p
a
c
t

C
o
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
&

We announced RBC Future Launch, a 10-year, $500-million commitment to
helping young people access meaningful employment through work
experience, skills development and networking. In 2017, we partnered with
organizations across Canada, donating over $24 million, volunteering our
time and bringing together youth, community organizations and stakeholders
to better understand the issues facing young Canadians and the opportunities
available to them. Additionally, RBC supported approximately 150 charitable
partners with nearly $8 million in donations to help youth and their families
access the right mental health care at the right time.

We support clean growth and the transition to low carbon

We recognize that accelerating low carbon growth and enabling resilience in
the face of a changing climate will reduce risk and safeguard economic
growth. We also support efforts to standardize and enhance the disclosure of
climate-related financial risks and we are participating in a United Nations led
working group to test drive the recommendations of the Financial Stability
Board’s Task Force for Climate-Related Disclosures.

$5.1 billion
in green bond
underwriting in 2017

$4 billion
in renewable energy
financing(1)

The only major Canadian
financial institution with a dedicated
Cleantech advisory team

Our employees care

What gets measured, gets managed

We have developed a new framework to better
measure the impact of our $98+ million in cash
donations and community investments(2) and drive
better decision-making and resource allocation
to address relevant societal issues. We’re also
committed to helping the charitable sector better
manage the impacts of its work through our capacity-
building activities on measurement and evaluation.

86%

$4 million

150,000+

$20+ 
million

Employees who feel inspired to
volunteer and donate based on
RBC’s commitment and support

Raised in support of children’s
charities around the world from the
15,000+ employees who participated
in our annual Race for the Kids
across 12 cities globally

Non-work time hours volunteered
by employees globally and retirees
in Canada as part of RBC's formal
volunteering programs

Raised by 24,000 employees
and retirees in Canada for
4,000+ charities in our annual
employee giving campaign

We are recognized by the following for our leadership in Corporate Citizenship

(1)
(2)

As at October 31, 2017. Calculated based on “Authorized” amount.
Includes employee volunteer grants and gifts in-kind, as well as non-profit contributions to non-registered charities. Figure does not include sponsorships.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: rbc.com/community-sustainability 

10

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

 
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, 2017, compared to the preceding fiscal year. This MD&A should be read in conjunction with our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements and related
notes and is dated November 28, 2017. All amounts are in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise specified, and are based on financial statements prepared in accordance
with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), unless otherwise noted.

Additional information about us, including our 2017 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 (U.S.) Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) website at sec.gov.

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

Table of contents

Caution regarding forward-looking statements 11

Overview and outlook

Selected financial and other highlights
About Royal Bank of Canada
Vision and strategic goals
Economic, market and regulatory review and
outlook
Defining and measuring success through
total shareholder returns

Key corporate events of 2017

Financial performance

Overview
Impact of foreign currency translation
Total revenue
Provision for credit losses
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and
acquisition expense
Non-interest expense
Income and other taxes
Client assets

Business segment results

Results by business segment

12
12
13
13

14

15

15

16
16
16
17
18

18
19
19
20

21
21

How we measure and report our business
segments
Key performance and non-GAAP measures
Personal & Commercial Banking
Wealth Management
Insurance
Investor & Treasury Services
Capital Markets
Corporate Support

Quarterly financial information
Fourth quarter performance
Quarterly results and trend analysis

Financial condition

Condensed balance sheets
Off-balance sheet arrangements

Risk management

Overview
Top and emerging risks
Enterprise risk management

Transactional/positional risk drivers

Credit risk
Market risk

21
22
25
31
36
39
41
45

45
45
46

47
47
48

51
51
53
54

58
58
68

Liquidity and funding risk
Insurance risk

Execution risk drivers
Operational risk
Regulatory compliance risk

Strategic risk drivers

Strategic risk
Reputation risk
Legal and regulatory environment risk
Competitive risk

Macroeconomic risk drivers

Systemic risk

Overview of other risks

Capital management

74
84

84
84
87

87
87
87
87
89

89
89

90

91

Accounting and control matters

101
Critical accounting policies and estimates 101
107
Regulatory developments
107
Controls and procedures

Related party transactions

Supplementary information

Enhanced Disclosure Task Force

recommendation index

108

108

116

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 2017 Annual Report, in
other filings with Canadian regulators or the SEC, in other reports to shareholders and in other communications. Forward-looking statements in this document include, but are
not limited to, statements relating to our financial performance objectives, vision and strategic goals, the Economic, market, and regulatory review and outlook for Canadian,
U.S., European and global economies, the regulatory environment in which we operate, the Strategic priorities and Outlook sections for each of our business segments, and the
risk environment including our liquidity and funding risk, and includes our President and Chief Executive Officer’s statements. The forward-looking information contained in this
document is presented for the purpose of assisting the holders of our securities and financial analysts in understanding our financial position and results of operations as at
and for the periods ended on the dates presented, as well as our financial performance objectives, vision and strategic goals, and may not be appropriate for other purposes.
Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “believe”, “expect”, “foresee”, “forecast”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “estimate”, “goal”, “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 uncertainties, 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 financial performance
objectives, vision and strategic goals will not be achieved. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of risk factors could cause our
actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors – many of which are beyond our control and the effects of
which can be difficult to predict – include: credit, market, liquidity and funding, insurance, operational, regulatory compliance, strategic, reputation, legal and regulatory
environment, competitive and systemic risks and other risks discussed in the risks sections of our 2017 Annual Report; including global uncertainty and volatility, elevated
Canadian housing prices and household indebtedness, information technology and cyber risk, regulatory change, technological innovation and new entrants, global
environmental policy and climate change, changes in consumer behaviour, the end of quantitative easing, the business and economic conditions in the geographic regions in
which we operate, the effects of changes in government fiscal, monetary and other policies, tax risk and transparency and environmental and social risk.

We caution that the foregoing list 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 and other uncertainties and potential events. Material economic
assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained in this 2017 Annual Report are set out in the Economic, market, and regulatory review and outlook section
and for each business segment under the Strategic priorities and Outlook headings. Except as 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 in the risks sections of our 2017 Annual Report.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

11

Overview and outlook

Selected financial and other highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except per share, number of and percentage amounts)

Total revenue (1)
Provision for credit losses (PCL)
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense (PBCAE)
Non-interest expense (1)
Income before income taxes

Net income
Segments – net income

Personal & Commercial Banking
Wealth Management
Insurance
Investor & Treasury Services
Capital Markets
Corporate Support

Net income
Selected information

Earnings per share (EPS) – basic

– diluted

Return on common equity (ROE) (2), (3)
Average common equity (2)
Net interest margin (NIM) – on average earning assets (2)
Total PCL as a % of average net loans and acceptances (2)
PCL on impaired loans as a % of average net loans and acceptances (2)
Gross impaired loans (GIL) as a % of loans and acceptances (4)
Liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) (5)
Capital ratios and Leverage ratio (6)
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio
Tier 1 capital ratio
Total capital ratio
Leverage ratio

Selected balance sheet and other information (7)

Total assets
Securities
Loans (net of allowance for loan losses)
Derivative related assets
Deposits
Common equity
Total capital risk-weighted assets
Assets under management (AUM)
Assets under administration (AUA) (8)

Common share information

Shares outstanding (000s) – average basic

– average diluted
– end of period

Dividends declared per common share
Dividend yield (9)
Common share price (RY on TSX) (10)
Market capitalization (TSX) (10)
Business information (number of)

Employees (full-time equivalent) (FTE) (11)
Bank branches
Automated teller machines (ATMs)

Period average US$ equivalent of C$1.00 (12)
Period-end US$ equivalent of C$1.00

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2017
40,669
1,150
3,053
21,794
14,672
11,469

5,755
1,838
726
741
2,525
(116)
11,469

7.59
7.56
17.0%
65,300
1.72%
0.21%
0.21%
0.46%
122%

10.9%
12.3%
14.2%
4.4%

2016
38,795
1,546
3,424
20,526
13,299
10,458

5,184
1,473
900
613
2,270
18
10,458

6.80
6.78
16.3%
62,200
1.70%
0.29%
0.28%
0.73%
127%

10.8%
12.3%
14.4%
4.4%

$ 1,212,853
218,379
542,617
95,023
789,635
67,416
474,478
639,900
5,473,300

1,466,988
1,474,421
1,452,898
3.48
3.8%
100.87
146,554

78,210
1,376
4,630
0.765
0.775

$

$

$
$

$ 1,180,258
236,093
521,604
118,944
757,589
64,304
449,712
586,300
5,058,900

1,485,876
1,494,137
1,485,394
3.24
4.3%
83.80
124,476

77,825
1,419
4,905
0.755
0.746

$

$

$
$

Table 1

2017 vs. 2016
Increase (decrease)

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,874
(396)
(371)
1,268
1,373
1,011

571
365
(174)
128
255
(134)
1,011

0.79
0.78
n.m.
3,100
n.m.
n.m.
n.m.
n.m.
n.m.

n.m.
n.m.
n.m.
n.m.

$ 32,595
(17,714)
21,013
(23,921)
32,046
3,112
24,766
53,600
414,400

(18,888)
(19,716)
(32,496)
0.24
n.m.
17.07
22,078

385
(43)
(275)
0.010
0.029

$

$

$
$

4.8%
(25.6)%
(10.8)%
6.2%
10.3%
9.7%

11.0%
24.8%
(19.3)%
20.9%
11.2%
(744.4)%
9.7%

11.6%
11.5%
70 bps
5.0%
2 bps
(8) bps
(7) bps
(27) bps
(500) bps

10 bps
– bps
(20) bps
– bps

2.8%
(7.5)%
4.0%
(20.1)%
4.2%
4.8%
5.5%
9.1%
8.2%

(1.3)%
(1.3)%
(2.2)%
7.4%
(50) bps
20.4%
17.7%

0.5%
(3.0)%
(5.6)%
1.3%
3.9%

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Average amounts are calculated using methods intended to approximate the average of the daily balances for the period. This includes Average common equity used in the calculation of
ROE. For further details, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
These measures may not have a standardized meaning under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other financial
institutions. For further details, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
GIL includes $256 million (2016 – $418 million) related to the acquired credit-impaired (ACI) loans portfolio from our acquisition of City National Corporation (City National). ACI loans added
5 bps to our 2017 GIL ratio (2016 – 8 bps). For further details, refer to Note 2 and 5 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
LCR is calculated using the Basel III Liquidity Adequacy Requirements (LAR) guideline. Effective the first quarter of 2017, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI)
requires the LCR to be disclosed based on the average of the daily positions during the quarter. For further details, refer to the Liquidity and funding risk section.
Capital and Leverage ratios presented above are on an “all-in” basis. The Leverage ratio is a regulatory measure under the Basel III framework. For further details, refer to the Capital
management section.
Represents period-end spot balances.
AUA includes $18.4 billion and $8.4 billion (2016 – $18.6 billion and $9.6 billion) of securitized residential mortgages and credit card loans, respectively.
Defined as dividends per common share divided by the average of the high and low share price in the relevant period.

(7)
(8)
(9)
(10) Based on TSX closing market price at period-end.
(11) Amounts have been revised from those previously reported.
(12) Average amounts are calculated using month-end spot rates for the period.
n.m. not meaningful

12

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

About Royal Bank of Canada

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our
success comes from the 80,000+ employees who bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities
prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model
with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 16 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 35 other countries. Learn
more at rbc.com.

Our business segments are described below.
Personal & Commercial Banking operates in Canada, the Caribbean and the U.S., and comprises our personal and business banking

operations, as well as our auto financing and retail investment businesses.

Wealth Management serves high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth clients (UHNW) from our offices in key financial centres mainly in

Canada, the U.S., the U.K., the Channel Islands and Asia with a comprehensive suite of investment, trust, banking, credit and other wealth
management solutions. We also provide asset management products and services directly to institutional and individual clients through our
distribution channels and third-party distributors.

Insurance provides a wide range of life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth, group and reinsurance products and solutions. In Canada, we

offer insurance products and services through our proprietary distribution channels, comprised of the field sales force which includes retail
insurance branches, our field sales representatives, advice centres and online, as well as through independent insurance advisors and affinity
relationships. Outside Canada, we operate in reinsurance markets globally offering life, accident and annuity reinsurance products.

Investor & Treasury Services serves the needs of institutional investing clients by providing asset services, custodial, advisory, financing
and other services to safeguard assets, maximize liquidity and manage risk in multiple jurisdictions around the world. We also provide short-
term funding and liquidity management for RBC.

Capital Markets provides public and private companies, institutional investors, governments and central banks with a wide range of
products and services. In North America, we offer a full suite of products and services which include corporate and investment banking, equity
and debt origination and distribution, and structuring and trading. Outside North America, we offer a diversified set of capabilities in our key
sectors of expertise such as energy, mining and infrastructure, and we have expanded into industrial, consumer and healthcare in Europe.
Our business segments are supported by Corporate Support, which consists of Technology & Operations and Functions. Technology &
Operations provides the technological and operational foundation required to effectively deliver products and services to our clients, while
Functions includes our finance, human resources, risk management, internal audit and other functional groups.

The following chart presents our business segments and respective lines of business:

ROYAL BANK OF CANADA

Insurance

O Canadian Insurance
O International
Insurance

Investor & Treasury
Services

Capital
Markets

O Corporate and

Investment Banking

O Global Markets
O Other

Personal &
Commercial Banking

O Canadian Banking
O Caribbean &
U.S. Banking

Wealth
Management

O Canadian Wealth
Management

O U.S. Wealth

Management
(including City
National)
O Global Asset
Management

O International Wealth

Management

O Technology & Operations

O Functions

Corporate Support

Vision and strategic goals

Our business strategies and actions are guided by our vision, “To be among the world’s most trusted and successful financial institutions.” Our
three strategic goals are:
•
•
•

In Canada, to be the undisputed leader in financial services;
In the U.S., to be the preferred partner to corporate, institutional and high net worth clients and their businesses; and
In select global financial centres, to be a leading financial services partner valued for our expertise.

For our progress in 2017 against our business strategies and strategic goals, refer to the Business segment results section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

13

Economic, market and regulatory review and outlook – data as at November 28, 2017

The predictions and forecasts in this section are based on information and assumptions from sources we consider reliable. If this information or
these assumptions are not accurate, actual economic outcomes may differ materially from the outlook presented in this section. For details on
risk factors from general business and economic conditions that may affect our business and financial results, refer to the Macroeconomic risk
drivers and Overview of other risks sections.

Canada
The Canadian economy is expected to grow by 3.0% during calendar 2017, which is above both our estimates of 1.8% as at November 29, 2016
and 2.9% as at August 22, 2017. Growth has been broad-based across regions and sectors. In particular, strong growth earlier this year reflected
a robust increase in consumer spending amid strong employment growth, low interest rates, and wealth accumulation from rising home prices.
Business investment has also improved alongside growing corporate profits and improving business sentiment. The unemployment rate of 6.3%
in October is down from 7.0% a year ago and indicates the labour market is close to full employment. Growth is expected to slow to a more
moderate rate towards the end of 2017 as the economy nears capacity limits and consumer spending returns to a more sustainable trend. The
housing sector is expected to slow as rising interest rates and recent policy changes weigh on activity. Business investment is expected to
continue rising although uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy could impact business sentiment. With strong growth over the first half of the
year pushing the Canadian economy close to full capacity, the Bank of Canada (BoC) raised rates, once in July and again in September. The
overnight rate was then left unchanged at 1.00% in October 2017.

In calendar 2018, we expect the Canadian economy will grow at a rate of 2.1% as stronger business investment, exports and government

spending offset slower consumer spending growth and further moderation in the housing sector. Uncertainty relating to NAFTA negotiations
remains a downside risk to the outlook for exports and business investment. That risk, along with uncertainty about how highly-indebted
households will respond to higher interest rates, is keeping the BoC cautious in raising interest rates. We expect a pause in the current tightening
cycle until the second calendar quarter of 2018.

U.S.
The U.S. economy is expected to grow by 2.2% in calendar 2017, which is consistent with our estimate as at November 29, 2016 and slightly
above our estimate of 2.1% as at August 22, 2017. Growth this year has been supported by consumer spending, reflecting a strong labour
market and elevated consumer confidence, as well as rising business investment. Economic activity remained strong in the third calendar
quarter of 2017 despite a negative impact from severe weather conditions. The labour market is close to full capacity with October’s
unemployment rate of 4.1% well below the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) longer run estimate of 4.6%. Inflation remains below the Fed’s 2% target but
is expected to increase over the medium term amid tight economic conditions. We expect the Fed will raise the federal funds target range by
25 basis points to 1.25% to 1.50% in December 2017.

In calendar 2018, we expect the U.S. economy will grow at a rate of 2.5%, largely reflecting continued strength in consumer spending amid

a solid job market and elevated consumer confidence. Business investment is also expected to continue rising as a result of strong business
confidence, accommodative fiscal policies and stronger global growth support investment. The release of the Tax Reform Framework by the U.S.
administration in the fourth quarter of 2017, including corporate tax reform, if or when enacted, could have significant implications for both
corporations and individuals. As inflation reaches its target, we expect the Fed will continue with steady, gradual rate hikes next year.

Europe
The Eurozone economy is expected to grow by 2.3% in calendar 2017, which is well above our estimate of 1.3% as at November 29, 2016 and
above our estimate of 2.0% as at August 22, 2017. Despite a politically unstable environment, including the Catalonian referendum, Brexit
negotiations, and the success of populist parties seen in recent elections, the Eurozone has experienced positive growth. Improving labour
market conditions, stronger business and consumer confidence, and accommodative financial conditions have supported a broad-based
recovery. The unemployment rate of 8.9% in September was the lowest since January 2009. In October, the European Central Bank (ECB)
announced its asset purchase program would be extended at least through September 2018, although with net monthly purchases being
reduced beginning in January 2018.

In calendar 2018, we expect the Eurozone economy will grow at a rate of 1.9%. Growth will continue to be driven by improving labour
market conditions, accommodative monetary policy and a stronger global backdrop. However, with inflationary pressure and wage growth
remaining muted, we expect the ECB will hold its deposit rate at -0.4% throughout 2018 and maintain asset purchases as planned.

Financial markets
A strengthening global economic outlook has contributed to equity markets rising to record highs. Some central banks have begun scaling back
accommodation but monetary policy remains stimulative. Government bond yields have increased modestly as markets anticipate further
monetary policy tightening will be gradual. Geopolitical and trade risks remain a source of uncertainty and have the potential to weigh on global
markets.

The macroeconomic headwinds discussed above, such as the potential for greater uncertainty or financial market volatility related to proposed
policies by the U.S. administration, including the Tax Reform Framework and NAFTA negotiations, Brexit, high household indebtedness, and
possible further cuts by the BoC and the Fed to their respective stimulus measures may alter our outlook and results for fiscal 2018 and future
periods as these continuing pressures may lead to higher PCL in our wholesale and retail loan portfolios, slower volume growth, and impact the
general business and economic conditions in the regions we operate.

Regulatory environment
We continue to monitor and prepare for regulatory developments in a manner that seeks to ensure compliance with new requirements while
mitigating any adverse business or economic impacts. Such impacts could result from new or amended regulations and the expectations of
those who enforce them. Significant developments include continuing changes to global and domestic standards for capital and liquidity,
changes to federal mortgage rules, over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives reform, and initiatives to enhance requirements for institutions deemed
systemically important to the financial sector. We also continue to monitor changes to resolution regimes addressing government bail-in and
total loss-absorbing capacity.

For a discussion on risk factors resulting from these and other regulatory developments which may affect our business and financial results,

refer to the Risk management section. For further details on our framework and activities to manage risks, refer to the Risk management and
Capital management sections.

14

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Defining and measuring success through total shareholder returns

Our focus is to maximize total shareholder returns (TSR) through the achievement of top half performance compared to our global peer group
over the medium-term (3-5 years), which we believe reflects a longer-term view of strong and consistent financial performance.

Maximizing TSR is aligned with our three strategic goals discussed earlier and we believe represents the most appropriate measure of
shareholder value creation. TSR is a concept used to compare the performance of our common shares over a period of time, reflecting share price
appreciation and dividends paid to common shareholders. The absolute size of TSR will vary depending on market conditions, and the relative
position reflects the market’s perception over a period of time of our overall performance relative to our peers.

Financial performance objectives are used to measure progress against our medium-term TSR objectives. We review and revise these
financial performance objectives as economic, market and regulatory environments change. By focusing on our medium-term objectives in our
decision-making, we believe we will be well-positioned to provide sustainable earnings growth and solid returns to our common shareholders.

The following table provides a summary of our 2017 performance against our medium-term financial performance objectives:

2017 Financial performance compared to our medium-term objectives

Table 2

Diluted EPS growth of 7% +
ROE of 16% +
Strong capital ratios (CET1) (1)
Dividend payout ratio 40% – 50%

(1)

For further details on the CET1 ratio, refer to the Capital management section.

For 2018, our medium-term financial performance objectives will remain unchanged.

2017 results

11.5%
17.0%
10.9%
46%

We compare our TSR to that of a global peer group approved by our Board of Directors. The global peer group remains unchanged from last year
and consists of the following 10 financial institutions:
•

Canadian financial institutions: Bank of Montreal, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Manulife Financial Corporation, National Bank of
Canada, Power Financial Corporation, The Bank of Nova Scotia, and Toronto-Dominion Bank.
U.S. banks: JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Wells Fargo & Company.
International banks: Westpac Banking Corporation.

•
•

Medium-term objectives – three and five year TSR vs. peer group average

Table 3

Royal Bank of Canada

Peer group average (excluding RBC)

Three year TSR (1)

Five year TSR (1)

12%
Top half

10%

17%
Top half

15%

(1)

The three and the five year annualized TSR are calculated based on our common share price appreciation as per the TSX closing market price plus reinvested dividends for the period
October 31, 2014 to October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2012 to October 31, 2017, respectively.

Common share and dividend information

For the year ended October 31

Common share price (RY on TSX) – close, end of period
Dividends paid per share
Increase (decrease) in share price
Total shareholder return

$

$

2017

100.87
3.40
20.4%
25.0%

$

2016

83.80
3.20
12.1%
16.8%

$

2015

74.77
3.04
(6.5)%
(3.0)%

$

2014

80.01
2.76
14.3%
19.0%

Table 4

2013

70.02
2.46
23.0%
28.0%

Key corporate events of 2017

Sale of certain Caribbean Wealth Management businesses
On May 12, 2017, we completed the previously announced sale of our trust, custody and fund administration businesses in the Caribbean to
SMP Partners Group. The transaction did not have a significant impact on our financial statements. For further details, refer to Note 11 of our
Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Sale of U.S. operations of Moneris Solutions Corporation
On November 10, 2016, our payment processing joint venture with Bank of Montreal, Moneris Solutions Corporation (Moneris), signed a
Purchase and Sale agreement to sell its U.S. operations to Vantiv, Inc. The transaction closed on December 21, 2016. As a result, we recorded
our share of the gain which was $212 million (before- and after-tax) in Non-interest income – Share of profit in joint ventures and associates. For
further details, refer to Note 12 of our Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

15

Financial performance

Overview

2017 vs. 2016
Net income of $11,469 million was up $1,011 million or 10% from a year ago. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $7.56 was up $0.78 or 12%
and return on common equity (ROE) of 17.0% was up 70 bps from 16.3% last year. Our Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio was 10.9%, up 10 bps
from a year ago.

Our results reflected strong earnings in Personal & Commercial Banking, Capital Markets, Wealth Management and Investor & Treasury
Services, partially offset by lower earnings in Insurance. Our results include our share of the gain related to the sale of the U.S. operations of
Moneris in 2017. Our results in 2016 included the gain on sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business.

Personal & Commercial Banking results were higher mainly reflecting volume growth of 6%, and our share of the gain related to the sale of

the U.S. operations of Moneris in the current year. Higher fee-based revenue in Canada and lower PCL also contributed to the increase. These
factors were partially offset by higher costs in support of business growth reflecting ongoing investments in technology, including digital
initiatives and higher marketing costs.

Capital Markets results were up largely driven by higher results in Corporate and Investment Banking and Global Markets reflecting
increased fee-based revenue, lower PCL and a lower effective tax rate due to changes in earnings mix. These factors were partially offset by
higher costs related to changes in the timing of deferred compensation, increased variable compensation on improved results and the impact of
foreign exchange translation.

Wealth Management earnings increased mainly due to growth in average fee-based client assets, higher net interest income and increased

transaction revenue. These factors were partially offset by higher variable compensation on improved results and increased costs in support of
business growth, mainly reflecting higher staff-related costs in the U.S. and ongoing investments in technology, including digital initiatives.

Investor & Treasury Services results increased primarily due to higher earnings across all major businesses driven by funding and liquidity

and increased results from our asset services business. These factors were partially offset by higher investment in technology initiatives.

Insurance results decreased primarily due to the gain on sale as noted above, which was a specified item in the prior year and is described

further below. Excluding the gain on sale, Insurance earnings were up mainly due to higher favourable annual actuarial assumption updates
largely reflecting changes in credit and discount rates and favourable mortality experience, mainly in the U.K. These factors were partially offset
by lower earnings from new U.K. annuity contracts and reduced earnings associated with the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing
business, which was sold on July 1, 2016.

Corporate Support net loss was $116 million in the current year, largely reflecting severance and related charges, net unfavourable tax
adjustments and legal costs, partially offset by asset/liability management activities. Corporate Support net income was $18 million in the prior
year, largely reflecting asset/liability management activities, partially offset by net unfavourable tax adjustments and a $50 million ($37 million
after-tax) increase in the provision for loans not yet identified as impaired.

For further details on our business segment results and CET1 ratio, refer to the Business segment results and Capital management sections,

respectively.

Results excluding specified items are non-GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation, refer to the Key performance and

non-GAAP measures section.

Impact of foreign currency translation

The following table reflects the estimated impact of foreign currency translation on key income statement items:

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

Increase (decrease):
Total revenue
PCL
PBCAE
Non-interest expense
Income taxes
Net income

Impact on EPS

Basic
Diluted

The relevant average exchange rates that impact our business are shown in the following table:

(Average foreign currency equivalent of C$1.00) (1)

U.S. dollar
British pound
Euro

(1)

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

16

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Table 5

2017 vs. 2016

$

$

(360)
(3)
–
(270)
(15)
(72)

(0.05)
(0.05)

Table 6

2016

0.755
0.544
0.683

2017

0.765
0.596
0.686

Total revenue

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Interest income
Interest expense

Net interest income
NIM

Investments (1), (2)
Insurance (3)
Trading
Banking (4)
Underwriting and other advisory
Other (5)

Non-interest income (1)

Total revenue (1)

$

$

$

2017

26,904
9,764

17,140
1.72%

9,558
4,566
806
5,110
2,093
1,396

Table 7

2016

$ 24,452
7,921

$ 16,531
1.70%

$

8,946
4,868
701
4,848
1,876
1,025

$

$

23,529

40,669

$ 22,264

$ 38,795

(1)

(2)
(3)

(4)
(5)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a
gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Includes securities brokerage commissions, investment management and custodial fees, and mutual fund revenue.
Includes premiums and investment and fee income. Investment income includes the change in fair value of investments backing
policyholder liabilities, which is largely offset in PBCAE.
Includes service charges, foreign exchange revenue other than trading, card service revenue and credit fees.
Includes other non-interest income, net gain (loss) on available-for-sale (AFS) securities and share of profit in joint ventures and
associates.

2017 vs. 2016
Total revenue increased $1,874 million or 5% from last year, mainly due to higher investment revenue and higher net interest income. Higher
banking and underwriting revenue, as well as our share of the gain related to the sale of the U.S. operations of Moneris in the current year also
contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by lower insurance revenue and the gain from the sale of our home and auto
insurance manufacturing business in the prior year. The impact of foreign exchange translation also decreased our total revenue by $360 million.
Net interest income increased $609 million or 4%, mainly due to volume growth in both Canadian Banking and Wealth Management, and

the impact of higher U.S. interest rates. These factors were partially offset by lower spreads in Canadian Banking.

NIM was up 2 bps compared to last year largely due to the impact of higher U.S. interest rates.
Investments revenue increased $612 million or 7%, mainly due to growth in average fee-based client assets, which benefitted from capital

appreciation and net sales in Wealth Management, and higher balances driving higher mutual fund distribution fees in Canadian Banking.

Insurance revenue decreased $302 million or 6%, mainly reflecting the change in fair value of investments backing our policyholder
liabilities, which was largely offset in PBCAE, as well as lower premiums reflecting the impact of the sale of our home and auto insurance
manufacturing business in the prior year. These factors were partially offset by higher revenues from group annuity sales in Canadian Insurance,
and the impact of restructured international life contracts, both of which are largely offset in PBCAE.

Banking revenue increased $262 million or 5%, primarily due to increased loan syndication activity mainly in the U.S. and Canada, and

higher card service revenue.

Underwriting and other advisory revenue increased $217 million or 12%, primarily reflecting increased debt origination activity mainly in the

U.S. and Canada. Higher mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, largely in the U.S. and Europe also contributed to the increase.

Other revenue increased $371 million from last year largely reflecting the change in fair value of our U.S. share-based compensation plan,

which is largely offset in non-interest expense, and a gain from the disposition of certain securities. Our results also include our share of the gain
from the sale of the U.S. operations of Moneris in the current year which was more than offset by the gain from the sale of our home and auto
insurance manufacturing business in the prior year.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

17

Additional trading information

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total trading revenue (1)
Net interest income
Non-interest income

Total trading revenue

Total trading revenue by product

Interest rate and credit (2)
Equities
Foreign exchange and commodities (2)

Total trading revenue

Trading revenue (teb) by product

Interest rate and credit (2)
Equities
Foreign exchange and commodities (2)

Total trading revenue (teb)

Trading revenue (teb) by product – Capital Markets

Interest rate and credit
Equities
Foreign exchange and commodities

Total Capital Markets trading revenue (teb)

Table 8

2017

2016

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2,370
806

3,176

1,796
895
485

3,176

1,796
1,221
485

3,502

1,466
1,251
331

3,048

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2,376
701

3,077

1,830
684
563

3,077

1,830
1,166
564

3,560

1,473
1,205
402

3,080

(1)
(2)

Includes a gain of $170 million (2016 – $49 million gain) related to a funding valuation adjustment on uncollateralized OTC derivatives.
Amounts have been revised from previously reported.

2017 vs. 2016
Total trading revenue of $3,176 million, which comprises trading-related revenue recorded in Net interest income and Non-interest income, was
up $99 million, or 3%, mainly due to higher equity trading revenue in Europe and Asia & other international, partially offset by lower fixed income
trading revenue mainly in the U.S., and lower foreign exchange trading revenue across all regions.

Provision for credit losses (PCL)

2017 vs. 2016
Total PCL of $1,150 million decreased $396 million or 26% from a year ago, mainly due to lower PCL in Capital Markets, Personal & Commercial
Banking, and Wealth Management. The total PCL ratio of 21 bps improved 8 bps.

For further details on PCL, refer to Credit quality performance in the Credit Risk section.

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense (PBCAE)

2017 vs. 2016
PBCAE of $3,053 million decreased $371 million or 11% from the prior year, mainly due to a change in the fair value of investments backing our
policyholder liabilities, largely offset in revenue. Lower claims reflecting the impact from the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing
business in the prior year and higher favourable annual actuarial assumption updates largely reflecting changes in credit and discount rates and
favourable mortality experience, mainly in the U.K., also contributed to the decrease. These factors were partially offset by the impact from group
annuity sales and restructured international life contracts, both of which are largely offset in revenue.

18

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Non-interest expense

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts) (1)

Salaries
Variable compensation
Benefits and retention compensation
Share-based compensation

Human resources
Equipment
Occupancy
Communications
Professional fees
Amortization of other intangibles
Other

Non-interest expense
Efficiency ratio (2)
Efficiency ratio adjusted (3)

Table 9

2016

5,865
4,583
1,674
255

12,377
1,438
1,568
945
1,078
970
2,150

20,526
52.9%
53.8%

$

$

$

$

$

$

2017

5,936
5,203
1,792
399

13,330
1,434
1,588
1,011
1,214
1,015
2,202

21,794
53.6%
53.5%

(1)

(2)
(3)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a
gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Efficiency ratio is calculated as non-interest expense divided by total revenue.
Measures have been adjusted by excluding the change in fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities. These are
non-GAAP measures. For further details, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.

2017 vs. 2016
Non-interest expense increased $1,268 million or 6%, largely due to increased staff-related costs including severance, and higher costs in
support of business growth reflecting ongoing investments in technology, including digital initiatives, and increased marketing costs. The
change in fair value of our U.S. share-based compensation plan, which is largely offset in revenue, also contributed to the increase. These factors
were partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation and continued benefits from our efficiency management activities.

Our efficiency ratio of 53.6% increased 70 bps from 52.9% last year. Excluding the change in fair value of investments backing our

policyholder liabilities, our efficiency ratio of 53.5% decreased 30 bps from last year mainly driven by the impact of foreign exchange translation
and continued benefits from our efficiency management activities. These factors were partially offset by increased staff-related costs including
severance and higher costs in support of business growth as noted above.

Efficiency ratio excluding the change in fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities is a non-GAAP measure. For further details,
including a reconciliation, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.

Income and other taxes

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Income taxes

Other taxes

Goods and services sales taxes
Payroll taxes
Capital taxes
Property taxes
Insurance premium taxes
Business taxes

Total income and other taxes

Income before income taxes

Canadian statutory income tax rate (1)

Lower average tax rate applicable to subsidiaries
Tax-exempt income from securities
Tax rate change
Effect of previously unrecognized tax loss, tax credit or temporary

differences

Other

Effective income tax rate

Effective total tax rate (2)

(1)
(2)

Blended Federal and Provincial statutory income tax rate.
Total income and other taxes as a percentage of income before income taxes and other taxes.

$

$

$

$

$

Table 10

2017
3,203 $

2016

2,841

446 $
643
88
140
30
46
1,393 $
4,596 $
14,672 $

26.5%
(3.5)%
(2.0)%
(0.1)%

–%
0.9%

21.8%

28.6%

442
627
106
134
45
69

1,423

4,264

13,299

26.5%
(2.6)%
(3.1)%
–%

(0.4)%
1.0%

21.4%

29.0%

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

19

2017 vs. 2016
Income tax expense increased $362 million or 13% from last year, mainly due to higher Income before income taxes. The effective tax rate of
21.8% increased 40 bps, mainly due to lower tax-exempt income and the impact from the gain on sale of our home and auto insurance
manufacturing business of $287 million ($235 million after-tax) in 2016. These factors were partially offset by our share of a gain related to the
sale of our U.S. operations of Moneris of $212 million (before- and after-tax) in the current year.

Other taxes decreased $30 million or 2% from 2016, mainly due to lower business taxes, capital taxes and insurance premiums, partially
offset by an increase in payroll taxes. In addition to the income and other taxes reported in our Consolidated Statement of Income, we recorded
income taxes of $469 million (2016: recovery of $438 million) in our Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, primarily reflecting the
remeasurement of employee benefit plans, net gains on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, and net foreign currency translation gains
from hedging activities.

Client assets

Assets under administration
Assets under administration (AUA) are assets administered by us which are beneficially owned by our clients. We provide services that are
administrative in nature, including safekeeping, collecting investment income, settling purchase and sale transactions, and record keeping.
Underlying investment strategies within AUA are determined by our clients and generally do not impact the administrative fees that we receive.
Administrative fees can be impacted by factors such as asset valuation level changes from market movements, types of services administered,
transaction volumes, geography and client relationship pricing based on volumes or multiple services.

Our Investor & Treasury Services business is the primary business segment that has AUA with approximately 78% of total AUA, as at
October 31, 2017, followed by our Wealth Management and Personal & Commercial Banking businesses with approximately 17% and 5% of
total AUA, respectively.

2017 vs. 2016
AUA increased $414 billion or 8% compared to last year, mainly reflecting capital appreciation.

The following table summarizes AUA by geography and asset class:

AUA by geographic mix and asset class

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Canada (1)

Money market
Fixed income
Equity
Multi-asset and other

Total Canada

U.S. (1)

Money market
Fixed income
Equity
Multi-asset and other

Total U.S.

Other International (1)

Money market
Fixed income
Equity (2)
Multi-asset and other (2)

Total International

Total AUA

Table 11

2017

2016

$

33,100
730,100
765,800
774,900

33,000
731,200
705,900
733,800

2,303,900

$ 2,203,900

35,400
124,500
238,100
57,500

455,500

43,300
387,500
867,600
1,415,500

$

$

$

36,400
126,800
200,800
44,800

408,800

50,300
426,200
836,300
1,133,400

2,713,900

$ 2,446,200

5,473,300

$ 5,058,900

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(1)
(2)

Geographic information is based on the location from where our clients are serviced.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Assets under management
Assets under management (AUM) are assets managed by us which are beneficially owned by our clients. Management fees are paid by the
investment funds for the investment capabilities of an investment manager and can also cover administrative services. Management fees may be
calculated daily, monthly or quarterly as a percentage of the AUM, depending on the distribution channel, product and investment strategies. In
general, equity strategies carry a higher fee rate than fixed income or money market strategies. Fees are also impacted by asset mix and
relationship pricing for clients using multiple services. Higher risk assets generally produce higher fees, while clients using multiple services can
take advantage of synergies which reduce the fees they are charged. Certain funds may have performance fee arrangements. Performance fees
are recorded when certain benchmarks or performance targets are achieved. These factors could lead to differences on fees earned by products
and therefore net return by asset class may vary despite similar average AUM. Our Wealth Management segment is the primary business segment
with approximately 99% of total AUM.

2017 vs. 2016
AUM increased $54 billion or 9% compared to last year, primarily due to capital appreciation and net sales, partially offset by the impact of
foreign exchange translation.

20

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

The following table presents the change in AUM for the year ended October 31, 2017:

Client assets – AUM

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

AUM, beginning balance
Institutional inflows
Institutional outflows
Personal flows, net

Total net flows

Market impact
Acquisitions/dispositions
Foreign exchange

Total market, acquisitions/dispositions and foreign

exchange impact

AUM, balance at end of year

Business segment results

Results by business segments

2017

Table 12

2016

Money market

Fixed income

Equity

Multi-asset
and other

Total

Total

$

47,900 $
27,200
(37,900)
800

(9,900)
–
–
(1,100)

198,700 $ 100,800 $

31,500
(32,800)
2,100

800
3,600
–
(2,200)

6,600
(4,800)
10,300

12,100
18,200
–
(2,400)

238,900 $ 586,300
69,300
(77,800)
31,600

4,000
(2,300)
18,400

$ 498,400
55,200
(72,100)
21,600

20,100
20,600
(4,000)
(2,200)

23,100
42,400
(4,000)
(7,900)

4,700
21,500
58,100
3,600

(1,100)

1,400

15,800

14,400

30,500

83,200

$

36,900 $

200,900 $ 128,700 $

273,400 $ 639,900

$ 586,300

Table 13

2016

$

$

$

$

Total

16,531
22,264

38,795
1,546
3,424
20,526

13,299
2,841

10,458

16.3%

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Personal &
Commercial
Banking

Wealth
Management

Insurance

2017

Investor &
Treasury
Services

Capital
Markets (1)

Corporate
Support (1)

Net interest income
Non-interest income (2)

Total revenue (2)

PCL
PBCAE
Non-interest expense (2)

Net income before income taxes
Income tax

Net income

ROE (3)

Average assets

2,248
7,827

$

–
4,566

10,075
34
–
7,611

2,430
592

1,838

$ 4,566
–
3,053
584

$

$

929
203

726

$

$

$

$

679
1,756

2,435
–
–
1,466

969
228

741

$

$

$

$

3,565
4,617

8,182
62
–
4,719

3,401
876

2,525

$

$

$

$

Total

17,140
23,529

40,669
1,150
3,053
21,794

14,672
3,203

(139) $
(313)

(452) $
–
–
238

(690) $
(574)

(116) $

11,469

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

10,787
5,076

15,863
1,054
–
7,176

7,633
1,878

5,755

28.3%

13.2%

41.8%

22.7%

12.9%

n.m.

17.0%

$ 421,100

$

88,100

$ 14,300

$ 138,100

$ 494,400

$ 30,600

$1,186,600

$ 1,176,400

(1)

(2)

(3)

Net interest income, total revenue and net income before income taxes are presented in Capital Markets on a taxable equivalent basis (teb). The teb adjustment is eliminated in the Corporate
Support segment. For a further discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section.
Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
This measure may not have a standardized meaning under GAAP and may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other financial institutions. For further details, refer to the Key
performance and non-GAAP measures section.

n.m. not meaningful

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 reflects the way that the business segment is managed. This approach is intended to ensure that our business segments’ results include all
applicable revenue and expenses associated with the conduct of their business and depicts how management views those results.

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

Expense allocation
To ensure that our business segments’ results include expenses associated with the conduct of their business, we allocate costs incurred or
services provided by Technology & Operations and Functions, which are directly undertaken or provided on the business segments’ behalf. For
other costs not directly attributable to our business segments, 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 is intended to reflect the underlying benefits. In 2017,
we maintained some of our severance and related costs in Corporate Support.

Capital attribution
Our management reporting framework also determines 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. For further information, refer to the Capital management section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

21

Funds transfer pricing
Funds transfer pricing refers to the pricing of intra-company borrowing or lending for management reporting purposes. We employ a funds
transfer pricing process to enable risk-adjusted management reporting of segment results. This process determines the costs and revenue for
intra-company borrowing and lending of funds after taking into consideration our interest rate risk and liquidity risk management objectives, as
well as applicable regulatory requirements.

Provisions for credit losses
PCL are recorded to recognize estimated losses on impaired loans and losses that have been incurred but not yet identified in our total loans
portfolio. This credit portfolio includes on-balance sheet exposures, such as loans and acceptances, and off-balance sheet items such as letters
of credit, guarantees and unfunded commitments. PCL on impaired loans are included in the results of each business segment to fully reflect the
appropriate expenses related to the conduct of each business segment. PCL on loans not yet identified as impaired are included in Corporate
Support, as Group Risk Management (GRM) effectively controls this through its monitoring and oversight of various lending portfolios throughout
the enterprise. For details on our accounting policy on Allowance for credit losses, refer to Note 2 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial
Statements.

In addition to the key methodologies described above, the following highlights the key aspects of how some of our business segments are
managed and reported:
• Wealth Management reported results also include disclosure in U.S. dollars, primarily for U.S. Wealth Management (including City National)

•

•

as we review and manage the results of this business largely in this currency.
Capital Markets results are reported on a taxable equivalent basis (teb), which grosses up total revenue from certain tax-advantaged
sources (Canadian taxable corporate dividends and the U.S. tax credit investment business) to their effective taxable equivalent value with
a corresponding offset recorded in the provision for income taxes. We record the elimination of the teb adjustments in Corporate Support.
We believe these adjustments are useful and reflect how Capital Markets manages its business, since it enhances the comparability of
revenue and related ratios across taxable revenue and our principal tax-advantaged source of revenue. The use of teb adjustments and
measures may not be comparable to similar generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) measures or similarly adjusted amounts
disclosed by other financial institutions.
Corporate Support results include all enterprise level activities that are undertaken for the benefit of the organization that are not allocated
to our five business segments, such as enterprise funding, securitizations, net charges associated with unattributed capital, and
consolidation adjustments, including the elimination of the teb gross-up amounts.

Key performance and non-GAAP measures

Performance measures
Return on common equity (ROE)
We measure and evaluate the performance of our consolidated operations and each business segment using a number of financial metrics, such
as net income and ROE. We use ROE, at both the consolidated and business segment levels, as a measure of return on total capital invested in
our business. Management views the business segment ROE measure as a useful measure for supporting investment and resource allocation
decisions because it adjusts for certain items that may affect comparability between business segments and certain competitors.

Our consolidated ROE calculation is based on net income available to common shareholders divided by total average common equity for
the period. Business segment ROE calculations are based on net income available to common shareholders divided by average attributed capital
for the period. For each segment, average attributed capital includes the capital required to underpin various risks as described in the Capital
management section and amounts invested in goodwill and intangibles.

The attribution of capital involves the use of assumptions, judgments and methodologies that are regularly reviewed and revised by
management as deemed necessary. Changes to such assumptions, judgments and methodologies can have a material effect on the business
segment ROE information that we report. Other companies that disclose information on similar attributions and related return measures may use
different assumptions, judgments and methodologies.

The following table provides a summary of our ROE calculations:

Calculation of ROE

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Personal &
Commercial
Banking

Wealth
Management

Net income available to common shareholders
Total average common equity (1), (2)

$

ROE (3)

$

5,659
20,000

28.3%

1,775
13,450

13.2%

Insurance

$

718
1,700

41.8%

2017

Investor &
Treasury
Services

$

725
3,200

Capital
Markets

$ 2,438
18,850

Corporate
Support

Total

$

(187)
8,100

$ 11,128
65,300

$

22.7%

12.9%

n.m.

17.0%

Table 14

2016

Total

10,111
62,200

16.3%

(1)
(2)

Total average common equity represents rounded figures.
The amounts for the segments are referred to as attributed capital. Effective the first quarter of 2017, we increased our capital attribution rate to better align with higher regulatory capital
requirements.
ROE is based on actual balances of average common equity before rounding.

(3)
n.m. not meaningful

Embedded value for Insurance operations
Embedded value is a measure of shareholder value embedded in the balance sheet of our Insurance segment, excluding any value from future
new sales. We use the change in embedded value between reporting periods as a measure of the value created by the insurance operations
during the period.

We define embedded value as the value of equity held in our Insurance segment and the value of in-force business (existing policies). The
value of in-force business is calculated as the present value of future expected earnings on in-force business less the cost of capital required to
support in-force business. We use discount rates equal to long-term risk free rates plus a spread. Required capital uses the capital frameworks in
the jurisdictions in which we operate.

22

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Key drivers affecting the change in embedded value from period to period are new sales, investment performance, claims and policyholder

experience, change in actuarial assumptions, changes in foreign exchange rates and changes in shareholder equity arising from transfers in
capital.

Embedded value does not have a standardized meaning under GAAP and may not be directly comparable to similar measures disclosed by
other companies. Given that this measure is specifically used for our Insurance segment and involves the use of discount rates to determine the
present value of the future expected earnings and capital required for the in-force business, reconciliation to financial statements information is
not applicable.

Non-GAAP measures
We believe that certain non-GAAP measures described below are more reflective of our ongoing operating results and provide readers with a
better understanding of management’s perspective on our performance. These measures enhance the comparability of our financial performance
for the year ended October 31, 2017 with results from last year as well as, in the case of economic profit, measure relative contribution to
shareholder value. Non-GAAP measures do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP and may not be comparable to similar measures
disclosed by other financial institutions.

The following discussion describes the non-GAAP measures we use in evaluating our operating results.

Economic profit
Economic profit is net income excluding the after-tax effect of amortization of other intangibles less a capital charge for use of attributed capital.
It measures the return generated by our businesses in excess of our cost of shareholders’ equity, thus enabling users to identify relative
contributions to shareholder value.

The capital charge includes a charge for common equity and preferred shares. Effective the first quarter of 2017, we revised our cost of equity to
8.5% from 9.0% for 2016, largely as a result of lower long-term interest rates.

The following table provides a summary of our Economic profit:

Economic Profit

Table 15

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Net income

add: Non-controlling interests

After-tax effect of amortization of

other intangibles

Adjusted net income (loss)

less: Capital charge

Economic profit (loss)

Personal &
Commercial
Banking

$

$

$

5,755
(5)

11

5,761
1,791

3,970

Wealth
Management

Insurance

$

$

$

1,838
–

179

2,017
1,206

811

$

$

$

726
–

–

726
154

572

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Net income

add: Non-controlling interests

After-tax effect of amortization of

other intangibles

Adjusted net income (loss)

less: Capital charge

Economic profit (loss)

Personal &
Commercial
Banking

$

$

$

5,184
(8)

12

5,188
1,756

3,432

Wealth
Management

Insurance

$

$

$

1,473
–

183

1,656
1,229

427

$

$

$

900
–

–

900
160

740

2017

Investor &
Treasury
Services

$

$

$

741
(1)

15

755
286

469

2016

Investor &
Treasury
Services

$

$

$

613
(1)

16

628
316

312

Capital
Markets

$ 2,525
–

–

$ 2,525
1,690

$ 835

Corporate
Support

Total

$

$

$

(116)
(35)

$ 11,469
(41)

1

(150)
722

(872)

206

$ 11,634
5,849

$

5,785

Capital
Markets

$ 2,270
–

–

$ 2,270
1,694

$ 576

Corporate
Support

Total

$

$

$

18
(44)

$ 10,458
(53)

1

(25)
738

212

$ 10,617
5,893

(763)

$ 4,724

Results excluding specified items
Our results were impacted by the following specified items:
•

For the year ended October 31, 2017, our share of a gain related to the sale by our payment processing joint venture Moneris of its U.S.
operations to Vantiv, Inc., which was $212 million (before- and after-tax) and recorded in Personal & Commercial Banking.
For the year ended October 31, 2016, a gain from the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business, RBC General Insurance
Company, to Aviva Canada Inc. (Aviva), which was $287 million ($235 million after-tax) and recorded in Insurance.

•

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

23

The following tables provide calculations of our business segment results and measures excluding these specified items:

Personal & Commercial Banking

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts) (1)

Total revenue

PCL
Non-interest expense

Net income before income taxes
Net income

Other information

Non-interest expense
Total revenue
Efficiency ratio

Revenue growth rate
Non-interest expense growth rate
Operating leverage

2017

Item excluded

Gain related to the
sale by Moneris (2)

$

$
$

$

(212)
–
–

(212)
(212)

–
(212)

Table 16

Adjusted

$ 15,651
1,054
7,176

$ 7,421
$ 5,543

$ 7,176
15,651
45.9%

4.3%
3.5%
0.8%

As reported

$ 15,863
1,054
7,176

$
$

$

7,633
5,755

7,176
15,863
45.2%

5.7%
3.5%
2.2%

(1)

(2)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Includes foreign currency translation.

Canadian Banking

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts) (1)

Total revenue

PCL
Non-interest expense

Net income before income taxes
Net income

Other information

Non-interest expense
Total revenue
Efficiency ratio

Revenue growth rate
Non-interest expense growth rate
Operating leverage

2017

Item excluded

Gain related to the
sale by Moneris (2)

$

$
$

$

(212)
–
–

(212)
(212)

–
(212)

Table 17

Adjusted

$ 14,665
1,016
6,423

$ 7,226
$ 5,359

$ 6,423
14,665
43.8%

4.7%
3.8%
0.9%

As reported

$ 14,877
1,016
6,423

$
$

$

7,438
5,571

6,423
14,877
43.2%

6.2%
3.8%
2.4%

(1)

(2)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Includes foreign currency translation.

24

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Insurance

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Total revenue
PBCAE
Non-interest expense (1)

Net income before income taxes
Net income

Other information

ROE

(1)

Includes Provision for credit losses of $1 million.

2016

Item excluded

Gain related to
the sale of RBC
General Insurance
Company

$

$
$

(287)
–
–

(287)
(235)

Table 18

Adjusted

$ 4,864
3,424
623

$
$

817
665

41.0%

As
reported

$ 5,151
3,424
623

$ 1,104
900
$

52.8%

Efficiency ratio excluding the change in fair value of investments in Insurance
Our efficiency ratio is impacted by the change in fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities, which is reported in revenue and
largely offset in PBCAE.

The following table provides calculations of our consolidated efficiency ratio excluding the change in fair value of investments backing our
policyholder liabilities:

Consolidated non-GAAP efficiency ratio

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts) (1)

Total revenue
Non-interest expense

Efficiency ratio

As reported

$40,669
21,794

53.6%

2017

Items excluded

Change in fair value
of investments backing
policyholder liabilities

Adjusted

As reported

2016

Items excluded

Change in fair value
of investments backing
policyholder liabilities

Table 19

Adjusted

$

58
–

$40,727
21,794

53.5%

$

$38,795
20,526

52.9%

(633)
–

$ 38,162
20,526

53.8%

(1)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

Personal & Commercial Banking

Personal & Commercial Banking provides a broad suite of financial products and services, and aims to provide an exceptional client experience
to individuals and businesses for their day-to-day banking, purchase of a home and investment needs. We have meaningful relationships with
many of our clients underscored by the breadth of our products and depth of expertise across our businesses.

> 13 million

Number of clients

Revenue by business lines

$15.9 billion
Total revenue

 53%  Personal Financial Services

 21%  Business Financial Services

 20%  Cards and Payment Solutions

  6%  Caribbean and U.S. Banking

> 6 million

Active digital users

34,773

Employees

We operate through two businesses – Canadian Banking and Caribbean & U.S. Banking.
Canadian Banking serves our home market in Canada, where we maintain top (#1 or #2)
rankings in market share in this competitive environment for all key retail and business
financial product categories. We have the largest branch network, the most ATMs and one
of the largest mobile sales networks across Canada. In Caribbean & U.S. Banking, we offer
a broad range of financial products and services in targeted markets.

In Canada, we compete with other Schedule 1 banks, independent trust companies,
foreign banks, credit unions, caisses populaires and auto financing companies.

In the Caribbean, our competition includes banks, trust companies and investment
management companies serving retail and corporate customers, as well as public
institutions. In the U.S., we compete primarily with other Canadian banking institutions
with U.S. operations.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

25

2017 Operating environment
› Strong employment growth in Canada boosted consumer confidence which resulted in strong volume growth across most of our Canadian

Banking lending and deposit products.

› Continued strong demand for housing in Canada resulted in solid growth in client mortgage balances.
› Growth in our investment product balances, driven by solid equity market returns and increased client confidence.
› A low interest rate environment coupled with competitive pressures persisted for most of 2017. This was partially offset by the Bank of Canada

rate increases in July and September.

›

›

Improved credit conditions due to lower national unemployment and improved economic conditions, especially in oil exposed provinces.

In the Caribbean, the region continued to experience underlying economic challenges which has negatively impacted growth in our loan and
deposit balances.

› Technology is transforming the way we operate and interact with our clients. Therefore, we continued to invest in digital solutions to improve

the client experience and deliver personalized advice.

Strategic priorities

OUR STRATEGY

PROGRESS IN 2017

PRIORITIES IN 2018

Transform how we serve our clients

Accelerate our growth in key segments

Rapidly deliver digital solutions to our clients

Innovate to become a more agile and efficient bank

In the Caribbean

In the U.S.

Outlook

Continued to provide exceptional and secure client
experiences via mobile platforms, releasing more
mobile functionality than our competitors

Deliver anytime, anywhere solutions to our clients
across distribution channels, integrating mobile and
digital devices and capabilities into our clients’ lives

Focused on innovating our branch network, including
the opening of new alternative branch formats

Continue to reimagine our branch network to meet the
evolving needs of our clients

Targeted high-growth client segments to increase our
presence in and deliver customized advice to
underserviced groups, including retirees, youth,
newcomers and business owners

Leveraged artificial intelligence to create NOMI
InsightsTM and NOMI Find & SaveTM, becoming the first
bank in Canada to offer clients personalized digital
financial insights and a fully automated savings service

Introduced Interac E-transfers with iMessage and
Siripay

Launched MyAdvisor, an online advice platform to
remotely connect a client to an advisor

Introduced CreditView Dashboard to provide clients
with online access to their credit score

Focus on engaging key segments to build new and
deeper relationships and achieve industry leading
volume growth

Introduce more personalized insights to improve the
customer experience while continuing to simplify and
digitize everyday banking

Enhance the digital experience for our small business
and commercial clients and make it easier to do
business with us

Accelerated our investments to simplify, digitize and
automate activities and processes for both clients and
employees

Continue to invest in new tools and capabilities and
proactively seek ways to simplify internal processes
and the client experience

Continued to streamline our branch network and invest
in our mobile banking platform

Rolled out voice enabled ATMs in the Trinidad market –
a first of its kind

Continue to transform our business by investing in our
distribution network supported by digital innovations,
self-serve channels, redesigned branches and a
proactive mobile sales force to grow and retain our
target retail, business and corporate client base

Continued strong growth in our U.S. cross-border client
base supported by significant enhancements to our
online banking capabilities, driving increased client
engagement

Strive to fully digitize our account opening processes,
deliver on targeted marketing, content and service
partnerships and further enhancements to the digital
banking experience to drive client acquisition and
volume growth

The Canadian economy is expected to grow by 2.1% in calendar 2018, driven by stronger business investment, exports and government
spending, offset by slower consumer spending growth. Given recent regulatory measures implemented by the Federal government in 2017, we
expect the housing market to moderate, which could impact demand for mortgage products. Although the BoC raised its overnight rate twice in
2017, we expect a pause until the second calendar quarter of 2018 as the BoC remains cautious regarding future rate increases. The rate
increases in 2017, as well as any future increases, will continue to have an impact on our net interest margins, partially offset by ongoing
competitive pressures. We continue to maintain our focus on strengthening business performance by pursuing industry leading volume growth,
operational efficiency efforts and channel transformation to achieve our vision of being a Digitally Enabled Relationship Bank.

In the Caribbean, we are focused on transforming our business in order to be the best bank for our target retail, business and corporate clients,
by building an organization with a multi-channel distribution network supported by digital innovations.

For further details on our general economic review and outlook, refer to the Economic, market and regulatory review and outlook section.

26

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Personal & Commercial Banking

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted) (1)

Net interest income
Non-interest income

Total revenue

PCL
Non-interest expense
Income before income taxes
Net income

Revenue by business
Canadian Banking
Caribbean & U.S. Banking

Key ratios
ROE
NIM
Efficiency ratio
Efficiency ratio adjusted (2)
Operating leverage
Operating leverage adjusted (2)

Selected average balance sheet information

Total assets
Total earning assets
Loans and acceptances
Deposits

Other information

AUA (3)
AUM
Number of employees (FTE) (4)
Effective income tax rate

Credit information

Gross impaired loans as a % of related loans and acceptances
PCL on impaired loans as a % of average net loans and acceptances

$

$

$

$

$

2017
10,787 $
5,076
15,863
1,054
7,176
7,633
5,755 $

14,877 $
986

28.3%
2.68%
45.2%
45.9%
2.2%
0.8%

421,100 $
403,100
402,500
344,400

264,800 $
4,600
34,773
24.6%

0.36%
0.26%

Table 20

2016

10,337
4,675
15,012
1,122
6,933
6,957
5,184

14,009
1,003

27.5%
2.68%
46.2%
n.a.
1.3%
n.a.

403,800
385,400
383,900
320,100

239,600
4,600
35,362
25.5%

0.43%
0.29%

(1)

(2)

(3)
(4)
n.a.

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Measures have been adjusted by excluding our share of the Q1 2017 gain related to the sale of the U.S. operations of Moneris of $212 million (before- and after-tax). These are non-GAAP
measures. For further details, refer to the Key performance and non-GAAP measures section.
AUA includes $18.4 billion and $8.4 billion (2016 – $18.6 billion and $9.6 billion) of securitized residential mortgages and credit card loans, respectively.
Amounts have been revised from previously reported.
not applicable

Financial performance
2017 vs. 2016
Net income increased $571 million or 11% from the prior year. Excluding our share of the gain related to the sale of the U.S. operations of
Moneris of $212 million (before- and after-tax), net income increased $359 million or 7%, mainly due to volume growth of 6%. Higher fee-based
revenue in Canada and lower PCL also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by higher costs, including costs in support
of business growth.

Total revenue increased $851 million or 6% from the prior year. Excluding our share of the gain noted previously, revenue increased

$639 million or 4% mainly due to volume growth of 6%, and higher fee-based revenue in Canada primarily attributable to higher balances driving
higher mutual fund distribution fees. Higher card service revenue due to higher purchase volumes also contributed to the increase.

NIM was flat.
PCL decreased $68 million or 6%, with the PCL ratio improving 3 bps, largely due to lower provisions in our Canadian lending portfolios. For

further details, refer to Credit quality performance in the Credit Risk section.

Non-interest expense increased $243 million or 4%, primarily attributable to higher costs in support of business growth reflecting ongoing

investments in technology, including digital initiatives, and higher marketing costs. Higher staff-related costs, including severance, and an
impairment related to properties held for sale in the Caribbean also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by the
continued benefits from our efficiency management activities.

Average loans and acceptances increased $19 billion or 5%, largely due to growth in Canadian residential mortgages and business loans.
Average deposits increased $24 billion or 8%, reflecting growth in business and personal deposits.

Results excluding the specified item noted previously are non-GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation, refer to the Key
performance and non-GAAP measures section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

27

In Canada, we operate through three business lines: Personal Financial Services, Business Financial Services, and Cards and Payment
Solutions. The following provides a discussion of our consolidated Canadian Banking results.

Canadian Banking financial highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted) (1)

Net interest income
Non-interest income

Total revenue

PCL
Non-interest expense

Net income before income taxes
Net income

Revenue by business

Personal Financial Services
Business Financial Services
Cards and Payment Solutions

Key Ratios
ROE
NIM
Efficiency ratio
Efficiency ratio adjusted (2)
Operating leverage
Operating leverage adjusted (2)

Selected average balance sheet information

Total assets
Total earning assets
Loans and acceptances
Deposits

Other information

AUA (3)
Number of employees (FTE) (4)
Effective income tax rate

Credit information

Table 21

2017

2016

$

$

$

10,128
4,749
14,877
1,016
6,423
7,438
5,571

8,331
3,357
3,189

32.9%
2.62%
43.2%
43.8%
2.4%
0.9%

$

$

$

9,683
4,326
14,009
1,080
6,186
6,743
5,002

7,986
3,190
2,833

32.6%
2.63%
44.2%
n.a.
1.2%
n.a.

$ 398,500
386,000
393,400
326,100

$ 381,000
368,100
374,600
301,400

$ 256,400
31,902
25.1%

$ 231,400
32,297
25.8%

Gross impaired loans as a % of related loans and acceptances
PCL on impaired loans as a % of average net loans and acceptances

0.24%
0.26%

0.27%
0.29%

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)
n.a.

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented
on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Measures have been adjusted by excluding our share of the Q1 2017 gain related to sale of the U.S. operations of Moneris of
$212 million (before- and after-tax). These are non-GAAP measures. For further details, refer to the Key performance and
non-GAAP measures section.
AUA includes $18.4 billion and $8.4 billion (2016 – $18.6 billion and $9.6 billion) of securitized residential mortgages and credit
card loans, respectively.
Amounts have been revised from previously reported.
not applicable

Financial performance
2017 vs. 2016
Net income increased $569 million or 11% compared to last year. Excluding our share of the gain related to the sale of the U.S. operations of
Moneris of $212 million (before- and after-tax), net income increased $357 million or 7%, largely due to volume growth of 6%, partially offset by
lower spreads. Higher fee-based revenue and lower PCL also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by higher costs,
including costs in support of business growth.

Total revenue increased $868 million or 6% compared to last year. Excluding our share of the gain noted previously, revenue increased
$656 million or 5%, mainly due to volume growth of 6%, partially offset by lower spreads, and higher fee-based revenue primarily attributable to
higher balances driving higher mutual fund distribution fees. Increased card service revenue due to higher purchase volumes and higher foreign
exchange revenue also contributed to the increase.

Net interest margin decreased 1 bp compared to last year.
PCL decreased $64 million or 6%, with the PCL ratio improving 3 bps, largely due to lower provisions in our personal lending portfolios. For

further details, refer to Credit quality performance in the Credit Risk section.

Non-interest expense increased $237 million or 4%, primarily attributable to higher costs in support of business growth reflecting ongoing

investments in technology, including digital initiatives, and higher marketing costs. Higher staff-related costs, including severance, also
contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by continued benefits from our efficiency management activities.

Average loans and acceptances increased $19 billion or 5%, largely due to growth in residential mortgages and business loans.
Average deposits increased $25 billion or 8%, reflecting growth in business and personal deposits.

Results excluding the specified item noted previously are non-GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation, refer to the Key
performance and non-GAAP measures section.

28

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Business line review

Personal Financial Services

Personal Financial Services offers a full range of products focused on meeting the needs of our individual Canadian clients at every stage of their
lives through a wide range of financing and investment products and services, including home equity financing, personal lending, deposit
accounts, Canadian private banking, indirect lending (including auto financing), mutual funds distribution and self-directed brokerage accounts,
and Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs). We rank #1 or #2 in market share for all key personal banking products in Canada and our retail
banking network is the largest in Canada with 1,235 branches and 4,290 ATMs.

Financial performance
Total revenue increased $345 million or 4% compared to last year, primarily reflecting volume growth of 5% largely in residential mortgages and
deposits, partially offset by lower spreads. Increased fee-based revenue primarily attributable to higher balances driving higher mutual fund
distribution fees also contributed to the increase.

Average residential mortgages increased 6% compared to last year mainly due to solid housing market activity. Average deposits increased

5% from last year largely reflecting the acquisition of new clients and deepening of our existing relationships. Strong market appreciation and
net sales resulted in continued growth in client mutual fund balances.

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except number of)

Total revenue (1)
Other information (average)
Residential mortgages
Other loans and acceptances
Deposits (2)
Branch mutual fund balances (3)
AUA – Self-directed brokerage (3)

Number of:

New deposit accounts opened (thousands)
Branches
ATM

Table 22

Average residential mortgages, personal loans and deposits 
(Millions of Canadian dollars)

2017

2016

$

8,331 $

7,986

222,500
81,400
195,700
148,400
79,600

1,306
1,235
4,290

210,400
81,800
185,600
132,100
69,700

1,346
1,268
4,555

228,000

190,000

152,000

114,000

76,000

38,000

0

120,000

100,000

80,000

60,000

40,000

20,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

Residential mortgages

Other loans
and acceptances

Deposits

(1)

(2)
(3)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain
commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense.
Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Includes GIC balances.
Represents year-end spot balances.

Business Financial Services

Business Financial Services offers a wide range of lending, leasing, deposit, investment, foreign exchange, cash management, auto dealer
financing (floor plan), trade products and services to small and medium-sized commercial businesses, as well as agriculture and agribusiness
clients across Canada. Our business banking network has the largest team of relationship managers and specialists in the industry. Our strong
commitment to our clients has resulted in our leading market share in business loans and deposits.

Financial performance
Total revenue increased $167 million or 5% compared to last year, largely reflecting volume growth of 11%, partially offset by lower spreads.
Average loans and acceptances increased 9% and average deposits were up 13%, mainly due to our strategy of new client acquisition in

select business segments and markets, as well as increased activity from existing clients.

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue
Other information (average)
Loans and acceptances
Deposits (1)

(1)

Includes GIC balances.

Table 23

Average business loans and acceptances and business deposits 
(Millions of Canadian dollars)

2017
$ 3,357 $

2016

3,190

72,500
130,400

66,400
115,800

75,000

60,000

45,000

30,000

15,000

0

150,000

120,000

90,000

60,000

30,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

Business loans and acceptances

Business deposits

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

29

Cards and Payment Solutions

Cards and Payment Solutions provides a wide array of credit cards with loyalty and reward benefits, and payment products and solutions within
Canada. We have over 7 million credit card accounts and have approximately 23% market share of Canada’s credit card purchase volume. In
addition, this business line includes our 50% interest in Moneris, our payment processing joint venture which sold its U.S. operations to Vantiv,
Inc. during the year.

Financial performance
Total revenue increased $356 million or 13% compared to last year. Excluding our share of the gain noted previously, revenue increased
$144 million or 5% mainly driven by higher loan balances and increased purchase volumes.

Average credit card balances increased 6% and net purchase volumes increased 9% reflecting higher client activity, underscored by the

strength of our proprietary rewards program and our co-brand relationships.

Results excluding the specified item noted previously are non-GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation, refer to the Key
performance and non-GAAP measures section.

Table 24

Average credit card balances and net purchase volumes 
(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue
Other information

2017
3,189 $

2016

2,833

$

Average credit card balances
Net purchase volumes

17,000
106,600

16,000
97,400

18,000

15,000

12,000

9,000

6,000

3,000

0

120,000

100,000

80,000

60,000

40,000

20,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

Average credit card balances

Net purchase volumes

Caribbean & U.S. Banking

Our Caribbean Banking business offers a comprehensive suite of banking products and services, as well as international financing and trade
promotion services through extensive branch, ATM, online and mobile banking networks.

Our U.S. cross-border banking business serves the needs of our Canadian clients within the U.S., and offers a broad range of financial

products and services to individual and business clients across all 50 states.

Financial performance
Total revenue was down $17 million or 2% from last year, primarily due to lower volumes and the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Average loans and acceptances decreased 2%, and average deposits decreased 2%, mostly due to lower client activity and the impact of

foreign exchange translation.

Selected highlights

Table 25

Average loans and deposits (Millions of Canadian dollars)

(Millions of Canadian dollars, number of and
percentage amounts)

Total revenue
Other information

Net interest margin
Average loans and acceptances
Average deposits
AUA
AUM
Number of:
Branches
ATM

$

$

2017

986 $

2016

1,003

3.85%
9,100 $

18,300
8,400
4,600

67
266

3.78%
9,300
18,700
8,200
4,600

77
276

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

0

20,000

16,000

12,000

8,000

4,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

Loans and acceptances

Deposits

30

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Wealth Management

Wealth Management is a global business serving clients in key financial centres. We serve high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth (UHNW)
individual and institutional clients with a comprehensive suite of advice-based solutions and strategies to help them achieve their financial goals.

$10.1 billion

Total revenue

> 4,800

Client-facing advisors

> $19 billion

AUA net flows

Asset under Administration

Asset under Management

$929 billion
Total AUA

$634 billion
Total AUM

 88%  Personal

 11%  Institutional

  1%  Mutual Funds

 32%  Mutual Funds

 34%  Personal

 34%  Institutional

Our lines of businesses are comprised of
Canadian Wealth Management, U.S. Wealth
Management (including City National), Global
Asset Management (GAM) and International
Wealth Management.

• Canadian Wealth Management is the largest

full-service wealth advisory business in
Canada as measured by AUA

• U.S. Wealth Management (including City
National) is among the top 10 full-service
brokerage firms in terms of AUA and number
of advisors

• GAM is the largest retail fund company in
Canada as well as a leading institutional
asset manager

• International Wealth Management serves
HNW and UHNW clients primarily through
key financial centres in Europe and Asia.

2017 Operating environment
›

In 2017, the Canadian and U.S. economies continued to expand and respective central banks increased core interest rates. The strong
economic performance resulted in improved investor confidence and stronger equity markets driving higher assets under management and
assets under administration.

› Net sales and net new assets also benefitted from strong equity markets, offsetting the negative returns of the bond market as interest rates

increased and are anticipated to continue rising in 2018.

› Strong loan growth and increased spreads due to the rising interest rate environment, mainly in the U.S., contributed to net interest income

growth.

› Technology is transforming the way we operate and interact with our clients. Therefore, we continue to invest in digital solutions to anticipate

and meet changing client preferences and increase efficiencies.

Strategic priorities

OUR STRATEGY

PROGRESS IN 2017

PRIORITIES IN 2018

In select global financial centres, become the
most trusted regional private bank

Continued to deliver comprehensive value to key HNW
and UHNW client segments by providing a more
integrated and tailored proposition across multiple
solutions, including investments, deposits, credit and
trust services

Continue to leverage our global strengths and
capabilities to drive growth in HNW and UHNW client
segments

Continue to enhance our product offering and
distribution capabilities

In Canada, be the premier service provider for HNW
and UHNW clients

Maintained our position as industry leader in our full-
service private wealth business

Continue to differentiate client experience that is
digitally-enabled and supported by data-driven insights

Improved client experience and advisor productivity
through enhanced digital engagement (e.g., launch of
the Advisor’s Virtual Assistant application)

Deepen client relationships jointly with our partners
(e.g., Private Banking and Commercial Banking in
Personal & Commercial Banking)

Launched the Money in Motion initiative to further
solidify our expertise around business owners,
succession and wealth planning

In the U.S., become the leading private and
commercial bank and wealth manager in our key
markets

Invested in capabilities, technology and talent to grow
our full-service brokerage business

Expanded City National business model to select high
growth markets with strong RBC Wealth Management
and Capital Markets presence, including Washington,
D.C. and Minneapolis

Continue to strive to deliver an exceptional client
experience for targeted HNW, UHNW, middle market
and business banking segments

Leverage the combined strengths within U.S. Wealth
Management (including City National) and Capital
Markets with a view to accelerating growth in the U.S.

In asset management, be a leading, diversified
asset manager focused on global institutional and
North American retail clients

Maintained #1 market share in Canadian mutual fund
assets under management

Continued to drive growth in U.S. and international
institutional clients in select investment capabilities

Strengthen our partnerships with Personal &
Commercial Banking, other Wealth Management
businesses and third-party distributors to defend and
grow our distribution reach

Grow our global institutional asset management
business, particularly in relevant markets

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

31

Outlook

Our diversified businesses are positioned to benefit from our focus on our clients, continued investments in people and technology, volume
growth, and rising interest rates. Despite continued geopolitical and regulatory uncertainty in the major global economies, we expect global
private wealth accumulation to continue to drive growth in the HNW and UHNW client segments. We will continue to leverage our brand,
reputation and financial strength to increase our market share of the HNW and UHNW client segments globally. In addition, changing
demographics and rapid advancements in digitization are expected to drive change in client preferences, needs and service models, requiring a
continued focus on delivering a digitally-integrated, multi-channel experience for our clients and client-facing professionals.

For further details on our general economic review and outlook, refer to the Economic, market and regulatory review and outlook section.

Wealth Management

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except number of and percentage amounts and as otherwise noted) (1)

Net interest income
Non-interest income
Fee-based revenue
Transaction and other revenue

Total revenue

PCL
Non-interest expense
Income before income taxes
Net income
Revenue by business

Canadian Wealth Management
U.S. Wealth Management (including City National)

U.S. Wealth Management (including City National) (US$ millions)

Global Asset Management
International Wealth Management

Key Ratios
ROE
NIM
Pre-tax margin (2)

Selected average balance sheet information

Total assets
Loans and acceptances
Deposits
Attributed capital

Other information

Revenue per advisor (000s) (3)
AUA (4), (5)
AUM (4)
Average AUA
Average AUM
Number of employees (FTE)
Number of advisors (6)

$

$

$

$

$

2017
2,248 $

5,799
2,028
10,075
34
7,611
2,430
1,838 $

2,815 $
4,891
3,744
1,994
375

13.2%
3.02%
24.1%

88,100 $
51,500
93,100
13,450

1,353 $

929,200
634,100
898,500
600,400
16,962
4,884

Table 26

2016
1,955

5,323
1,725
9,003
48
7,015
1,940
1,473

2,506
4,173
3,155
1,894
430

10.9%
2.84%
21.5%

83,200
49,200
85,400
12,950

1,184
875,300
580,700
845,800
560,800
16,385
4,780

Estimated impact of U.S. dollar, British pound and Euro translation on key income statement items

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted)

2017 vs. 2016

Increase (decrease):
Total revenue (1)
PCL
Non-interest expense (1)
Net income

Percentage change in average US$ equivalent of C$1.00
Percentage change in average British pound equivalent of C$1.00
Percentage change in average Euro equivalent of C$1.00

$

(124)
1
(102)
(17)
1%
10%
–%

(1)

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

(6)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Pre-tax margin is defined as Income before income taxes divided by Total revenue.
Represents investment advisors and financial consultants of our Canadian and U.S. full-service wealth businesses.
Represents year-end spot balances.
In addition to Canadian Wealth Management, U.S. Wealth Managements (including City National), and International Wealth Management, amounts also include AUA of $6,600 million
(2016: $6,200 million) related to Global Asset Management (GAM).
Represents client-facing advisors across all our wealth management businesses.

32

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Client assets – AUA

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
AUA, beginning balance

Asset inflows
Asset outflows

Total net flows

Market impact
Acquisitions/dispositions
Foreign exchange

Total market, acquisition/dispositions and foreign exchange impact

AUA, balance at end of year

Client assets – AUM

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
AUM, beginning balance
Institutional inflows
Institutional outflows
Personal flows, net

Total net flows

Market impact
Acquisition/dispositions
Foreign exchange

Total market, acquisition/dispositions and

foreign exchange impact
AUM, balance at end of year

AUA by geographic mix and asset class

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Canada (1)

Money market
Fixed income
Equity
Multi-asset and other

Total Canada

U.S. (1)

Money market
Fixed income
Equity
Multi-asset and other

Total U.S.

Other International (1)

Money market
Fixed income
Equity (2)
Multi-asset and other (2)

2017

Money market
48,000
$
27,200
(37,800)
700
(9,900)
–
–
(1,100)

Fixed income
196,800
$
31,100
(32,400)
2,100
800
3,500
–
(2,200)

Equity
$ 100,800
6,600
(4,800)
10,300
12,100
18,200
–
(2,400)

Multi-asset
and other
$ 235,100
4,000
(2,300)
18,300
20,000
20,400
(4,000)
(2,000)

Total

$ 580,700 $
68,900
(77,300)
31,400
23,000
42,100
(4,000)
(7,700)

(1,100)
37,000

$

1,300
198,900

15,800
$ 128,700

14,400
$ 269,500

30,400
$ 634,100 $

83,300
580,700

$

2017
875,300 $
274,300
(254,800)
19,500
82,700
(28,200)
(20,100)
34,400
929,200 $

$

$

Table 27

2016
823,700
251,000
(257,500)
(6,500)
31,100
17,800
9,200
58,100
875,300

Table 28

2016

Total
492,800
54,700
(71,600)
21,500
4,600
21,600
58,100
3,600

Table 29

2017

2016

$

21,600 $
35,700
94,300
208,700
$ 360,300 $

$

35,100 $

124,500
238,100
45,000
$ 442,700 $

$

17,000 $
11,400
50,100
47,700
$ 126,200 $
$ 929,200 $

21,600
36,300
89,100
180,700
327,700

36,100
126,800
200,800
30,500
394,200

23,300
21,400
69,500
39,200
153,400
875,300

Total International
Total AUA
(1)
(2)

Geographic information is based on the location from where our clients are served.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Financial performance
2017 vs. 2016
Net income increased $365 million or 25% from a year ago, mainly due to growth in average fee-based client assets and higher net interest
income and transaction revenue. These factors were partially offset by higher variable compensation on improved results and increased costs in
support of business growth.

Total revenue increased $1,072 million or 12%, reflecting growth in average fee-based client assets which benefitted from capital

appreciation and net sales, higher net interest income, mainly in the U.S. resulting from the impact of higher interest rates and volume growth,
and higher transaction revenue.

PCL decreased $14 million largely reflecting a recovery in one account in International Wealth Management.
Non-interest expense increased $596 million or 8%, largely due to higher variable compensation on improved results and higher costs in

support of business growth, mainly reflecting higher staff-related costs in the U.S. and ongoing investments in technology, including digital
initiatives.

Assets under administration increased $54 billion or 6%, largely due to capital appreciation and net sales, partially offset by the impacts

from the exit of certain international businesses and foreign exchange translation.

Assets under management increased $53 billion or 9%, primarily reflecting capital appreciation and net sales, partially offset by the impact

from foreign exchange translation.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

33

Business line review

Canadian Wealth Management

Canadian Wealth Management includes our full service Canadian wealth advisory business, which is the largest in Canada as measured by AUA,
with over 1,700 investment advisors providing comprehensive advice-based financial solutions to HNW and UHNW clients. Additionally, we
provide discretionary investment management and estate and trust services to our clients through approximately 78 investment counsellors and
103 trust professionals across Canada.

We compete with domestic banks and trust companies, investment counselling firms, bank-owned full service brokerages and boutique

brokerages, mutual fund companies and global private banks. In Canada, bank-owned wealth managers continue to be the major players.

Financial performance
Revenue increased $309 million or 12% from a year ago, primarily due to higher average fee-based client assets reflecting capital appreciation
and net sales.

Table 30

Average AUA and AUM (Millions of Canadian dollars)

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue (1)
Other information

Average loans and acceptances
Average deposits
AUA
AUM
Average AUA
Average AUM

2017

2016

$ 2,815 $ 2,506

3,300
17,400
359,600
90,400
344,900
83,700

3,200
16,300
326,600
76,000
309,100
69,400

400,000

300,000

200,000

100,000

0

(1)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain
commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense.
Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

U.S. Wealth Management (including City National)

100,000

75,000

50,000

25,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

AUA

AUM

U.S. Wealth Management (including City National) includes our private client group and City National. Our private client group is the 7th largest
full-service wealth advisory firm in the U.S., as measured by number of advisors, with over 1,800 financial advisors. Additionally, our
correspondent and advisor services businesses deliver clearing and execution services for small to mid-sized independent broker-dealers and
registered investment advisor firms. City National provides comprehensive financial solutions to affluent individuals, entrepreneurs,
professionals, their businesses and their families and provides a premier banking and financial experience through a high-touch service model,
proactive advice and financial solutions. City National offers a broad range of lending, deposit, cash management, international banking,
equipment financing, and other products and services. In the U.S., we operate in a fragmented and highly competitive industry and our
competition includes other broker-dealers, commercial banks and other financial institutions that service HNW individuals, entrepreneurs and
their businesses.

Financial performance
Revenue increased $718 million or 17% from a year ago, mainly due to increased net interest income from higher U.S. interest rates and volume
growth of 13% in loans and deposits, higher average fee-based client assets reflecting capital appreciation and net sales, and higher transaction
revenue.

Selected highlights

Table 31

Average AUA and AUM (Millions of U.S. dollars)

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except as otherwise noted)

Total revenue (1)
Other information (Millions of U.S. dollars)

Total revenue (1)
Average loans, guarantees and letters of

credit

Average deposits
AUA
AUM
Average AUA
Average AUM

2017

2016

$ 4,891 $ 4,173

3,744

3,155

33,500
47,500
343,200
92,200
319,100
83,500

29,900
41,200
293,900
76,700
289,200
74,200

400,000

300,000

200,000

100,000

0

(1)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain
commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense.
Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

100,000

75,000

50,000

25,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

AUA

AUM

34

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Global Asset Management

Global Asset Management provides global investment management services and solutions for individual and institutional investors in Canada,
the U.S., the U.K., Europe and Asia. We provide a broad range of investment management services through mutual, pooled and private funds,
fee-based accounts and separately managed portfolios. We distribute our investment solutions through a broad network of bank branches, our
self-directed and full-service wealth advisory businesses, independent third-party advisors and private banks, and directly to individual clients.
We also provide investment solutions directly to institutional clients, including pension plans, insurance companies, corporations, and
endowments and foundations.

We are the largest retail fund company in Canada as well as a leading institutional asset manager. We face competition in Canada from
banks, insurance companies, and asset management organizations. The Canadian fund management industry is large and mature, but remains a
relatively fragmented industry.

In the U.S., our asset management business offers investment management solutions and services primarily to institutional investors and

competes with independent asset management firms, as well as those that are part of national and international banks, and insurance
companies.

Internationally, through our global capabilities of BlueBay and RBC Global Asset Management®, we offer investment management solutions

for institutions and, through private banks including RBC Wealth Management®, to HNW and UHNW investors. We face competition from asset
managers that are part of international banks as well as national and regional asset managers in the geographies where we serve clients.

Financial performance
Revenue increased $100 million or 5% from a year ago, reflecting higher average fee-based client assets due to capital appreciation and net
sales.

Table 32

Average AUM (Millions of Canadian dollars)

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue (1)
Other information

Canadian net long-term mutual fund

sales (2)

Canadian net money market mutual fund

sales (redemptions) (2)

AUM
Average AUM

2017

2016

$ 1,994 $ 1,894

10,689

7,868

240
415,200
398,300

(439)
392,600
383,400

400,000

300,000

200,000

100,000

0

(1)

(2)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain
commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense.
Comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
As reported to the Investment Funds Institute of Canada. Includes all prospectus-based
mutual funds across our Canadian Global Asset Management businesses.

International Wealth Management

2017

2016

AUM

International Wealth Management includes operations in Europe and Asia. We provide customized and integrated trust, banking, credit and
investment solutions to HNW and UHNW clients and corporate clients in key financial centres in Europe and Asia. Competitors to our
International Wealth Management business comprise global wealth managers, traditional offshore private banks, domestic wealth managers
and U.S. investment-led private client operations.

Financial performance
Revenue decreased $55 million or 13% from a year ago, mainly reflecting the impact of foreign exchange translation, the exit of certain
international businesses, and lower transaction revenue.

Table 33

Average AUA and AUM (Millions of Canadian dollars)

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue
Other information

Average loans, guarantees and letters of

credit

Average deposits
AUA (1)
AUM
Average AUA (1)
Average AUM

(1)

Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

2017

2016

$

375 $

430

5,300
13,700
120,300
9,400
130,500
9,300

7,200
14,600
148,300
9,100
147,700
9,700

200,000

160,000

120,000

80,000

40,000

0

20,000

16,000

12,000

8,000

4,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

AUA

AUM

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

35

Insurance

RBC Insurance® offers a wide range of life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth and reinsurance advice and solutions, as well as creditor and
business insurance services to individual, business and group clients.

$4.6 billion

Total revenue

> 4 million

Number of clients

2,691

Employees

Premiums and Deposits

$4.5 billion
Total premiums
and deposits

 72%  Life and Health

25%   Annuity

  3%  P&C

Insurance has operations in Canada and globally, operating under two business lines:
Canadian Insurance and International Insurance.

In Canada, we offer our products and services through our proprietary distribution
channels, comprised of the field sales force, which includes retail insurance stores, our
field sales representatives, advice centres and online, as well as through independent
insurance advisors and affinity relationships.

Outside Canada, we operate in reinsurance markets globally offering life, accident and
annuity reinsurance products. The competitive environment for each business is
discussed below.

2017 Operating environment
› The insurance industry continues to face a number of challenges and opportunities, including regulatory changes, changing customer

preferences and expectations, and increasing technological, digital and mobile transformation in every aspect of the business. Insurers are
also refining product and distribution capacities in order to enhance operational efficiencies and manage expenses. To overcome these
challenges and take advantage of these opportunities, we have and continue to invest in digitization to enhance access and convenience,
reduce costs, and deliver value to clients beyond traditional insurance products.

› Our International Insurance business continues to be impacted by market conditions in a post-Brexit environment and industry adjustments

on new mortality data.

› Businesses have been revisiting their pension de-risking strategies and have looked to insurance companies to transfer their longevity risk.

Strategic priorities

OUR STRATEGY

Improve distribution efficiency

Deepen client relationships

Simplify.Agile.Innovate

Pursue select international opportunities to
grow our reinsurance business

PROGRESS IN 2017

PRIORITIES IN 2018

We experienced solid sales growth in our Canadian
Insurance business, maintaining our #1 ranking in
individual disability sales and outpacing industry
growth in our individual term life insurance product

Continue to improve our distribution efficiency by
expanding our proprietary distribution channels and
focusing on the delivery of technology and operational
solutions

Our Pension De-risking business achieved record
growth and is among the leaders in Canada

Our RBC Guaranteed Investment Fund recently reached
$1 billion in AUM and we continue to be one of the
fastest growing segregated fund providers in Canada

July 1, 2017 marked the one year anniversary of our
Aviva relationship. With this relationship, our advisors
have benefitted from access to a new set of solutions
for automobiles and expanded home coverage as well
as access to new technology and tools to offer
insurance solutions to our clients

We continued our focus on investments to enhance our
client experience and our cost effectiveness through
ongoing transformation of our legacy business and
improving our digital capabilities

We launched two apps: RBC Insurance My Benefits,
which gives our clients fast and easy access to their
group benefits plan; and PATH, a travel mobile app that
provides clients with access to emergency medical
assistance and up-to-date travel information

There has been a general slowdown in UK longevity
transactions as the market adjusted its pricing to reflect
emerging mortality trends in the UK. As such, growth in
the UK annuity market slowed in 2017

Deepen client relationships by continuing to be an
innovative, client-focused provider of a full suite of
insurance products

Simplify and innovate by accelerating our digital
initiatives’ time-to-market, improving quality and cost
effectiveness

Pursue select international opportunities, within our
risk appetite, with the aim of continuing to grow our
core reinsurance business

36

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Outlook

The insurance industry is expected to continue experiencing tremendous change and disruption in the coming year. Traditional market
incumbents will see their market share erode if they do not adapt to forces of change that include: evolving customer preferences and
expectations, changing demographics and customer profiles, technological transformation in every area of the business, new distribution
models, and the emergence of non-traditional competitors. We believe that execution of our business strategy will allow us to continue to thrive
in this changing environment.

There was a general slowdown in U.K. longevity transactions during 2017 as the market adjusted its pricing to reflect emerging mortality trends.
We believe that the U.K. pension risk transfer (annuity) business offers opportunities for growth in 2018 as the market rebounds. We will
continue to build on our capabilities, expand our portfolio of solutions in the annuity business and diversify our sources of longevity risk.

For further details on our general economic review and outlook, refer to the Economic, market and regulatory review and outlook section.

Insurance

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted)

Non-interest income

Net earned premiums
Investment income (1)
Fee income
Total revenue

Insurance policyholder benefits and claims (1)
Insurance policyholder acquisition expense
Non-interest expense (2)
Income before income taxes
Net income
Revenue by business
Canadian Insurance
International Insurance

Key ratios
ROE

Selected balances and other information

Total assets
Attributed capital

Other information

Premiums and deposits (3)
Canadian Insurance
International Insurance

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities
Fair value changes on investments backing policyholder liabilities (1)
Embedded value (4)
Number of employees (FTE)

$

$

$

$

$

Table 34

2016

3,175
1,422
554
5,151
3,208
216
623
1,104
900

3,373
1,778

52.8%

14,400
1,700

4,594
2,424
2,170
9,164
633
6,886
2,657

2017

3,875 $
453
238
4,566
2,787
266
584
929
726 $

2,569 $
1,997

41.8%

14,300 $
1,700

4,546 $
2,496
2,050
9,676
(58)
7,320
2,691

(1)

(2)
(3)
(4)

Investment income can experience volatility arising from fluctuation of fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL) assets. The investments which support actuarial liabilities are predominantly
fixed income assets designated as at FVTPL. Consequently, changes in the fair values of these assets, are recorded in investment income in the Consolidated Statement of Income and are
largely offset by changes in the fair value of the actuarial liabilities, the impact of which is reflected in insurance policyholder benefits and claims.
Amount includes PCL of $nil (2016 – $1 million).
Premiums and deposits include premiums on risk-based insurance and annuity products, and individual and group segregated fund deposits, consistent with insurance industry practices.
Embedded value is defined as the sum of value of equity held in our Insurance segment and the value of in-force business (existing policies). For further details, refer to the Key performance
and non-GAAP measures section.

Financial performance
2017 vs. 2016
Net income decreased $174 million or 19% from a year ago, primarily due to the gain on sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing
business, which was sold on July 1, 2016. Excluding the after-tax gain of $235 million on the sale of RBC General Insurance Company to Aviva
Canada Inc., net income increased $61 million or 9%, mainly due to higher favourable annual actuarial assumption updates, and business growth
mainly in Canadian Insurance. These factors were partially offset by lower earnings from new U.K. annuity contracts and reduced earnings
associated with the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business, as noted previously.

Total revenue decreased $585 million or 11%, mainly due to a change of $691 million related to the fair value of investments backing our

policyholder liabilities resulting from changes in long-term interest rates, largely offset in PBCAE. The prior year also included the associated
premiums and a gain of $287 million relating to our home and auto insurance manufacturing business, as noted previously. These factors were
partially offset by higher revenues from group annuity sales in Canadian Insurance and the impact of restructured international life contracts,
both of which are largely offset in PBCAE.

PBCAE decreased $371 million or 11%, mainly due to a change in the fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities, largely
offset in revenue. Lower claims reflecting the impact from the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business in the prior year and
higher favourable annual actuarial assumption updates largely reflecting changes in credit and discount rates and favourable mortality
experience, mainly in the U.K., also contributed to the decrease. These factors were partially offset by the impact from group annuity sales and
restructured international life contracts, both of which are largely offset in revenue.

Non-interest expense decreased $39 million or 6%, largely reflecting the impact of the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing

business in the prior year.

Premiums and deposits were down $48 million or 1%, reflecting the impact of the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing
business in the prior year, the impact of foreign exchange translation, and lower premiums from new U.K. annuity contracts, largely offset by
business growth, including group annuity sales.

Embedded value increased $434 million, reflecting the impact of favourable actuarial assumption updates, improved experience and

product updates.

Results excluding the specified item noted previously are non-GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation, refer to the Key
performance and non-GAAP measures section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

37

Business line review

Canadian Insurance

We offer life, health, property and casualty insurance products, as well as wealth accumulation solutions, to individual and group clients across
Canada. Our life and health portfolio includes universal life, term life, critical illness, disability, long-term care insurance and group benefits. We
offer a wide range of property and casualty products including home, auto and travel insurance. Our travel products include out-of-province/
country medical coverage, and trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

In Canada, the majority of our competitors specialize in life and health or property and casualty products. We hold a leading market position

in disability insurance products, have a significant presence in life and travel products, and have a growing presence in wealth solutions as well
as in home and auto through our distribution agreement with Aviva.

Financial performance
Total revenue decreased $804 million or 24% from last year, mainly due to a change in the fair value of investments backing our policyholder
liabilities resulting from changes in long-term interest rates, largely offset in PBCAE. The prior year also included the associated premiums and
the gain on sale relating to our home and auto insurance manufacturing business, as noted previously. These factors were partially offset by
business growth, primarily reflecting higher revenue from group annuity sales, largely offset in PBCAE.

Premiums and deposits increased $72 million or 3%, as sales growth, primarily related to our group annuity business, more than offset the

impact of the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business in the prior year.

Selected highlights

Table 35

Premiums and deposits (Millions of Canadian dollars) 

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue
Other information

Premiums and deposits

Life and health
Property and casualty
Annuity and segregated

fund deposits
Fair value changes on

investments backing
policyholder liabilities

International Insurance

2017
$ 2,569 $

2016

3,373

2,016
119

1,438
674

361

312

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

(63)

575

Annuity and segregated
fund deposits

Property and
casualty

Life and health

2017

2016

International Insurance is primarily comprised of our reinsurance businesses which insure risks of other insurance and reinsurance companies.
We offer life and health, accident and annuity reinsurance products.

The global reinsurance market is dominated by a few large players, with significant presence in the U.S., the U.K. and Europe. The

reinsurance industry is competitive but barriers to entry remain high.

Financial performance
Total revenue increased $219 million or 12%, mainly due to the impact of restructured international life contracts, partially offset by a change in
the fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities resulting from changes in long-term interest rates, both of which are largely
offset in PBCAE.

Premiums and deposits decreased $120 million or 6%, due to the impact of foreign exchange translation and lower premiums from new

U.K. annuity contracts, partially offset by volume growth in international life.

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue
Other information

Premiums and deposits

Life and health
Property and casualty
Annuity

Fair value changes on investments backing

policyholder liabilities

Table 36

2017
$ 1,997 $

2016

1,778

1,276
(1)
775

1,335
–
835

5

58

38

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Investor & Treasury Services

RBC Investor & Treasury Services is a specialist provider of asset services, custody, payments and treasury services for financial and other
institutional investors worldwide.

$4.3 trillion

Assets under administration

23%

Return on equity

4,771

Employees

Revenue by Geography

$2.4 billion
Total revenue

 46%  North America

30%   Europe (Ex. UK)

 15%  UK

  9%  Asia-Pacific

We deliver custodial, advisory, financing and other services to safeguard client assets,
maximize liquidity, and manage risk across multiple jurisdictions. We rank among the
world’s leading global custodians with a network of offices across North America, Europe,
U.K., and the Asia-Pacific region. Our team of approximately 5,000 employees serves
almost 10 million investors and administers over 6,700 funds.

We have one of the widest transfer agency networks in the market, we are a top-ranked
international securities lending service, and we provide short-term funding and liquidity
management for RBC. Our transaction banking business is a leading provider of Canadian
dollar cash management, correspondent banking, and trade finance for financial
institutions globally.

2017 Operating environment
› The highly competitive environment in the global asset services industry continued to pressure margins.
› Continued increases in financial services regulations have driven up compliance and technology costs; however, tightening credit spreads,

increased FX volumes and interest rate volatility benefitted our funding and liquidity business.

Strategic priorities

OUR STRATEGY

PROGRESS IN 2017

PRIORITIES IN 2018

In Canada, maintain position as the #1 provider of
domestic custody, asset services and cash
management

Custody revenue relatively flat compared to prior year
due to fee pressure and competitive environment

Continue to win new business and deepen relationships
with existing clients and onboarding clients without
delay

Compete as a leading provider of asset services in
the major offshore fund domicile markets of
Luxembourg and Ireland

Increased revenue, AUA and profit while continuing to
invest in technology to better serve our clients and
reduce costs

Capitalize on trading opportunities through strategic
positioning of our portfolio and drive client deposit
growth

Continue to deliver a high-level of investment in
client-centered technology solutions

Enhance our client centric service offering and
improve efficiency

Continued investment in client-focused technology
solutions to develop client-centered digital applications
and launched robotics processing automation (RPA)
labs in Canada, Luxembourg and Malaysia

Continued to invest in technology solutions via ACE and
RPA while improving efficiency ratio compared to prior
year

Continue to execute on Advanced Client
Experience (ACE) program, our multi-year strategic
technology program, and our RPA initiatives

Prudently manage expenses and execute cost
management initiatives

Outlook

In 2018, our aim is to continue to be the leading provider of asset services and cash management in Canada and a leading provider of fund
services to asset managers in the key offshore markets of Luxembourg and Ireland. Our focus is to drive top-line growth by continuing to leverage
our leadership position in Canada and recognized capabilities in offshore fund services markets to win new business and deepen existing client
relationships. We will continue to execute on our strategic and transformational technology initiatives to enhance the client experience. While we
expect the global asset services industry to remain challenging in the near-term, we are well-positioned to compete and grow in the continuously
changing operating environment.

For further details on our general economic review and outlook, refer to the Economic, market and regulatory review and outlook section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

39

Investor & Treasury Services

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted)

Net interest income
Non-interest income

Total revenue

Non-interest expense

Net income before income taxes
Net income

Key Ratios
ROE

Selected average balance sheet information

Total assets
Deposits

Client deposits
Wholesale funding deposits

Attributed capital

Other Information

AUA (1)
Average AUA
Number of employees (FTE)

Estimated impact of U.S. dollar, British pound and Euro translation on key income statement items

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Increase (decrease):
Total revenue
Non-interest expense
Net income

Percentage change in average US$ equivalent of C$1.00
Percentage change in average British pound equivalent of C$1.00
Percentage change in average Euro equivalent of C$1.00

(1)

Represents period-end spot balances.

$

$

$

Table 37

2016

825
1,446
2,271
1,457
814
613

2017

679 $

1,756
2,435
1,466
969
741 $

22.7%

17.9%

138,100 $
132,800
54,400
78,400
3,200

142,500
134,300
52,800
81,500
3,350

4,266,600
4,044,800
4,771

3,929,400
3,770,200
4,776

2017 vs. 2016

$

(43)
(24)
(15)

1%
10%
–%

Financial performance
2017 vs. 2016
Net income increased $128 million or 21%, primarily due to higher results across all major businesses driven by funding and liquidity earnings
and increased results from our asset services business. These factors were partially offset by higher investment in technology initiatives.

Total revenue increased $164 million or 7%, mainly due to higher funding and liquidity revenue reflecting tightening credit spreads, and
increased revenue from our asset services business driven by higher client activity and growth in client deposits. These factors were partially
offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Non-interest expense increased $9 million reflecting higher investment in technology initiatives, largely offset by the impact of foreign

exchange translation.

40

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Capital Markets

RBC Capital Markets® is a premier global investment bank providing expertise in banking, finance and capital markets to corporations,
institutional investors, asset managers, governments and central banks around the world. Over 2,800 professionals serve clients from 70 offices
in 15 countries across North America, the U.K., Europe and Asia & other international regions.

> 14,000

Number of clients

Revenue by Geography

$8.2 billion
Total revenue

 54%  U.S.

 26%  Canada

 14%  U.K. & Europe

  6%  Asia & other international

#9

Global league rankings(1)

3,970

Employees

We operate two main business lines, Corporate and Investment Banking and Global
Markets. Our legacy portfolio is grouped under Other.

In North America, we offer a full suite of products and services which include corporate
and investment banking, equity and debt origination and distribution, and structuring and
trading. In Canada, we compete mainly with Canadian banks where we are a premier
global investment bank and market leader with a strategic presence in all lines of capital
markets businesses. In the U.S., we have full industry sector coverage and investment
banking product range and compete with large U.S. and global investment banks as well
as smaller regional firms.

Outside North America, we have a select presence in the U.K. and Europe, and Asia &
other international markets, where we offer a diversified set of capabilities in our key
sectors of expertise such as energy, mining and infrastructure and we have a growing
presence in industrial, consumer, healthcare and technology in Europe. In the U.K. and
Europe, we have continued to make experienced hires, and compete in our key sectors of
expertise with global and regional investment banks. In our Asia & other international
markets, we compete with global and regional investment banks in select products,
consisting of fixed income distribution and currencies trading and corporate and
investment banking in Australia, Asia and the Caribbean.

2017 Operating environment
› Financial markets started fiscal 2017 very strong with elevated client trading activity following the U.S. election as well as strong investment

banking activity, particularly in North America, amidst improving credit and energy markets.

› Global investment banking fee pool increased by 7%(1) in the fiscal year from the same period a year ago.
› The second half of the year was characterized by lower volatility across a range of asset classes and correspondingly lower levels of client
activity, market uncertainty (namely around fiscal policy and proposed tax and regulatory reform in the U.S.), as well as a continued rise in
geopolitical tensions. Despite these challenges, our business lines have continued to perform well. Our Fixed Income, Currencies and
Commodities business performed particularly well despite these headwinds, with our credit trading performance across numerous products in
the U.S. driving higher results.

›

Improved credit and energy markets led to lower PCL.

(1)

Source: Dealogic, based on global investment bank fees, fiscal 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

41

Strategic priorities

OUR STRATEGY

Maintain our leadership position in Canada

PROGRESS IN 2017

PRIORITIES IN 2018

We deepened our existing client relationships and
gained new clients by leveraging our strong global
capabilities and improving collaboration with enterprise
partners to drive operational efficiencies

We will continue to focus on long-term client
relationships, leveraging our global capabilities and
continuing to improve collaboration with Wealth
Management

Expand and strengthen client relationships in
the U.S.

Build on core strengths and capabilities in
U.K./Europe and optimize performance in
Asia & other international regions

We continued to win significant mandates including
acting as financial advisor to Cenovus Energy Inc. on its
$17.7 billion acquisition of assets from ConocoPhillips
Co. and leading the deal financing, the largest ever oil &
gas asset transaction in North America

We also acted as financial advisor to D+H Corporation
on its sale to Vista Equity Partners for $4.8 billion

We deepened key client relationships from our
corporate and investment banking businesses to
generate additional revenue

We continued to win significant mandates including
acting as financial advisor to CSC on its US$8.5 billion
merger with the Enterprise Services Segment of Hewlett
Packard Enterprise

In our largest left lead high yield transaction in
technology, we acted as financial advisor to Novitex,
lead left arranger and joint bookrunner on
US$1.45 billion of senior secured credit facilities and
joint lead bookrunner on US$275 million of PIPE
(Private Investment in Public Equity) Investment in the
US$2.6 billion combination

In the U.K. and Europe, we maintained momentum
throughout the year and improved profitability through
repositioning our fixed income business, as well as
growing our corporate and investment banking
presence in key markets

We acted as joint financial advisor to Quad Gas Group
on its acquisition of a 61% stake in the UK gas
distribution business of National Grid plc for an
enterprise value of £13.8 billion

In Asia and other international regions, we continued to
focus on our corporate and investment banking, fixed
income trading distribution and foreign exchange
trading capabilities

We will continue to deepen client relationships in the
U.S. by building on our momentum through expanded
origination, advisory and distribution activity, and
driving cross-selling through our diversified loan book

We expect the U.S. to continue to be the world’s most
attractive market and it will remain Capital Markets’
priority growth market

In Europe, we will continue to grow and deepen client
relationships in Corporate and Investment Banking and
Global Markets

In Asia, we will aim to optimize the performance of our
existing footprint

Optimize capital use to earn high risk-adjusted
returns on assets and equity

We continued to focus on the efficient deployment of
our capital and growth throughout our businesses by
reducing unproductive assets and re-allocating capital
to businesses that provide higher returns and increased
profitability

Optimize capital use to earn high risk-adjusted returns
by maintaining both a balanced approach between
investment banking and trading revenue and a
disciplined approach to managing the risks and costs of
our business

Outlook

Despite geopolitical tensions, market uncertainty surrounding U.S. fiscal policy and tax reform and a historically low volatility environment
persisting into fiscal 2018, we remain confident in our franchises’ ability to continue to produce strong revenue and earnings growth driven by
our diversified geographic and product mix. We remain focused on carrying forward the momentum in our Investment Banking business, with a
potential improvement in the underwriting environment particularly for equity origination. Corporate lending continues to be challenged by a
lower spread environment. We expect to continue to grow the loan book at a modest pace and with an increased focus on alignment with
fee-based business. We remain cautious in our outlook for trading businesses amidst a general market slowdown and uncertainty from lack of
volatility. Regulatory headwinds are expected to continue to impact earnings growth in 2018, particularly in our trading businesses, although we
will remain diligent in monitoring and managing the impacts of ongoing global trends as a key strategic priority. Capital Markets will strive to
maintain its focus on full-service activities in Canada, the U.S. and Europe in 2018, while navigating through significant changes in the regulatory
environment.

For further details on our general economic review and outlook, refer to the Economic, market and regulatory review and outlook section.

42

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Capital Markets financial highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted)

Net interest income (1)
Non-interest income (1)

Total revenue (1)

PCL
Non-interest expense

Net income before income taxes
Net income

Revenue by business

Corporate and Investment Banking
Global Markets
Other

Key ratios
ROE

Selected average balance sheet information

Total assets
Trading securities
Loans and acceptances
Deposits
Attributed capital

Other information

Number of employees (FTE)

Credit information

Gross impaired loans as a % of related loans and acceptances
PCL on impaired loans as a % of average net loans and acceptances

$

$

$

$

Table 38

2016

3,804
4,146
7,950
327
4,466
3,157
2,270

3,694
4,361
(105)

2017
3,565 $
4,617
8,182
62
4,719
3,401
2,525 $

4,000 $
4,466
(284)

12.9%

12.2%

494,400 $
91,800
83,400
60,200
18,850

3,970

0.63%
0.07%

508,200
104,900
88,100
61,500
17,900

3,883

1.73%
0.37%

Estimated impact of U.S. dollar, British pound and Euro translation on key income statement items

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted)

2017 vs. 2016

Increase (decrease):
Total revenue
Non-interest expense
Net income

Percentage change in average US$ equivalent of C$1.00
Percentage change in average British pound equivalent of C$1.00
Percentage change in average Euro equivalent of C$1.00

$

(179)
(111)
(51)

1%
10%
–%

(1)

The taxable equivalent basis (teb) adjustment for 2017 was $548 million (2016 – $736 million). For further discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments
section.

Revenue by region (Millions of Canadian dollars) 

10,000

7,500

5,000

2,500

0

2017

2016

Asia and other

Europe

U.S.

Canada

Financial performance
2017 vs. 2016
Net income increased $255 million or 11%, driven by higher results in Corporate and Investment Banking and Global Markets reflecting
increased fee-based revenue, lower PCL and a lower effective tax rate due to changes in earnings mix. These factors were partially offset by
higher staff-related costs and the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Total revenue increased $232 million or 3%, largely reflecting increased loan syndication and debt origination activity mainly in the U.S. and
Canada. Higher M&A activity primarily in the U.S. and Europe, higher equity trading revenue in Europe and Asia & other international, and higher
investment gains also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by higher residual funding costs and the impact of foreign
exchange translation.

PCL decreased $265 million or 81%, due to lower provisions including higher recoveries primarily in the oil & gas sector, partially offset by

higher provisions in the real estate & related sector. For further details, refer to the Credit quality performance section.

Non-interest expense increased $253 million or 6%, largely reflecting higher costs related to changes in the timing of deferred

compensation, increased variable compensation on improved results, and higher compliance costs. These factors were partially offset by the
impact of foreign exchange translation.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

43

Business line review

Corporate and Investment Banking

Corporate and Investment Banking comprises our corporate lending, loan syndications, debt and equity origination, mergers and acquisitions
(M&A) advisory services, client securitization and the global credit businesses. For debt and equity origination, revenue is allocated between
Corporate and Investment Banking and Global Markets based on the contribution of each group in accordance with an established agreement.

Financial performance
Corporate and Investment Banking revenue of $4,000 million increased $306 million as compared to last year, despite the unfavourable impact
of foreign exchange translation.

Investment banking revenue increased $248 million or 13%, primarily due to increased loan syndication activity driven by increased market

share in the U.S., and higher M&A activity mainly in the U.S. and Europe. Higher investment gains and higher debt origination activity largely in
North America also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by lower results from Municipal Banking in the U.S.

Lending and other revenue increased $58 million or 3%, reflecting improving credit conditions.

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue (1)
Breakdown of revenue (1)
Investment banking
Lending and other (2)

Other information
Average assets
Average loans and acceptances

Table 39

Breakdown of total revenue (Millions of Canadian dollars)  

2017

2016

$ 4,000 $ 3,694

2,140
1,860

1,892
1,802

67,900
60,500

73,200
65,300

4,000

3,200

2,400

1,600

800

0

(1)

(2)

The teb adjustment for 2017 was $229 million (2016 – $279 million). For further
discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section.
Comprises our corporate lending, client securitization, and global credit businesses.

2017

2016

Investment banking

Lending and other

Global Markets

Global Markets comprises our fixed income, foreign exchange, equity sales and trading, repos and secured financing and commodities
businesses.

Financial performance
Total revenue of $4,466 million increased $105 million or 2% as compared to last year, despite the unfavourable impact of foreign exchange
translation.

Revenue in our Fixed income, currencies and commodities business increased $140 million or 7%, mainly due to higher fixed income
trading revenue in the U.S. and Asia & other international, higher debt origination activity in North America, and a gain from the disposition of
certain securities. These factors were partially offset by lower commodities and foreign exchange trading revenue across all regions.

Revenue in our Equities business decreased $63 million or 5%, primarily due to decreased equity origination activity largely in Canada, and

lower volume in our cash equities businesses in the U.S.

Revenue in our Repo and secured financing business increased $28 million or 3%, mainly due to higher equity trading revenue, partially

offset by lower fixed income trading revenue.

Table 40

Breakdown of total revenue (Millions of Canadian dollars)  

Selected highlights

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Total revenue (1)
Breakdown of revenue (1)

2017

2016

$ 4,466 $ 4,361

Fixed income, currencies and commodities
Equities
Repo and secured financing (2)

2,253
1,084
1,129

2,113
1,147
1,101

Other information
Average assets

435,500

472,100

(1)

(2)

The teb adjustment for 2017 was $319 million (2016 – $457 million). For further
discussion, refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section.
Comprises our secured funding businesses for internal businesses and external clients.

Other

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

2017

2016

Repo and secured
financing

Global equities

Fixed income, currencies
and commodities

Other includes our legacy portfolio, which mainly consists of our U.S. commercial mortgage-backed securities and structured rates in Asia. In
recent years, in order to optimize our capital employed to improve our risk-adjusted returns and reduce our liquidity risk on various products, we
have significantly reduced several of our legacy portfolios. Our legacy portfolio assets decreased by 28% as compared to last year.

Financial performance
Revenue decreased $179 million as compared to last year largely due to higher residual funding costs.

44

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Corporate Support

Corporate Support comprises Technology & Operations, which provide the technological and operational foundation required to effectively
deliver products and services to our clients, and Functions, which includes our finance, human resources, risk management, internal audit and
other functional groups. Reported results for Corporate Support mainly reflect certain activities related to monitoring and oversight of enterprise
activities which are not allocated to business segments. Corporate Support also includes our Corporate Treasury function. For further details,
refer to the How we measure and report our business segments section.

Corporate Support

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except as otherwise noted)

Net interest income (loss) (1)
Non-interest income (loss) (1)

Total revenue (1)

PCL
Non-interest expense

Net income (loss) before income taxes (1)

Income taxes (recoveries) (1)

$

Table 41

2017

2016

(139)
(313)
(452)
–
238
(690)
(574)
(116)

$ (390)
(202)
(592)
51
30
(673)
(691)
18

$

Net income (loss) (2)
Teb adjusted.
(1)
Net income reflects income attributable to both shareholders and Non-Controlling Interests (NCI). Net income attributable to NCI for the year ended October 31, 2017 was $35 million
(2)
(October 31, 2016 – $44 million).

$

Due to the nature of activities and consolidation adjustments reported in this segment, we believe that a comparative period analysis is not
relevant. The following identifies material items affecting the reported results in each period.

Total revenue and income taxes (recoveries) in each period in Corporate Support include the deduction of the teb adjustments related to the
gross-up of income from Canadian taxable corporate dividends and the U.S. tax credit investment business recorded in Capital Markets. The
amount deducted from revenue was offset by an equivalent increase in income taxes (recoveries).

The teb amount for the year ended October 31, 2017 was $548 million and $736 million last year.

The following identifies the material items, other than the teb impacts noted previously, affecting the reported results in each period.

2017
Net loss was $116 million, largely reflecting severance and related charges, net unfavourable tax adjustments, and legal costs. These factors
were partially offset by asset/liability management activities.

2016
Net income was $18 million largely reflecting asset/liability management activities, partially offset by net unfavourable tax adjustments and a
$50 million ($37 million after-tax) increase in the provision for loans not yet identified as impaired.

Quarterly financial information

Fourth quarter performance

Q4 2017 vs. Q4 2016
Fourth quarter net income of $2,837 million was up $294 million or 12% from last year. Diluted EPS of $1.88 was up $0.23 and ROE of 16.6%
was up 110 bps. Our fourth quarter earnings increased as higher results in Personal & Commercial Banking, Capital Markets, Wealth
Management, and Insurance were partially offset by lower earnings in Investment & Treasury Services.

Total revenue increased $1,159 million or 12%, largely due to the change in the fair value of investments backing our policyholder

liabilities, group annuity sales growth and the impact of restructured international life contracts, all of which were largely offset in PBCAE.
Volume growth of 6% in Personal & Commercial Banking, growth in average fee-based client assets and higher net interest income reflecting the
impact from higher interest rates and volume growth in Wealth Management, and higher equity trading revenue in Capital Markets also
contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Total PCL decreased $124 million and the PCL ratio of 17 bps improved 10 bps from last year, mainly reflecting lower provisions and higher

recoveries mainly in the oil & gas and real estate & related sectors in Capital Markets. The prior period also included provisions in U.S. Wealth
Management (including City National).

PBCAE increased $740 million, largely reflecting the change in fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities, growth in the
group annuity business and the impact of restructured international life contracts, all of which are largely offset in revenue. These factors were
partially offset by higher favourable annual actuarial assumption updates largely reflecting changes in credit and discount rates and favourable
mortality experience, mainly in the U.K.

Non-interest expense increased $314 million or 6%, primarily reflecting higher variable compensation on improved results in Wealth
Management and ongoing investments in technology, including digital initiatives, in Personal & Commercial Banking, Investor & Treasury
Services, and Wealth Management. Higher costs related to changes in the timing of deferred compensation in Capital Markets, higher staff-
related costs, including severance and other related charges, in Corporate Support, Wealth Management and Personal & Commercial Banking,
and charges associated with our real estate portfolio also contributed to the increase. These factors were partially offset by the impact of foreign
exchange translation.

Income tax expense decreased $65 million from last year, and the effective income tax rate decreased from 23.2% last year to 19.9%, due

to more favourable tax adjustments and changes in the earnings mix.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

45

Q4 2017 vs. Q3 2017
Net income of $2,837 million was up $41 million or 1% compared to the prior quarter, due to lower staff-related costs, including severance,
favourable annual actuarial assumption updates largely reflecting changes in credit and discount rates and favourable mortality experience,
mainly in the U.K., in Insurance, higher earnings in Personal & Commercial Banking due to higher spreads and volume growth of 2%, and lower
PCL due to recoveries in the oil & gas and real estate & related sectors. These factors were partially offset by lower earnings in Capital Markets
primarily due to lower fixed income and equity trading revenue across most regions, and lower M&A activity largely in Canada. There were also
lower fee-based revenue, higher marketing costs in support of business growth in Personal & Commercial Banking, the impact of foreign
exchange translation, and unfavourable tax adjustments in the current quarter.

Quarterly results and trend analysis

Our quarterly results are impacted by a number of trends and recurring factors, which include seasonality of certain businesses, general
economic and market conditions, and fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to other currencies. The following table summarizes our results
for the last eight quarters (the period):

Quarterly results (1)

Table 42

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except per share and percentage
amounts)

Net interest income
Non-interest income (2)

Total revenue (2)

PCL
PBCAE
Non-interest expense (2)

Net income before income taxes

Income taxes

Net income

EPS – basic

– diluted

Segments – net income (loss)

Personal & Commercial Banking
Wealth Management
Insurance
Investor & Treasury Services
Capital Markets
Corporate Support

Net income

2017

2016

Q4

$ 4,361
6,162

$10,523
234
1,137
5,611

$ 3,541
704

$ 2,837

$ 1.89
1.88

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

$ 4,257
5,831

$10,088
320
643
5,537

$ 3,588
792

$ 4,198
6,214

$10,412
302
1,090
5,331

$ 3,689
880

$ 4,324
5,322

$ 9,646
294
183
5,315

$ 3,854
827

$ 4,187
5,177

$ 9,364
358
397
5,297

$ 3,312
769

$ 4,123
6,229

$10,352
318
1,210
5,188

$ 3,636
741

$ 4,025
5,597

$ 9,622
460
988
4,983

$ 3,191
618

$ 4,196
5,261

$ 9,457
410
829
5,058

$ 3,160
713

$ 2,796

$ 2,809

$ 3,027

$ 2,543

$ 2,895

$ 2,573

$ 2,447

$ 1.86
1.85

$ 1.86
1.85

$ 1.98
1.97

$ 1.66
1.65

$ 1.88
1.88

$ 1.67
1.66

$ 1.59
1.58

$ 1,404
491
265
156
584
(63)

$ 1,399
486
161
178
611
(39)

$ 1,360
431
166
193
668
(9)

$ 1,592
430
134
214
662
(5)

$ 1,275
396
228
174
482
(12)

$ 1,322
388
364
157
635
29

$ 1,297
386
177
139
583
(9)

$ 1,290
303
131
143
570
10

$ 2,837

$ 2,796

$ 2,809

$ 3,027

$ 2,543

$ 2,895

$ 2,573

$ 2,447

Effective income tax rate
Period average US$ equivalent of C$1.00

19.9%
$ 0.792

22.1%
$ 0.770

23.9%
$ 0.746

21.5%
$ 0.752

23.2%
$ 0.757

20.4%
$ 0.768

19.4%
$ 0.768

22.6%
$ 0.728

(1)
(2)

Fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to other foreign currencies have affected our consolidated results over the period.
Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

Seasonality
Seasonal factors may impact our results in certain quarters. The first quarter has historically been stronger for our Capital Markets businesses.
The second quarter has fewer days than the other quarters, which generally results in a decrease in net interest income and certain expense
items. The third and fourth quarters include the summer months which results in lower client activity and may negatively impact the results of our
Capital Markets’ brokerage business and our Wealth Management’s investment management business.

Specified items affecting our consolidated results
•

In the first quarter of 2017, our results included our share of a gain related to the sale of the U.S. operations of Moneris of $212 million
(before- and after-tax).
In the third quarter of 2016, our results included a gain of $287 million ($235 million after-tax) related to the sale of RBC General Insurance
Company to Aviva.

•

Trend analysis
The Canadian economy has generally improved over the period, expanding since the second calendar quarter of 2016 as the manufacturing and
mining sectors have been boosted by improving oil prices and positive results from the energy sector, after the impact of the Alberta wildfires in
May 2016. In particular, strong growth earlier this year reflected robust gains in consumer spending amid strong employment growth, low
interest rates, and wealth effects from rising home prices. With strong growth over the first half of 2017, the BoC raised its overnight rate, once in
July and again in September. The U.S. economy also experienced growth over the period due to higher household wages, strong job growth, and
continued consumer confidence as well as rising business investment. As a result of improving economic conditions, in June 2017 the Fed raised
its funds target range for the third time over the period. Global markets were given a boost since the beginning of 2017 as equity markets
continued to rebound from the setbacks seen in 2016, particularly in the energy sector. For further details, refer to the Economic and market
review and outlook section.

Earnings have generally trended upwards over the period, driven by our Canadian Banking results reflecting solid volume growth, partially
offset by lower spreads over a majority of the period, higher fee-based revenue and our share of the gain from the sale of the U.S. operations of
Moneris in the first quarter of 2017. Our Wealth Management results reflect growth in average fee-based client assets, mainly due to strong
capital appreciation and net sales, volume growth, and the impact from higher U.S. interest rates since the first quarter of 2017. Results from our

46

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

acquisition of City National have been reflected in our Wealth Management segment since the first quarter of 2016 and have trended higher
since the acquisition. Capital Markets results have trended upwards over the period, driven by higher results in Corporate and Investment
Banking and Global Markets driven by increased client activity and generally improved market conditions. The decline in the fourth quarter of
2016 was primarily due to lower trading revenue largely in the U.S. and Europe, and lower equity origination activity in Canada. Results in our
Insurance segment were impacted by the gain on the sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business in the third quarter of 2016
as noted previously. Investor & Treasury Services results have generally trended higher over the period due to higher funding and liquidity
earnings since the first quarter of 2016, reflecting tightening credit spreads and favourable interest and foreign exchange rates movements.
Revenue has generally increased over the period, reflecting solid volume and fee-based revenue growth in our Canadian Banking

businesses. The first quarter of 2017 benefitted from the gain on sale of the U.S. operations of Moneris as noted previously. Wealth Management
revenue has generally trended upwards primarily due to growth in average fee-based client assets and the inclusion of City National which has
resulted in higher net interest income reflecting volume growth and the impact from higher U.S. interest rates since the first quarter of 2017.
Capital Markets benefitted from stabilizing credit spreads since the first quarter of 2016, resulting in higher fixed income trading over the period
except in the latter half of 2017 which was impacted by reduced market volatility. The favourable impact of foreign exchange translation due to a
generally weaker Canadian dollar over the period was partially offset by the strengthening Canadian dollar during the past two quarters.
Insurance revenue was primarily impacted by changes in the fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities, which is largely offset
in PBCAE and benefitted from the gain on sale of our home and auto insurance manufacturing business in the third quarter of 2016, as noted
previously, and the annual favourable actuarial adjustments in the fourth quarter.

The credit quality of our portfolios has generally improved over the period. Higher PCL related to our Capital Markets and Canadian Banking

businesses was recorded in the first two quarters of 2016, mainly reflecting the impact of the sustained low oil price environment and general
economic uncertainty. PCL trended lower in 2017 due to lower provisions and recoveries in our Capital Markets and Canadian Banking portfolios.
PBCAE has fluctuated quarterly as it includes the changes to the fair value of investments backing our policyholder liabilities, which is
largely offset in revenue. PBCAE has also increased due to business growth, and has been impacted by actuarial liability adjustments and claims
costs over the period.

While we continue to focus on efficiency management activities, non-interest expense has generally trended upwards over the period,

mostly to support business growth and due to the inclusion of City National since the first quarter of 2016. Growth in non-interest expense in
2017 mainly reflects higher variable compensation in Wealth Management and Capital Markets on improved results, and was impacted by higher
severance in the third quarter of 2017. Higher costs in support of business growth reflecting ongoing investments in technology, including digital
initiatives, and an impairment related to properties held for sale in the first quarter of 2017 also contributed to the increase. The unfavourable
impact of foreign exchange translation due to a generally weaker Canadian dollar over the period was partially offset by the strengthening
Canadian dollar during the past two quarters.

Our effective income tax rate has fluctuated over the period, mostly due to varying levels of income reported in jurisdictions with different
tax rates, as well as fluctuating levels of income from tax-advantaged sources. Our effective income tax rate has generally been impacted over
the period by higher earnings before income taxes and lower tax-exempt income in 2017.

Results excluding the specified item noted previously are non-GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation, refer to the Key

performance and non-GAAP measures section.

Financial condition

Condensed balance sheets

The following table shows our condensed balance sheets:

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets (1)
Cash and due from banks
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Loans

Retail
Wholesale

Allowance for loan losses
Other – Derivatives

– Other (2)

Total assets

Liabilities (1)
Deposits
Other – Derivatives

– Other (2)

Subordinated debentures

Total liabilities

Equity attributable to shareholders
Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

$

Table 43

2017

2016

28,407
32,662
218,379
220,977

385,170
159,606
(2,159)
95,023
74,788

$

14,929
27,851
236,093
186,302

369,470
154,369
(2,235)
118,944
74,535

$ 1,212,853

$ 1,180,258

$

789,635
92,127
247,398
9,265

$ 757,589
116,550
224,745
9,762

1,138,425

1,108,646

73,829
599

74,428

71,017
595

71,612

$ 1,212,853

$ 1,180,258

(1)
(2)

Foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities are translated to Canadian dollars.
Other – Other assets and liabilities include Segregated fund net assets and liabilities, respectively.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

47

2017 vs. 2016
Total assets were up $33 billion or 3% from last year. Foreign exchange translation decreased total assets by $33 billion.

Cash and due from banks was up $13 billion, mainly due to higher deposits with central banks reflecting our management of liquidity and

funding risk.

Interest-bearing deposits with banks increased $5 billion or 17%, largely reflecting higher deposits with central banks.
Securities were down $18 billion or 8%, largely driven by lower equity trading positions, a decrease in government debt securities reflecting

our management of liquidity and funding risk, and the impact of foreign exchange translation. These factors were partially offset by an increase
in corporate debt securities in support of business activities.

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements (reverse repos) and securities borrowed increased $35 billion or 19%, mainly

attributable to higher client and business activities, partially offset by higher financial netting and the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Loans were up $21 billion or 4%, largely due to continued volume growth in residential mortgages in Canada reflecting increased client

activities, and higher wholesale loans driven by business growth, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Derivative assets were down $24 billion or 20%, mainly attributable to lower fair values on interest rate swaps and the impact of foreign

exchange translation, partially offset by lower financial netting on our interest rate swaps.

Other assets remained relatively flat.
Total liabilities were up $30 billion or 3%. Foreign exchange translation decreased total liabilities by $33 billion.
Deposits increased $32 billion or 4%, mainly as a result of increased business and retail deposits driven by higher client activity, growth in

issuances of fixed-term notes driven by funding requirements, and higher bank deposits due to increased client activity. These factors were
partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Derivative liabilities were down $24 billion or 21%, mainly attributable to lower fair values on interest rate swaps and the impact of foreign

exchange translation, partially offset by lower financial netting on our interest rate swaps.

Other liabilities increased $23 billion or 10%, mainly attributable to higher repurchase agreements reflecting business and client activities,

partially offset by lower obligations related to securities sold short.

Total equity increased $3 billion or 4%, largely reflecting earnings, net of dividends.

Off-balance sheet arrangements

In the normal course of business, we engage in a variety of financial transactions that, for accounting purposes, are not recorded on our
Consolidated Balance Sheets. Off-balance sheet transactions are generally undertaken for risk, capital and funding management purposes which
benefit us and our clients. These include transactions with structured entities and may also include the 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.

We use structured entities to securitize our financial assets as well as assist our clients in securitizing their financial assets. These entities

are not operating entities, typically have no employees, and may or may not be recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In the normal course of business, we engage in a variety of financial transactions that may qualify for derecognition. We apply the
derecognition rules to determine whether we have transferred substantially all the risks and rewards or control associated with the financial
assets to a third party. If the transaction meets specific criteria, it may qualify for full or partial derecognition from our Consolidated Balance
Sheets.

Securitizations of our financial assets
We periodically securitize our credit card receivables, residential and commercial mortgage loans and bond participation certificates primarily to
diversify our funding sources, enhance our liquidity position and for capital purposes. We also securitize residential and commercial mortgage
loans as part of our sales and trading activities.

We securitize our credit card receivables, on a revolving basis, through a consolidated structured entity. We securitize single and multiple-

family residential mortgages through the National Housing Act Mortgage-Backed Securities (NHA MBS) program. The majority of our
securitization activities are recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as we do not meet the derecognition criteria. As at October 31, 2017,
we derecognized $1.2 billion (October 31, 2016 – $nil) of mortgages where both the NHA and the residual interests in the mortgages were sold
to third parties resulting in the transfer of substantially all of the risks and rewards. For further details, refer to Note 6 and Note 7 of our 2017
Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

We periodically securitize residential mortgage loans for the Canadian social housing program through the NHA MBS program, which are
derecognized from our Consolidated Balance Sheets when sold to third party investors. During 2017, we securitized $13 million of residential
mortgage loans for the Canadian social housing program (October 31, 2016 – $nil).

We also periodically securitize commercial mortgage loans by selling them in collateral pools, which meet certain diversification, leverage

and debt coverage criteria, to structured entities, one of which is sponsored by us. Securitized commercial mortgage loans are derecognized from
our Consolidated Balance Sheets as we have transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of the securitized assets. During
the year ended October 31, 2017, we securitized $407 million of commercial mortgages (October 31, 2016 – $700 million). Our continuing
involvement with the transferred assets is limited to servicing certain of the underlying commercial mortgages sold. As at October 31, 2017,
there was $1.4 billion of commercial mortgages outstanding that we continue to service related to these securitization activities (October 31,
2016 – $1.3 billion).

In prior years, we participated in bond securitization activities where we purchased government, government-related and corporate bonds

and repackaged those bonds in trusts that issue participation certificates, which were sold to third party investors. Securitized bonds are
derecognized from our Consolidated Balance Sheets as we have transferred substantially all of the risk and rewards of ownership of the
securitized assets. Our continuing involvement with the transferred assets is limited to servicing the underlying bonds. As at October 31, 2017,
there were $49 million of bond participation certificates outstanding related to these prior period securitization activities (October 31, 2016 –
$81 million).

Involvement with unconsolidated structured entities
In the normal course of business, we engage in a variety of financial transactions with structured entities to support our customers’ financing and
investing needs, including securitization of our clients’ financial assets, creation of investment products, and other types of structured financing.

We have the ability to use credit mitigation tools such as third party guarantees, credit default swaps, and collateral to mitigate risks

assumed through securitization and re-securitization exposures. The process in place to monitor the credit quality of our securitization and
re-securitization exposures involves, among other things, reviewing the performance data of the underlying assets. We affirm our ratings each
quarter and formally confirm or assign a new rating at least annually. For further details on our activities to manage risks, refer to the Risk
management section.

48

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Below is a description of our activities with respect to certain significant unconsolidated structured entities. For a complete discussion of

our interests in consolidated and unconsolidated structured entities, refer to Note 7 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

RBC-administered multi-seller conduits
We administer multi-seller conduits which are used primarily for the securitization of our clients’ financial assets. Our clients primarily use our
multi-seller conduits to diversify their financing sources and to reduce funding costs by leveraging the value of high-quality collateral. The
conduits offer us a favourable revenue stream and risk-adjusted return.

We provide services such as transaction structuring, administration, backstop liquidity facilities and partial credit enhancements to the

multi-seller conduits. Revenue for all such services amounted to $287 million during the year (October 31, 2016 – $252 million).

Our total commitment to the conduits in the form of backstop liquidity and credit enhancement facilities is shown below. The total

committed amount of these facilities exceeds the total amount of the maximum assets that may have to be purchased by the conduits under the
purchase agreements. As a result, the maximum exposure to loss attributable to our backstop liquidity and credit enhancement facilities is less
than the total committed amounts of these facilities.

Liquidity and credit enhancement facilities

Table 44

As at October 31 (Millions of Canadian dollars)

Backstop liquidity facilities
Credit enhancement facilities

Total

2017

2016

Notional of
committed
amounts (1)

Allocable
notional
amounts

Outstanding
loans (2)

Maximum
exposure
to loss (3)

Notional of
committed
amounts (1)

Allocable
notional
amounts

Outstanding
loans (2)

Maximum
exposure
to loss (3)

$

$

38,622 $ 35,981 $

371 $ 36,352 $

39,462 $ 36,494 $

2,270

2,270

–

2,270

2,235

2,235

733 $ 37,227
2,235

–

40,892 $ 38,251 $

371 $ 38,622 $

41,697 $ 38,729 $

733 $ 39,462

(1)
(2)
(3)

Based on total committed financing limit.
Net of allowance for loan losses and write-offs.
Not presented in the table above are derivative assets with a fair value of $17 million (October 31, 2016 – $11 million) which are a component of our total maximum exposure to loss from our
interests in the multi-seller conduits. Refer to Note 7 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for more details.

As at October 31, 2017, the notional amount of backstop liquidity facilities we provide decreased by $840 million or 2% from last year.
The decrease in the amount of backstop liquidity facilities provided to the multi-seller conduits as compared to last year primarily reflects the
impact of foreign exchange translation. The notional amount of partial credit enhancement facilities we provide increased by $35 million from
last year. The increase in the credit enhancement facilities reflects increased client usage. Total loans extended to the multi-seller conduits under
the backstop liquidity facilities decreased by $362 million from last year primarily due to principal repayments and the impact of foreign
exchange translation.

Maximum exposure to loss by client type

Table 45

As at October 31 (Millions of dollars)

Outstanding securitized assets

Credit cards
Auto loans and leases
Student loans
Trade receivables
Asset-backed securities
Equipment receivables
Consumer loans
Dealer floor plan receivables
Fleet finance receivables
Insurance premiums
Residential mortgages
Transportation finance

Total

Canadian equivalent

2017

2016

(US$)

(C$)

Total (C$)

(US$)

(C$)

Total (C$)

$

$

4,058
10,597
1,747
2,358
287
1,402
1,267
939
766
134
–
1,346

$ 24,901

$ 32,122

$

$

510
3,113
–
–
–
–
–
852
306
163
1,377
179

6,500

$

5,745
16,783
2,253
3,042
371
1,809
1,634
2,064
1,294
336
1,377
1,914

$

5,057
9,489
2,352
2,002
547
1,428
1,470
760
914
–
–
1,041

$ 38,622

$ 25,060

6,500

$ 38,622

$ 33,608

$

$

$

510
2,646
–
51
–
–
–
903
306
163
1,122
153

5,854

$

7,292
15,372
3,154
2,736
734
1,915
1,971
1,922
1,532
163
1,122
1,549

$ 39,462

5,854

$ 39,462

Our overall exposure decreased by 2.1% compared to last year, primarily reflecting the impact of foreign exchange translation. Correspondingly,
total assets of the multi-seller conduits decreased by $831 million or 2.1% over last year, primarily due to decreases in the Credit Card and
Student Loans asset classes, which were partially offset by increases in the Auto loans and leases and Transportation finance asset classes.
100% of multi-seller conduits assets were internally rated A or above, consistent with last year. All transactions funded by the unconsolidated
multi-seller conduits are internally rated using a rating system which is largely consistent with that of the external rating agencies.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

49

Multiple independent debt rating agencies review all of the transactions in the multi-seller conduits. Transactions financed in two U.S.
multi-seller conduits are reviewed by Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s), Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and Fitch Ratings (Fitch). Transactions in one
U.S. multi-seller conduit is reviewed by S&P. Transactions in the Canadian multi-seller conduits are reviewed by DBRS and Moody’s. Each
applicable rating agency also reviews ongoing transaction performance on a monthly basis and may publish reports detailing portfolio and
program information related to the conduits.

As at October 31, 2017, the total asset-backed commercial paper (ABCP) issued by the conduits amounted to $24.8 billion, an increase of
$44 million or 0.2% from last year. The increase in the amount of ABCP issued by the multi-seller conduits compared to last year is primarily due
to an increase in client usage partially offset by foreign exchange translation. The rating agencies that rate the ABCP rated 70% (October 31,
2016 – 67%) of the total amount issued within the top ratings category and the remaining amount in the second highest ratings category.

In October 2014, the U.S. federal regulators adopted regulations related to the credit risk retention requirements of Section 15G of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as added by Section 941 of the Dodd-Frank Act) for asset-backed securities (the Risk Retention Rules). To
comply with the Risk Retention Rules, we hold ABCP from RBC administered U.S. multi-seller conduits in an amount equal to at least 5% of the
aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding ABCP and any advances under the liquidity loan agreement. As at October 31, 2017, the fair
value of the ABCP purchased to comply with the Risk Retention Rules was $1 billion (October 31, 2016 – $670 million). This inventory is
classified as Securities – Available-for-sale on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

We also purchase ABCP issued by the multi-seller conduits in our capacity as a placement agent in order to facilitate overall program
liquidity. As at October 31, 2017, the fair value of our inventory was $2 million, a decrease of $3 million from last year. The fluctuations in
inventory held reflect normal trading activity. This inventory is classified as Securities – Trading on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Structured finance
We invest in auction rate securities (ARS) of certain trusts which fund their long-term investments in student loans by issuing short-term senior
and subordinated notes. Our maximum exposure to loss in these ARS trusts as at October 31, 2017 was $443 million (October 31, 2016 –
$549 million). The decrease in our maximum exposure to loss is primarily related to the impact of foreign exchange translation. Interest income
from the ARS investments, which is reported in Net-interest income, was $9.8 million during the year (October 31, 2016 – $6.3 million).

We also provide liquidity facilities to certain municipal bond Tender Option Bond (TOB) trusts in which we have an interest but do not
consolidate because the residual certificates issued by the TOB trusts are held by third parties. As at October 31, 2017, our maximum exposure
to loss from these unconsolidated municipal bond TOB trusts was $1,727 million (October 31, 2016 – $1,640 million). The increase in our
maximum exposure to loss relative to last year is primarily due to additional TOB trusts. Fee revenue from the provision of liquidity facilities to
these entities, reported in Non-interest income, was $5.1 million during the year (October 31, 2016 – $4.7 million).

We provide senior warehouse financing to discrete unaffiliated structured entities that are established by third parties to acquire loans and
issue term collateralized loan obligations. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the term collateralized loan obligations is used to fully repay
the senior warehouse financing that we provide. As at October 31, 2017, our maximum exposure to loss associated with the outstanding senior
warehouse financing facilities was $263 million (October 31, 2016 – $141 million). The increase in our maximum exposure to loss relative to last
year is related to the addition of new financing facilities. We provide senior financing to an unaffiliated structured entity to acquire loans. As at
October 31, 2017, our maximum exposure to loss associated with the outstanding senior financing facilities was $1.2 billion (October 31,
2016 – $1.3 billion).

Investment funds
We invest in hedge funds primarily to provide clients with desired exposures to reference funds. As we make investments in the reference funds,
exposures to the funds are simultaneously transferred to clients through derivative transactions. Our maximum exposure to loss in the reference
funds is limited to our investments in the funds. As at October 31, 2017, our maximum exposure to loss was $2.9 billion (October 31, 2016 –
$2.6 billion).

We also provide liquidity facilities to certain third party investment funds. The funds issue unsecured variable-rate preferred shares and

invest in portfolios of tax exempt bonds. As at October 31, 2017, our maximum exposure to these funds was $268 million (October 31, 2016 –
$764 million). The decrease in our maximum exposure compared to last year is primarily due to unwinds of several third party investment funds.

Third-party securitization vehicles
We hold interests in certain unconsolidated third-party securitization vehicles, which are structured entities. We, as well as other financial
institutions, are obligated to provide funding to these entities up to our maximum commitment level and are exposed to credit losses on the
underlying assets after various credit enhancements. As at October 31, 2017, our maximum exposure to loss in these entities was $6.1 billion
(October 31, 2016 – $9 billion). The decrease in our maximum exposure to loss compared to last year reflects a reduction in the securitized
assets in these entities and the impact of foreign currency translation. Interest and non-interest income earned in respect of these investments
was $87 million (October 31, 2016 – $95 million).

Guarantees, retail and commercial commitments
We provide our clients with guarantees and commitments that expose us to liquidity and funding risks. Our maximum potential amount of future
payments in relation to our commitments and guarantee products as at October 31, 2017 amounted to $355.8 billion compared to
$339.8 billion last year. The increase compared to last year relates primarily to the business growth in both securities lending indemnifications
and other credit-related commitments, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation. Refer to Liquidity and funding risk and
Note 25 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for details regarding our guarantees and commitments.

50

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Risk management

Overview

The ability to manage risk is a core competency at RBC, and is supported by our strong risk conduct and culture, and an effective risk
management approach. We define risk as the potential for loss or an undesirable outcome with respect to volatility of actual earnings in relation
to expected earnings, capital adequacy or liquidity. Organizational design and governance processes ensure that our Group Risk Management
(GRM) function is independent from the businesses it supports.

We manage our risks by ensuring that business activities and transactions provide an appropriate balance of return for the risks assumed

and remain within our risk appetite, which is collectively managed across RBC, through adherence to our Enterprise Risk Appetite Framework.
Our major risk categories include credit, market, liquidity, insurance, operational, regulatory compliance, strategic, reputation, legal and
regulatory environment, competitive, and systemic risks.

Build shareholder value through leadership in strategic management risk   

Mission Statement 

Objectives

Identify, assess and 
measure our exposure 
to material individual, 
aggregate  and 
emerging risks

Ensure all risk taking 
activities and risk 
exposures are within 
the board-approved 
Risk Appetite, risk 
limits and 
corresponding capital 
and liquidity needs

Maintain and ensure 
continued enhancement 
of the Enterprise Risk 
Management Framework

Provide independent 
and objective oversight 
of the management of 
risks arising from our 
businesses and 
operations and, when 
necessary, challenging 
decisions that give rise 
to material risks

Maintain an effective 
enterprise-wide risk 
management process

Ensure the continuous 
improvement in risk 
management 
processes, tools and 
practices

Risk Priorities 

Enable growth while 
ensuring top and 
emerging risks remain 
within risk appetite

Increase GRM’s
efficiency and 
effectiveness as well as 
enhance controls

Maintain focus on
talent management, 
diversity and employee 
engagement

Manage regulatory risks 
and environment
and associated 
compliance risks

Enhance the 
operational risk 
function within GRM

Risk Management Principles

Effectively 
balancing risk and 
reward is essential 
for our success

Responsibility for 
risk management is 
shared 

Business decisions 
must be based on 
an understanding 
of risk 

 Avoid activities that 
are not consistent 
with our  Purpose, 
Vision, Values, 
Code of Conduct or 
policies 

Proper focus on the 
client reduces 
our risks 

Use judgment and 
common sense

Be operationally 
prepared for a 
potential crisis 

2017 Accomplishments
Throughout 2017, we have:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Enabled growth while ensuring top and emerging risks remained within our risk appetite;
Maintained strong credit quality with total PCL ratio of 21 bps and GIL ratio of 46 bps, down 8 bps and 27 bps from last year, respectively;
Maintained strong capital and liquidity ratios, well above regulatory requirements;
Avoided major operational risk events;
Enhanced stress testing capabilities and risk analysis frameworks;
Continued to strengthen our risk conduct and culture practices; and
Expanded our risk organization for the U.S. region.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

51

Risk pyramid
Our risk pyramid identifies and categorizes our principal risks and provides a common language and discipline for the identification and
assessment of risk in existing businesses, new businesses, products or initiatives, and acquisitions and alliances. It is maintained by GRM and
reviewed regularly to ensure all key risks are reflected and ranked appropriately. The placement of the principal risks within the risk pyramid is a
function of two primary criteria: risk drivers and level of control and influence.

1  MACROECONOMIC

2  STRATEGIC

L

E

S

S

SYSTEMIC

LEGAL &
REGULATORY
ENVIRONMENT

COMPETITIVE

C

o

n

t

r

o

l 

&

 I

n

f
l

u

e

n

c

e

STRATEGIC

REPUTATION

3  EXECUTION

OPERATIONAL

REGULATORY
COMPLIANCE

M

O

R

E

4  TRANSACTIONAL / POSITIONAL

CREDIT

MARKET

LIQUIDITY

INSURANCE

Risk Drivers
Risk drivers are key factors that would have a strong influence on whether or not one or more of our risks will materialize, which include the
following:

2.

1. Macroeconomic: Adverse changes in the macroeconomic environment can lead to a partial or total collapse of the real economy or the
financial system in any of the regions in which we operate. Examples include deterioration in the Canadian housing market, abrupt
changes in the geopolitical environment, or a severe economic slowdown in China. Resultant impacts can materialize as loss of
revenue, as well as realization of credit, market or operational risk losses.
Strategic: Business strategy is a major driver of our risk appetite and the strategic choices and capital allocations we make determine
how our risk profile changes. Examples include acquisitions, responding to the threats posed by non-traditional competitors and
responding to proposed changes in the regulatory framework. These choices also impact our revenue mix, affecting our exposure to
earnings volatility and loss absorption capacity.
Execution: The complexity and scope of our operations across the globe exposes us to operational and regulatory compliance risks,
including fraud, anti-money laundering, cybersecurity and conduct/fiduciary risk.
Transactional/Positional: This driver of risk presents a more traditional risk perspective. This involves the risk of credit or market losses
arising from the lending transactions and balance sheet positions we undertake every day.

4.

3.

Control and Influence
The risk categories are organized vertically from the top of the pyramid to its base according to the relative degree of control and influence we are
considered to have over each risk.

The risk categories along the base level of our risk pyramid are those over which we have the greatest level of control and influence. We
understand these risks and earn revenue by taking them. These are credit, market, liquidity and insurance risks. Operational risk and regulatory
compliance risk, while still viewed as risks over which we have a greater level of control and influence, are ranked higher on the pyramid than the
other more controllable risks. This ranking acknowledges the level of controllability associated with people, systems and external events.

Systemic risk is placed at the top of our risk pyramid, and is generally considered the least controllable type of risk arising from the
business environment in which we operate. However, we have in place measures for mitigating the impacts of systemic risk such as our
diversified business model and funding sources, financial crisis management strategies and protocols, stress testing programs, and product and
geographic diversification. Legal and regulatory environment and competitive risks, which can be viewed as somewhat controllable, can be
influenced through our role as a corporate entity, and as an active participant in the Canadian and global financial services industry.

52

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Top and emerging risks

Our view of risks is not static. An important component of our enterprise risk management approach is to ensure that continuously evolving top
risks and emerging risks are appropriately identified, managed, and incorporated into existing risk management assessment, measurement,
monitoring and escalation processes.

These practices ensure management is forward-looking in its assessment of risks to the organization. Identification of top and emerging
risks occurs in the course of business development and as part of the execution of risk oversight responsibilities by GRM, Finance, Corporate
Treasury, Global Compliance and other control functions.

A top risk is an identified risk that could have a material adverse effect on our financial results, reputation, business model, or strategy in

the short to medium term.

Top Risks

Description

Global Uncertainty

Canadian Housing and
Household Indebtedness

Information Technology and
Cyber Risks

Global uncertainty remained a key risk during 2017. The U.S. administration continues to advocate policy
changes related to trade, financial regulation and taxation, which add to overall global uncertainty and
volatility. The Canadian economy faces additional risks from the uncertain outcome of negotiations of the
North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and from the U.S. government’s posture on financial
regulation and tax reform. Concerns remain around the social, political and economic impacts of the
changing political landscape in Europe, especially the impact of mass immigration, Brexit negotiations, and
the Catalan referendum. Concerns over a possible economic slowdown in China have increased in light of
mixed economic data. Global tensions have also increased due to North Korea’s military activities.

The housing market is a top concern for the Canadian financial system. Housing prices remain elevated in
the Greater Toronto Area and Greater Vancouver Area and affordability remains stretched. We are actively
monitoring the impact of recent Government of Ontario measures implemented in an attempt to help cool the
housing market. As the BoC embarks on a path of gradual rate tightening, the rising interest rate
environment adds an additional level of uncertainty since elevated household indebtedness is a key risk.
Increasing indebtedness could have material negative credit quality implications for our consumer lending
portfolios, including residential mortgages, credit lines, indirect lending, credit cards, automotive lending
and other personal loans.

Information technology and cyber risks continue to be key risks, not only for the financial services sector, but
for other industries in Canada and around the globe. The volume and sophistication of cyber-attacks
continue to increase and could result in business interruptions, service disruptions, theft of intellectual
property and confidential information, litigation and reputational damage. We continue to develop
advancements in cyber defence capabilities in an effort to support our business model, protect our systems
and enhance the experience of our clients on a global basis by employing industry best practices and
collaborating with peers and experts to provide our customers with confidence in their financial transactions.
The adoption of emerging technologies, such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and robotics, call for
continued focus and investment to manage our risks effectively.

Regulatory Changes

We operate in multiple jurisdictions, and the continued expansion of the breadth and depth of regulations
may lead to declining profitability and slower response to market needs. Financial reforms coming on stream
in multiple jurisdictions may have material impacts on our businesses and could affect their strategies.

An emerging risk is one that could materially impact our financial results, reputation, business model, or strategy, but is not well understood and
has not yet materialized. We are actively monitoring our emerging risks, which include the following:
•
•
•
•

Technological innovation and non-traditional competitors;
Global environmental policy and climate change;
Changes in consumer behavior;
End of quantitative easing and the implication for global liquidity.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

53

Enterprise risk management

Under the oversight of the Board of Directors and senior management, the Enterprise Risk Management Framework provides an overview of our
enterprise-wide programs for managing risk, including identifying, assessing, measuring, controlling, monitoring and reporting on the significant
risks that face the organization. While our risk appetite encompasses “what” risks we are able and willing to take, our risk conduct and culture
articulates “how” we expect to take those risks.

Risk governance
The risk governance model is well-established. The Board of Directors oversees the implementation of our risk management framework, while
employees at all levels of the organization are responsible for managing the day-to-day risks that arise in the context of their mandate. As shown
below, we use the three lines of defence governance model to manage risks across the enterprise.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

RISK COMMITTEE

AUDIT COMMITTEE

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The Board of Directors (the Board) establishes the tone from above, approves our risk appetite, provides oversight and carries out its risk management 
mandate primarily through its committees which include the Risk Committee, the Audit Committee, the Governance Committee and the Human Resources 
Committee.
The purpose of the Risk Committee is to oversee our risk management program by ensuring that the policies, procedures and controls used by management are 
sufficient to keep risks within our risk appetite. The Risk Committee’s oversight role is designed to ensure that the risk management function is adequately 
independent from the businesses whose activities it reviews. Its oversight activities include evaluating GRM’s success against its key priorities, reviewing the 
mandate of the GCRO, the GRM organizational structure, and the function’s budget and resources.
The Audit Committee assists the Board in its oversight of (i) the integrity of our financial statements; (ii) the qualifications, performance and independence of 
our external auditors; (iii) the performance of our internal audit function and internal controls; and (iv) compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
The Governance Committee recommends individuals for Board member election or re-election, oversees the process for evaluating Board members, and serves 
as our conduct review committee. Additional responsibilities include (i) developing and recommending governance frameworks, principles and policies to the 
Board; (ii) overseeing corporate citizenship matters; (iii) monitoring developments in corporate governance and adapting best practices; and (iv) reviewing 
shareholder proposals and recommending responses to the Board.
The Human Resources Committee assists the Board in its oversight of compensation policies and programs, compensation for the CEO and Group Executives, as 
well as compensation risk management. It also oversees our pension plans, key talent management strategies and practices, and management succession 
plans.

GROUP EXECUTIVES AND GROUP RISK COMMITTEE

•  Actively shape enterprise risk appetite and recommend it for Board of Directors approval
• 

Establish the tone from above and visibly support and communicate enterprise risk appetite, ensuring that sufficient resources and expertise are in place to 
help provide effective oversight of adherence to the enterprise risk appetite
Ensure alignment of strategic planning, financial planning, capital planning and risk appetite

• 
•  Via the Compensation Risk Management Oversight Committee, oversees the design of major compensation programs to ensure alignment with sound risk 

management principles and that risks that may not be fully captured in our current financial performance are appropriately considered in variable 
compensation payouts, including enterprise risk profile relative to risk appetite

FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE

SECOND LINE OF DEFENCE

THIRD LINE OF DEFENCE

RISK OWNERS

RISK OVERSIGHT

INDEPENDENT ASSURANCE

• 

• 

Business and Support Functions embedded in 
the business
Accountable for:
–  Identification
–  Assessment
–  Mitigation
–  Monitoring and
–  Reporting of risk against approved policies
  and appetite

• 

• 

Establishes risk management practices and 
provides risk guidance
Provides oversight of the effectiveness of First 
Line risk management practices

•  Monitors and independently reports on the level 

of risk against established appetite

RISK
MANAGEMENT

GLOBAL
COMPLIANCE

• 
• 

Internal and External Audit
Independent assurance to management and the 
Board of Directors on the effectiveness of risk 
management practices

Risk appetite
Our risk appetite is the amount and type of risk that we are able and willing to accept in the pursuit of our business objectives. The goal in
managing risk is to protect us from an unacceptable loss or an undesirable outcome with respect to earnings volatility, capital adequacy or
liquidity, while supporting and enabling our overall business strategy.

Our approach to articulating our risk appetite is focused around three key concepts:
1.

The amount of “earnings at risk” that is determined to be acceptable over an economic cycle and including periods of moderate stress,
using an expected future loss lens and considering potential revenue and expense contributions to earnings volatility;
The amount of “capital at risk” that is determined to be acceptable under severe and very severe stress, using an unexpected future loss
lens; and
Ensuring adequate liquidity in times of stress.

2.

3.

54

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
 
 
•

•

Our Enterprise Risk Appetite Framework has several major components as follows:
Define our risk capacity by identifying regulatory constraints
that restrict our ability to accept risk.
Establish and regularly confirm our risk appetite, comprised of
strategic drivers and self-imposed constraints that define the
maximum amount of risk we are willing to accept given our
financial strength, corporate objectives and business
strategies.
Set risk limits and tolerances for management to ensure that
risk-taking activities are within our risk appetite.
Regularly measure and evaluate our risk profile, representing
the risks we are exposed to, relative to our risk appetite, and
ensure appropriate action is taken to prevent our risk profile
from surpassing our risk appetite.
Assess our risk posture to confirm whether our strategic
priorities entail taking on more risk over a one-year time
frame, using a scale of contracting, stable or expanding.

•

•

•

Risk Capacity

Risk Appetite 

Risk Limits and
Tolerances

Risk Profile 

Risk Posture

We are in the business of taking risk; however, we balance the risk-reward trade-off to ensure the long-term viability of the organization by
remaining within our risk appetite. Our risk appetite is articulated in several complementary qualitative and quantitative risk appetite
statements.

Qualitative Statements

Quantitative Statements

Risk Appetite Statements

•

•

•

•

•

•

Undertake only risks we understand. Make thoughtful and
future-focused risk decisions.
Make decisions that balance risk with sustainable and
stable business growth.
Maintain a healthy control environment to protect our
stakeholders and meet regulatory and legal requirements.
Avoid activities that compromise our Purpose, Vision,
Values, Goals and Code of Conduct.
Never compromise our reputation and the trust of our clients
for profits.
Maintain financial resilience and operational readiness for
extreme events, to protect our stakeholders, financial
markets and the broader economy.

•
•
•

•
•

•

•

Manage exposure to future losses and volatility of earnings.
Avoid excessive concentrations of risk.
Maintain low exposure to future losses under periods of
stress.
Ensure sound management of liquidity and funding risk.
Ensure sound management of regulatory compliance risk
and operational risk.
Ensure capital adequacy by maintaining capital ratios in
excess of rating agency and regulatory expectations.
Maintain strong credit ratings and risk profile in the top half
of our peer group.

Our risk appetite statements are structured in such a way that they can be applied at the enterprise, business segment, business unit and legal
entity levels. Risk appetite is aligned with our business strategies, capital, financial and funding plans. We also ensure that the business strategy
aligns with the enterprise and business segment level risk appetite.

Risk measurement
Our ability to measure risks is a key component of our enterprise-wide risk and capital management processes. 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. For those risk types that are difficult to quantify, we place greater emphasis on
qualitative risk factors and assessment of activities to gauge the overall level of risk to ensure that they are within our risk appetite. In addition,
judgmental risk measures are developed, and techniques such as stress testing, and scenario and sensitivity analyses can also be used to
assess and measure risks. Our primary methods for measuring risk include:
•

Quantifying expected loss which is used to assess earnings at risk and is a representation of losses that are statistically expected to occur in
the normal course of business in a given time period;
Quantifying unexpected loss which is used to assess capital at risk under stressed conditions and is a statistical estimate of the amount by
which actual earnings depart from the expected, over a specified time horizon;
Stress testing which examines potential impacts arising from exceptional but plausible events; and
Backtesting which is performed on a quarterly basis by comparing the realized values to the parameter estimates that are currently used to
ensure the parameters remain appropriate for regulatory and economic capital calculations.

•

•
•

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

55

Risk control
Our enterprise-wide risk management approach is supported by a comprehensive set of risk controls.

These risk controls are defined in our Enterprise Risk Management and Risk-Specific Frameworks, which lay the foundation for 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 optimization of risk and return on both a portfolio and a
transactional basis.

Enterprise Risk Policy Architecture

Enterprise Risk
Management
Framework 

RBC Code of
Conduct 

Enterprise Risk
Conduct and Culture
Framework 

Enterprise Risk
Appetite
Framework 

Credit Risk
Management
Framework

Market Risk
Management
Framework

Operational
Risk
Management
Framework

Information
Technology
Risk
Management
Framework

Reputation
Risk
Management
Framework

Regulatory
Compliance
Management
Framework

Insurance
Risk
Management
Framework

Capital
Management
Framework

Liquidity Risk
Management
Framework

Risk Data
Aggregation and
Risk Reporting
Framework

Supporting Risk-Specific Enterprise-Wide Policies (examples)

Credit Risk
Mitigation
Policy

Management of
Market Risk
Standing Order

Fraud Risk
Framework

Information
Security Policy

Fiduciary Risk
Policy

Privacy Policy

Insurance
Risk
Mitigation Policy

Dividend
Policy

Liquidity
Risk
Policy

Risk Data
Roles and
Responsibilities
Policy

Enterprise-Wide Policies for Multiple Risk Types
(e.g., Product Risk Review and Approval Policy; Risk Limits Policy; Stress-Testing Policy)  

Segment or Region Specific Risk Policy and Procedures

The approval hierarchy for risk frameworks and policy documents:

Board of Directors or Board Committees

Senior Management Committees (e.g., Policy Review Committee, Asset Liability Committee) for most policies. Board or Board Committee approval is required
in some instances (e.g., RBC Code of Conduct, Dividend Policy)

Generally within businesses or Corporate support Committees. Group Risk Management approval required if there are significant risk implications

Risk review and approval processes
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 categories: transactions, structured credit, projects
and initiatives, and new products and services.

Authorities and limits
The Risk Committee of the Board of Directors delegates credit, market and insurance risk authorities to the President & Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) and the Group Credit Risk Officer (GCRO). The delegated authorities allow these officers to approve single name, geographic (country and
region) and industry sector exposures within defined parameters to manage concentration risk, establish underwriting and inventory limits for
trading and investment banking activities and set market risk tolerances.

The Board of Directors also delegates liquidity risk authorities to the President & CEO, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and GCRO. These limits
act as a key risk control designed to ensure that reliable and cost-effective sources of cash or its equivalent are available to satisfy our current
and prospective commitments.

Reporting
Enterprise and business segment level risk monitoring and reporting are critical components of our enterprise risk management program and
support the ability of senior management and the Board of Directors to effectively perform their risk management and oversight responsibilities.
In addition, we publish a number of external reports on risk matters to comply with regulatory requirements. On a quarterly basis, we provide to
senior management and the Board of Directors the Enterprise Risk Report which includes a comprehensive review of our risk profile relative to
our risk appetite, concentrations and limit usage, stress testing results, portfolio quality and focuses on the range of risks we face along with an
analysis of the related issues and trends. On an annual basis, we provide a benchmarking review which compares our performance to peers
across a variety of risk metrics and includes a composite risk scorecard providing an objective measure of our ranking relative to the peer group.
In addition to our regular risk monitoring, other risk specific presentations are provided to and discussed with senior management and the Board
of Directors on top and emerging risks or changes in our risk profile.

Stress testing
Stress testing examines potential impacts arising from exceptional but plausible adverse events, and is an important component of our risk
management framework. Stress testing results are used in:
•
•

Monitoring our risk profile relative to our risk appetite in terms of earnings and capital at risk;
Setting limits;

56

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

•
•
•

Identifying key risks to and potential shifts in our capital and liquidity levels, and our financial position;
Enhancing our understanding of available mitigating actions in response to adverse events; and
Assessing the adequacy of our target capital and liquidity levels.

Our enterprise-wide stress tests evaluate key balance sheet, income statement, leverage, capital, and liquidity impacts arising from risk
exposures and changes in earnings. The results are used by the Group Risk Committee (GRC), the Board of Directors and senior management risk
committees to understand our performance drivers under stress, and review stressed capital, leverage, and liquidity ratios against regulatory
thresholds and internal targets. The results are also incorporated into our Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) and capital
plan analyses.

We annually evaluate a number of enterprise-wide stress scenarios over a multi-year horizon, featuring a range of severities. Our Board of

Directors reviews the recommended scenarios, and GRM leads the scenario assessment process. Results from across the organization are
integrated to develop an enterprise-wide view of the impacts, with input from subject matter experts in GRM, Corporate Treasury, Finance, and
Economics. Recent scenarios evaluated include global recessions, protectionism, isolationism, and real estate price corrections, as well as credit
spread and commodity shocks.

Ongoing stress testing and scenario analyses within specific risk types such as market risk, liquidity risk, structural interest rate risk, retail

and wholesale credit risk, operational risk, and insurance risk supplement and support our enterprise-wide analyses. Results from these risk-
specific programs are used in a variety of decision-making processes including risk limit setting, portfolio composition evaluation, risk appetite
articulation, and business strategy implementation.

In addition to ongoing enterprise-wide and risk specific stress testing programs, we also use ad hoc and reverse stress testing to deepen

our knowledge of the risks we face. Ad hoc stress tests are one-off analyses used to investigate developing conditions or stress a particular
portfolio in more depth. Reverse stress tests, starting with a severe outcome and aiming to reverse-engineer scenarios that might lead to it, are
used in risk identification and understanding of risk/return boundaries.

In addition to internal stress tests, we participate in a number of regulator-required stress test exercises, on a periodic basis, across several
jurisdictions.

Risk conduct and culture
We define our risk conduct and culture as a shared set of behavioural norms that sustain our core values and enables us to proactively identify,
understand and act upon our risks, thereby protecting our clients, safeguarding our shareholders’ value, and supporting the integrity, soundness
and resilience of financial markets.

Risk behaviour expectations are in place and articulated through:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Our Values;
Code of Conduct;
Risk management principles;
Risk appetite statements;
Regulatory conduct rules, practices and policies;
Performance management processes; and
The Risk Conduct and Culture Framework.

We align with the Financial Stability Board’s four fundamental Risk Culture practices. Our Risk Culture practices include:
•
•
•
•

Tone from above;
Accountability;
Effective challenge; and
Incentives and performance management.

These practices are largely grounded in our existing risk management and human resource disciplines and protocols, and, when combined with
the elements of effective leadership and values, provide a base from which the resulting risk conduct and culture can be assessed, monitored,
sustained and subject to ongoing enhancement.

We hold ourselves to the highest standards of conduct to build the trust of our clients, investors, colleagues and community. The desired
outcomes from effective risk conduct and culture practices align with our values and support our risk appetite statements:

Practices

Tone from above

Accountability

Effective challenge

Incentives and performance 
management

Support desired outcomes

Our products and 
services are suitable for 
our clients to protect 
their interests

Our reputation aligns 
with our Values

Our Standard of Market 
Practice safeguards the 
effectiveness and fairness of 
the market

We avoid misconduct

The shaded text along with the tables specifically marked with an asterisk (*) in the following sections of the MD&A represent our disclosures
on credit, market and liquidity and funding risks in accordance with IFRS 7, Financial Instruments: Disclosures, and include discussion on how
we measure our risks and the objectives, policies and methodologies for managing these risks. Therefore, these shaded text and marked
tables represent an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

57

Transactional/positional risk drivers

Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of loss associated with an obligor’s potential inability or unwillingness to fulfill its contractual obligations on a timely
basis. Credit risk may arise directly from the risk of default of a primary obligor (e.g., issuer, debtor, counterparty, borrower or policyholder), or
indirectly from a secondary obligor (e.g., guarantor or reinsurer). Credit risk includes counterparty credit risk from both trading and
non-trading activities.

The responsibility for managing credit risk is shared broadly following the three lines of defence governance model. The Board of Directors,

through its Risk Committee, delegates credit risk approval authorities to the President & CEO and GCRO. Credit transactions in excess of these
authorities must be approved by the Risk Committee. To facilitate day-to-day business operations, the GCRO has been empowered to further
delegate credit risk approval authorities to individuals within GRM, the business segments, and Corporate Support as necessary.

We balance our risk and return by setting the following objectives for the management of credit risk:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Ensuring credit quality is not compromised for growth;
Mitigating credit risks in transactions, relationships and portfolios;
Using RBC’s credit risk rating and scoring systems or other approved credit risk assessment or rating methodologies, policies and tools;
Pricing appropriately for the credit risk taken;
Detecting and preventing inappropriate credit risk through effective systems and controls;
Applying consistent credit risk exposure measurements;
Ongoing credit risk monitoring and administration;
Transferring credit risk to third parties where appropriate through approved credit risk mitigation techniques (e.g., sale, hedging,
insurance, securitization); and
Avoiding activities that are inconsistent with RBC’s Values, Code of Conduct or policies.

•

We maintain a Credit Risk Framework and supporting policies that are designed to clearly define roles and responsibilities, acceptable
practices, limits and key controls. The Credit Risk Framework describes the principles, methodologies, systems, roles and responsibilities,
reports and controls that exist for managing credit risk within RBC.

Credit risk measurement
We quantify credit risk, at both the individual obligor and portfolio levels, to manage expected credit losses in order to limit earnings volatility
and minimize unexpected losses.

We employ a variety of risk measurement methodologies to measure and quantify credit risk for our wholesale and retail credit

portfolios. The wholesale portfolio is comprised of businesses, sovereigns, public sector entities, banks and other financial institutions, as
well as certain individuals and small businesses. The retail portfolio is comprised of residential mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, and
small business loans. Our credit risk rating systems are designed to assess and quantify the risk inherent in credit activities in an accurate
and consistent manner. The resulting ratings and scores are then used for both client- and transaction-level risk decision making and as key
inputs for our risk measurement and capital calculations.

Measurement of regulatory and economic capital
In measuring credit risk to determine regulatory capital, two principal approaches are available: Internal Ratings Based Approach (IRB) and
Standardized Approach. Most of our credit risk exposure is measured under the IRB.

Under the Standardized Approach, used primarily for our Caribbean banking operations and City National, risk weights prescribed by the

OSFI are used to calculate risk-weighted assets (RWA) for credit risk exposure.

Economic capital, which is our internal quantification of risks, is used for performance measurement, limit setting and internal capital

adequacy.

The key parameters that form the basis of our credit risk measures for both regulatory and economic capital are:
•

Probability of default (PD): An estimated percentage that represents the likelihood of default within a given time period of an obligor for
a specific rating grade or for a particular pool of exposure.
Exposure at default (EAD): An amount expected to be owed by an obligor at the time of default.
Loss given default (LGD): An estimated percentage of EAD that is not expected to be recovered during the collections and recovery
process.

•
•

These parameters are determined based primarily on historical experience from internal credit risk rating systems in accordance with

supervisory standards, and are independently validated and updated on a regular basis.

Each credit facility is assigned an LGD rate that is largely driven by factors that impact the extent of losses anticipated in the event the

obligor defaults. These factors mainly include seniority of debt, collateral security, and the industry sector in which the obligor operates.
Estimated LGD rates draw primarily on internal loss experience. Where we have limited internal loss data, we also refer to appropriate external
data to supplement the estimation process. LGD rates are estimated to reflect conditions that might be expected to prevail in a period of an
economic downturn, with additional conservatism added to reflect data limitations and statistical uncertainties identified in the estimation
process.

EAD is estimated based on the current exposure to the obligor and the possible future changes in that exposure driven by factors such

as the nature of the credit commitment. As with LGD, rates are estimated to reflect an economic downturn, with added conservatism to reflect
data and statistical uncertainties identified in the modelling process.

Estimates of PD, LGD and EAD are updated, and then validated and back-tested by an independent validation team within the bank, on

an annual basis. In addition, quarterly monitoring and back-testing is performed by the estimation team. These ratings and risk
measurements are used to determine our expected losses as well as economic and regulatory capital, setting of risk limits, portfolio
management and product pricing.

58

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Gross credit risk exposure
Gross credit risk exposure is calculated based on the definitions provided under the Basel III framework. Under this method, EAD is calculated
before taking into account any collateral and is inclusive of an estimate of potential future changes to that credit exposure. Gross credit risk is
categorized into either lending-related and other, or trading-related.

Lending-related and other includes:
•

Loans and acceptances outstanding, undrawn commitments, and other exposures, including contingent liabilities such as letters of
credit and guarantees, available-for-sale (AFS) debt securities and deposits with financial institutions. Undrawn commitments represent
an estimate of the contractual amount that may be drawn upon at the time of default of an obligor.

Trading-related credit includes:
•

Repo-style transactions, which include repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements and securities lending and borrowing
transactions. For repo-style transactions, gross exposure represents the amount at which securities were initially financed, before taking
into account collateral.
Derivative amounts which represent the credit equivalent amount, defined by OSFI as the replacement cost plus an add-on amount for
potential future credit exposure.

•

Credit risk assessment

Wholesale credit risk
The wholesale credit risk rating system is designed to measure the credit risk inherent in our wholesale credit activities.

Each obligor is assigned a borrower risk rating (BRR), reflecting an assessment of the credit quality of the obligor. Each BRR has a PD

calibrated against it. The BRR differentiates the riskiness of obligors and represents our evaluation of the obligor’s ability and willingness to
meet its contractual obligations on time over a three year time horizon. The assignment of BRRs is based on the evaluation of the obligor’s
business risk and financial risk and is based on fundamental credit analysis. The determination of the PD associated with each BRR relies
primarily on internal default history since the early 2000s. PD estimates are designed to be a conservative reflection of our experience across
the economic cycle including periods of economic downturn.

Our rating system is designed to stratify obligors into 22 grades. The following table aligns the relative rankings of our 22-grade internal

risk ratings with the ratings used by S&P and Moody’s.

Internal ratings map*

Ratings

PD Bands

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

21
22

0.009%
0.013%
0.025%
0.028%
0.045%
0.066%
0.086%
0.168%
0.205%
0.268%

0.434%
0.702%
1.135%
2.288%
3.701%
5.985%
9.680%
12.556%
20.306%
32.840%

100%
100%

BRR

1+
1H
1M
1L
2+H
2+M
2+L
2H
2M
2L

2-H
2-M
2-L
3+H
3+M
3+L
3H
3M
3L
4

5
6

S&P

AAA
AA+
AA
AA-
A+
A
A-
BBB+
BBB
BBB-

BB+
BB
BB-
B+
B
B-
CCC+
CCC
CCC-
CC

Table 46

Moody’s

Description

Aaa
Aa1
Aa2
Aa3
A1
A2
A3
Baa1
Baa2
Baa3

Ba1
Ba2
Ba3
B1
B2
B3
Caa1
Caa2
Caa3
Ca

Investment Grade

Non-investment
Grade

C
Bankruptcy

C
Bankruptcy

Impaired

* This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Counterparty credit risk
Counterparty credit risk is the risk that a party with whom the bank has entered into a financial or non-financial contract will fail to fulfill its
contractual agreement and default on the obligation. It is measured not only by its current value, but also by how this value can move as market
conditions change. Counterparty credit risk usually occurs in trading-related derivative and repo-style transactions. Derivative transactions
include financial (e.g., forwards, futures, swaps and options) and non-financial (e.g., precious metal and commodities) derivatives. For further
details on our derivative instruments and credit risk mitigation, refer to Note 8 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Wrong-way risk
Wrong-way risk is the risk that exposure to a counterparty or obligor is adversely correlated with the credit quality of that counterparty. There are
two types of wrong-way risk:
•

Specific Wrong-Way Risk, which exists when our exposure to a particular counterparty is positively and highly correlated with the probability
of default of the counterparty due to the nature of our transactions with them (e.g., loan collateralized by shares or debt issued by the
counterparty or a related party); and

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

59

•

General Wrong-Way Risk, which exists when there is a positive correlation between the probability of default of counterparties and general
macroeconomic or market factors. This typically occurs with derivatives (e.g., the size of the exposure increases) or with collateralized
transactions (e.g., the value of the collateral declines).

Retail credit risk
Credit scoring is the primary risk rating system for assessing obligor and transaction risk for retail exposures. Scoring models use internal and
external data to assess and “score” borrowers, predict future performance and manage limits for existing loans and collection activities.
Credit scores are one of the factors employed in the acquisition of new clients and management of existing clients. The credit score of the
borrower is used to assess the predicted risk and revenue for each independent acquisition or account management action, leading to an
automated decision or guidance for an adjudicator. Credit scoring improves credit decision quality, adjudication timeframes, consistency in
the credit decision process and facilitates risk-based pricing.

Our retail risk rating system is two-dimensional, whereby assessment of internal ratings is based both on PD, which is a borrower risk

dimension, and on LGD, which is a facility-specific risk dimension.
The following table maps PD bands to various risk levels:

Internal ratings map*

Table 47

PD bands

0.000% – 1.718%

1.719% – 6.430%

6.431% – 99.99%

100%

Description

Low risk

Medium risk

High risk

Impaired/Default

* This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Credit risk mitigation

Credit risk mitigation policies are an integral component of our Credit Risk Framework and set out the minimum requirements for the
mitigation of credit risk.

Structuring of transactions
Specific credit policies and procedures set out the requirements for structuring transactions. Risk mitigants include the use of guarantees,
collateral, seniority, loan-to-value requirements and covenants. Product-specific guidelines set out appropriate product structuring as well as
client and guarantor criteria.

Collateral
We often require obligors to pledge collateral as security when we advance credit. The extent of risk mitigation provided by collateral depends
on the amount, type and quality of the collateral taken. Specific requirements relating to collateral valuation and management are set out in
our credit risk management policies. The types of collateral used to secure credit or trading facilities within the bank are varied. For example,
the majority of our securities financing and over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives activities are secured by cash and liquid government securities
such as Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) securities. Wholesale lending is often secured by pledges of the
assets of a business, such as accounts receivable, inventory, operating assets and commercial real estate. In our Canadian Banking business
and Wealth Management segment, collateral typically consists of a pledge over a real estate property, or a portfolio of debt securities and
equities trading on a recognized exchange.

• We employ a risk-based approach to property valuation. Property valuation methods include automated valuation models (AVM) and

appraisals. An AVM is a tool that estimates the value of a property by reference to market data including sales of comparable properties
and price trends specific to the Metropolitan Statistical Area in which the property being valued is located. Using a risk-based approach,
we also employ appraisals which can include drive-by or full on-site appraisals.

• We continue to actively manage our entire mortgage portfolio and perform stress testing, based on a combination of increasing

unemployment, rising interest rates and a downturn in real estate markets.

• We are compliant with regulatory requirements that govern residential mortgage underwriting practices, including loan-to-value

parameters and property valuation requirements.

Credit risk approval
The Board of Directors and its committees, the Group Executive (GE), the GRC and other senior management risk committees work together to
ensure a Credit Risk Framework and supporting policies, processes and procedures exist to manage credit risk and approve related credit risk
limits. Reports are distributed to the Board of Directors, the GRC, and senior executives to keep them informed of our risk profile, including
trending information and significant credit risk issues and shifts in exposures to ensure appropriate actions can be taken where necessary.
Our enterprise-wide credit risk policies set out the minimum requirements for the management of credit risk in a variety of borrower,
transactional and portfolio management contexts.

Product approval
•

Proposals for credit products and services are comprehensively reviewed and approved under a risk assessment framework. New,
amended and existing products must be reviewed relative to all risks in our risk pyramid, including credit risk. All products must be
reviewed on a periodic basis, with high risk products being reviewed more frequently.

Credit limits
•

Concentration risk is defined as the risk arising from large exposures to borrowers aggregated under one or more single names, industry
sectors, countries or credit products within a portfolio that are highly correlated such that their ability to meet contractual obligations
could be similarly affected by changes in economic, political or other risk drivers.

60

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

• We manage credit exposures and limits to ensure alignment with our risk appetite, to maintain our target business mix and to ensure

•

that there is no undue risk concentration. Credit concentration limits are reviewed on a regular basis after taking into account business,
economic, financial and regulatory environments.
Credit limits are established at the following levels: single name limits (notional and economic capital), underwriting risk limits,
leveraged lending limits, geographic (country and region) limits (notional and economic capital), industry sector limits (notional and
economic capital), and product and portfolio limits, where deemed necessary.

Credit risk administration
Credit provisioning and allowances
We maintain an Allowance for Credit Losses at an appropriate level to cover identified credit losses in the portfolio as well as losses for loans not yet
identified as impaired. In determining the appropriate level of Allowance for Credit Losses, we utilize both quantitative and qualitative assessments
using current and historical credit information in accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (IAS 39).

Loan forbearance
In our overall management of borrower relationships, economic or legal reasons may necessitate forbearance to certain clients with respect to
the original terms and conditions of their loans. We have specialized groups and formalized policies that direct the management of delinquent or
defaulted borrowers. We strive to identify borrowers in financial difficulty early and modify their loan terms in order to maximize collection and to
avoid foreclosure, repossession, or other legal remedies. In these circumstances, a borrower may be granted concessions that would not
otherwise be considered. Examples of such concessions to retail borrowers may include rate reduction, principal forgiveness, and term
extensions. Concessions to wholesale borrowers may include restructuring the agreements, modifying the original terms of the agreement and/
or relaxation of covenants. For both retail and wholesale loans, the appropriate remediation techniques are based on the individual borrower’s
situation, RBC’s policy and the customer’s willingness and capacity to meet the new arrangement.

Gross credit risk exposure by portfolio, sector and geography*

Table 48

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

As at

Lending-related and other

Trading-related

Lending-related and other

Trading-related

Loans and acceptances

Loans and acceptances

(Millions of
Canadian dollars)

Outstanding

Undrawn
commitments (1)

Repo-style

Total

Other (2)

transactions Derivatives (3)

exposure (4) Outstanding

Undrawn
commitments (1)

Repo-style

Other (2)

transactions Derivatives (3)

Total
exposure (4)

By portfolio

Residential mortgages $ 270,348
Personal
92,294
Credit cards
18,035
Small business (5)
4,493

$

818 $

88,120
21,826
6,888

Retail

$ 385,170

$ 117,652 $

$

7,380
8,248
11,387

$

1,338 $
6,026
8,872

269 $
176
–
6

451 $

78 $

376
605

10,322
14,867
2,062
635
4,602

929
7,533
3,816

1,810
3,689
425
85
1,800

566
447
1,027

6,743
5,614
6,556
911
6,998

8,803
5,581
1,113

10,744
14,757

46,197

Business (5)
Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil & Gas
Utilities

Financing products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and

investments
Industrial products
Mining & metals
Non-bank financial

services
Other services
Real estate &
related
Technology &

media

Transportation &
environment

Other sectors

Sovereign (5)
Bank (5)

$

$

$

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–
37
730
–
1

–
–
–

214 $
145
–
5

364 $

74 $

567
756

– $
–
–
–

271,435 $ 254,998
93,466
180,590
17,128
39,861
3,878
11,387

$

1,063 $

82,527
24,571
6,188

– $

503,273 $ 369,470

$ 114,349 $

63 $

8,859 $

417
525

960
1,347
628
16
522

203
692
101

15,067
21,389

19,835
25,554
10,401
1,647
13,923

10,501
14,253
6,057

6,515
7,279
10,052

$

1,310 $
5,785
9,562

6,259
7,680
8,840
1,099
7,763

7,195
5,508
1,455

10,747
13,694
2,649
561
4,085

2,270
7,757
3,640

1,656
3,496
421
85
1,684

637
546
1,135

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–
–
494
–
–

–
–
–

$

$

$

– $
–
–
–

– $

256,275
176,138
41,699
10,071

484,183

109 $
497
551

1,198
1,748
611
27
469

279
632
144

8,008
14,128
20,921

19,860
26,618
13,015
1,772
14,001

10,381
14,443
6,374

14,263
7,529

15,597
4,024

329,214
950

38,477
654

408,295
27,914

8,408
11,582

13,149
9,848

15,830
10,049

249,732
1,410

41,381
1,525

328,500
34,414

11,267

1,603

8,890

14,129

633

5,950
4,570
11,362
4,261

5,712
17
11,406
1,423

3,300
4,694
110,581
132,644

3

305

–
3,018
35,228
106,346

443

59,513

40,419

11,215

1,847

2,456

26,413

11,019

14,758

873

841
563
14,356
23,735

15,803
12,862
182,933
268,409

6,060
7,568
10,581
1,930

4,393
755
6,972
1,815

3,603
5,856
84,017
119,324

4

470

–
882
38,707
104,314

499

53,984

1,832

28,952

1,637
507
17,319
25,600

15,693
15,568
157,596
252,983

Wholesale

$ 176,065

$ 126,748 $ 283,984 $ 475,832

$ 86,999 $ 1,149,628 $ 167,212

$ 124,965 $ 252,456 $ 396,013

$ 96,565 $ 1,037,211

Total exposure

$ 561,235

$ 244,400 $ 284,435 $ 475,832

$ 86,999 $ 1,652,901 $ 536,682

$ 239,314 $ 252,820 $ 396,013

$ 96,565 $ 1,521,394

By geography (6)

Canada
U.S.
Europe
Other International

$ 458,963
73,137
13,979
15,156

$ 156,249 $ 100,740 $

64,439
17,934
5,778

79,782
80,319
23,594

68,279
258,883
87,158
61,512

$ 24,018 $
14,333
43,312
5,336

808,249 $ 430,616
76,481
490,574
14,886
242,702
14,699
111,376

$ 151,481 $ 81,800 $

69,006
15,367
3,460

81,168
74,547
15,305

76,094
208,759
71,722
39,438

$ 27,647 $
14,315
48,318
6,285

767,638
449,729
224,840
79,187

Total Exposure

$ 561,235

$ 244,400 $ 284,435 $ 475,832

$ 86,999 $ 1,652,901 $ 536,682

$ 239,314 $ 252,820 $ 396,013

$ 96,565 $ 1,521,394

*
(1)
(2)

(3)
(4)

(5)
(6)

This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Undrawn commitments represent an estimate of the contractual amount that may be drawn upon at the time of default of an obligor.
Includes credit equivalent amounts for contingent liabilities such as letters of credit and guarantees, outstanding amounts for AFS debt securities, deposits with financial institutions and
other assets.
Credit equivalent amount after factoring in master netting agreements.
Gross credit risk exposure is before allowance for loan losses. Exposures under Basel III asset classes of qualifying revolving retail and other retail are largely included within Personal and
Credit cards, while home equity lines of credit are included in Personal.
For further information, refer to Note 5 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Geographic profile is based on country of residence of the borrower.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

61

2017 vs. 2016
Total gross credit risk exposure increased $132 billion or 9% from last year, primarily due to growth in repo-style transactions, cash and due from
banks, interest-bearing deposits with banks, as well as loans & acceptances. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in derivative
exposures and the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Retail exposure increased $19 billion or 4%, largely driven by volume growth in residential mortgages and personal loans, partially offset by

a decrease in credit cards related to undrawn commitments.

Wholesale exposure increased $112 billion or 11%, primarily attributable to growth in repo-style transactions, cash and due from banks,
interest-bearing deposits with banks largely reflecting higher deposits with central banks, as well as loans and acceptances. These increases
were partially offset by a decrease in derivative exposures and the impact of foreign exchange translation. Wholesale loan utilization remained
stable compared to the prior year at 39%.

The geographic mix of our gross credit risk exposure remained relatively unchanged from the prior year. Our exposure in Canada, the U.S.,

Europe and Other International was 49%, 30%, 15% and 6%, respectively (October 31, 2016 – 50%, 30%, 15% and 5%, respectively).

Our exposure in Canada increased $41 billion or 5% compared to the prior year, primarily due to growth in business loans and acceptances,

and residential mortgages.

Our exposure in the U.S. increased $41 billion or 9% compared to the prior year, mainly due to repo-style transactions largely attributable to

higher client and business activities, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange translation.

Our exposure in Europe increased $18 billion or 8% compared to the prior year, primarily due to growth in repo-style transactions and

increased deposits with central banks.

Our exposure in Other International increased $32 billion or 41% compared to the prior year, primarily due to growth in repo style

transactions and increased deposits with central banks.

Loans and acceptances outstanding and undrawn commitments* (1)

Table 49

October 31
2017

October 31
2016 (2)

As at

Low risk Medium risk High risk Impaired

Standardized
and
Non-Rated

Total Low risk (3) Medium risk High risk Impaired (3)

Standardized
and
Non-Rated (3), (4)

Total

$ 221,911 $
161,484
31,883
7,770

12,388 $ 2,383 $
12,238
5,320
1,908

2,736
1,396
433

284 $
193
–
31

34,200 $ 271,166 $ 209,532 $

3,763
1,262
1,239

180,414
39,861
11,381

158,498
34,116
5,822

12,750 $ 2,090 $
10,624
5,342
1,201

2,768
1,437
1,671

$ 423,048 $

31,854 $ 6,948 $

508 $

40,464 $ 502,822 $ 407,968 $

29,917 $ 7,966 $

337 $
222
–
36

595 $

22,197 $ 246,906
173,533
41,537
10,066

1,421
642
1,336

25,596 $ 472,042

(Millions of
Canadian dollars)

Retail (5)

Residential

mortgages

Personal
Credit cards
Small business

October 31
2017

October 31
2016 (2)

As at

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Wholesale (6)
Business
Sovereign
Bank

Total

Investment
grade

Non-investment
grade

Impaired

Total

Investment
grade

Non-investment
grade

Impaired

Total

$ 108,733
21,457
3,519
$ 133,709

$

$

164,256
1,311
2,165
167,732

$ 1,372
–
–
$ 1,372

$ 274,361
22,768
5,684
$ 302,813

$ 107,510
15,939
1,881
$ 125,330

$

$

132,967
786
943
134,696

$ 2,339
–
2
$ 2,341

$ 242,816
16,725
2,826
$ 262,367

*
(1)

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

(6)

This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
This table represents our retail and wholesale loans and acceptances outstanding and undrawn commitments by portfolio and risk category. The amounts in the table are before allowance for
impaired loans.
City National exposures of $41.6 billion are excluded as at October 31, 2016.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
Under the standardized approach, credit risk exposure is based on risk weights prescribed by OSFI.
Includes undrawn commitments of $1.0 billion, $88.1 billion, $21.8 billion, and $6.9 billion for Residential mortgages, Personal, Credit cards and Small business, respectively (October 31,
2016 – $1.0 billion, $82.4 billion, $24.6 billion and $6.2 billion, respectively).
Includes undrawn commitments of $113.9 billion, $11.4 billion, and $1.4 billion for Business, Sovereign and Bank, respectively (October 31, 2016 – $111.3 billion, $7.0 billion, and
$1.2 billion, respectively).

2017 vs. 2016
Growth in retail exposures was largely attributable to volume growth in residential mortgages and personal loans. Growth in wholesale exposures
mainly reflects increased volumes in non-investment grade categories across various industry sectors, slightly offset by the impact of foreign
exchange.

62

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Net European exposure by country and client type (1), (2)

October 31
2017

Asset type

Client type

Loans

Repo-style

Table 50

October 31
2016

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Outstanding Securities (3)

transactions Derivatives

Financials Sovereign Corporate

Total

Total

U.K.
Germany
France

$

7,925 $
1,626
615

10,428 $
12,308
9,650

Total U.K., Germany, France $

10,166 $

32,386 $

Ireland
Italy
Portugal
Spain

Total Peripheral (4)

Luxembourg (5)
Netherlands (5)
Norway
Sweden
Switzerland
Other

$

$

$

412 $
105
–
359

876 $

939 $
895
239
109
413
1,262

30 $

116
16
404

566 $

5,541 $
2,304
4,169
4,599
2,813
2,160

909 $
1
2

912 $

100 $
–
–
–

100 $

2 $

26
–
5
168
7

1,241 $
260
453

8,050 $
6,686
1,909

4,871 $ 7,582 $ 20,503 $ 17,956
11,273
5,001
8,398
8,249

14,195
10,720

2,508
562

44 $

1,954 $ 16,645 $ 18,121 $ 10,652 $ 45,418 $ 37,627
880
120
16
446

142 $
143
1
408

12 $
9
–
–

5
1
14

21 $

586 $
226
17
777

432 $
74
16
369
891 $ 1,606 $
5,029 $ 1,031 $ 6,567 $
978
277
124
107
1,174

3,471
4,413
4,726
3,533
3,510

–
247
1,585
2,579
1,601

1,462

6,054
3,904
3,945
4,168
2,271
2,982

64 $

85 $

694 $

507 $

246
5
13
139
81

2,493
3,889
3,017
847
735

Total Other Europe

$

3,857 $

21,586 $

208 $

Net exposure to Europe (6), (7) $

14,899 $

54,538 $

1,220 $

569 $ 11,488 $ 11,041 $ 3,691 $ 26,220 $ 23,324
2,587 $ 28,827 $ 29,183 $ 15,234 $ 73,244 $ 62,413

(1)
(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)
(6)
(7)

Geographic profile is based on country of risk, which reflects our assessment of the geographic risk associated with a given exposure. Typically, this is the residence of the borrower.
Exposures are calculated on a fair value basis and net of collateral, which includes $77.7 billion against repo-style transactions (October 31, 2016 – $64.0 billion) and $12.6 billion against
derivatives (October 31, 2016 – $15.7 billion).
Securities include $20.0 billion of trading securities (October 31, 2016 – $11.1 billion), $19.7 billion of deposits (October 31, 2016 – $12.3 billion), and $14.8 billion of AFS securities
(October 31, 2016 – $15.9 billion).
Gross credit risk exposure to peripheral Europe is comprised of Ireland $19.3 billion (October 31, 2016 – $18.9 billion), Italy $0.4 billion (October 31, 2016 – $0.3 billion), Portugal $nil
(October 31, 2016 – $0.1 billion), and Spain $1.0 billion (October 31, 2016 – $1.1 billion).
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
Excludes $2.7 billion (October 31, 2016 – $1.9 billion) of exposures to supranational agencies.
Reflects $1.4 billion of mitigation through credit default swaps, which are largely used to hedge single name exposures and market risk (October 31, 2016 – $1.5 billion).

2017 vs. 2016
Net credit risk exposure to Europe increased $10.8 billion from last year, largely driven by increased exposure to Germany, U.K., France, and
Switzerland. Our net exposure to peripheral Europe, which includes Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain remained minimal, with total outstanding
exposure increasing $0.1 billion during the year to $1.6 billion.

Our European corporate loan book is managed on a global basis with underwriting standards reflecting the same approach to the use of our

balance sheet as we have applied in both Canada and the U.S. PCL taken on this portfolio during the year was not material. The gross impaired
loans ratio of this loan book was 100 bps, slightly down from 110 bps in the prior year.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

63

Residential mortgages and home equity lines of credit (insured vs. uninsured)
Residential mortgages and home equity lines of credit are secured by residential properties. The following table presents a breakdown
by geographic region:

Residential mortgages and home equity lines of credit

As at October 31, 2017

Residential mortgages (1)

Table 51

Home equity
lines of credit (2)

(Millions of Canadian dollars,
except percentage amounts)

Region (4)
Canada

Atlantic provinces
Quebec
Ontario
Alberta
Saskatchewan and Manitoba
B.C. and territories

Total Canada (5)
U.S.
Other International

Total International

Total

(Millions of Canadian dollars,
except percentage amounts)

Region (4)
Canada

Insured (3)

Uninsured

Total

Total

$

7,670
15,089
42,610
21,820
9,305
17,169

57% $
48
39
58
54
37

5,848
16,557
66,549
15,702
7,932
29,521

43% $
52
61
42
46
63

13,518
31,646
109,159
37,522
17,237
46,690

$ 113,663
1
9

44% $ 142,109
11,448
3,091

–
–

56% $ 255,772
11,449
3,100

100
100

$

10

–% $

14,539

100% $

14,549

$ 113,673

42% $ 156,648

58% $ 270,321

$

1,986
3,964
16,823
6,950
2,627
8,620

$ 40,970
1,557
1,992

$

3,549

$ 44,519

As at October 31, 2016

Residential mortgages (1)

Home equity
lines of credit (2)

Insured (3)

Uninsured

Total

Total

Atlantic provinces
Quebec
Ontario
Alberta
Saskatchewan and Manitoba
B.C. and territories

$

7,633
14,432
43,314
21,746
8,897
17,657

59% $
50
43
58
54
40

5,409
14,429
58,016
15,429
7,730
27,024

41% $
50
57
42
46
60

13,042
28,861
101,330
37,175
16,627
44,681

Total Canada (5)
U.S.
Other International

Total International

Total

$ 113,679
2
13

47% $ 128,037
10,012
3,171

–
–

53% $ 241,716
10,014
3,184

100
100

$

15

–% $

13,183

100% $

13,198

$ 113,694

45% $ 141,220

55% $ 254,914

$

2,034
4,060
16,512
7,066
2,682
8,739

$ 41,093
1,464
2,442

$

3,906

$ 44,999

(1)
(2)
(3)

(4)

(5)

The residential mortgages amounts exclude our third-party mortgage-backed securities (MBS) of $27 million (2016 – $84 million).
Home equity lines of credit include revolving and non-revolving loans.
Insured residential mortgages are mortgages whereby our exposure to default is mitigated by insurance through the Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation (CMHC) or other private mortgage default insurers.
Region is based upon address of the property mortgaged. The Atlantic provinces are comprised of Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island,
Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, and B.C. and territories are comprised of British Columbia, Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon.
Total consolidated residential mortgages in Canada of $256 billion (2016 – $242 billion) is largely comprised of $231 billion (2016 – $217 billion) of
residential mortgages and $6 billion (2016 – $6 billion) of mortgages with commercial clients, of which $4 billion (2016 – $3 billion) are insured
mortgages, both in Canadian Banking, and $19 billion (2016 – $19 billion) of residential mortgages in Capital Markets held for securitization purposes.

Home equity lines of credit are uninsured and reported within the personal loan category. As at October 31, 2017, home equity lines of credit in
Canadian Banking were $41 billion (2016 – $41 billion). Approximately 98% of these home equity lines of credit (2016 – 98%) are secured by a
first lien on real estate, and only 7% (2016 – 7%) of the total homeline clients pay the scheduled interest payment only.

64

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Residential mortgages portfolio by amortization period
The following table provides a summary of the percentage of residential mortgages that fall within the remaining amortization periods
based upon current customer payment amounts, which incorporate payments larger than the minimum contractual amount and/or
higher frequency of payments:

Residential mortgages portfolio by amortization period

Table 52

As at

October 31
2017

Canada

U.S. and Other
International

Total

Canada

October 31
2016

U.S. and Other
International

73%
24
3

100%

43%
57
–

100%

71%
26
3

74%
25
1

100%

100%

40%
58
2

100%

Total

72%
27
1

100%

Amortization period

≤ 25 years
> 25 years ≤ 30 years
> 30 years ≤ 35 years

Total

Average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for newly originated and acquired uninsured residential mortgages and homeline products
The following table provides a summary of our average LTV ratio for newly originated and acquired uninsured residential mortgages
and homeline products by geographic region:

Average LTV ratio

Region (3)

Atlantic provinces
Quebec
Ontario
Alberta
Saskatchewan and Manitoba
B.C. and territories
U.S.
Other International

Average of newly originated and acquired for the

year (4), (5)

Total Canadian Banking residential mortgages

portfolio (6)

October 31
2017
Uninsured

Table 53

October 31
2016
Uninsured

Residential
mortgages (1)

Homeline
products (2)

Residential
mortgages (1)

Homeline
products (2)

74%
72
70
73
74
69
73
62

70%

53%

74%
73
67
72
74
65
n.m.
n.m.

68%

49%

73%
71
70
73
74
68
72
63

71%

54%

74%
74
69
72
74
65
n.m.
n.m.

69%

51%

(1)
(2)
(3)

(4)

(5)

Residential mortgages exclude residential mortgages within the homeline products.
Homeline products are comprised of both residential mortgages and home equity lines of credit.
Region is based upon address of the property mortgaged. The Atlantic provinces are comprised of Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island,
Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, and B.C. and territories are comprised of British Columbia, Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon.
The average LTV ratio for newly originated and acquired uninsured residential mortgages and homeline products is calculated on a weighted basis by
mortgage amounts at origination.
For newly originated mortgages and homeline products, LTV is calculated based on the total facility amount for the residential mortgage and homeline
product divided by the value of the related residential property.
Weighted by mortgage balances and adjusted for property values based on the Teranet – National Bank National Composite House Price Index.

(6)
n.m. not meaningful

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

65

Credit quality performance

Provision for (recovery of) credit loss

Table 54

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Personal & Commercial Banking
Wealth Management
Capital Markets
Corporate Support and Other (1)

Total PCL

Canada (2)

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail
Wholesale

PCL on impaired loans

U.S. (2), (3)
Retail
Wholesale

PCL on impaired loans

Other International (2), (3)

Retail
Wholesale

PCL on impaired loans

PCL on loans not yet identified as impaired

Total PCL

PCL ratio
Total PCL ratio
PCL on impaired loans ratio

Personal & Commercial Banking

Canadian Banking
Caribbean Banking
Wealth Management
PCL ratio – loans
PCL ratio – acquired credit-impaired loans

Capital Markets

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2017

1,054
34
62
–

1,150

33
413
426
32

904
95

999

3
117

120

25
6

31

–

2016

1,122
48
327
49

1,546

42
459
435
34

970
213

1,183

1
227

228

41
44

85

50

$

1,150

$

1,546

0.21%
0.21%
0.26%
0.26%
0.44%
0.07%
0.07%
0%
0.07%

0.29%
0.28%
0.29%
0.29%
0.53%
0.10%
0.08%
0.02%
0.37%

(1)

(2)
(3)

PCL in Corporate Support and Other primarily comprised of PCL for loans not yet identified as impaired. For further information, refer to
the How we measure and report our business segments section.
Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Includes acquired credit-impaired loans.

2017 vs. 2016
Total PCL decreased $396 million, or 26% from the prior year. The PCL ratio of 21 bps improved 8 bps.

PCL in Personal & Commercial Banking decreased $68 million or 6% mainly due to lower provisions in our Canadian personal lending

portfolios. The PCL ratio of 26 bps improved 3 bps.

PCL in Wealth Management decreased $14 million or 29%, mainly due to a recovery in International Wealth Management. This factor was

partially offset by higher provisions in U.S. Wealth Management (including City National).

PCL in Capital Markets decreased $265 million or 81%, primarily due to lower provisions, including higher recoveries, primarily in the oil &

gas sector, partially offset by higher provisions in the real estate and related sector.

PCL in Corporate Support and Other decreased $49 million, as the prior year included PCL for loans not yet identified as impaired.

66

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Gross impaired loans (GIL)

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Personal & Commercial Banking
Wealth Management (1)
Capital Markets
Investor & Treasury Services
Corporate Support and Other

Total GIL

Canada (2)
Retail
Wholesale

GIL

U.S. (1), (2)
Retail
Wholesale

GIL

Other International (2)

Retail
Wholesale

GIL

Total GIL

Impaired loans, beginning balance

Classified as impaired during the period (new impaired) (3)
Net repayments (3)
Amounts written off
Other (3), (4)

Impaired loans, balance at end of period

GIL ratio (5)
Total GIL ratio

Personal & Commercial Banking

Canadian Banking
Caribbean Banking
Wealth Management
GIL ratio – loans
GIL ratio – acquired credit-impaired loans

Capital Markets

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2017

1,500
549
527
–
–

2,576

559
426

985

59
736

795

345
451

796

2,576

3,903
2,269
(1,192)
(1,425)
(979)

2,576

$

0.46%
0.36%
0.24%
6.33%
1.04%
0.56%
0.48%
0.63%

Table 55

2016

1,651
710
1,524
2
16

3,903

642
522

1,164

56
1,736

1,792

380
567

947

3,903

2,285
3,673
(946)
(1,523)
414

3,903

0.73%
0.43%
0.27%
7.56%
1.44%
0.59%
0.85%
1.73%

(1)

(2)
(3)

(4)

(5)

Includes $256 million (2016 – $418 million) related to acquired credit-impaired loans. For further details refer to Notes 2 and 5 of
our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
Certain GIL movements for Canadian Banking retail and wholesale portfolios are generally allocated to New impaired, as Return to
performing status, Net repayments, Sold, and Exchange and other movements amounts are not reasonably determinable. Certain
GIL movements for Caribbean Banking retail and wholesale portfolios are generally allocated to Net repayments and New impaired,
as Return to performing status, Sold, and Exchange and other movements amounts are not reasonably determinable.
Includes Return to performing status during the year, Recoveries of loans and advances previously written off, Sold, and Exchange
and other movements.
GIL as a % of related loans and acceptances.

2017 vs. 2016
Total GIL decreased $1,327 million or 34% from the prior year, and the total GIL ratio of 46 bps improved 27 bps, largely reflecting lower
impaired loans in our Capital Markets, Wealth Management and Personal & Commercial Banking portfolios. Total GIL also includes acquired
credit-impaired loans (ACI) of $256 million related to City National, which contributed 5 bps to the GIL ratio. For further details on ACI loans,
refer to Notes 2 and 5 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

GIL in Personal & Commercial Banking decreased $151 million or 9%, and the GIL ratio of 36 bps improved 7 bps, mainly due to lower

impaired loans in our Caribbean portfolios, partially offset by higher impaired loans in our Canadian commercial lending portfolios.

GIL in Wealth Management decreased $161 million or 23%, mainly reflecting repayments in U.S. Wealth Management (including

City National).

GIL in Capital Markets decreased $997 million or 65%, primarily due to lower impaired loans reflecting loans returning to performing status,

and repayments in the oil & gas sector, partially offset by higher impaired loans in the real estate and related sector.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

67

Allowance for credit losses (ACL)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Allowance for impaired loans

Personal & Commercial Banking
Wealth Management (1)
Capital Markets
Investor & Treasury Services
Corporate Support and Other

Total allowance for impaired loans

Canada (2)
Retail
Wholesale

Allowance for impaired loans

U.S. (1), (2)
Retail
Wholesale

Allowance for impaired loans

Other International (2)

Retail
Wholesale

Allowance for impaired loans

Total allowance for impaired loans

Allowance for loans not yet identified as impaired

Total ACL

Table 56

2017

2016

497
80
160
–
–

737

141
124

265

1
150

151

168
153

321

737

1,513

2,250

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

520
73
216
–
–

809

160
119

279

2
177

179

180
171

351

809

1,517

2,326

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(1)
(2)

Effective Q1 2016, includes ACL related to acquired credit-impaired loans from our acquisition of City National.
Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.

2017 vs. 2016
Total ACL decreased $76 million or 3% from a year ago, largely due to lower ACL in Capital Markets and Personal & Commercial Banking.

For further details, refer to Notes 2 and 5 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Market risk

Market risk is defined to be the impact of market prices upon our financial condition. This includes potential gains or losses due to changes
in market determined variables such as interest rates, credit spreads, equity prices, commodity prices, foreign exchange rates and implied
volatilities.

The measures of financial condition impacted by market risk are as follows:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Positions whose revaluation gains and losses are reported in Revenue, which includes:
a)

Changes in the fair value of instruments classified or designated as fair value through profit and loss (FVTPL), including impaired
securities, and

b) Hedge ineffectiveness.

CET1 capital, which includes:
All of the above, plus
a)
Changes in the fair value of AFS securities where revaluation gains and losses are reported as other comprehensive income,
b)
Changes in the Canadian dollar value of investments in foreign subsidiaries, net of hedges, due to foreign exchange translation,
c)
and
Remeasurements of employee benefit plans; this includes pension fund assets underperforming in the market resulting in a
deficit and volatility between the pension liabilities and the fund assets, and/or estimated actuarial parameters not being realized
such that pension liabilities exceed pension fund assets.

d)

CET1 ratio, which includes:
All of the above, plus
a)
Changes in risk-weighted assets (RWA) resulting from changes in traded market risk factors, and
b)
Changes in the Canadian dollar value of RWA due to foreign exchange translation.
c)

The economic value of the Bank, which includes:
a)
b)

Points 1 and 2 above, plus
Changes in the value of other non-trading positions whose value is a function of market risk factors.

68

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Market risk controls – FVTPL positions
As an element of the Enterprise Risk Appetite Framework, the Board of Directors approves our overall market risk constraints. GRM creates
and manages the control structure for FVTPL positions which ensures that business is conducted consistent with Board requirements. The
Market and Trading Credit Risk function within GRM is responsible for creating and managing the controls and governance procedures that
ensure that risk taken is consistent with risk appetite constraints set by the Board. These controls include limits on probabilistic measures of
potential loss such as Value-at-Risk and Stressed Value-at-Risk as defined below:

Value-at-Risk (VaR) is a statistical measure of potential loss for a financial portfolio computed at a given level of confidence and over a
defined holding period. We measure VaR at the 99th percentile confidence level for price movements over a one-day holding period using
historic simulation of the last two years of equally weighted historic market data. These calculations are updated daily with current risk
positions, with the exception of certain less material positions that are not actively traded and are updated on at least a monthly basis.

Stressed Value-at-Risk (SVaR) is calculated in an identical manner as VaR with the exception that it is computed using a fixed historical
one-year period of extreme volatility and its inverse rather than the most recent two-year history. The stress period used is the interval
from September 2008 through August 2009. SVaR is calculated daily for all portfolios, with the exception of certain less material positions
that are not actively traded and are updated on at least a monthly basis.

VaR and SVaR are statistical estimates based on historical market data and should be interpreted with knowledge of their limitations – which
include the following:

•

•

•

VaR and SVaR will not be predictive of future losses if the realized market movements differ significantly from the historical periods
used to compute them.
VaR and SVaR project potential losses over a one-day holding period and do not project potential losses for risk positions held over
longer time periods.
VaR and SVaR are measured using positions at close of business and do not include the impact of trading activity over the course of
a day.

We validate our VaR and SVaR measures through a variety of means – including subjecting the models to vetting and validation by a group
independent of the model developers and by back-testing the VaR against daily marked-to-market revenue to identify and examine events in
which actual outcomes in trading revenue exceed the VaR projections.

Stress Tests – Our market risk stress testing program is used to identify and control risk due to large changes in market prices and rates. We
conduct stress testing daily on positions that are marked-to-market. The stress tests simulate both historical and hypothetical events which
are severe and long term in duration. Historical scenarios are taken from actual market events over the last 30 years and range in duration up
to 90 days. Examples include the equity market crash of 1987 and the global financial crisis of 2008. Hypothetical scenarios are designed to
be forward looking at potential future market stresses, and are designed to be severe but plausible. We are constantly evaluating and refining
these scenarios as market conditions change. Stress results are calculated assuming an instantaneous revaluation of our positions with no
management action.

These measures are computed on all positions that are FVTPL for financial reporting purposes, with the exception of those in a designated
hedging relationship and those in our insurance businesses.

Market risk measures – FVTPL positions
VaR and SVaR
The following table presents our Market risk VaR and Market risk SVaR figures for 2017 and 2016.

Market risk VaR*

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Equity
Foreign exchange
Commodities
Interest rate (1)
Credit specific (2)
Diversification (3)

Market risk VaR

Market risk Stressed VaR

Table 57

2016

For the year ended October 31

2017

For the year ended October 31

As at
Oct. 31

Average

$

$

$

10
3
3
16
4
(18)

18

43

$

$

$

12
4
3
17
4
(18)

22

53

$

$

$

High

26
6
6
25
5
n.m.

35

95

$

$

$

Low

6
3
2
13
4
n.m.

15

34

$

$

$

As at
Oct. 31

Average

13
5
5
18
4
(21)

24

46

$

$

$

16
5
3
21
5
(17)

33

82

$

$

$

High

32
8
5
32
7
n.m.

53

150

$

$

$

Low

7
3
2
14
4
n.m.

20

41

This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
General credit spread risk and funding spread risk associated with uncollateralized derivatives are included under interest rate VaR.
Credit specific risk captures issuer-specific credit spread volatility.
Market risk VaR is less than the sum of the individual risk factor VaR results due to portfolio diversification.

*
(1)
(2)
(3)
n.m. not meaningful

2017 vs. 2016
Average market risk VaR of $22 million decreased $11 million from the prior year. Reduced average equity exposures were observed in 2017 due
to lower than expected client-driven activity in rising equity markets, with volatility reaching historical lows. Furthermore, exposures in fixed
income and securitized product portfolios have been maintained at lower levels on average. This follows portfolio reductions in 2016 as reflected
in the interest rate and credit specific risk metrics. The impact of foreign exchange translation also contributed to the decrease.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

69

Average SVaR of $53 million decreased $29 million from the prior year, largely driven by reduced equity exposures and the impact of foreign

exchange translation as noted above, and the winding down of certain legacy trading portfolios in 2016.

The following chart displays a bar graph of our daily trading profit and loss and a line graph of our daily market risk VaR. We incurred 1 day of
losses totalling $2 million in 2017 compared to 7 days of losses totalling $63 million in 2016, with none of the losses exceeding VaR.

Trading revenue and VaR (Millions of Canadian dollars)

60

40

20

0

-20

-40

6

1

0

v .  1 ,  2

o

N

7

1

0

1 ,  2

n .  3

J a

7

1

0

0 ,  2

p r.  3

A

7

1

0

1 ,  2

J u l.  3

7

1

0

1 ,  2

c t.  3

O

Daily Trading Revenue

Market Risk VaR

The following chart displays the distribution of daily trading profit and loss in 2017. The only daily reported loss during the year was $2 million
on November 14, 2016. The largest reported profit was $41 million with an average daily profit of $14 million.

Trading Revenue for the year ended October 31, 2017 (teb)

s
y
a
D

f
o
r
e
b
m
u
N
n

i

y
c
n
e
u
q
e
r
F

100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0

5
6
-

5
5
-

5
4
-

5
3
-

5
2
-

5
1
-

5
-

5

5
1

5
2

5
3

5
4

5
5

5
6

5
7

Daily net trading revenue (C$ millions), excluding structured entities

2017

2016

Market risk measures for other FVTPL positions – Assets and liabilities of RBC Insurance
We offer a range of insurance products to clients and hold investments to meet the future obligations to policyholders. The investments which
support actuarial liabilities are predominantly fixed income assets designated as FVTPL. Consequently, changes in the fair values of these assets
are recorded in investment income in the consolidated statements of income and are largely offset by changes in the fair value of the actuarial
liabilities, the impact of which is reflected in insurance policyholder benefits and claims. As at October 31, 2017, we had liabilities with respect
to insurance obligations of $9.7 billion, up from $9.2 billion in the prior year, and trading securities of $7.7 billion in support of the liabilities, up
from $7.2 billion last year.

Market risk controls – Structural Interest Rate Risk (SIRR) positions(1)
The interest rate risk arising from traditional banking products, such as deposits and loans, is referred to as SIRR and is subject to limits and
controls. SIRR measures also include related hedges as well as the interest rate risk from securities held for liquidity management. Factors
contributing to SIRR include the mismatch between asset and liability repricing dates, relative changes in asset and liability rates, and other
product features that could affect the expected timing of cash flows, such as options to pre-pay loans or redeem term deposits prior to
contractual maturity.

The Board of Directors approves the risk appetite for SIRR, and the Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO), along with GRM, provides ongoing

governance of SIRR measurement and management through risk policies, limits, operating standards and other controls. SIRR reports are
reviewed regularly by GRM, ALCO, the Group Risk Committee, the Risk Committee of the Board and the Board of Directors.

Details on the non-trading risks included in SIRR are outlined in Table 59.

(1)

70

SIRR positions include impact of derivatives in hedge accounting relationships and AFS securities used for interest rate risk management.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 
 
 
 
SIRR measurement
To monitor and control SIRR, we assess two primary metrics, 12-month Net Interest Income (NII) risk and Economic Value of Equity (EVE) risk,
under a range of market shocks and scenarios. Market scenarios include currency-specific parallel and non-parallel yield curve changes and
interest rate volatility shocks.

In measuring NII risk, detailed structural balance sheets and income statements are dynamically simulated to determine the impact of

market stress scenarios on projected NII. Assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet positions are simulated using monthly time steps over a
one-year horizon. The simulations incorporate product maturities, renewals and growth along with prepayment and redemption behaviour.
Product pricing and volumes are forecast based on past experience and expectations for a given market stress scenario. EVE risk captures the
market value sensitivity of structural positions to changes in longer-term rates. In measuring EVE risk, deterministic (single-scenario) and
stochastic (multiple-scenario) valuation techniques are applied to detailed spot position data. NII and EVE risks are measured for a range of
market risk stress scenarios which include extreme but plausible changes in market rates and volatilities. These SIRR measures do not
include the benefit of management actions.

Management of NII and EVE risk is complementary and supports our efforts to generate a sustainable high-quality NII stream. NII and EVE

risks for specific units are measured daily, weekly or monthly depending on its materiality, complexity and hedge strategy.

A number of assumptions affecting cash flows, product re-pricing and the administration of rates underlie the models used to measure

NII and EVE risk. The key assumptions pertain to the expected funding profile for mortgage rate commitments, fixed rate loan prepayment
behaviour, term deposit redemption behaviour, and the treatment of non-maturity deposits. All assumptions are derived empirically based on
historical client behaviour and product pricing with consideration of future behavioural changes. All models and assumptions used to
measure SIRR are subject to independent oversight by GRM.

Market risk measures – Structural Interest Rate Sensitivities
The following table shows the potential before-tax impact of an immediate and sustained 100 bps and 200 bps increase or decrease in
interest rates on projected 12-month NII and EVE for our structural balance sheet, assuming no subsequent hedging. Rate floors are applied
within the declining rates scenarios, with floor levels set based on rate changes experienced globally. Interest rate risk measures are based
upon interest rate exposures at a specific time and continuously change as a result of business activities and management actions.

Market risk – SIRR measures*

2017

EVE risk

NII risk (1)

Table 58

2016

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Before-tax impact of:

100bps increase in rates
100bps decrease in rates

Before-tax impact of:

200bps increase in rates
200bps decrease in rates

Canadian
dollar impact

U.S. dollar
impact (2)

Total

Canadian
dollar impact

U.S. dollar
impact (2)

Total

EVE risk

NII risk (1)

$

(1,105) $ (110) $

962

(324)

(1,215) $
638

269 $
(385)

182 $
(219)

451
(604)

$ (1,377) $

644

(2,199)
1,943

(308)
(940)

(2,507)
1,003

472
(647)

353
(360)

825
(1,007)

(2,883)
664

420
(465)

711
(467)

*
(1)
(2)

This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Represents the 12-month NII exposure to an instantaneous and sustained shift in interest rates.
Represents the impact on the SIRR portfolios held in our City National and U.S. banking operations.

As at October 31, 2017, an immediate and sustained -100 bps shock would have had a negative impact to our NII of $604 million, up from
$465 million last year. An immediate and sustained +100 bps shock at the end of October 31, 2017 would have had a negative impact to the
Bank’s EVE of $1,215 million, down from $1,377 million reported last year. The year-over-year NII sensitivity to rate increases was positioned
marginally higher. Under the declining rate scenarios, NII risk has increased primarily as a result of higher rates, which allows rates to decline
further under the down shock scenario. During 2017, NII and EVE risks remained well within approved limits.

Market risk measures for other material non-trading portfolios
AFS securities
We held $75.9 billion of securities classified as AFS as at October 31, 2017, compared to $69.9 billion as at October 31, 2016. We hold debt
securities designated as AFS primarily as investments, as well as to manage liquidity risk and hedge interest rate risk in our non-trading banking
balance sheet. Certain legacy debt portfolios are also classified as AFS. Changes in the value of these securities are reported in other
comprehensive income. As at October 31, 2017, our portfolio of AFS securities exposes us to interest rate risk of a pre-tax change in value of
$9.8 million as measured by the change in the value of the securities for a one basis point parallel increase in yields. The portfolio also exposes
us to credit spread risk of a pre-tax change in value of $25.0 million, as measured by the change in value for a one basis point widening of credit
spreads. The value of the AFS securities included in our SIRR measure as at October 31, 2017 was $36.4 billion. Our AFS securities also include
equity exposures of $1.2 billion as at October 31, 2017, down from $1.6 billion in the prior year.

Derivatives related to non-trading activity
Derivatives are also used to hedge market risk exposures unrelated to our trading activity. In aggregate, derivative assets not related to trading
activity of $3.2 billion as at October 31, 2017 were down from $5.1 billion last year, and derivative liabilities of $3.2 billion as at October 31,
2017 were down from $4.1 billion last year.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

71

Non-trading derivatives in hedge accounting relationships
The derivative assets and liabilities described above include derivative assets in a designated hedge accounting relationship of $1.3 billion as at
October 31, 2017, down from $2.4 billion as at October 31, 2016, and derivative liabilities of $1.5 billion as at October 31, 2017, down from
$1.8 billion last year. These derivative assets and liabilities are included in our SIRR measure and other internal non-trading market risk
measures. We use interest rate swaps to manage our AFS securities and structural interest rate risk. To the extent these swaps are considered
effective, changes in their fair value are recognized in other comprehensive income. The interest rate risk for the swaps designated as cash flow
hedges, measured as the change in the fair value of the derivatives for a one basis point parallel increase in yields, was $7.7 million as of
October 31, 2017 compared to $5.2 million as of October 31, 2016.

Interest rate swaps are also used to hedge changes in the fair value of certain fixed-rate instruments. Changes in fair value of the hedged
instruments that are related to interest rate movements and the corresponding interest rate swaps are reflected in the consolidated statement of
income.

We also use foreign exchange derivatives to manage our exposure to equity investments in subsidiaries that are denominated in foreign

currencies, particularly the U.S. dollar, British pound, and Euro. Changes in the fair value of these hedges and the cumulative translation
adjustment related to our structural foreign exchange risk are reported in other comprehensive income.

Other non-trading derivatives
Derivatives, including interest rate swaps and foreign exchange derivatives, that are not in designated hedge accounting relationships are used
to manage other non-trading exposures. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are reflected in the consolidated statement of income.
Derivative assets of $1.9 billion as at October 31, 2017 were down from $2.7 billion as at October 31, 2016, and derivative liabilities of
$1.7 billion as at October 31, 2017 were down from $2.3 billion last year.

Non-trading foreign exchange rate risk
Foreign exchange rate risk is the potential adverse impact on earnings and economic value due to changes in foreign currency rates. Our
revenue, expenses and income denominated in currencies other than the Canadian dollar are subject to fluctuations as a result of changes in
the value of the average Canadian dollar relative to the average value of those currencies. Our most significant exposure is to the U.S. dollar,
due to our operations in the U.S. and other activities conducted in U.S. dollars. Other significant exposures are to the British pound and the
Euro, due to our activities conducted internationally in these currencies. A strengthening or weakening of the Canadian dollar compared to
the U.S. dollar, British pound and the Euro could reduce or increase, as applicable, the translated value of our foreign currency denominated
revenue, expenses and earnings and could have a significant effect on the results of our operations. We are also exposed to foreign exchange
rate risk arising from our investments in foreign operations. For unhedged equity investments, when the Canadian dollar appreciates against
other currencies, the unrealized translation losses on net foreign investments decreases our shareholders’ equity through the other
components of equity and decreases the translated value of the Risk-weighted Assets (RWA) of the foreign currency-denominated asset. The
reverse is true when the Canadian dollar depreciates against other currencies. Consequently, we consider these impacts in selecting an
appropriate level of our investments in foreign operations to be hedged.

Our overall trading and non-trading market risk objectives, policies and methodologies have not changed significantly from 2016.

72

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Linkage of market risk to selected balance sheet items
The following table provides the linkages between selected balance sheet items with positions included in our trading market risk and
non-trading market risk disclosures, which illustrates how we manage market risk for our assets and liabilities through different risk measures:

Linkage of market risk to selected balance sheet items

Table 59

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets subject to market risk
Cash and due from banks (3)
Interest-bearing deposits with banks (4)
Securities

Trading (5)
Available-for-sale (6)

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements

and securities borrowed (7)

Loans

Retail (8)
Wholesale (9)
Allowance for loan losses
Segregated fund net assets (10)
Derivatives
Other assets (11)
Assets not subject to market risk (12)

Total assets

Liabilities subject to market risk
Deposits (13)
Segregated fund liabilities (14)
Other

Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned (15)

Derivatives
Other liabilities (16)
Subordinated debentures
Liabilities not subject to market risk (17)

As at October 31, 2017

Market risk measure

Balance sheet
amount

Traded risk (1)

Non-traded
risk (2)

Non-traded risk
primary risk sensitivity

$

28,407
32,662

$

–
20,792

$

28,407
11,870

Interest rate
Interest rate

127,657
90,722

119,815
–

7,842
90,722

Interest rate, credit spread
Interest rate, credit spread, equity

220,977

141,532

79,445

Interest rate

385,170
159,606
(2,159)
1,216
95,023
68,545
5,027

7,638
4,217
–
–
91,791
2,006

377,532
155,389
(2,159)
1,216
3,232
66,539

Interest rate
Interest rate
Interest rate
Interest rate
Interest rate, foreign exchange
Interest rate

$ 1,212,853

$

789,635
1,216

$

$

387,791

$ 820,035

78,194
–

$ 711,441
1,216

30,008

30,008

–

Interest rate
Interest rate

143,084
92,127
65,565
9,265
7,525

136,371
88,919
4,275
–

6,713
3,208
61,290
9,265

Interest rate
Interest rate, foreign exchange
Interest rate
Interest rate

Total liabilities

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

$ 1,138,425

$

337,767

$ 793,133

$

74,428

$ 1,212,853

(1)

(2)

Traded risk includes positions that are classified or designated as FVTPL and positions whose revaluation gains and losses are reported in revenue. Market risk measures of VaR and SVaR
and stress testing are used as risk controls for traded risk.
Non-traded risk includes positions used in the management of the SIRR and other non-trading portfolios. Other material non-trading portfolios include positions from RBC Insurance and AFS
securities not included in SIRR.

The following footnotes provide additional information on the Non-traded risk amounts:
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)

Cash and due from banks includes $15,895 million included in SIRR. An additional $12,512 million is included in other risk controls.
Interest-bearing deposits with banks of $11,870 million are included in SIRR.
Trading securities include $7,706 million in securities for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance. An additional $136 million is included in other risk controls.
Includes AFS securities of $75,877 million and held-to-maturity securities of $14,845 million. $51,269 million of the total securities are included in SIRR. An additional $1,946 million are
held by RBC Insurance. The remaining $37,507 million are captured in other internal non-trading market risk reporting.
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements include $32,541 million reflected in SIRR. An additional $46,904 million is included in other risk controls.
Retail loans include $366,928 million reflected in SIRR and $241 million is used for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance. An additional $10,363 million is included in other
risk controls.
Wholesale loans include $153,829 million reflected in SIRR. An additional $1,560 million is used for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance.
Investments for the account of segregated fund holders are included in RBC Insurance risk measures.

(9)
(10)
(11) Other assets include $37,999 million reflected in SIRR and $2,428 million is used for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance. An additional $26,112 million is included in other

(7)
(8)

risk controls.

Insurance and investment contracts for the account of segregated fund holders are included in RBC Insurance risk measures.

(12) Assets not subject to market risk include $5,027 million of physical and other assets.
(13) Deposits include $650,841 million reflected in SIRR. The remaining $60,600 million are captured in other internal non-trading market risk reporting.
(14)
(15) Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned include $6,713 million included in other risk controls.
(16) Other liabilities include $36,019 million reflected in SIRR and $10,318 million of RBC Insurance liabilities. An additional $14,953 million is included in other risk controls.
(17)

Liabilities not subject to market risk include $7,525 million of payroll related and other liabilities.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

73

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Assets subject to market risk
Cash and due from banks (4)
Interest-bearing deposits with banks (5)
Securities

Trading (6)
Available-for-sale (7)

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements

and securities borrowed (8)

Loans

Retail (9)
Wholesale (10)
Allowance for loan losses
Segregated fund net assets (11)
Derivatives
Other assets (12)
Assets not subject to market risk (13)
Total assets

Liabilities subject to market risk
Deposits (14)
Segregated fund liabilities (15)
Other

Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned (16)

Derivatives
Other liabilities (17)
Subordinated debentures
Liabilities not subject to market risk (18)
Total liabilities
Total equity
Total liabilities and equity

As at October 31, 2016 (1)

Market risk measure

Balance sheet
amount

Traded risk (2)

Non-traded
risk (3)

Non-traded risk
primary risk sensitivity

$

14,929
27,851

$

–
16,058

$ 14,929
11,793

Interest rate
Interest rate

151,292
84,801

144,001
–

7,291
84,801

Interest rate, credit spread
Interest rate, credit spread, equity

186,302

121,692

64,610

Interest rate

369,470
154,369
(2,235)
981
118,944
68,363
5,191
$ 1,180,258

$

757,589
981

9,081
2,341
–
–
113,862
1,440

360,389
152,028
(2,235)
981
5,082
66,923

Interest rate
Interest rate
Interest rate
Interest rate
Interest rate, foreign exchange
Interest rate

$

$

408,475

$ 766,592

81,986
–

$ 675,603
981

Interest rate
Interest rate

50,369

50,369

–

88,863
112,500
5,439
–

14,578
4,050
57,186
9,762

Interest rate
Interest rate, foreign exchange
Interest rate
Interest rate

$

339,157

$ 762,160

103,441
116,550
62,625
9,762
7,329
$ 1,108,646
$
71,612
$ 1,180,258

(1)
(2)

(3)

Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
Traded risk includes positions that are classified or designated as FVTPL and positions whose revaluation gains and losses are reported in revenue. Market risk measures of VaR and SVaR
and stress testing are used as risk controls for traded risk.
Non-traded risk includes positions used in the management of the SIRR and other non-trading portfolios. Other material non-trading portfolios include positions from RBC Insurance and AFS
securities not included in SIRR.

The following footnotes provide additional information on the Non-traded risk amounts:
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)

Cash and due from banks includes $12,644 million included in SIRR. An additional $2,285 million is included in other risk controls.
Interest-bearing deposits with banks of $11,793 million are included in SIRR.
Trading securities include $7,171 million in securities for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance. An additional $120 million is included in other risk controls.
Includes AFS securities of $69,922 million and held-to-maturity securities of $14,879 million. $51,239 million of the total securities are included in SIRR. An additional $1,901 million are
held by RBC Insurance. The remaining $31,661 million are captured in other internal non-trading market risk reporting.
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements include $24,838 million reflected in SIRR. An additional $39,772 million is included in other risk controls.
Retail loans include $350,019 million reflected in SIRR and $251 million is used for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance. An additional $10,119 million is included in other
risk controls.

(8)
(9)

(10) Wholesale loans include $150,619 million reflected in SIRR. An additional $1,409 million is used for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance.
(11)
(12) Other assets include $39,272 million reflected in SIRR and $2,463 million is used for asset/liability management of RBC Insurance. An additional $25,188 million is included in other risk

Investments for the account of segregated fund holders are included in RBC Insurance risk measures.

controls.

Insurance and investment contracts for the account of segregated fund holders are included in RBC Insurance risk measures.

(13) Assets not subject to market risk include $5,191 million of physical and other assets.
(14) Deposits include $644,812 million reflected in SIRR. The remaining $30,791 million are captured in other internal non-trading market risk reporting.
(15)
(16) Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned include $14,578 million included in other risk controls.
(17) Other liabilities include $35,526 million reflected in SIRR and $9,900 million of RBC Insurance liabilities. An additional $11,760 million is included in other risk controls.
(18)

Liabilities not subject to market risk include $7,329 million of payroll related and other liabilities.

Liquidity and funding risk

Liquidity and funding risk (liquidity risk) is the risk that we may be unable to generate sufficient cash or its equivalents in a timely and cost-
effective manner to meet our commitments as they come due. Liquidity risk arises from mismatches in the timing and value of on-balance
sheet and off-balance sheet cash flows.

Our liquidity profile is structured to ensure that we have sufficient liquidity to satisfy current and prospective commitments in both

normal and stressed business and liquidity environments. To achieve these goals, we operate under a comprehensive Liquidity Risk
Management Framework (LRMF) and Pledging Policy. We also employ several liquidity risk mitigation strategies that include:
•
•

An appropriate balance between the level of exposure allowed under our risk appetite and the cost of risk mitigation;
Broad funding access, including preserving and promoting a reliable base of core client deposits and ongoing access to diversified
sources of wholesale funding;
A comprehensive liquidity stress testing program, contingency, recovery and resolution planning and status monitoring to ensure
sufficiency of unencumbered marketable securities and demonstrated capacities to monetize specific asset classes;
Governance of pledging activity through limits and liquid asset buffers for potential pledging activity;
Timely and granular risk measurement information;
Transparent liquidity transfer pricing and cost allocation; and
A rigorous first and second line of defense governance model.

•

•
•
•
•

74

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Risk control
Our liquidity risk objectives, policies and methodologies are reviewed regularly, and updated to reflect changing market conditions and
business mix, to align with local regulatory developments and to position ourselves for the phase-in of Basel III regulatory liquidity standards.
We continue to maintain liquidity and funding that is appropriate for the execution of our strategy. Liquidity risk remains well within our risk
appetite.

The Board of Directors annually approves the delegation of liquidity risk authorities to senior management. The Risk Committee of the

Board annually approves the LRMF and the Pledging Policy and is responsible for their oversight. The Board of Directors, the Risk Committee
of the Board, the GRC and the ALCO regularly review reporting on our enterprise-wide liquidity position and status. The GRC, the Policy Review
Committee (PRC) and/or the ALCO also review liquidity documents prepared for the Board of Directors or its committees.
•

The PRC annually approves the Liquidity Risk Policy (LRP), which establishes minimum risk control elements in accordance with the
Board-approved risk appetite and the LRMF.
The ALCO annually approves the Liquidity Contingency Plan (LCP) and provides strategic direction and oversight to Corporate Treasury,
other functions, and business segments on the management of liquidity.

•

These policies are supported by operational, desk and product-level policies that implement risk control elements, such as parameters,
methodologies, management limits and authorities that govern the measurement and management of liquidity. Stress testing is also
employed to assess the robustness of the control framework and inform liquidity contingency plans.

Risk measurement

Liquidity risk is measured by applying scenario-based assumptions against our assets and liabilities and off-balance sheet commitments to
derive expected cash flow profiles over varying time horizons. For instance, government bonds can be quickly and reliably monetized without
significant loss of value to generate cash inflow prior to their contractual maturity, and similarly, relationship demand deposits can be
deemed as having little risk of short-term cash outflow, although depositors have the contractual right to redeem on demand. Risk
methodologies and underlying assumptions are periodically reviewed and validated to ensure alignment with our operating environment,
expected economic and market conditions, rating agency preferences, regulatory requirements and accepted practices.

To manage liquidity risk within our liquidity risk appetite, we set limits on various metrics reflecting a range of time horizons and severity of
stress conditions and develop contingency, recovery and resolution plans. Our liquidity risk measurement and control activities are divided
into three categories as follows:

Structural (longer-term) liquidity risk
To guide our secured and unsecured wholesale term funding activities, we employ an internal metric to focus on the structural alignment
between long-term illiquid assets and longer-term funding sourced from wholesale investors and core relationship deposits.

Tactical (shorter-term) liquidity risk
To address more immediate cash flow risks we may experience in times of stress, we use short-term net cash flow limits, in conjunction with
stress testing, to contain risk within the risk appetite at branch, subsidiary and currency levels. Net cash flow positions are derived from the
application of internally generated risk assumptions and parameters to known and anticipated cash flows for all material unencumbered
assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet activities. Encumbered assets are not considered a source of available liquidity. We also control
tactical liquidity by adhering to enterprise-wide and unit-specific prescribed regulatory standards, such as LCR.

Contingency liquidity risk
Contingency liquidity risk planning assesses the impact of and our intended responses to sudden stressful events. Our LCP, maintained and
administered by Corporate Treasury, guides our actions and responses to liquidity crises. This plan establishes a Liquidity Crisis Team, led by
Corporate Treasury, and consisting of senior representatives with relevant subject matter expertise from key business segments, Group Risk
Management, Finance, and Operations. This team contributes to the development of stress tests and funding plans and meets regularly to
assess our liquidity status, conduct stress tests and review liquidity contingency preparedness.

Our stress tests, which include elements of scenario and sensitivity analyses, measure our prospective exposure to global, country-specific

and RBC-specific events over a period of several weeks. Different levels of severity are considered for each type of crisis with some scenarios
reflecting multiple notch downgrades to our credit ratings.

The contingency liquidity risk planning process identifies contingent funding needs (e.g., draws on committed credit and liquidity lines,

demands for more collateral and deposit run-off) and sources (e.g., contingent liquid asset sales and incremental wholesale funding capacity)
under various stress scenarios, and as a result, informs requirements for our earmarked contingent unencumbered liquid asset pools.

Our contingent liquid asset pools consist of diversified, highly rated and liquid marketable securities, overnight government reverse repos,

and deposits with central banks. These portfolios are subject to minimum asset quality levels and, as appropriate, other strict eligibility
guidelines (e.g., maturity, diversification and eligibility for central bank advances) to maximize ready access to cash in emergencies. These
securities, when added to other unencumbered liquid assets that we hold as a result of capital markets or other activities, combine to populate
our liquidity reserve and asset encumbrance disclosures provided below.

Liquidity reserve and asset encumbrance
The following tables provide summaries of our liquidity reserve and asset encumbrance. In both tables, unencumbered assets represent, for the
most part, a ready source of funding that can be accessed quickly. For the purpose of constructing the following tables, encumbered assets
include: (i) bank-owned liquid assets that are either pledged as collateral (e.g., repo financing and derivative pledging) or not freely available
due to regulatory or internal policy requirements (e.g., earmarked to satisfy mandatory reserve or local capital adequacy requirements and to
maintain continuous access to payment and settlement systems); (ii) securities received as collateral from securities financing and derivative
transactions which have either been re-hypothecated where permissible (e.g., to obtain financing through repos or to cover securities sold short)
or have no liquidity value since re-hypothecation is prohibited; and (iii) illiquid assets that have been securitized and sold into the market or that
have been pledged as collateral in support of structured term funding vehicles. As per our liquidity management framework and practice, we do
not include encumbered assets as a source of available liquidity in measuring liquidity risk. Unencumbered assets are the difference between
total and encumbered assets from both on- and off-balance sheet sources.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

75

Liquidity reserve
In the liquidity reserve table, available liquid assets consist of on-balance sheet cash and securities holdings, as well as securities received as
collateral from securities financing (reverse repos and off-balance sheet collateral swaps) and derivative transactions, and constitute the
preferred source for quickly accessing liquidity. The other component of our liquidity reserve consists primarily of uncommitted and undrawn
central bank credit facilities that could be accessed under exceptional circumstances, provided certain pre-conditions could be met and where
advances could be supported by eligible assets (e.g., certain unencumbered loans) not included in the liquid assets category.

The liquidity reserve is mainly affected by routine flows of client banking activity where liquid asset portfolios adjust to the change in cash
balances, and additionally from capital markets activities where business strategies and client flows may also affect the addition or subtraction
of liquid assets in the overall calculation of the liquidity reserve. Corporate Treasury also affects liquidity reserves through the management of
funding issuances where reserves absorb timing mismatches between debt issuances and deployment into business activities.

Liquidity reserve

Table 60

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Cash and holding at central banks
Deposits in other banks available overnight
Securities issued or guaranteed by sovereigns, central

banks or multilateral development banks (2)

Other securities
Liquidity assets eligible at central banks (not included

above) (3)

Undrawn credit lines granted by central banks (4)
Other assets eligible as collateral for discount (5)
Other liquid assets (6)

As at October 31, 2017

Securities received
as collateral from
securities financing
and derivative
transactions

Bank-owned
liquid
assets (1)

Total liquid
assets

Encumbered
liquid assets

Unencumbered
liquid assets

$

46,581 $

4,004

303,003
142,272

436
12,007
94,207
19,520

– $
–

46,581 $

4,004

2,045 $
203

27,534
44,487

330,537
186,759

187,465
77,696

–
–
–
–

436
12,007
94,207
19,520

–
–
–
19,520

44,536
3,801

143,072
109,063

436
12,007
94,207
–

Total liquid assets

$

622,030 $

72,021 $

694,051 $

286,929 $

407,122

As at October 31, 2016

Securities received
as collateral from
securities financing
and derivative
transactions

Bank-owned
liquid
assets (1)

Total liquid
assets

Encumbered
liquid assets

Unencumbered
liquid assets

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Cash and holding at central banks
Deposits in other banks available overnight
Securities issued or guaranteed by sovereigns, central
banks or multilateral development banks (2), (3)

Other securities
Liquidity assets eligible at central banks (not included

above) (4)

Undrawn credit lines granted by central banks (5)
Other assets eligible as collateral for discount (6)
Other liquid assets (7)

$

31,771 $

1,679

281,313
146,269

600
13,558
141,888
23,307

– $
–

31,771 $

1,679

1,781 $
262

28,564
34,386

–
–
–
–

309,877
180,655

600
13,558
141,888
23,307

154,105
72,765

–
–
–
23,307

Total liquid assets

640,385 $

62,950 $

703,335 $

252,220 $

29,990
1,417

155,772
107,890

600
13,558
141,888
–

451,115

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Royal Bank of Canada
Foreign branches
Subsidiaries

Total unencumbered liquid assets

As at

October 31
2017
204,999 $

63,283
138,840
407,122 $

$

$

October 31
2016

264,522
53,006
133,587

451,115

(1)
(2)

(3)
(4)
(5)

(6)

(7)

76

The Bank-owned liquid assets amount includes securities owned outright by the Bank as well as collateral received through reverse repurchase transactions.
Includes liquid securities issued by provincial governments and U.S. government-sponsored entities working under U.S. Federal government’s conservatorship (e.g., Federal National
Mortgage Association and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation).
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
Includes Auction Rate Securities.
Includes loans that qualify as eligible collateral for the discount window facility available to us at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (Federal Reserve Bank). Amounts are face value and
would be subject to collateral margin requirements applied by the Federal Reserve Bank to determine collateral value/borrowing capacity. Access to the discount window borrowing program
is conditional on meeting requirements set by the Federal Reserve Bank and borrowings are typically expected to be infrequent and due to uncommon occurrences requiring temporary
accommodation.
Represents our unencumbered Canadian dollar non-mortgage loan book (at face value) that could, subject to satisfying conditions precedent to borrowing and application of prescribed
collateral margin requirements, be pledged to the Bank of Canada for advances under its Emergency Lending Assistance (ELA) program. ELA and other central bank facilities are not
considered sources of available liquidity in our normal liquidity risk profile but could in extraordinary circumstances, where normal market liquidity is seriously impaired, allow us and other
banks to monetize assets eligible as central bank collateral to meet requirements and mitigate further market liquidity disruption.
Represents pledges related to OTC and exchange-traded derivative transactions.

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

2017 vs. 2016
Total liquid assets decreased $23.6 billion or 3%, primarily due to a reduction in non-mortgage loans that qualify to be pledged under the ELA
program due to the change of the eligibility criteria by the BoC. This decline was partially offset by higher balances of cash and holdings at
central banks.

Asset encumbrance
The table below provides a summary of cash, securities and other assets, distinguishing between those that are encumbered assets and those
available for sale or use as collateral in secured funding transactions. Other assets, such as mortgages and credit card receivables can also be
monetized, although over a longer timeframe than that required for marketable securities. As at October 31, 2017, our Unencumbered assets
available as collateral comprised 33% of our total assets (October 31, 2016 – 38%).

Asset encumbrance

Table 61

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

As at

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

collateral Other (1)

Pledged as

Available as
collateral (2)

Other (3)

Total

Pledged as
collateral

Other (1)

Available as
collateral (2)

Other (3)

Total

Encumbered

Unencumbered

Encumbered

Unencumbered

Cash and due from banks
Interest-bearing deposits with

banks
Securities
Trading
Available-for-sale

Assets purchased under reverse
repurchase agreements and
securities borrowed (4), (5)

Loans

Retail

Mortgage securities
Mortgage loans
Non-mortgage loans

Wholesale

Allowance for loan losses
Segregated fund net assets
Other – Derivatives

– Others (6)

$

6 $ 2,039

$

26,362 $

– $

28,407

$

– $ 1,781

$

13,148 $

– $

14,929

–

204

32,458

–

32,662

–

262

27,589

–

27,851

51,344
3,184

–
–

74,922
86,442

1,391
1,096

127,657
90,722

66,734
2,858

–
–

83,219
78,966

1,339
2,977

151,292
84,801

222,128

23,131

74,950

–

320,209

166,449

20,450

82,749

–

269,648

35,861
38,504
8,776
3,713
–
–
–
19,520

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

32,589
14,737
65,449
27,637
–
–
–
–

–
148,657
40,597
128,256
(2,159)
1,216
95,023
54,052

68,450
201,898
114,822
159,606
(2,159)
1,216
95,023
73,572

34,624
40,293
10,422
3,477
–
–
–
23,307

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

35,591
12,796
100,612
41,445
–
–
–
–

–
131,694
3,438
109,447
(2,235)
981
118,944
50,247

70,215
184,783
114,472
154,369
(2,235)
981
118,944
73,554

Total assets

$ 383,036 $ 25,374

$ 435,546 $ 468,129 $ 1,312,085

$ 348,164 $ 22,493

$ 476,115 $ 416,832 $ 1,263,604

(1)
(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)
(6)

Includes assets restricted from use to generate secured funding due to legal or other constraints.
Includes loans that could be used to collateralize central bank advances. Our unencumbered Canadian dollar non-mortgage loan book (at face value) could, subject to satisfying conditions
for borrowing and application of prescribed collateral margin requirements, be pledged to the Bank of Canada for advances under its ELA program. We also lodge loans that qualify as eligible
collateral for the discount window facility available to us at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. ELA and other central bank facilities are not considered sources of available liquidity in our
normal liquidity risk profile. However, banks could monetize assets meeting central bank collateral criteria during periods of extraordinary and severe disruption to market-wide liquidity.
Other unencumbered assets are not subject to any restrictions on their use to secure funding or as collateral but would not be considered readily available since they may not be acceptable
at central banks or for other lending programs.
Includes bank-owned liquid assets and securities received as collateral from off-balance sheet securities financing, margin lending, and derivative transactions. Includes $21.7 billion (2016:
$19.5 billion) of collateral received through reverse repurchase transactions that cannot be rehypothecated in its current legal form.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.
The Pledged as collateral amounts relate to OTC and exchange-traded derivative transactions.

Funding

Funding strategy
Core funding, comprising capital, longer-term wholesale liabilities and a diversified pool of personal and, to a lesser extent, commercial and
institutional deposits, is the foundation of our structural liquidity position.

Deposit and funding profile
As at October 31, 2017, relationship-based deposits, which are the primary source of funding for retail loans and mortgages, were $525 billion or
54% of our total funding (October 31, 2016 – $506 billion or 55%). The remaining portion is comprised of short- and long-term wholesale
funding.

Funding for highly liquid assets consists primarily of short-term wholesale funding that reflects the monetization period of those assets.

Long-term wholesale funding is used mostly to fund less liquid wholesale assets and to support liquidity asset buffers.

For further details on our wholesale funding, refer to the Composition of wholesale funding tables below.

Long-term debt issuance
During 2017, we continued to experience more favourable unsecured wholesale funding access and pricing compared to many of our global
peers. We also continued to expand our unsecured long-term funding base by selectively issuing, either directly or through our subsidiaries,
$22.3 billion of term funding in various currencies and markets. Total unsecured long-term funding outstanding decreased $2.7 billion from the
prior year due to maturities.

We primarily use residential mortgage and credit card securitization programs as alternative sources of funding and for liquidity and asset/
liability management purposes. Our total secured long-term funding includes outstanding mortgage-backed securities (MBS) sold, covered
bonds that are collateralized with residential mortgages, and securities backed by credit card receivables.

Compared to 2016, our outstanding MBS sold decreased $271 million. Our covered bonds and securitized credit card receivables

decreased $2.7 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively.

For further details, refer to the Off-balance sheet arrangements section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

77

Long-term funding sources*

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Unsecured long-term funding
Secured long-term funding
Commercial mortgage-backed securities sold
Subordinated debentures

Table 62

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

96,112
64,758
1,366
9,362

98,827
69,971
1,297
9,597

$

171,598

$

179,692

*

This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Our wholesale funding activities are well-diversified by geography, investor segment, instrument, currency, structure and maturity. We maintain
an ongoing presence in different funding markets, which allows us to continuously monitor market developments and trends, identify
opportunities and risks, and take appropriate and timely actions. We operate longer-term debt issuance registered programs. The following table
summarizes these programs with their authorized limits by geography.

Programs by geography

Table 63

Canada

U.S.

Europe/Asia

• Canadian Shelf Program – $25 billion

• SEC Shelf Program –

• European Debt Issuance Program –

US$40 billion

US$40 billion

• SEC Registered Covered Bond Program –

• Global Covered Bond Program –

US$15 billion (1)

€32 billion

• Japanese Issuance Programs –

¥1 trillion

(1)

Subject to the €32 billion Global Covered Bond Program limit. Upon the enactment of U.S. SEC Regulation AB II on November 23, 2016, we are not currently able to issue new series of
SEC-registered covered bonds under the existing program.

We also raise long-term funding using Canadian Deposit Notes, Canadian NHA MBS, Canada Mortgage Bonds, credit card receivable-backed
securities, Kangaroo Bonds (issued in the Australian domestic market by foreign firms) and Yankee Certificates of Deposit (issued in the U.S.
domestic market by foreign firms). We continuously evaluate opportunities to expand into new markets and untapped investor segments since
diversification expands our wholesale funding flexibility, minimizes funding concentration and dependency, and generally reduces financing
costs. As presented in the following charts, our current long-term debt profile is well-diversified by both currency and product. Maintaining
competitive credit ratings is also critical to cost-effective funding.

Long-term debt (1) – funding mix by currency of issuance
($139 billion as at October 31, 2017)

Long-term debt (1) – funding mix by product
($139 billion as at October 31, 2017)

Other
9%

Euro
15%

Canadian dollar
37%

October 31, 2017
$139 B

U.S. dollar
39%

Cards securitization
5%

Unsecured
funding
54%

October 31, 2017
$139 B

Covered Bonds
27%

MBS/CMB (2)
14%      

(1)

Based on original term to maturity greater than 1 year

(1)
(2)

Based on original term to maturity greater than 1 year
Mortgage-backed securities and Canada Mortgage Bonds

78

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

The following table provides our composition of wholesale funding based on remaining term to maturity:

Composition of wholesale funding (1)

Table 64

As at October 31, 2017

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Deposits from banks (2)
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper
Asset-backed commercial paper (3)
Senior unsecured medium-term notes (4)
Senior unsecured structured notes (5)
Mortgage securitization
Covered bonds/asset-backed securities (6)
Subordinated liabilities
Other (7)

Total

Of which:
– Secured
– Unsecured

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Deposits from banks (2)
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper
Asset-backed commercial paper (3)
Senior unsecured medium-term notes (4)
Senior unsecured structured notes (5)
Mortgage securitization
Covered bonds/asset-backed securities (6)
Subordinated liabilities
Other (7)

Total

Of which:
– Secured
– Unsecured

$

$

$

$

$

$

Less than 1
month

1 to 3
months

3 to 6
months

5,054 $
1,092
997
–
188
–
–
–
4,669

39 $

47 $

8,801
1,385
2,625
192
571
2,685
–
2,005

14,194
4,300
3,402
980
1,310
1,777
–
173

6 to 12
months

13
13,501
5,555
16,691
1,545
1,549
6,179
–
1,488

Less than
1 year
sub-total

1 year to
2 years

2 years
and
greater

$

5,153 $

– $

– $

37,588
12,237
22,718
2,905
3,430
10,641
–
8,335

1,549
–
17,311
1,332
4,094
10,017
1,106
5

39
–
38,695
6,270
12,650
23,925
8,256
5,344

Total

5,153
39,176
12,237
78,724
10,507
20,174
44,583
9,362
13,684

12,000 $ 18,303 $ 26,183 $ 46,521

$ 103,007 $ 35,414 $ 95,179 $ 233,600

5,265 $ 5,541 $ 7,388 $ 13,283
33,238
6,735

12,762

18,795

$ 31,477 $ 14,111 $ 36,575 $
21,303

58,604

71,530

82,163
151,437

As at October 31, 2016

Less than 1
month

1 to 3
months

3 to 6
months

6 to 12
months

1,375 $
3,072
1,503
1,135
141
–
–
–
1,173

80 $

30 $

8,950
1,600
9,140
305
686
1,674
–
2,053

10,692
3,551
7,582
213
514
626
–
43

38
5,199
2,923
7,282
554
1,435
5,834
128
738

Less than
1 year
sub-total

1 year to
2 years

2 years
and
greater

$

1,523 $

– $

– $

27,913
9,577
25,139
1,213
2,635
8,134
128
4,007

1,220
–
18,156
1,871
3,432
10,700
–
13

54
–
43,073
6,493
14,378
30,692
9,469
5,073

Total

1,523
29,187
9,577
86,368
9,577
20,445
49,526
9,597
9,093

8,399 $ 24,488 $ 23,251 $ 24,131

$ 80,269 $ 35,392 $ 109,232 $ 224,893

2,502 $ 5,528 $ 4,691 $ 10,192
13,939
5,897

18,560

18,960

$ 22,913 $ 14,132 $ 45,071 $
21,260

64,161

57,356

82,116
142,777

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)

Excludes bankers’ acceptances and repos.
Only includes deposits raised by treasury. Excludes deposits associated with services we provide to these banks (e.g., custody, cash management).
Only includes consolidated liabilities, including our collateralized commercial paper program.
Includes deposit notes.
Includes notes where the payout is tied to movements in foreign exchange, commodities and equities.
Includes credit card, auto and mortgage loans.
Includes tender option bonds (secured) of $5,168 million (October 31, 2016 – $2,567 million), bearer deposit notes (unsecured) of $3,342 million (October 31, 2016 – $1,652 million) and
other long-term structured deposits (unsecured) of $5,176 million (October 31, 2016 – $4,874 million).

Credit ratings
Our ability to access unsecured funding markets and to engage in certain collateralized business activities on a cost-effective basis are primarily
dependent upon maintaining competitive credit ratings. Credit ratings and outlooks provided by rating agencies reflect their views and
methodologies. Ratings are subject to change, based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, our financial strength, competitive
position, liquidity and other factors not completely within our control.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

79

The following table presents our major credit ratings(1):

Credit ratings

Table 65

Moody’s (2)
Standard & Poor’s (3)
Fitch Ratings (4)
DBRS (5)

As at November 28, 2017

Short-term debt

Senior long-term debt

Outlook

P-1
A-1+
F1+
R-1(high)

A1
AA-
AA
AA

negative
negative
stable
stable

(1)

(2)

(3)
(4)
(5)

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 determined by the rating agencies based
on criteria established from time to time by them, and are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the rating
organization.
On May 10, 2017, Moody’s lowered our senior long-term debt rating one notch, along with our large Canadian peers,
due to Moody’s change to Canada’s macroeconomic profile. Moody’s also affirmed our negative outlook.
On June 6, 2016, S&P revised our outlook to negative from stable.
On October 27, 2017, Fitch Ratings revised our outlook to stable from negative.
On July 31, 2017, DBRS revised our outlook to stable from negative.

Additional contractual obligations for rating downgrades
We are required to deliver collateral to certain counterparties in the event of a downgrade to our current credit rating. The following table
presents the additional collateral obligations required at the reporting date in the event of a one-, two- or three-notch downgrade to our credit
ratings. These additional collateral obligations are incremental requirements for each successive downgrade and do not represent the
cumulative impact of multiple downgrades. The amounts reported change periodically as a result of several factors, including the transfer of
trading activity to centrally cleared financial market infrastructures and exchanges, the expiration of transactions with downgrade triggers, the
imposition of internal limitations on new agreements to exclude downgrade triggers, as well as normal course mark-to-market of positions with
collateralized counterparties moving from a negative to a positive position. There is no outstanding senior debt issued in the market that
contains rating triggers that would lead to early prepayment of principal.

Additional contractual obligations for rating downgrades

Table 66

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Contractual derivatives funding or margin

requirements

Other contractual funding or margin requirements (1)

One-notch
downgrade

Two-notch
downgrade

Three-notch
downgrade

One-notch
downgrade

Two-notch
downgrade

Three-notch
downgrade

$

$

61
231

$

102
100

$

307
–

$

487
293

$

117
473

501
–

(1)

Includes GICs issued by our municipal markets business out of New York.

80

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR)
The LCR is a Basel III metric that measures the sufficiency of high-quality liquid assets (HQLA) available to meet liquidity needs over a 30-day
period in an acute stress scenario. The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) and OSFI regulatory minimum coverage level for LCR is
currently 100%.

OSFI requires Canadian banks to disclose the LCR using the standard Basel disclosure template and calculated using the average of daily

LCR positions during the quarter.

Liquidity coverage ratio (1)

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

High-quality liquid assets

Total high-quality liquid assets (HQLA)

Cash outflows

Retail deposits and deposits from small business customers, of

which:
Stable deposits (3)
Less stable deposits

Unsecured wholesale funding, of which:

Operational deposits (all counterparties) and deposits in

networks of cooperative banks (4)

Non-operational deposits
Unsecured debt

Secured wholesale funding
Additional requirements, of which:

Outflows related to derivative exposures and other collateral

requirements

Outflows related to loss of funding on debt products
Credit and liquidity facilities

Other contractual funding obligations (5)
Other contingent funding obligations (6)

Total cash outflows

Cash inflows

Secured lending (e.g., reverse repos)
Inflows from fully performing exposures
Other cash inflows

Total cash inflows

Total HQLA
Total net cash outflows

Liquidity coverage ratio

For the three-months ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

Table 67

Total unweighted
value (average) (2)

Total weighted
value (average)

Total unweighted
value (average) (2)

Total weighted
value (average)

243,794
75,160
168,634
260,993

106,980
137,475
16,538

229,048

61,901
7,108
160,039
26,252
429,706

138,867
11,626
51,878

211,735

19,118
2,255
16,863
117,451

25,775
75,138
16,538

18,735
74,047

41,364
7,108
25,575
26,252
6,902

262,505

28,062
8,310
51,878

88,250

224,518
72,570
151,948
234,455

106,040
113,719
14,696

226,706

59,910
5,364
161,432
30,951
448,854

126,615
10,559
45,207

207,541

17,372
2,177
15,195
99,877

25,491
59,690
14,696

26,069
67,106

34,299
5,364
27,443
30,951
6,814

248,189

31,978
7,042
45,207

84,227

Total adjusted
value

211,735
174,255

122%

Total adjusted
value

207,541
163,962

127%

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)
(6)

The LCR is calculated in accordance with OSFI’s LAR guideline, which, in turn, reflects liquidity-related requirements issued by the BCBS. Effective in the first quarter of 2017, OSFI requires
Canadian banks to disclose the LCR based on the average of daily positions during the quarter. Previously, the disclosed LCR was based on the average month-end positions during the
quarter. The LCR for the quarter ended October 31, 2017 is calculated as an average of 63 daily positions.
With the exception of other contingent funding obligations, unweighted inflow and outflow amounts are items maturing or callable in 30 days or less. Other contingent funding obligations
also include debt securities with remaining maturity greater than 30 days.
As defined by the BCBS, stable deposits from retail and small business customers are deposits that are insured and are either held in transactional accounts or the bank has an established
relationship with the client making the withdrawal unlikely.
Operational deposits from non-retail and non-small and medium-sized enterprise customers are deposits which clients need to keep with the bank in order to facilitate their access and
ability to use payment and settlement systems primarily for clearing, custody and cash management activities.
Other contractual funding obligations primarily include outflows from unsettled securities trades and outflows from obligations related to securities sold short.
Other contingent funding obligations include outflows related to other off-balance sheet facilities that carry low LCR runoff factors (0% – 5%).

We manage our LCR position within a target range that reflects our liquidity risk tolerance and takes into account business mix, asset
composition and funding capabilities. The range is subject to periodic review in light of changes to internal requirements and external
developments.

We maintain HQLAs in major currencies with dependable market depth and breadth. Our treasury management practices ensure that the
levels of HQLA are actively managed to meet target LCR objectives. Our Level 1 assets, as calculated according to OSFI LAR and the BCBS LCR
requirements, represent 82% of total HQLA. These assets consist of cash, placements with central banks and highly rated securities issued or
guaranteed by governments, central banks and supranational entities.

LCR captures cash flows from on- and off-balance sheet activities that are either expected or could potentially occur within 30 days in an

acute stress scenario. Cash outflows result from the application of withdrawal and non-renewal factors to demand and term deposits,
differentiated by client type (wholesale, retail and small- and medium-sized enterprises). Cash outflows also arise from business activities that
create contingent funding and collateral requirements, such as repo funding, derivatives, short sales of securities and the extension of credit and
liquidity commitments to clients. Cash inflows arise primarily from maturing secured loans, interbank loans and non-HQLA securities.

LCR does not reflect any market funding capacity that we believe would be available in a stress situation. All maturing wholesale debt is

assigned 100% outflow in the LCR calculation.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

81

Q4 2017 vs. Q4 2016
The average LCR for the quarter ended October 31, 2017 of 122% was generally consistent with prior quarters and translates into a surplus of
approximately $37 billion. Compared to the prior year, the average LCR decreased 5%, mainly due to expected balance sheet growth and
optimization of surplus liquidity.

Contractual maturities of financial assets, financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items
The following tables provide remaining contractual maturity profiles of all our assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet items at their carrying
value (e.g., amortized cost or fair value) at the balance sheet date. Off-balance sheet items are allocated based on the expiry date of the contract.

Details of contractual maturities and commitments to extend funds are a source of information for the management of liquidity risk. Among

other purposes, these details form a basis for modelling a behavioural balance sheet with effective maturities to calculate liquidity risk
measures. For further details, refer to the Risk measurement section.

Contractual maturities of financial assets, financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items

Table 68

Less than
1 month

1 to 3
months

3 to 6
months

6 to 9
months

9 to 12
months

1 year
to 2 years

2 years
to 5 years

5 years
and greater

With no
specific
maturity

Total

As at October 31, 2017

$ 58,675 $

27 $

22 $

4 $

– $

– $

– $

– $

2,341 $

61,069

88,083
1,748

9
4,690

72
4,145

3
2,552

12
1,545

91
9,608

61
24,445

6,374
40,772

32,952
1,217

127,657
90,722

106,342

47,726

26,207

13,696

14,327

6,624

–

–

6,055

220,977

15,228

16,024

23,572

27,220

24,086

104,059

206,201

40,028

86,199

542,617

10,825
5,619
24,577

5,541
10,004
767

77
4,530
523

–
3,290
90

–
2,849
88

11
9,351
183

5
19,459
184

–
39,919
1,697

–
2
1,243

16,459
95,023
29,352

$ 311,097 $ 84,788 $ 59,148 $ 46,855 $ 42,907 $ 129,927 $ 250,355 $ 128,790 $ 130,009 $ 1,183,876
28,977

21,750

1,814

1,820

1,204

986

337

229

745

92

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Cash and deposits with

banks
Securities

Trading (1)
Available-for-sale
Assets purchased under
reverse repurchase
agreements and securities
borrowed

Loans (net of allowance for

loan losses)

Other

Customers’ liability under

acceptances

Derivatives
Other financial assets

Total financial assets
Other non-financial assets

Total assets

$ 312,917 $ 85,992 $ 59,240 $ 47,192 $ 43,136 $ 130,672 $ 252,169 $ 129,776 $ 151,759 $ 1,212,853

Liabilities and equity
Deposits (2)

Unsecured borrowing
Secured borrowing
Covered bonds

Other

Acceptances
Obligations related to
securities sold short
Obligations related to
assets sold under
repurchase agreements
and securities loaned

Derivatives
Other financial liabilities

Subordinated debentures

Total financial liabilities
Other non-financial

liabilities

Equity

$ 40,373 $ 24,425 $ 33,825 $ 35,891 $ 30,641 $ 34,737 $

1,156
–

3,989
1,898

6,289
1,107

5,799
1,331

10,825

5,541

30,008

–

77

–

–

–

98,409
5,765
25,137
–

32,026
9,436
1,118
–

4,374
4,787
466
–

–
3,388
222
–

4,064
4,862
–
–

–

93
3,038
296
–

10,178
7,118

11

–

48,980 $
20,495
19,732

5

–

14,709 $ 429,152 $

7,659
1,225

–

–

–
–

–

–

692,733
59,629
37,273

16,459

30,008

–
9,410
138
106

12
16,924
366
207

–
39,378
3,532
8,952

8,170
1
574
–

143,084
92,127
31,849
9,265

$ 211,673 $ 78,433 $ 50,925 $ 46,631 $ 42,994 $ 61,698 $ 106,721 $

75,455 $ 437,897 $ 1,112,427

835
–

3,910
–

312
–

135
–

180
–

2,747
–

920
–

9,170
–

7,789
74,428

25,998
74,428

Total liabilities and equity

$ 212,508 $ 82,343 $ 51,237 $ 46,766 $ 43,174 $ 64,445 $ 107,641 $

84,625 $ 520,114 $ 1,212,853

Off-balance sheet items
Financial guarantees
Lease commitments
Commitments to extend

credit

Other credit-related
commitments
Other commitments

Total off-balance sheet

items

$

511 $
63

2,986 $
125

1,428 $
182

2,768 $
181

1,279 $
181

1,792 $
720

6,450 $
1,471

1,486 $
2,859

46 $
–

18,746
5,782

4,532

4,000

7,735

12,105

9,198

26,719

141,732

15,260

7,176

228,457

526
38

801
–

1,185
–

1,521
–

1,274
–

412
–

749
–

246
–

101,863
442

108,577
480

$

5,670 $

7,912 $ 10,530 $ 16,575 $ 11,932 $ 29,643 $ 150,402 $

19,851 $ 109,527 $

362,042

(1)

(2)

Trading debt securities classified as fair value through profit or loss have been included in the less than 1 month category as there is no expectation to hold these assets to their contractual
maturity.
A major portion of relationship-based deposits are repayable on demand or at short notice on a contractual basis while, in practice, these customer balances form a core base for our
operations and liquidity needs, as explained in the preceding Deposit and funding profile.

82

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Less than
1 month

1 to 3
months

3 to 6
months

6 to 9
months

9 to 12
months

1 year
to 2 years

2 years
to 5 years

5 years
and greater

With no
specific
maturity

Total

As at October 31, 2016

$ 38,931 $

342 $

2 $

– $

192 $

– $

– $

– $

3,313 $

42,780

98,843
1,648

5
4,854

18
2,011

–
1,810

24
1,687

40
8,869

117
25,709

81,801
15,526

42,092
13,154

24,771
16,863

14,988
21,512

11,090
23,120

3,380
109,075

303
198,054

8,362
8,443
28,659

4,403
10,367
741

73
4,800
484

3
3,355
222

–
3,511
62

–
12,794
43

2
26,563
38

6,183
36,587

–
38,887

–
49,099
414

46,062
1,626

7,877
85,413

–
12
1,372

151,292
84,801

186,302
521,604

12,843
118,944
32,035

$ 282,213 $ 75,958 $ 49,022 $ 41,890 $ 39,686 $ 134,201 $ 250,786 $ 131,170 $ 145,675 $ 1,150,601
29,657

19,455

1,824

1,259

2,579

2,991

130

295

237

887

$ 283,472 $ 76,845 $ 49,152 $ 42,185 $ 39,923 $ 136,780 $ 252,610 $ 134,161 $ 165,130 $ 1,180,258

$ 30,680 $ 35,333 $ 35,540 $ 16,684 $ 23,586 $ 34,044 $

4,947
–

5,700
–

2,290
3,348

7,256
9,376

55,239 $
20,660
24,936

15,123 $ 415,130 $ 661,359
55,755
40,475

8,569
2,815

–
–

1,545
–

8,362
50,369

61,170
7,334
22,700
–

4,788
–

4,403
–

31,499
10,904
2,212
–

73
–

1,568
5,809
375
–

3
–

–
–

–
–

2
–

–
–

–
–

12,843
50,369

–
3,939
125
–

756
2,976
218
–

8
13,562
154
–

21
25,945
290
115

–
46,081
4,762
9,647

8,419
–
482
–

103,441
116,550
31,318
9,762

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Cash and deposits with banks
Securities

Trading (1)
Available-for-sale

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase

agreements and securities borrowed
Loans (net of allowance for loan losses)
Other

Customers’ liability under acceptances
Derivatives
Other financial assets

Total financial assets
Other non-financial assets

Total assets

Liabilities and equity
Deposits (2)

Unsecured borrowing
Secured borrowing
Covered bonds

Other

Acceptances
Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under
repurchase agreements and securities
loaned (3)

Derivatives
Other financial liabilities

Subordinated debentures

Total financial liabilities
Other non-financial liabilities
Equity

$ 182,160 $ 89,139 $ 48,312 $ 26,451 $ 33,174 $ 64,400 $ 127,208 $
155
–

2,466
–

1,199
–

3,692
–

154
–

276
–

863
–

86,997 $ 424,031 $ 1,081,872
26,774
8,561
71,612
71,612

9,408
–

Total liabilities and equity

$ 183,023 $ 92,831 $ 48,588 $ 26,606 $ 33,328 $ 65,599 $ 129,674 $

96,405 $ 504,204 $ 1,180,258

Off-balance sheet items
Financial guarantees
Lease commitments
Commitments to extend credit
Other credit-related commitments
Other commitments

$

736 $ 2,255 $

62
3,723
433
477

123
5,481
791
63

1,897 $
184
9,783
1,420
–

3,199 $
181
7,190
1,339
–

1,251 $
177
12,074
1,158
–

3,010 $
661
31,384
678
–

6,403 $
1,528
132,092
758
–

79 $

2,131
18,284
306
–

56 $
–
3,220
90,241
–

18,886
5,047
223,231
97,124
540

Total off-balance sheet items

$

5,431 $ 8,713 $ 13,284 $ 11,909 $ 14,660 $ 35,733 $ 140,781 $

20,800 $ 93,517 $ 344,828

(1)

(2)

(3)

Trading debt securities classified as fair value through profit or loss have been included in the less than 1 month category as there is no expectation to hold these assets to their contractual
maturity.
A major portion of relationship-based deposits are repayable on demand or at short notice on a contractual basis while, in practice, these customer balances form a core base for our
operations and liquidity needs, as explained in the preceding Deposit and funding profile.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Contractual maturities of financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items – undiscounted basis
The following tables provide remaining contractual maturity analysis of our financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items. The amounts
disclosed in the following table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows of all financial liabilities (e.g., par value or amount payable upon
maturity). The amounts do not reconcile directly with those in our consolidated balance sheets as the table incorporates only cash flows
relating to payments on maturity and do not recognize premiums, discounts or mark-to-market adjustments recognized in the instruments’
carrying values as at the balance sheet date. Financial liabilities are based upon the earliest period in which they are required to be paid. For
off-balance sheet items, the undiscounted cash flows potentially payable under financial guarantees and commitments to extend credit are
classified on the basis of the earliest date they can be called.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

83

Contractual maturities of financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items – undiscounted basis*

Table 69

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Financial liabilities
Deposits (1)
Other

Acceptances
Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned

Other liabilities

Subordinated debentures

Off-balance sheet items
Financial guarantees (2)
Lease commitments
Commitments to extend credit (2)

As at October 31, 2017

On
demand

Within
1 year

1 year
to 2 years

2 years
to 5 years

5 years
and greater

Total

$ 372,108 $ 253,825 $ 52,026 $ 89,456 $

22,280 $

789,695

–
–

8,171
1,124
–
381,403

16,443
30,009

134,904
26,730
–
461,911

10
–

–
78
106
52,220

6
–

12
261
207
89,942

–
–

–
3,553
8,952
34,785

16,459
30,009

143,087
31,746
9,265
1,020,261

$

18,569 $
–
187,078
205,647

177 $
732
41,369
42,278

– $

– $

720
9
729

1,471
1
1,472

– $

2,859
–
2,859

18,746
5,782
228,457
252,985
37,644 $ 1,273,246

Total financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items

$ 587,050 $ 504,189 $ 52,949 $ 91,414 $

(Millions of Canadian dollars) (3)

Financial liabilities
Deposits (1)
Other

Acceptances
Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned

Other liabilities

Subordinated debentures

Off-balance sheet items
Financial guarantees (2)
Lease commitments
Commitments to extend credit (2)

As at October 31, 2016

On
demand

Within
1 year

1 year
to 2 years

2 years
to 5 years

5 years
and greater

Total

$ 358,254

$ 221,852

$ 50,293

$ 100,295

$ 25,422

$

756,116

–
–

8,420
445
–

12,842
50,366

95,005
24,198
–

–
–

8
112
–

1
–

21
289
115

–
–

–
4,761
9,646

367,119

404,263

50,413

100,721

39,829

$ 18,689
–
181,496

200,185

$

197
727
41,671

42,595

$

–
661
5

666

$

–
1,528
59

1,587

$

–
2,131
–

2,131

$

12,843
50,366

103,454
29,805
9,761

962,345

18,886
5,047
223,231

247,164

Total financial liabilities and off-balance sheet items

$ 567,304

$ 446,858

$ 51,079

$ 102,308

$ 41,960

$ 1,209,509

*
(1)

(2)

(3)

This table represents an integral part of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
A major portion of relationship-based deposits are repayable on demand or at short notice on a contractual basis while, in practice, these customer balances form a core base for our
operations and liquidity needs, as explained in the preceding Deposit and funding profile.
We believe that it is highly unlikely that all or substantially all of these guarantees and commitments will be drawn or settled within one year, and contracts may expire without being drawn or
settled. The management of the liquidity risk associated with potential extensions of funds is outlined in the preceding Risk measurement section.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Insurance risk

Insurance risk refers to the potential financial loss that may arise where the amount, timing and/or frequency of benefit payments under
insurance and reinsurance contracts are different than expected. Insurance risk is distinct from those risks covered by other parts of our risk
management framework (e.g., credit, market and operational risk) where those risks are ancillary to, or accompany the risk transfer. The four
insurance sub-risks are: morbidity, mortality, longevity and travel risk.

Our Insurance Risk Framework provides an overview of our processes and tools for identifying, assessing, managing, mitigating and
reporting on the insurance risks that face the organization. These are also supported by our robust three lines of defence governance structure.

Execution risk drivers

Operational risk

Operational risk is the risk of loss or harm resulting from people, inadequate or failed internal processes and systems or from external events.
Operational risk is inherent 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, reputational impact, regulatory censure, or failure in the management of other risks
such as credit or market risk.

Our management of operational risk follows our established three lines of defence governance model. This model encompasses the
organizational roles and responsibilities for a co-ordinated enterprise-wide approach for the management of operational risk. For further details,
refer to the Risk management – Enterprise risk management section.

84

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Operational Risk Framework
We have put in place an Enterprise Operational Risk Framework, which is founded on the principles of our Enterprise Risk Management
Framework and sets out the processes to identify, assess, manage, monitor and report operational risk. The processes are established through
the following core programs:
•

Internal events – Internal events are specific instances where operational risk leads to or could have led to an unintended, identifiable
impact. The internal events program provides a structured and consistent approach for collecting and analyzing internal event data to
facilitate the analysis of the operational risk events affecting us.
External events – External events are operational risk events that affect institutions other than RBC. External event monitoring and analysis
is critical to gain awareness of operational risk experience within the industry and to identify emerging industry trends.
Business Environment and Internal Control Factors (BEICF) Assessments – BEICF Assessments are conducted to improve business decision-
making by gaining awareness of the key risks and the strengths and vulnerabilities of internal controls. Key BEICF Assessment processes
include: risk and control self-assessments conducted at both enterprise and business levels; change initiatives and new/amended product
assessments conducted to ensure understanding of the risk and reward trade-off for initiatives (e.g., new products, acquisitions, changes in
business processes, implementation of new technology, etc.) and that we do not assume risks not aligned with our risk appetite.
Scenario analysis – Scenario analysis is a structured and disciplined process for making reasonable assessments of infrequent, yet
plausible, severe operational risk events. Understanding how vulnerable we are to such “tail risks” identifies mitigating actions and informs
the determination of related operational risk thresholds as part of the articulation of operational risk appetite.
BEICF monitoring – BEICF monitoring is conducted on an ongoing basis through key risk indicators (KRIs) and other assurance/monitoring
programs (e.g., business unit monitoring, second line of defence monitoring, audit results, etc.).

•

•

•

•

Conclusions from the operational risk programs enable learning based on “what has happened to us, could it happen again elsewhere in RBC
and what controls do we need to amend or implement,” support the articulation of operational risk appetite and are used to inform the overall
level of exposure to operational risk, which defines our operational risk profile. The profile includes significant operational risk exposures,
potential new and emerging exposures and trends, and overall conclusions on the control environment and risk outlook. We proactively identify
and investigate corporate insurance opportunities to mitigate and reduce potential future impacts of operational risk.

We consider risk/reward decisions in striking the balance between accepting potential losses versus incurring costs of mitigation, the
expression of which is in the form of our operational risk appetite. Our operational risk appetite is established at the board level and cascaded
throughout each of our business segments.

Management reports have been implemented at various levels in order to support proactive management of operational risk and
transparency of risk exposures. Reports are provided on a regular basis and provide detail on the main drivers of the risk status and trend for
each of our business segments and RBC overall. In addition, changes to the operational risk profile that are not aligned to our business strategy
or operational risk appetite are identified and discussed.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

85

Our operations expose us to many different operational risks, which may adversely affect our businesses and financial results. The following list
is not exhaustive, as other factors could also adversely affect our results.

Risk

Description

Information Technology and Cyber Risks We use information technology for business operations and the enablement of strategic

Third Party Risk

Processing and Execution Risk

Fraud Risk

Model Risk

business goals and objectives. Information technology risk is the risk to our business associated
with the use, ownership, operation, involvement, influence and adoption of information
technology within the enterprise. It consists of information technology related events (e.g.,
cybersecurity incidents, including data breaches) that could have a material adverse impact on
our business. Such events could result in business interruption, service disruptions, theft of
intellectual property and confidential information, litigation and reputational damage. To
manage our information technology risk, we have established an enterprise-wide Information
Technology Risk Management Framework and we continue to develop advancements in cyber
defence capabilities to support our business model and protect our clients.

Failing to effectively manage our service providers may expose us to service disruptions,
regulatory action, financial loss, litigation or reputational damage. Third-party and outsourcing
risk has received increased oversight from regulators and attention from the media. We
formalized and standardized our expectations of our suppliers with a principles-based supplier
code of conduct to ensure their behaviour aligns with our standards in the following key areas:
business integrity, responsible business practices, responsible treatment of individuals, and the
environment.

Processing and execution risk is the risk of failure to effectively design, implement and execute a
process. Exposure to this risk is global, existing in all of our locations and operations, and in our
employee’s actions. Examples of processing and execution events range from selecting the
wrong interest rates, duplicating wire payment instructions, processing a foreign exchange
transaction incorrectly, underinsuring a property and incorrectly investing funds. The potential
impacts of such events include financial loss, legal and regulatory consequences and
reputational damage. When identified, these situations are assessed, analyzed and mitigating
actions are undertaken.

Fraud risk is defined as the risk of intentional unauthorized activities designed to obtain benefits
either from us or assets under our care, or using our products. Fraud can be initiated by one or
more parties who can include employees, potential or existing clients, agents, suppliers or
outsourcers, or other external parties. We have extensive professional resources allocated for
the recovery of lost assets and the improvement of loss avoidance through both enhanced
intelligence and aggressive pursuit of those who attack enterprise assets.

The use of models plays an important role in many of our business activities. We use a variety of
models for many purposes, including the valuation of financial products, risk measurement and
management of different types of risk. Model risk is the risk of error in the design, development,
implementation or subsequent use of models. We have established an enterprise-wide Model
Risk Management Policy, including principles, policies and procedures, roles and
responsibilities to manage model risk. One of the key factors in the policy to mitigate model risk
is independent validation.

Operational risk capital
We received approval from OSFI on May 10, 2016 for the use of the Advance Measurement Approach (AMA) for operational risk capital
measurement subject to the application of a Standardized Approach (TSA) floor. We commenced reflecting operational risk capital under the
AMA in the third quarter of 2016. As such, we currently perform parallel runs of the TSA and the AMA of determining operational risk capital.
Under TSA, operational risk capital is determined based on an OSFI-established percentage of 3 years’ average gross income for pre-determined
industry standardized business activities. Under AMA, operational risk capital is determined by using our internal Operational Risk Measurement
System, which includes internal loss experience, external loss experience, scenario analysis, and Business Environment Internal Control Factors.
RBC Bank (Georgia), RBC Caribbean, and City National will continue using TSA. RBC Insurance (including insurance recoveries) is not in the scope
of operational risk capital calculations. We do not account for mitigation through insurance or any other risk transfer mechanism in our AMA
model.

Operational risk loss events
During 2017, we did not experience any material operational risk loss event. For further details on our contingencies, including litigation, refer to
Notes 25 and 26 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

86

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Regulatory compliance risk

Regulatory compliance risk is the risk of potential non-conformance with laws, rules, regulations and prescribed practices in any jurisdiction in
which we operate. Issues regarding compliance with laws and regulations can arise in a number of areas in a large complex financial institution
such as RBC, and are often the result of inadequate or failed internal processes, people or systems.

Laws and regulations are in place to protect the financial and other interests of our clients, investors and the public. As a large-scale global

financial institution, we are subject to numerous laws and to extensive and evolving regulation by governmental agencies, supervisory
authorities and self-regulatory organizations in Canada, the U.S., Europe and other jurisdictions in which we operate. In recent years, such
regulation has become increasingly extensive and complex. In addition, the enforcement of regulatory matters has intensified. Recent resolution
of such matters involving other global financial institutions have involved the payment of substantial penalties, agreements with respect to
future operation of their business, actions with respect to relevant personnel and guilty pleas with respect to criminal charges.

Operating in this increasingly complex regulatory environment and intense regulatory enforcement environment, we are and have been

subject to a variety of legal proceedings, including civil claims and lawsuits, criminal charges, regulatory examinations, investigations, audits
and requests for information by various governmental regulatory agencies and law enforcement authorities in various jurisdictions, and we
anticipate that our ongoing business activities will give rise to such matters in the future. Changes to laws, including tax laws, regulations or
regulatory policies, as well as the 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, increasing our costs of compliance or limiting our activities and ability to
execute our strategic plans. Further, there is no assurance that we always will be or will be deemed to be in compliance with laws, regulations or
regulatory policies. Accordingly, it is possible that we could receive a judicial or regulatory judgment or decision that results in fines, damages,
penalties, and other costs or injunctions, criminal convictions or loss of licences or registrations that would damage our reputation and
negatively impact our ability to conduct some of our businesses and our earnings. In addition, we are subject to litigation arising in the ordinary
course of our business and the adverse resolution of any litigation could have a significant adverse effect on our results or could give rise to
significant reputational damage, which in turn could impact our future business prospects.

Global compliance has developed a Regulatory Compliance Management Framework designed to manage and mitigate the regulatory
compliance risks associated with failing to comply with, or adapt to, current and changing laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we
operate.

Regulatory compliance risk includes the regulatory risks associated with financial crime (which includes, but is not limited to, money

laundering, bribery and sanctions), privacy, market conduct, consumer protection, business conduct and prudential requirements. Specific
compliance policies, procedures and supporting frameworks have been developed to manage regulatory compliance risk.

Strategic risk drivers

Strategic risk

Strategic risk is the risk that the enterprise or particular business areas will make inappropriate strategic choices, or will be unable to
successfully implement selected strategies or related plans and decisions. Business strategy is the major driver of our risk profile and
consequently the strategic choices we make in terms of business mix determine how our risk profile changes.

Responsibility for selecting and successfully implementing business strategies is mandated to the individual heads of the businesses.

Oversight of strategic risk is the responsibility of the heads of the business segments and their operating committees, the Enterprise Strategy
Office, Group Executive, and the Board of Directors. The Enterprise Strategy group supports the management of strategic risk through the
strategic planning process (articulated within our Enterprise Strategic Planning Policy) ensuring alignment across our business, financial, capital
and risk planning.

Our annual business portfolio review and project approval request processes help identify and mitigate strategic risk by ensuring strategies

for new initiatives, lines of business, and the enterprise as a whole align with our risk appetite and risk posture. GRM provides oversight of
strategic risk by providing independent review of these processes, establishing enterprise risk frameworks, and independently monitoring and
reporting on the level of risk established against our risk appetite metrics in accordance with the three lines of defence governance model.

For details on the key strategic priorities for our business segments, refer to the Business segment results section.

Reputation risk

Reputation risk is the risk that an activity undertaken by an organization 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 primarily occurs in connection with credit risk, regulatory, legal and operational risks

and failure to maintain strong risk conduct. Operational failures and non-compliance with laws and regulations can have a significant
reputational impact on us.

Our Reputation Risk Framework provides an overview of our approach to the management of this risk. It focuses on our organizational

responsibilities, and controls in place to mitigate reputation risks.

The following principles guide our 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 employees, including senior management, and this responsibility extends to
the Board of Directors.

Legal and regulatory environment risk

Legal and regulatory environment risk is the risk that new or modified laws and regulations, and the interpretation or application of those laws
and regulations, will negatively impact the way in which we operate, both in Canada and abroad. The full impact of some of these changes on our
business will not be known until final rules are implemented and market practices have developed in response. We continue to respond to these
and other developments and are working to minimize any potential adverse business or economic impact. The following provides a high-level
summary of some of the key regulatory changes that have potential to increase our operational, compliance, and technology costs and to impact
our profitability, as well as to potentially increase the cost and complexity of our operations.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

87

Canadian Housing Market and Consumer Debt
The Government of Canada (GoC) continues to express concerns with the level and sustainability of Canadian household debt. A number of
measures to address these concerns have been introduced by both the federal government and a number of provinces, including changes to
federal mortgage rules (e.g. changes to OSFI B-20 Guideline). Going forward, other initiatives continue to be explored, such as an assessment by
the Department of Finance on a lender risk-sharing model.

Payments Issues
The federal government is engaged in several initiatives that could have an impact on the payment system in Canada. This includes the
following: an ongoing review of the interchange framework; a consultation process on the regulatory framework for the retail payments system in
Canada; and initiatives under consideration by Payments Canada to modernize the payments system in Canada.

Other Regulatory Initiatives Impacting Financial Services in Canada
The federal government continues to assess a number of issues relating to consumer protection. Previously withdrawn legislative proposals to
update the consumer protection framework and to clarify federal jurisdiction in this area continue to be reviewed by the government. In addition,
federal regulatory agencies are also undertaking a review of sales practices at Canadian banks and will be providing reports to the government
on these issues. Provincial consumer protection initiatives are also being monitored to assess their possible implications from a financial
services perspective.

Other regulatory initiatives include a review of the deposit insurance framework by the Department of Finance and the Canada Deposit
Insurance Corporation, consultations by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada on indirect auto lending, and initiatives by the Canadian
Securities Administrators to regulate market conduct activities relating to OTC derivatives products.

Negotiations on North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
Canada, Mexico and the United States are currently engaged in negotiations on potential changes to NAFTA. The existing chapters in NAFTA such
as those relating to financial services, cross-border trade, and temporary entry rules, could be changed as a result of these discussions. In
addition, there may be efforts made to update the agreement to address new areas like electronic commerce. While the outcome of the
negotiations remain unclear, changes to NAFTA may adversely affect certain of our businesses, either directly or indirectly through adverse
effects on portions of the Canadian and U.S. economies.

United States Regulatory Initiatives
Policymakers are beginning to consider financial regulatory reforms that could result in reduced cost and complexity of U.S. regulations. These
include possible reforms to the Volcker rule that could simplify compliance requirements regarding proprietary trading activity and investments
in private equity and hedge funds; revisions to the new fiduciary rule that could have implications for financial services firms, investors and
markets; potential changes to the framework for the regulation of OTC derivatives; and ongoing adjustments to key aspects of the capital,
leverage, liquidity, and oversight framework in the U.S. (e.g. foreign bank organization rules; comprehensive capital analysis and review
requirements; single counterparty credit limits; total loss absorbing capacity rules). In addition, U.S. policymakers are considering reforms to the
tax code that could be beneficial in terms of lowering corporate tax rates; however, they are also considering measures to raise revenues to pay
for those lower rates, including measures that could target the financial sector and many of its employees, such as: reductions in the
deductibility of interest on corporate debt, of mortgage interest, and of state and local taxes; revisions to the tax exemption for interest on
municipal debt; changes to tax credits for low-income housing and renewable fuels; changes to the tax treatment of derivatives; and a large-
bank tax and/or financial transactions tax. The impact of the Tax Reform Framework, if enacted, could include a reduction in our deferred tax
asset and tax reductions on future earnings. Congress may opt for a more modest, and less costly, package of reforms.

Regulatory Capital and Related Requirements
We continue to monitor and prepare for developments related to regulatory capital. The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) has
issued a number of proposed revisions and new measures that would reform the manner in which banks calculate, measure and report
regulatory capital and related risks, including with respect to the use of banks’ own internal risk models. The impact of these proposals on us will
depend on the final standards adopted by the BCBS and how these standards are implemented by our regulators. For further details on
regulatory capital and related requirements, refer to the Capital Management section.

Canadian Bail-in Regime
Bail-in regimes are being implemented in a number of jurisdictions in an effort to limit taxpayer exposure to losses of a failing institution and
ensure the institution’s shareholders and creditors remain responsible for bearing such losses. On June 22, 2016, legislation came into force,
amending certain federal statutes pertaining to banks to create a bank recapitalization or “bail-in” regime for the six domestic systemically
important banks (D-SIBs) in Canada. On June 16, 2017, the Department of Finance announced the publication of draft regulations under the
Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) Act and the Bank Act, which provide key details of the conversion, issuance and compensation
regimes for bail-in instruments issued by D-SIBs. The proposed regulations provide that, pursuant to the CDIC Act, in circumstances when the
Superintendent of Financial Institutions has determined that a bank may no longer be viable, the Governor in Council may, upon a
recommendation of the Minister of Finance that he or she is of the opinion that it is in the public interest to do so, grant an order directing the
CDIC to convert all or a portion of certain shares and liabilities of that bank into common shares. These changes are not expected to have a
material impact on our cost of long-term unsecured funding.

Total Loss Absorbing Capacity (TLAC)
On June 16, 2017, OSFI released a draft guideline on TLAC, which will apply to Canada’s D-SIBs as part of the Federal Government’s bail-in
regime. The draft guideline is consistent with the TLAC standard released on November 9, 2015 by the FSB for institutions designated as global
systemically important banks (G-SIBs), but tailored to the Canadian context. The standards are intended to address the sufficiency of a
systemically important bank’s loss absorbing capacity in supporting its recapitalization in the event of its failure. TLAC is defined as the
aggregate of Tier 1 capital, Tier 2 capital, and other TLAC instruments, which allow conversion in whole or in part into common shares under the
CDIC Act and meet all of the eligibility criteria under the guideline. We are expected to comply with the disclosure requirements beginning the
first quarter of 2019 and the remaining TLAC standard requirements by November 1, 2021. The final guidance is expected to be issued in 2018.
We do not anticipate any challenges in meeting these TLAC requirements.

Step-In Risk
On October 25, 2017, the BCBS finalized its guidelines on the identification and management of step-in risk. Step-in risk is the risk that a bank
may provide financial support to an unconsolidated entity beyond their contractual obligations, should the entity experience financial distress,

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

in order to minimize any potential reputational risk to the bank. The guidelines aim to strengthen the oversight and regulation surrounding
systemic risks arising from a bank’s interaction with shadow banking entities. The guidelines provide that banks will be required to at a minimum
annually self-assess their step-in risk based on a number of indicators, including the impact on liquidity and capital positions of stepping in to
provide support to an unconsolidated entity. These new guidelines do not impose an automatic liquidity or capital charge for step-in risk but do
require banks and supervisors to take appropriate actions to respond to and mitigate material step-in risk as outlined in the guideline. We are
reviewing these new guidelines along with future OSFI guidance and incorporating them into our risk management activities as recommended by
BCBS. The BCBS expects banks and supervisors to implement the guidelines no later than 2020.

U.K. and European Regulatory Reform
The revised directive and regulation on Markets in Financial Instruments (MiFID II/MiFIR) become effective January 2018 and will have a
significant technological and procedural impact for certain businesses operating in the European Union. The reforms will introduce changes to
pre- and post-trade transparency, market structure, trade and transaction reporting, algorithmic trading, and conduct of business. The U.K. is in
negotiations to exit the European Union. Until those negotiations are concluded, and the resulting changes are implemented, the U.K. will remain
a European Union Member State, subject to all European Union legislation.

Other regulatory initiatives include: the General Data Protection Regulation, effective May 2018, introducing significant obligations on data

handling globally; the extension of the Senior Managers Regime to all U.K. regulated firms from 2018; the Benchmarks Regulation impacting
users of, contributors to, and administrators of benchmarks; and the publication of the Foreign Exchange Global Code, setting out global
principles of good practice in foreign exchange markets.

Competitive risk

The competition for clients among financial services companies in the markets in which we operate is intense. Client loyalty and retention can be
influenced by a number of factors, including new technology used or services offered by our competitors, relative service levels and prices,
product and service attributes, our reputation, actions taken by our competitors, and adherence with competition and anti-trust laws. Other
companies, such as insurance companies and non-financial companies, are increasingly offering services traditionally provided by banks. This
competition could also reduce net interest income and fee revenue and adversely affect our results.

We identify and assess competitive risks as part of our overall risk management process. Our products and services are regularly

benchmarked against existing and potential competitors. In addition, we regularly conduct risk reviews of our products, services, alliances and
acquisitions as well as ensure adherence to competition and anti-trust laws. Our annual strategy-setting process also plays an integral role in
managing competitive risk.

Macroeconomic risk drivers

Systemic risk

Systemic risk is the risk that the financial system as a whole, or a major part of it – either in an individual country, a region, or globally – is put in
real and immediate danger of collapse or serious damage with the likelihood of material damage to the economy, and that this will result in
financial, reputation or other risks for us.

Our earnings are significantly affected by the general business and economic conditions in the geographic regions in which we operate.

These conditions include consumer saving and spending habits as well as consumer borrowing and repayment patterns, business investment,
government spending, exchange rates, sovereign debt risks, the level of activity and volatility of the capital markets, strength of the economy
and inflation. For example, an extended economic downturn 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 and result in higher
provisions for credit losses. Given the importance of our Canadian operations, an economic downturn in Canada or in the U.S. impacting Canada
would largely affect our personal and business lending activities in our Canadian banking businesses, including mortgages and credit cards, and
could significantly impact our results of operations.

Our earnings are also sensitive to changes in interest rates, which have increased in Canada and the U.S. over the last year but remain

historically low. A continuing low interest rate environment in Canada, the U.S. and globally would result in net interest income being
unfavourably impacted by spread compression largely in Personal & Commercial Banking and Wealth Management. While a further increase in
interest rates would benefit our businesses that are currently impacted by spread compression, a significant increase in interest rates could also
adversely impact household balance sheets. This could result in credit deterioration which might negatively impact our financial results,
particularly in some of our Personal & Commercial Banking and Wealth Management businesses.

Deterioration in global capital markets could result in volatility that would impact results in Capital Markets while in Wealth Management,

weaker market conditions would lead to lower average fee-based client assets and transaction volumes. In addition, worsening financial and
credit market conditions may adversely affect our ability to access capital markets on favourable terms and could negatively affect our liquidity,
resulting in increased funding costs and lower transaction volumes in Capital Markets and Investor & Treasury Services.

Systemic risk is considered to be the least controllable risk facing us. Our ability to mitigate this risk when undertaking business activities is

limited, other than through collaborative mechanisms between key industry participants, and, as appropriate, the public sector, to reduce the
frequency and impact of these risks. The two most significant measures in mitigating the impact of systemic risk are diversification and stress
testing.

Our diversified business portfolios, products, activities and funding sources help mitigate the potential impacts from systemic risk. We also
mitigate systemic risk by establishing risk limits to ensure our portfolio is well-diversified, and concentration risk is reduced and remains within
our risk appetite.

Stress testing involves consideration of the simultaneous movements in a number of risk factors. It is used to ensure our business

strategies and capital planning are robust by measuring the potential impacts of credit, market, liquidity and funding and operational risks on us,
under adverse economic conditions. Our enterprise-wide stress testing program uses stress scenarios featuring a range of severities based on
plausible adverse economic and financial market events. These stress scenarios are evaluated across the organization, and results are
integrated to develop an enterprise-wide view of the impacts on our financial results and capital requirements. For further details on our stress
testing, refer to the Risk management – Enterprise risk management section.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

89

Overview of other risks

In addition to the risks described in the Risk management section, there are other risk factors, described below, which may adversely affect our
businesses and financial results. The following discussion is not exhaustive as other factors could also adversely affect our results.

Government fiscal, monetary and other policies
Our businesses and earnings are affected by monetary policies that are adopted by the Bank of Canada, the Fed in the U.S., the ECB in the
European Union and monetary authorities in other jurisdictions in which we operate; as well as the fiscal policies of the governments of Canada,
the U.S., Europe and such other jurisdictions. Such policies can also adversely affect our clients and counterparties in Canada, the U.S. and
internationally, which may increase the risk of default by such clients and counterparties.

Tax risk and transparency
Tax risk refers to the risk of loss related to unexpected tax liabilities. The tax laws and systems that are applicable to RBC are complex and wide
ranging. As a result, we ensure that any decisions or actions related to tax always reflect our assessment of the long-term costs and risks
involved, including their impact on our relationship with clients, shareholders, and regulators, and our reputation.

Our approach to tax is governed by our Taxation Policy and Risk Management Framework, and reflects the fundamentals of our Risk
Pyramid. Oversight of our tax policy and the management of tax risk is the responsibility of Group Executive, the CFO and the Senior Vice
President, Taxation. We discuss our tax position with the Audit Committee on a regular basis and discuss our tax strategy with the Audit and Risk
Committees.

Our tax strategy is designed to ensure transparency and support our business strategy, and is aligned with our corporate vision and values.

We seek to maximize shareholder value by ensuring that our businesses are structured in a tax-efficient manner while considering reputational
risk by being in compliance with all laws and regulations. Our framework seeks to ensure that we:

•
•

•
•
•

Act with integrity and in a straightforward, open and honest manner in all tax matters;
Ensure tax strategy is aligned with our business strategy supporting only bona fide transactions with a business purpose and economic
substance;
Ensure all intercompany transactions are conducted on arm’s length terms;
Ensure our full compliance and full disclosure to tax authorities of our statutory obligations; and
Endeavour to work with the tax authorities to build positive long-term relationships and where disputes occur, address them
constructively.

With respect to assessing the needs of our clients, we consider a number of factors including the purposes of the transaction. We seek to

ensure that we only support bona fide client transactions with a business purpose and economic substance. Should we become aware of client
transactions that are aimed at evading their tax obligations, we will not proceed with the transactions.

We operate in 37 countries worldwide. Our activities in these countries are subject to both Canadian and international tax legislation and
other regulations, and are fully disclosed to the relevant tax authorities. The Taxation group and GRM both regularly review the activities of all
entities to ensure compliance with tax requirements and other regulations.

Given that we operate globally, complex tax legislation and accounting principles have resulted in differing legal interpretations between

the respective tax authorities we deal with and ourselves, and we are at risk of tax authorities disagreeing with prior positions we have taken for
tax purposes. When this occurs, we are committed to an open and transparent dialogue with the tax authorities to ensure a quick assessment
and prompt resolution of the issues where possible. Failure to adequately manage tax risk and resolve issues with tax authorities in a
satisfactory manner could adversely impact our results, potentially to a material extent in a particular period, and/or significantly impact our
reputation.

Tax contribution
In 2017, total income and other tax expense, including income taxes in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and Changes in
Equity, to various levels of governments globally totalled $5.1 billion (2016 – $3.8 billion). In Canada, total income and other tax expense for the
year ended October 31, 2017 to various levels of government totalled $3.9 billion (2016 – $2.8 billion).

Income and other tax expense – by category
(Millions of Canadian dollars) 

Income and other tax expense – by geography
(Millions of Canadian dollars)

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

2017

2016

2017

2016

Business taxes

Insurance premium taxes

Property taxes

Other International

U.S.

Canada

Capital taxes

Payroll taxes

Income taxes

Goods and services 
sales taxes

For further details on income and other tax expense, refer to the Financial performance section.

Environmental and social risk
Environmental and social (E&S) risk is the risk that an environmental or social issue associated with a client, transaction, product, supplier or
activity will create a risk of loss of financial, operational, legal and/or reputational value to RBC. E&S issues include, but are not limited to: site
contamination, waste management, land and resource use, biodiversity, water quality and availability, climate change, environmental
regulation, human rights, Indigenous Peoples’ rights and consultation, and community engagement. GRM is responsible for developing policies
to identify, assess, monitor and report on E&S risk, and for their regular review and update. E&S risk policies seek to identify sectors, clients
and business activities exposed to E&S risk; apply enhanced due diligence and escalation procedures; and establish requirements to manage,

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

mitigate and monitor E&S risk. Business segments and corporate functions are responsible for incorporating E&S risk management requirements
within their operations.

RBC recognizes the importance of E&S risk management practices and processes and is committed to the regular and transparent
disclosure of these. As a signatory to the Equator Principles (EP), we report annually on projects assessed for E&S risk according to the EP
framework. As a signatory to the Carbon Disclosure Project, we annually disclose information on climate change risks as well as our energy and
emissions performance. In 2017, we published our first Modern Slavery Act Statement, which sets out the steps that RBC has taken to ensure
that slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in the supply chains or our businesses. A number of companies in our RBC Global Asset
Management business and BlueBay Asset Management LLP are signatories to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment and they
report annually on their responsible investment activities. Their approach integrates environmental, social and governance issues into the
investment process when doing so may have a material impact on investment risk or return. RBC Europe Limited is a signatory to the Green Bond
Principles and they report annually on green bond underwriting activities. RBC Corporate Citizenship sets corporate environmental strategy and
reports annually on our performance in the Corporate Citizenship Report and Public Accountability Statement.

RBC believes we have a role to play in the transition to a clean, low-carbon economy. We are encouraged by the recent efforts of the
Financial Stability Board’s (FSB) Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and are participants in a pilot-test of the TCFD
recommendations, which will be coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme – Finance Initiative (UNEP–FI). We continue to
investigate and assess climate-related risks and seek to develop and continually improve our climate-related financial disclosures.

Other factors
Other factors that may affect our results include changes in government trade policy, changes in accounting standards, including their effect on
our accounting policies, estimates and judgments, currency and interest rate movements in Canada, the U.S., and other jurisdictions in which we
operate, changes to our credit ratings, the timely and successful development of new products and services, technological changes, effective
design, implementation and execution of processes and their associated controls, fraud by internal and external parties, the possible impact on
our business from disease or illness that affects local, national or global economies, disruptions to public infrastructure, including
transportation, communication, 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.

We caution that the foregoing discussion of risk factors, many of which are beyond our control, is not exhaustive and other factors could

also affect our results.

Capital management

We actively manage our capital to maintain strong capital ratios and high ratings while providing strong returns to our shareholders. In addition
to the regulatory requirements, we consider the expectations of credit rating agencies, depositors and shareholders, as well as our business
plans, stress tests, peer comparisons and our internal capital ratio targets. Our goal is to optimize our capital usage and structure, and provide
support for our business segments and clients and generate better returns for our shareholders, while protecting depositors and senior creditors.

Capital management framework
Our capital management framework establishes policies and processes for defining, measuring, raising and investing all forms of capital in a
co-ordinated and consistent manner. It sets our overall approach to capital management, including guiding principles and roles and
responsibilities relating to capital adequacy and transactions, dividends, solo capital and management of risk-weighted assets (RWA) and
leverage ratio exposures. We manage and monitor capital from several perspectives, including regulatory capital, economic capital and solo
capital.

Our capital planning process is dynamic and involves various teams including Finance, Corporate Treasury, GRM, Economics and our

businesses, and covers internal capital ratio targets, potential capital transactions as well as projected dividend payouts and share repurchases.
This process considers our business operating plans, enterprise-wide stress test and Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP),
regulatory capital and accounting changes, internal capital requirements, rating agency metrics and solo capital.

Our capital plan is established on an annual basis and is aligned with the management actions included in the annual business operating

plan, which includes forecast growth in assets and earnings taking into account our business strategies, the projected market and economic
environment, and peer positioning. This includes incorporating potential capital transactions based on our projected internal capital generation,
business forecasts, market conditions and other developments, such as accounting and regulatory changes that may impact capital
requirements. All of the components in the capital plan are monitored throughout the year and are revised as deemed appropriate.

Enterprise-wide
Stress Testing

Capital impacts of
stress scenarios

ICAAP 

Capital impacts of stress scenarios

Total capital requirements

Capital available and target
capital ratios

Capital Plan and
Business
Operating Plan

Our Enterprise-wide stress test and annual ICAAP provide key inputs for capital planning, including setting internal capital ratio targets. The

stress scenarios are evaluated across the organization, and results are integrated to develop an enterprise-wide view of financial impacts and
capital requirements, which in turn facilitate the planning of mitigating actions to absorb adverse events. ICAAP assesses capital adequacy and
requirements covering all material risks, with a cushion for plausible contingencies. In accordance with OSFI guideline, major components of our
ICAAP process include comprehensive risk assessment, stress testing, capital assessment and planning (both economic and regulatory), Board
and senior management oversight, monitoring and reporting and internal control review.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

91

Our internal capital targets are established to maintain robust capital positions in excess of OSFI’s Basel III “all-in” regulatory targets. The

stress test results of our Enterprise-wide stress testing and ICAAP are incorporated into the OSFI capital conservation buffer and D-SIBs
surcharge, with a view to ensuring the bank has adequate capital to underpin risks and absorb losses under all plausible stress scenarios given
our risk profile and appetite. In addition, we include a discretionary cushion on top of OSFI regulatory targets to maintain capital strength for
forthcoming regulatory and accounting changes, peer comparatives, rating agencies sensitivities and solo capital level.

The Board of Directors is responsible for the ultimate oversight of capital management, including the annual review and approval of the
capital plan. ALCO and GE share responsibility for capital management and receive regular reports detailing our compliance with approved limits
and guidelines. The Risk Committee annually approves the Capital Management Framework. The Audit and Risk Committees jointly approve the
ICAAP process. The Audit Committee is also responsible for the ongoing review of internal controls over capital management.

Basel III
Our consolidated regulatory capital requirements are determined by guidelines issued by OSFI, which are based on the minimum Basel III capital
ratios adopted by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS).

The BCBS sets out the Basel III transitional requirements for Common Equity Tier 1 capital (CET1), Tier 1 capital and Total capital ratios at
5.75%, 7.25% and 9.25%, respectively for 2017, which would be required to be fully phased-in (“all-in”) to 7.0%, 8.5% and 10.5%, respectively,
by January 1, 2019 (including minimums plus capital conservation buffer of 2.5%). However, other than providing phase-out rules for
non-qualifying capital instruments, OSFI required Canadian banks to meet the BCBS Basel III “all-in” targets for CET1, Tier 1 capital and Total
capital ratios in 2013. Effective January 1, 2016, we were required to include an additional 1% risk-weighted capital surcharge to each tier of
capital for the above all-in requirements given our designation as a D-SIB by OSFI in 2013 (similar to five other Canadian banks designated as
D-SIBs).

In 2014, OSFI also advised Canadian banks that it would begin phasing in the Credit Valuation Adjustment (CVA) risk capital charge
required under the Basel III framework. In accordance with OSFI’s guidance, there are two possible options to phase in the CVA capital charge.
Under the option selected by RBC, the 2017 CVA capital charge for CET1, Tier 1 capital and Total capital was 72%, 77%, and 81%, respectively. In
2018, the CVA capital charge will be 80%, 83% and 86%, respectively, and will reach 100% for each tier of capital by 2019.

Under Basel III, banks select from two main approaches, the Standardized Approach or the Internal Ratings Based (IRB) Approach, to
calculate their minimum regulatory capital required to support credit, market and operational risks. We adopted the Basel III IRB approach to
calculate credit risk capital for consolidated regulatory reporting purposes. While the majority of our credit risk exposures are reported under the
Basel III IRB Approach for regulatory capital purposes, certain portfolios continue to use the Basel III Standardized Approach for credit risk (for
example, our Caribbean banking operations and City National). For consolidated regulatory reporting of market risk capital, we use both Internal
Models-based and Standardized Approaches. For consolidated regulatory reporting of operational risk, we use the higher of the Standardized
Approach and the Advanced Measurement Approach. We determine our regulatory leverage ratio based on OSFI’s Leverage Requirements (LR)
Guideline, which reflects the BCBS Basel III leverage ratio requirements. We are required to maintain a minimum leverage ratio that meets or
exceeds 3%.

All federally regulated banks with a Basel III leverage ratio total exposure exceeding €200 billion at their financial year-end are required, at a
minimum, to publicly disclose in the first quarter following their year-end, the twelve indicators used in the G-SIB assessment methodology, with
the goal of enhancing the transparency of the relative scale of banks’ potential global systemic importance and data quality. The FSB publishes
an updated list of G-SIBs annually. On November 21, 2017, we were designated a G-SIB in the 2017 FSB list. For further details refer to the
Regulatory developments section.

In April 2017, OSFI issued final guidelines for the first phase of the Pillar 3 disclosure requirements, indicating that all D-SIBs are expected

to implement the “Revised Pillar 3 Disclosure Requirements”, issued by the BCBS in January 2015 for the reporting period ending October 31,
2018 (and referenced by BCBS as phase one). These guidelines replace existing disclosure requirements in the areas of credit risk, counterparty
credit risk and securitization activities. We are making progress and expect to meet OSFI’s stated timeline.

In March 2017, the BCBS issued its second phase of the Pillar 3 disclosure requirements entitled, “Pillar 3 disclosure requirements –

consolidated and enhanced framework”. The enhancements include the addition of a dashboard of key metrics and incorporates disclosure
requirements related to ongoing reforms to the regulatory environment, such as the TLAC regime for G-SIBs, the proposed operational risk
requirements, and the final standard for market risk. The disclosure standard also consolidates all existing Pillar 3 disclosure requirements of the
Basel III framework, including the leverage and liquidity ratios disclosure templates. This phase two requirement, together with the phase one
Revised Pillar 3 disclosure requirements, issued in January 2015, comprise the single Pillar 3 framework. OSFI has not yet released the
implementation date for the BCBS phase two disclosure requirements.

The BCBS has commenced its work on the final phase of the Pillar 3 disclosure requirements, which includes the standardized approach

RWA to benchmark internally modelled capital requirements, asset encumbrance, operational risk, and ongoing policy reform.

On August 21, 2017, OSFI announced its intention to delay the domestic implementation of the BCBS frameworks related to the
Standardized Approach to Counterparty Credit Risk (SA-CCR) and the revisions to the capital requirements for bank exposures to Central
counterparties until Q1 2019. In addition, in its communication, OSFI also announced its intention to delay the implementation of the BCBS
Revised Securitization Framework until Q1 2019.

We continue to monitor the finalization of Basel III post-crisis regulatory reforms and assess their expected impact to our capital and
leverage ratios. BCBS issued consultation papers on revisions relating to how regulatory capital is calculated under the Basel III Standardized
and IRB approaches along with changes to operational risk methodology and the leverage framework. In addition, the BCBS expects to finalize a
capital floor based on its revised Standardized Approach. Once these frameworks are finalized, OSFI’s guidance will provide implementation
timelines. Our aim is to ensure we maintain robust capital ratios in expectation of these pending regulatory changes.

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

The following table provides a summary of OSFI regulatory target ratios under Basel III:

Basel III – OSFI regulatory target

Basel III
Capital ratios
and leverage

OSFI regulatory target requirements for large banks under Basel III

Minimum

Capital
Buffers (1)

Minimum
including
Capital
Buffers

D-SIB
Surcharge (2)

Minimum
including Capital
Buffers and D-SIB
surcharge (2)

Table 70

Meet or
exceed OSFI
regulatory
target ratios

RBC capital
and leverage
ratios as at
October 31,
2017

Common Equity Tier 1
Tier 1 capital
Total capital
Leverage ratio

> 4.5%
> 6.0%
> 8.0%
> 3.0%

> 7.0%
2.5%
2.5%
> 8.5%
2.5% > 10.5%
> 3.0%

n.a.

1.0%
1.0%
1.0%
n.a.

> 8.0%
> 9.5%
> 11.5%
> 3.0%

10.9%
12.3%
14.2%
4.4%

✓
✓
✓
✓

(1)
(2)
n.a.

The capital buffers include the capital conservation buffer and the countercyclical capital buffer as prescribed by OSFI.
Effective January 1, 2016, the D-SIBs surcharge is applicable to risk-weighted capital.
not applicable

Regulatory capital, RWA and capital ratios
Under Basel III, regulatory capital consists of CET1, Additional Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.

CET1 capital comprises the highest quality of capital. Regulatory adjustments under Basel III include full deductions of certain items and

additional capital components that are subject to threshold deductions.

Tier 1 capital comprises predominantly CET1 and Additional Tier 1 items including non-cumulative preferred shares that meet certain
criteria. Tier 2 capital includes subordinated debentures that meet certain criteria, certain loan loss allowances and non-controlling interests in
subsidiaries Tier 2 instruments. Total capital is defined as the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. Preferred shares and subordinated debentures
issued after January 1, 2013 require Non-viability contingent capital requirement (NVCC) features to be included into regulatory capital. NVCC
requirements ensure that non-common regulatory capital instruments bear losses before banks seek government funding.

Regulatory capital ratios are calculated by dividing CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital by their respective RWA.

The following chart provides a summary of the major components of CET1, Additional Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.

Total Capital

Tier 1 Capital

Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1)

+

Additional Tier 1 Capital 

+

Tier 2 Capital 

Common shares
Retained earnings
Other components of equity
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries 
CET1 instruments

Goodwill and other intangibles
Deferred tax assets on loss
carryforwards
Defined benefit pension funds assets
Non-significant investments in CET1
instruments of Financial Institutions(2)
Shortfall of provisions to expected losses

Significant investments in insurance
subsidiaries and CET1 instruments in
other Financial Institutions
Mortgage servicing rights
Deferred tax assets relating to
temporary differences

Higher quality
capital

s
n
o
i
t
c
u
d
e
D

d
l
o
h
s
e
r
h
T

)
1
(
s
n
o
i
t
c
u
d
e
D

Preferred shares
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries
Tier 1 instruments

Subordinated debentures
Certain loan loss allowances
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries
Tier 2 instruments

Non-significant investments in Tier 1 
instruments of Financial Institutions(2)
Significant investments in other Financial
Institutions and insurance subsidiaries 
Tier 1 instruments

Non-significant investments in Tier 2
instruments of Financial Institutions(2)
Significant investments in other Financial
Institutions and insurance subsidiaries 
Tier 2 instruments

Lower quality
capital

(1)

(2)

First level: The amount by which each of the items exceeds a 10% threshold of CET1 capital (after all deductions but before threshold deductions) will be deducted from CET1
capital. Second level: The aggregate amount of the three items not deducted from the first level above and in excess of 15% of CET1 capital after regulatory adjustments will be
deducted from capital, and the remaining balance not deducted will be risk-weighted at 250%.
Non-significant investments are subject to certain Capital Adequacy Requirements (CAR) criteria that drive the amount eligible for deduction.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

93

The following tables provide details on our regulatory capital, RWA and capital and leverage ratios. Our capital position remains strong and our
capital and leverage ratios remain well above OSFI regulatory targets:

Regulatory capital, risk-weighted assets (RWA) and capital and leverage ratios

Table 71

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts and as otherwise noted)

Capital (1)

CET1 capital
Tier 1 capital
Total capital

Risk-weighted Assets (RWA) used in calculation of capital ratios (1), (2)

CET1 capital RWA
Tier 1 capital RWA
Total capital RWA

Total capital RWA consisting of: (1)

Credit risk
Market risk
Operational risk
Regulatory floor adjustment (3)

Total capital RWA

Capital ratios and Leverage ratio (1), (4)

CET1 ratio
Tier 1 capital ratio
Total capital ratio
Leverage ratio
Leverage ratio exposure (billions)

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

51,572
58,361
67,556

48,181
55,270
64,950

$ 474,478
474,478
474,478

$ 447,436
448,662
449,712

$ 376,519
27,618
59,203
11,138

$ 369,751
23,964
55,997
–

$ 474,478

$ 449,712

10.9%
12.3%
14.2%
4.4%
1,315.5

$

10.8%
12.3%
14.4%
4.4%
1,265.1

$

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

Capital, RWA, and capital ratios are calculated using OSFI Capital Adequacy Requirements based on the Basel III framework (“all-in”
basis). The leverage ratio is calculated using OSFI Leverage Requirements Guideline based on the Basel III framework.
In 2016, the CVA scalars of 64%, 71% and 77% were applied to CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital, respectively. In fiscal 2017, the scalars
were 72%, 77% and 81%, respectively. In 2018, the scalars will be 80%, 83% and 86%, respectively.
Before any capital floor requirement as applicable, there are three different levels of RWAs for the calculation of the CET1, Tier 1, and
Total capital ratios arising from the option we have chosen for the phase-in of the CVA capital charge. Since the introduction of Basel II
in 2008, OSFI has prescribed a capital floor requirement for institutions that use the advanced internal ratings-based (AIRB) approach
for credit risk. The capital floor is determined by comparing a capital requirement under Basel I and Basel III, as specified by OSFI. If the
capital requirement under the Basel III standards is less than 90% of the capital requirements as calculated under the Basel I
standards, the difference is added to the RWAs.
To enhance comparability among other global financial institutions, our transitional CET1, Tier 1, Total capital and leverage ratios as at
October 31, 2017 were 11.3%, 12.3%, 14.1%, and 4.5%, respectively. Transitional is defined as capital calculated according to the
current year’s phase-in of regulatory adjustments and phase-out of non-qualifying capital instruments.

94

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Regulatory Capital

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

CET1 capital: instruments and reserves and regulatory adjustments
Directly issued qualifying common share capital (and equivalent for

non-joint stock companies) plus related stock surplus

Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income (and other reserves)
Directly issued capital subject to phase out from CET1 (only applicable

to non-joint stock companies)

Common share capital issued by subsidiaries and held by third parties

(amount allowed in group CET1)

Regulatory adjustments applied to CET1 under Basel III

Common Equity Tier 1 capital (CET1)

Additional Tier 1 capital: instruments and regulatory adjustments
Directly issued qualifying Additional Tier 1 instruments plus related

stock surplus

Directly issued capital instruments to phase out from Additional Tier 1
Additional Tier 1 instruments issued by subsidiaries and held by third

parties (amount allowed in group AT1)

Regulatory adjustments applied to Additional Tier 1 under Basel III

Additional Tier 1 capital (AT1)

Tier 1 capital (T1 = CET1 + AT1)

Tier 2 capital: instruments and provisions and regulatory adjustments
Directly issued qualifying Tier 2 instruments plus related stock surplus
Directly issued capital instruments subject to phase out from Tier 2
Tier 2 instruments issued by subsidiaries and held by third parties

(amount allowed in group Tier 2)

Collective allowance
Regulatory adjustments applied to Tier 2 under Basel III

Tier 2 capital (T2)

Total capital (T1 + T2)

2017 vs. 2016

Continuity of CET1 ratio (Basel III)

Table 72

All-in basis

2017

2016

$ 18,019
45,043
4,354

$ 18,161
41,217
4,926

–

–

13
(15,857)

13
(16,136)

$ 51,572

$ 48,181

$

3,825
2,961

$

3,825
3,261

3
–

3
–

$

6,789

$

7,089

$ 58,361

$ 55,270

$

6,346
2,550

$

6,630
2,738

12
287
–

18
294
–

$

9,195

$

9,680

$ 67,556

$ 64,950

135 bps

19 bps

(70) bps

10.8%

(35) bps

(30) bps

(9) bps

10.9%

October 31, 2016 (1)

Internal
capital
generation (2)

Pension and
post-employment
benefit
obligations

Share
repurchases

Regulatory
floor
adjustment

Risk
parameters
update
and Other

October 31, 2017 (1)

Higher RWA
(excluding 
regulatory
floor adjustment, 
risk
parameters
update and FX)

(1)
(2)

Represents rounded figures.
Internal capital generation of $6.0 billion which represents Net income available to shareholders, less common and preferred shares dividends.

Our CET1 ratio was 10.9%, up 10 bps from last year. Changes reflect internal capital generation and returns on our pension assets, partially
offset by share repurchases, higher RWA due to business growth and a regulatory floor adjustment, and an update to our corporate and business
lending risk parameters.

Our Tier 1 capital ratio of 12.3% was flat, mainly due to the factors noted above under the CET1 ratio, along with the redemption of preferred

shares.

Our Total capital ratio of 14.2% was down 20 bps, mainly due to the factors noted above under the Tier 1 capital ratio.
Our Leverage ratio of 4.4% was flat, mainly due to internal capital generation and returns on our pension assets, fully offset by share

repurchases and growth in leverage exposures, primarily in loans, repos-style transactions, and cash and deposits.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

95

Basel III RWA
OSFI requires banks to meet minimum risk-based capital requirements for exposures to credit risk, operational risk, and, where they have
significant trading activity, market risk. RWA is calculated for each of these risk types and added together to determine total RWA. In addition,
OSFI requires the minimum risk-based capital to be no less than 90% of the capital requirements as calculated under the Basel I standards.
If the capital requirement is less than 90%, a floor adjustment to RWA must be applied as prescribed by OSFI CAR guidelines.

Total capital risk-weighted assets

As at October 31 (Millions of Canadian dollars, except
percentage amounts)

Exposure (1)

Average
of risk
weights (2)

2017

Risk-weighted assets

Table 73

2016

Standardized
approach

Advanced
approach

Other

Total

Total

Credit risk

Lending-related and other
Residential mortgages
Other retail
Business
Sovereign
Bank

$

243,462
239,041
313,550
135,450
135,527

7% $

22%
60%
9%
8%

5,823 $ 12,374 $
7,638
41,187
2,930
2,802

46,111
145,976
8,805
8,465

– $ 18,197
53,749
–
187,163
–
11,735
–
11,267
–

$ 17,364
52,164
186,285
9,776
11,801

Total lending-related and other

$ 1,067,030

26% $

60,380 $ 221,731 $

– $ 282,111

$ 277,390

Trading-related

Repo-style transactions
Derivatives – including CVA – CET1

phase-in adjustment

$

475,832

2% $

66 $

8,379 $

75 $

8,520

$

7,924

86,999

33%

603

15,977

11,808

28,388

29,796

Total trading-related

$

562,831

7% $

669 $ 24,356 $ 11,883 $ 36,908

$ 37,720

Total lending-related and other and

$ 1,629,861
3,096
58,418
n.a.
51,139

$ 1,742,514

trading-related
Bank book equities
Securitization exposures
Regulatory scaling factor
Other assets

Total credit risk

Market risk

Interest rate
Equity
Foreign exchange
Commodities
Specific risk
Incremental risk charge

Total market risk

Operational risk

Regulatory floor adjustment (3)

CET1 capital risk-weighted assets (4)

$ 1,742,514

Additional CVA adjustment, prescribed

by OSFI, for Tier 1 capital

Regulatory floor adjustment (3)

20% $

113%
14%
n.a.
56%

61,049 $ 246,087 $ 11,883 $ 319,019
3,485
8,462
15,306
28,836

3,485
6,076
15,306
n.a.

–
–
–
28,836

–
2,386
n.a.
n.a.

$ 315,110
2,362
9,591
15,028
25,384

22% $

63,435 $ 270,954 $ 40,719 $ 375,108

$ 367,475

$

$

$

$

2,562 $
1,461
671
232
5,117
–

4,348 $
1,371
64
13
2,076
9,703

– $
–
–
–
–
–

6,910
2,832
735
245
7,193
9,703

$

4,484
3,005
931
326
5,730
9,488

10,043 $ 17,575 $

– $ 27,618

$ 23,964

4,470 $ 54,733

n.a. $ 59,203

$ 55,997

12,549

12,549

–

77,948 $ 343,262 $ 53,268 $ 474,478

$ 447,436

784

(784)

784

(784)

1,226

–

Tier 1 capital risk-weighted assets (4)

$ 1,742,514

$

77,948 $ 343,262 $ 53,268 $ 474,478

$ 448,662

Additional CVA adjustment, prescribed

by OSFI, for Total capital

Regulatory floor adjustment (3)

627

(627)

627

(627)

1,050

–

Total capital risk-weighted assets (4)

$ 1,742,514

$

77,948 $ 343,262 $ 53,268 $ 474,478

$ 449,712

(1)

(2)
(3)

(4)
n.a.

Total exposure represents exposure at default which is the expected gross exposure upon the default of an obligor. This amount is before any allowance against impaired loans or partial
write-offs and does not reflect the impact of credit risk mitigation and collateral held.
Represents the average of counterparty risk weights within a particular category.
Before any capital floor requirement as applicable, there are three different levels of RWAs for the calculation of the CET1, Tier 1, and Total capital ratios arising from the option we have
chosen for the phase-in of the CVA capital charge. Since the introduction of Basel II in 2008, OSFI has prescribed a capital floor requirement for institutions that use the advanced internal
ratings-based (AIRB) approach for credit risk. The capital floor is determined by comparing a capital requirement under Basel I and Basel III, as specified by OSFI. If the capital requirement
under the Basel III standards is less than 90% of the capital requirements as calculated under the Basel I standards, the difference is added to the RWAs.
In 2017, the CVA scalars of 72%, 77% and 81% were applied to CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital, respectively. In 2016, the CVA scalars were 64%, 71% and 77%, respectively.
not applicable.

2017 vs. 2016
During the year, CET1 RWA was up $27 billion, primarily reflecting business growth, mainly in loans, securities lending and securitizations, and
trading portfolios, the regulatory floor adjustment, and an update to our corporate and business lending risk parameters, partially offset by the
impact of foreign exchange translation.

96

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Selected capital management activity
The following table provides our selected capital management activity:

Selected capital management activity

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except number of shares)

Tier 1 capital
Common shares activity

Issued in connection with share-based compensation

plans (1)

Purchased for cancellation (2)

Table 74

2017

Issuance or
redemption date

Number of
shares (000s)

Amount

Redemption of preferred shares, Series AB
Tier 2 capital
Redemption of June 26, 2037 subordinated debentures

September 27, 2017

June 26, 2017

3,477 $

(35,973)
(12,000)

227
(436)
(300)

119

(1)
(2)

Amounts include cash received for stock options exercised during the period and includes fair value adjustments to stock options.
During the year ended October 31, 2017, we purchased common shares for cancellation at an average cost of $86.47 per share with a book
value of $12.15 per share.

On March 9, 2017, we announced a normal course issuer bid (NCIB) to purchase up to 30 million of our common shares, commencing on
March 14, 2017 and continuing until March 10, 2018, or such earlier date as we complete the repurchase of all shares permitted under the bid.
We determine the amount and timing of the purchases under the NCIB, subject to prior consultation with OSFI. Purchases may be made through
the TSX, the NYSE and other designated exchanges and alternative Canadian trading systems. The price paid for such repurchased shares has
been and will be the prevailing market price at the time of acquisition. Purchases may also be made through other means permitted by the TSX
and applicable securities laws, including under specific share repurchase programs pursuant to issuer bid exemption orders issued by
applicable securities regulatory authorities. Any purchases made under an exemption order will generally be at a discount to the prevailing
market price. In 2016, we announced a normal course issuer bid for the purchase of 20 million shares, which commenced on June 1, 2016 and
was completed on March 7, 2017. In 2017, the total number of common shares repurchased under our NCIB programs was approximately
36 million. The total cost of the shares repurchased was $3,110 million, comprised of a book value of $436 million and an additional premium
paid on repurchase of $2,674 million.

On June 26, 2017, we redeemed all ¥10,000 million outstanding 2.86% subordinated debentures due June 26, 2037 for 100% of their

principal amount plus accrued interest to the redemption date. The redemption was completed on June 26, 2017.

On September 27, 2017, we redeemed all 12 million issued and outstanding Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series AB, for cash at a

redemption price of $25 per share.

On November 13, 2017, we redeemed all 82,050 issued and outstanding Non-cumulative Perpetual First Preferred Shares, Series C-1, for

cash at a redemption price of US$1,000 per share.

Dividends
Our common share dividend policy reflects our earnings outlook, payout ratio objective and the need to maintain adequate levels of capital to
support business plans. In 2017, our dividend payout ratio was 46%, which met our dividend payout ratio target of 40% to 50%. Common share
dividends paid during the year were $5.1 billion.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

97

Selected share data (1)

As at October 31
(Millions of Canadian dollars, except number of shares and as
otherwise noted)

Number of
shares (000s)

Amount

Dividends
declared
per share

Number of
shares (000s)

Amount

2017

2016

Table 75

Dividends
declared
per share

Common shares outstanding (1)
First preferred shares outstanding
Non-cumulative Series W (2)
Non-cumulative Series AA
Non-cumulative Series AB (3)
Non-cumulative Series AC
Non-cumulative Series AD
Non-cumulative Series AE
Non-cumulative Series AF
Non-cumulative Series AG
Non-cumulative Series AJ (4)
Non-cumulative Series AK (4)
Non-cumulative Series AL (4)
Non-cumulative Series AZ (4), (5)
Non-cumulative Series BB (4), (5)
Non-cumulative Series BD (4), (5)
Non-cumulative Series BF (4), (5)
Non-cumulative Series BH (5)
Non-cumulative Series BI (5)
Non-cumulative Series BJ (5)
Non-cumulative Series BK (4), (5)
Non-cumulative Series BM (4), (5)
Non-cumulative Series C-1 (6)
Non-cumulative Series C-2 (6)
Treasury shares held – preferred

Treasury shares held – common
Stock options
Outstanding

Exercisable
Available for grant (7)

Dividends

Common
Preferred

1,452,898

$ 17,730

$

3.48

1,485,394

$ 17,939

$

3.24

1.23
1.11
0.99
1.15
1.13
1.13
1.11
1.13
0.88
0.62
1.07
1.00
0.98
0.90
0.90
1.23
1.23
1.31
1.38
1.38
US$ 55.00
US$ 67.50

300
300
–
200
250
250
200
250
339
61
300
500
500
600
300
150
150
150
725
750
107
31
–
(27)

12,000
12,000
–
8,000
10,000
10,000
8,000
10,000
13,579
2,421
12,000
20,000
20,000
24,000
12,000
6,000
6,000
6,000
29,000
30,000
82
20
6
(363)

9,315
4,337
9,933

1.23
1.11
1.18
1.15
1.13
1.13
1.11
1.13
0.88
0.60
1.07
1.00
0.98
0.90
0.90
1.23
1.23
1.51
1.29
0.98
US$55.00
US$67.50

300
300
300
200
250
250
200
250
339
61
300
500
500
600
300
150
150
150
725
750
107
31
–
(80)

12,000
12,000
12,000
8,000
10,000
10,000
8,000
10,000
13,579
2,421
12,000
20,000
20,000
24,000
12,000
6,000
6,000
6,000
29,000
30,000
82
20
31
(1,159)

11,388
6,909
9,267

5,096
300

4,817
294

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)

(7)

For further details about our capital management activity, refer to Note 21 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.
Effective February 24, 2010, we have the right to convert these shares into common shares at our option, subject to certain restrictions.
On September 27, 2017, we redeemed all 12 million issued and outstanding Non-cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series AB, for cash at a redemption price of $25 per share.
Dividend rate will reset every five years.
Non-viable contingent capital (NVCC) instruments.
Represents 3,282,000 and 815,400 depositary shares relating to preferred shares Series C-1 and Series C-2, respectively. Each depositary share represents one-fortieth interest in a share of
Series C-1 and Series C-2, respectively.
2016 amount excludes 2.1 million stock options available for grant, which became available upon the exercise of tandem stock appreciation rights prior to November 1, 2015.

As at November 24, 2017, the number of outstanding common shares and stock options and awards was 1,453,039,318 and 9,124,811,
respectively, and the number of Treasury shares – preferred and Treasury shares – common was (99,367) and (202,634), respectively.

NVCC provisions require the conversion of the capital instrument into a variable number of common shares in the event that OSFI deems a

bank to be non-viable or a federal or provincial government in Canada publicly announces that a bank has accepted or agreed to accept a capital
injection. If a NVCC trigger event were to occur, our NVCC capital instruments, which are the preferred shares Series AZ, preferred shares
Series BB, preferred shares Series BD, preferred shares Series BF, preferred shares Series BH, preferred shares Series BI, preferred shares
Series BJ, preferred shares Series BK, preferred shares Series BM, subordinated debentures due on July 17, 2024, subordinated debentures due
on September 29, 2026, subordinated debentures due on June 4, 2025, subordinated debentures due on January 20, 2026 and subordinated
debentures due on January 27, 2026, would be converted into RBC common shares pursuant to an automatic conversion formula with a
conversion price based on the greater of: (i) a contractual floor price of $5.00, and (ii) the current market price of our common shares at the time
of the trigger event (10-day weighted average). Based on a floor price of $5.00 and including an estimate for accrued dividends and interest,
these NVCC capital instruments would convert into a maximum of 2,739 million RBC common shares, in aggregate, which would represent a
dilution impact of 65.34% based on the number of RBC common shares outstanding as at October 31, 2017.

Attributed capital
Our methodology for allocating capital to our business segments is based on the higher of fully diversified economic capital and the Basel III
regulatory capital requirements. Risk-based capital attribution provides a uniform base for performance measurement among business
segments, which compares to our overall corporate return objective and facilitates management decisions in resource allocation in conjunction
with other factors.

Attributed capital is calculated and attributed on a wider array of risks compared to Basel III regulatory capital requirements, which are
calibrated predominantly to target credit, market (trading) and operational risk measures. Economic capital is our internal quantification of risks
associated with business activities which is the capital required to remain solvent under extreme market conditions, reflecting our objective to
maintain strong credit ratings. Economic capital is calculated based on credit, market (trading and non-trading), operational, business and fixed
asset, and insurance risks, along with capital attribution for goodwill and other intangibles. The common risks between the two frameworks are
aligned to reflect increased regulatory requirements.
•

Business risk is the risk of loss or harm 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.

•

98

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

For further discussion on Credit, Market, Operational and Insurance risks, refer to the Risk management section.
Attributed capital is also used to assess the adequacy of our capital base. Our policy is to maintain a level of available capital, defined as
common equity and other capital instruments with equity-like loss absorption features such as preferred shares that exceed Economic capital
with a comfortable cushion.

The calculation and attribution of capital involves a number of assumptions and judgments by management which are monitored to ensure

that the economic capital framework remains comprehensive and consistent. The models are benchmarked to leading industry practices via
participation in surveys, reviews of methodologies and ongoing interaction with external risk management industry professionals.

The following outlines our attributed capital:

Attributed capital

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Credit risk
Market risk (trading and non-trading)
Operational risk
Business and fixed asset risk
Insurance risk
Goodwill and other intangibles
Regulatory capital allocation

Attributed capital
Unattributed capital

Average common equity

Table 76

2017

2016

$ 21,450
3,250
5,200
3,200
650
15,550
10,950

$ 60,250
5,050

$ 20,550
3,200
4,900
3,100
650
16,100
8,900

$ 57,400
4,800

$ 65,300

$ 62,200

2017 vs. 2016
Attributed capital increased $3 billion, mainly reflecting business growth, higher capital attribution rate, and the update to our corporate and
business lending risk parameters.

We remain well capitalized with current levels of available capital exceeding the attributed capital required to underpin all of our material

risks.

Attributed capital in the context of our business activities
In carrying out our business activities, we are exposed to a range of risks. The following chart provides a high level view of risks within our
business segments, which includes credit, market and operational risks. We have used attributed capital to illustrate the relative size of the risks
in each of our businesses. The attributed capital distribution reflects the diversified nature of our business activities. RWA represents our
exposure to credit, market and operational risk for regulatory capital requirements.

Within Personal & Commercial Banking, credit risk is the most significant risk, largely related to our personal financial services, business
financial services and cards businesses. The primary risks within Wealth Management, which provides services to institutional and individual
clients, are operational risk and credit risk. Risks within our Insurance operations are primarily related to insurance risk in our life and health
businesses followed by market risk and operational risk. The largest risk within Investor & Treasury Services is market risk, followed by credit risk
and operational risk. The most significant risk within Capital Markets is credit risk, followed by market risk.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

99

For additional information on the risks highlighted below, refer to the Risk management section.

Attributed capital (1)
Credit 
Market (2) 
Operational 
Goodwill and other 
intangibles 
Other (3) 

24
30

33%
5
8

$375,108
27,618
59,203

RWA (C$ millions) (4)
Credit 
Market 
Operational 
Regulatory
floor
adjustment (5)  12,549

Royal Bank of
Canada

Personal &
Commercial
Banking

Wealth
Management

Insurance

Investor &
Treasury Services

Capital Markets

Attributed capital (1)
Credit 
Market (2) 
Operational 
Goodwill and other 
intangibles 
Other (6) 

23
20

44%
3
10

Attributed capital (1)
Credit 
Market (2) 
Operational 
Goodwill and other 
intangibles 
Other (6) 

56
13

20%
2
9

Attributed capital (1)
Credit 
Market (2) 
Operational 
Goodwill and other 
intangibles 
Other (6) 

9
51

12%
15
13

Attributed capital (1)
Credit 
Market (2) 
Operational 
Goodwill and other 
intangibles 
Other (6) 

16
44

11%
18
11

Attributed capital (1)
Credit 
Market (2) 
Operational 
Goodwill and other 
intangibles 
Other (6) 

7
33

45%
8
7

RWA (C$ millions) (4)
Credit 
Market 
Operational 

$143,825
186
23,543

RWA (C$ millions) (4)
Credit 
Market 
Operational 

$53,593
454
14,358

RWA (C$ millions) (7)
Credit 
Market 
Operational 

$8,584
–
–

RWA (C$ millions) (4)
Credit 
Market 
Operational 

$16,569
7,869
4,339

RWA (C$ millions) (4)
Credit 
Market 
Operational 

$145,562
18,755
16,366

(1)

(2)
(3)

(4)
(5)
(6)

(7)

Attributed capital: An estimate of the amount of equity capital required to underpin risks. It is calculated by estimating the level of capital that is necessary to support our various businesses,
given their risks, consistent with our desired solvency standard and credit ratings.
Market risk attributed capital: An estimate of the amount of equity capital required to underpin trading market risk and interest rate risk.
Other – RBC: Includes (a) an estimate of the amount of equity capital required to underpin risks associated with business, fixed assets and insurance risks; (b) a regulatory capital adjustment
since attributed capital is determined at the higher of regulatory or economic capital; and (c) unattributed capital reported representing common equity in excess of common equity attributed
to our business segments which is reported in the Corporate Support segment only.
RWA amount represents RWA for CET1.
RWA regulatory floor adjustment is not attributed to business segments.
Other – Business segments: Includes (a) an estimate of the amount of equity capital required to underpin risks associated with business, fixed assets and insurance risks; and (b) a
regulatory capital adjustment since attributed capital is determined at the business segment level as the greater of regulatory or economic capital.
Insurance RWA amount above represents our investments in the insurance subsidiaries capitalized at the regulatory prescribed rate as required under Basel CAR filing.

Subsidiary capital
Our capital management framework includes the management of subsidiaries’ capital. We invest capital across the enterprise to meet local
regulators’ capital adequacy requirements and maximize returns to our shareholders. We set guidelines for defining capital investments in our
subsidiaries and manage the relationship between capital invested in subsidiaries and our consolidated capital base to ensure that we can
access capital recognized in our consolidated regulatory capital measurements.

Each of our subsidiaries has responsibility for maintaining compliance with local regulatory capital adequacy requirements, which may

include restrictions on the transfer of assets in the form of cash, dividends, loans or advances. Concurrently, Corporate Treasury provides
centralized oversight of capital adequacy across all subsidiary entities.

Other considerations affecting capital
Capital treatment for equity investments in other entities is determined by a combination of accounting and regulatory guidelines based on the
size or nature of the investment. Three broad approaches apply as follows:
•
•

Consolidation: entities which we control are consolidated on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Deduction: certain holdings are deducted from our regulatory capital. These include all unconsolidated “substantial investments,” as
defined by the Bank Act (Canada) in the capital of financial institutions, as well as all investments in insurance subsidiaries.
Risk weighting: equity investments that are not deducted from capital are risk weighted at a prescribed rate for determination of capital
charges.

•

Regulatory capital approach for securitization exposures
For our securitization exposures, we use an internal assessment approach (IAA) for exposures related to our ABCP business, and for other
securitization exposures we use a combination of approaches including a ratings-based approach and the standardized approach.

While our IAA rating methodologies are based in large part on criteria that are published by External Credit Assessment Institutions (ECAIs)

such as S&P and therefore are similar to the methodologies used by these institutions, they are not identical. Our ratings process includes a
comparison of the available credit enhancement in a securitization structure to a stressed level of projected losses. The stress level used is
determined by the desired risk profile of the transaction. As a result, we stress the cash flows of a given transaction at a higher level in order to
achieve a higher rating. Conversely, transactions that only pass lower stress levels achieve lower ratings.

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Most of the other securitization exposures (non-ABCP) carry external ratings and we use the lower of our own rating or the lowest external
rating for determining the proper capital allocation for these positions. We periodically compare our own ratings to ECAIs ratings to ensure that
the ratings provided by ECAIs are reasonable.

GRM is responsible for providing risk assessments for capital purposes in respect of all our banking book exposures. GRM is independent of

the business originating the securitization exposures and performs its own analysis, sometimes in conjunction with but always independent of
the applicable business. GRM has developed asset class specific criteria guidelines which provide the rating methodologies for each asset class.
The guidelines are reviewed periodically and are subject to the ratings replication process mandated by Pillar I of the Basel rules.

Accounting and control matters

Critical accounting policies and estimates

Application of critical accounting policies, judgments, estimates and assumptions
Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements. Certain of these policies and
related estimates are recognized as critical because they require us to make particularly subjective or complex judgments about matters that are
inherently uncertain and significantly different amounts could be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. Our critical
accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions relate to the fair value of financial instrument and securities impairment, allowance for credit
losses, goodwill and other intangible assets, employee benefits, consolidation, derecognition of financial assets, application of the effective
interest method, provisions, insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities, income taxes, and deferred revenue on our customer loyalty program.
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, judgments, estimates and assumptions.

Fair value of financial instruments and securities impairment
The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction
between market participants at the measurement date. We determine fair value by incorporating factors that market participants would consider
in setting a price, including commonly accepted valuation approaches.

We give priority to third-party pricing services and valuation techniques with the highest and most consistent accuracy. The level of accuracy

is determined over time by comparing third-party price values to traders’ or system values, other pricing service values and, when available,
actual trade data. Other valuation techniques are used when a price or quote is not available. Some valuation processes use models to
determine fair value. We have a systematic and consistent approach to control model use.

In determining fair value, a hierarchy is used which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest

priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. Fair values established based on this
hierarchy require the use of observable market data whenever available. Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for
identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets
or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and model inputs that are
either observable, or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 inputs are
one or more inputs that are unobservable and significant to the fair value of the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are used to measure fair
value to the extent that observable inputs are not available at the measurement date. The availability of inputs for valuation may affect the
selection of valuation techniques. The classification of a financial instrument in the fair value hierarchy for disclosure purposes is based upon
the lowest level of input that is significant to the measurement of fair value.

Where observable prices or inputs are not available, management judgment is required to determine fair values by assessing other relevant

sources of information such as historical data, proxy information from similar transactions, and through extrapolation and interpolation
techniques. For more complex or illiquid instruments, significant judgment is required to determine the model used, select the model inputs, and
in some cases, apply valuation adjustments to the model value or quoted price for inactively traded financial instruments. The selection of model
inputs may be subjective and the inputs may be unobservable. Unobservable inputs are inherently uncertain as there is little or no market data
available from which to determine the level at which the transaction would occur under normal business circumstances. Appropriate parameter
uncertainty and market risk valuation adjustments for such inputs and other model risk valuation adjustments are assessed in all such
instances.

Valuation adjustments may be subjective as they require significant judgment in the input selection, such as the probability of default and

recovery rate, and are intended to arrive at a fair value that is determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing
the financial instrument. The realized price for a transaction may be different from its recorded value that was previously estimated using
management judgment, and may therefore impact unrealized gains and losses recognized in Non-interest income – Trading revenue or Other.
At each reporting date or more frequently when conditions warrant, we evaluate our AFS securities to determine whether there is any
objective evidence of impairment, such as a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the security below its cost or when an adverse
effect on future cash flows from the security can be reliably estimated. Evidence of impairment includes, but is not limited to, delinquency or
default, bankruptcy, restructuring or other events that may question the issuer’s creditworthiness. When assessing impairment for debt
instruments we primarily consider counterparty ratings and security-specific factors, including collateral, external ratings, subordination and
other market factors. For complex debt instruments including U.S. non-agency MBS, ABS and other structured products, we also use cash flow
projection models which incorporate actual and projected cash flows for each security using a number of assumptions and inputs that are based
on security specific factors. The inputs and assumptions used, such as default, prepayment and recovery rates, are based on updated market
data. In addition, we consider the transaction structure and credit enhancement for structured securities. If results indicate that we will not be
able to recover the entire principal and interest amount, we do a further review of the security in order to assess whether a loss would ultimately
be realized. As equity securities do not have contractual cash flows, they are assessed differently than debt securities. When assessing equity
securities for impairment, we consider factors that include the length of time and extent the fair value has been below cost and the financial
condition and near term prospects of the issuer. We also consider the estimated recoverable value and the period of recovery. Refer to Note 4 to
our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.

Allowance for credit losses
We maintain an allowance for credit losses relating to on-balance sheet exposures, such as loans and acceptances, and off-balance sheet items
such as letters of credit, guarantees and unfunded commitments, at levels that we consider appropriate to cover credit-related losses incurred as
at the balance sheet date.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

101

Loans which are individually significant are assessed individually for objective indicators of impairment. A loan is considered impaired

when we determine that we will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms. Credit exposures of
individually significant loans are evaluated based on factors including the borrower’s overall financial condition, resources and payment record,
and where applicable, the realizable value of any collateral. If there is evidence of impairment leading to an impairment loss, then the amount of
the loss is determined as the difference between the carrying value of the loan, including accrued interest, and the estimated recoverable
amount. The estimated recoverable amount is measured as the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original
effective interest rate, including cash flows that may result from the realization of collateral less costs to sell.

Loans which are not individually significant, or which are individually assessed and not determined to be impaired, are collectively
assessed for impairment. For the purposes of a collective evaluation of impairment, loans are grouped on the basis of similar credit risk
characteristics, taking into account loan type, industry, geographic location, collateral type, past due status and other relevant factors. The
collective impairment allowance is determined by reviewing factors including: (i) historical loss experience, which takes into consideration
historical probabilities of default, loss given default and exposure at default, and (ii) management’s judgment on the level of impairment losses
based on historical experience relative to the actual level as reported at the balance sheet date, taking into consideration the current portfolio
credit quality trends; business, economic and credit conditions; the impact of policy and process changes; and other supporting factors. Future
cash flows for a group of loans are collectively evaluated for impairment on the basis of contractual cash flows and historical loss experience for
loans with credit risk characteristics similar to those in the group. We use historical loss experience and normalize observable inputs for current
and past conditions that are not relevant to the assessment performed for the current reporting period. The methodology and assumptions used
for estimating future cash flows are reviewed regularly to reduce any differences between loss estimates and actual loss experience.

Loans and the related impairment allowance for credit losses are written off, either partially or in full, when there is no realistic prospect of

recovery. Where loans are secured, they are generally written off after receipt of any proceeds from the realization of the collateral. In
circumstances where the net realizable value of any collateral has been determined and there is no reasonable expectation of further recovery,
write off may be earlier.

For further information on allowance for credit losses, refer to Note 5 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Goodwill and other intangible assets
We allocate goodwill to groups of cash-generating units (CGU). Goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment on an annual basis, or
more frequently if there are objective indications of impairment. We test for impairment by comparing the recoverable amount of a CGU with its
carrying amount.

We estimate the value in use and fair value less costs of disposal of our CGUs primarily using a discounted cash flow method which
incorporates each CGU’s internal forecasts of revenues and expenses. Significant management judgment is applied in the determination of
expected future cash flows (uncertainty in timing and amount), discount rates (based on CGU-specific risks) and terminal growth rates.
CGU-specific risks include country risk, business/operational risk, geographic risk (including political risk, devaluation risk and government
regulation), currency risk and price risk (including product pricing risk and inflation). If the forecast earnings and other assumptions in future
periods deviate significantly from the current amounts used in our impairment testing, the value of our goodwill could become impaired.

We assess for indicators of impairment of our other intangible assets at each reporting period. If there is an indication that an asset may be

impaired, an impairment test is performed by comparing the carrying amount of the intangible asset to its recoverable amount. Where it is not
possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, we estimate the recoverable amount of the CGU to which the asset belongs.
Significant judgment is applied in estimating the useful lives and recoverable amounts of our intangible assets and assessing whether certain
events or circumstances constitute objective evidence of impairment. We do not have any other intangible assets with indefinite lives.

For further details, refer to Notes 2 and 10 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Employee benefits
We sponsor a number of benefit programs for eligible employees, including registered pension plans, supplemental pension plans, health,
dental, disability and life insurance plans.

The calculation of defined benefit expenses and obligations depends on various assumptions such as discount rates, healthcare cost trend
rates, projected salary increases, retirement age, and mortality and termination rates. Discount rates are determined using a yield curve based on
spot rates from high quality corporate bonds. All other assumptions are determined by us and are reviewed by the actuaries. Actual experience
that differs from the actuarial assumptions will affect the amounts of benefit obligations and remeasurements that we recognize. The weighted
average assumptions used and the sensitivity of key assumptions are presented in Note 17 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial
Statements.

Consolidation of structured entities
Subsidiaries are those entities, including structured entities, over which we have control. We control an entity when we are exposed, or have
rights, to variable returns from our involvement with the entity and have the ability to affect those returns through our power over the investee.
We have power over an entity when we have existing rights that give us the current ability to direct the activities that most significantly affect the
entity’s returns (relevant activities). Power may be determined on the basis of voting rights or, in the case of structured entities, other contractual
arrangements.

We are not deemed to control an entity when we exercise power over an entity as the agent of a third party or parties. In determining

whether we are acting as an agent, we consider the overall relationship between us, the investee and other parties to the arrangement with
respect to the following factors: (i) the scope of our decision making power; (ii) the rights held by other parties; (iii) the remuneration to which we
are entitled; and (iv) our exposure to variability of returns.

The determination of control is based on the current facts and circumstances and is continuously assessed. In some circumstances,
different factors and conditions may indicate that various parties control an entity depending on whether those factors and conditions are
assessed in isolation or in totality. Significant judgment is applied in determining whether we control an entity, specifically, assessing whether
we have substantive decision making rights over the relevant activities and whether we are exercising our power as a principal or an agent.

We consolidate all subsidiaries from the date control is transferred to us, and cease consolidation when an entity is no longer controlled by
us. Our consolidation conclusions affect the classification and amount of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses reported in our Consolidated
Financial Statements.

For further details, refer to the Note 7 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Derecognition of financial assets
We periodically enter into transactions in which we transfer financial assets such as loans or mortgage-backed securities to structured entities or
trusts that issue securities to investors. We derecognize the assets when our contractual rights to the cash flows from the assets have expired;
when we retain the rights to receive the cash flows but assume an obligation to pay those cash flows to a third party subject to certain pass-
through requirements; or when we transfer our contractual rights to receive the cash flows and substantially all of the risks and rewards of the
assets have been transferred. When we retain substantially all of the risks and rewards of the transferred assets, the transferred assets are not
derecognized from our Consolidated Balance Sheets and are accounted for as secured financing transactions. When we neither retain nor
transfer substantially all risks and rewards of ownership of the assets, we derecognize the assets if control over the assets is relinquished.
If we retain control over the transferred assets, we continue to recognize the transferred assets to the extent of our continuing involvement.
Management’s judgment is applied in determining whether we have transferred or retained substantially all risk and rewards of ownership of
the transferred financial asset.

The majority of assets transferred under repurchase agreements, securities lending agreements, and in our Canadian residential mortgage

securitization transactions do not qualify for derecognition. As a result, we continue to record the associated transferred assets on our
Consolidated Balance Sheets and no gains or losses are recognized for those securitization activities. Otherwise, a gain or loss is recognized on
securitization by comparing the carrying amount of the transferred asset with its fair value at the date of the transfer. For further information on
derecognition of financial assets, refer to Note 6 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Application of the effective interest method
Interest is recognized in Interest income and Interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income for all interest bearing financial
instruments using the effective interest method. The effective interest rate is the rate that discounts estimated future cash flows over the
expected life of the financial asset or liability to the net carrying amount upon initial recognition. Significant judgment is applied in determining
the effective interest rate due to uncertainty in the timing and amounts of future cash flows.

Provisions
Provisions are liabilities of uncertain timing or amount and are recognized when we have a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a
past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount
of the obligation. We record provisions related to litigation, asset retirement obligations, and the allowance for off-balance sheet and other
items. Provisions are recorded under Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Provisions are measured as the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting date. Significant

judgment is required in determining whether a present obligation exists and in estimating the probability, timing and amount of any outflows.
The forward-looking nature of these estimates requires us to use a significant amount of judgment in projecting the timing and amount of future
cash flows. We record our provisions on the basis of all available information at the end of the reporting period and make adjustments on a
quarterly basis to reflect current expectations. Should actual results differ from our expectations, we may incur expenses in excess of the
provisions recognized.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recovered from a third party, such as an insurer,

a separate asset is recognized if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received.

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities
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, which incorporates assumptions for mortality, morbidity, policy
lapses and surrenders, investment yields, policy dividends, 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. Changes in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities are included in the
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income in the period in which the estimates
change. Refer to Note 15 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Income taxes
We are subject to income tax laws in various jurisdictions where we operate, and the complex tax laws are potentially subject to different
interpretations by us and the relevant taxation authority. Management’s judgment is applied in interpreting the relevant tax laws and estimating
the expected timing and amount of the provision for current and deferred income taxes. A deferred tax asset or liability is determined for each
temporary difference based on the tax rates that are expected to be in effect in the period that the asset is realized or the liability is settled.
Where the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future, no deferred tax amount is recognized.

On a quarterly basis, we review whether it is probable that the benefits associated with our deferred tax assets will be realized, using both

positive and negative evidence. Refer to Note 23 to our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Future changes in accounting policy and disclosure

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (IFRS 9)
In July 2014, the IASB issued the complete version of IFRS 9, which brings together the classification and measurement, impairment and hedge
accounting phases of the IASB’s project to replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (IAS 39).

In January 2015, OSFI issued an advisory with respect to the early adoption of IFRS 9 for D-SIBs, requiring D-SIBs to adopt IFRS 9 for the
annual period beginning on November 1, 2017. As a result, we are required to adopt IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017, with the exception of the own
credit provisions of IFRS 9, which we adopted in the second quarter of 2014.

In June 2016, OSFI issued its final guideline on IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and Disclosures. The guideline provides guidance to Federally

Regulated Entities on the application of IFRS 9, including the implementation of the expected credit loss framework under IFRS 9. The OSFI
guideline is effective for us on November 1, 2017, consistent with the adoption of IFRS 9.

The new classification and measurement and impairment requirements will be applied by adjusting our Consolidated Balance Sheet on
November 1, 2017, the date of initial application, with no restatement of comparative period financial information. Based on current estimates,
the adoption of IFRS 9 is expected to result in a reduction to retained earnings as at November 1, 2017 of approximately $600 million, net of
taxes. The impact is primarily attributable to increases in the allowance for credit losses under the new impairment requirements. We do not
expect the adoption of IFRS 9 to have a significant impact on our CET1 capital. We continue to monitor and refine certain elements of our
impairment process in advance of Q1 2018 reporting.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

103

Classification and measurement
IFRS 9 introduces a principles-based approach to the classification of financial assets. Debt instruments, including hybrid contracts, are
measured at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL), FVOCI or amortized cost based on the nature of the cash flows of the assets and an entity’s
business model. These categories replace the existing IAS 39 classifications of FVTPL, AFS, loans and receivables, and held-to-maturity. Equity
instruments are measured at FVTPL, unless they are not held for trading purposes, in which case an irrevocable election can be made on initial
recognition to measure them at FVOCI with no subsequent reclassification to profit or loss.

For financial liabilities, most of the pre-existing requirements for classification and measurement previously included in IAS 39 were carried

forward unchanged into IFRS 9. The requirements related to the fair value option for financial liabilities, which were adopted in 2014, were
changed to address the treatment of own credit risk.

The combined application of the contractual cash flow characteristics and business model tests as at November 1, 2017 is expected to

result in certain differences in the classification of financial assets when compared to our classification under IAS 39. The most significant
changes include the following:

•

•

Approximately $25 billion of debt securities previously classified as AFS are expected to be classified as amortized cost based on a
held-to-collect business model.
Approximately $2.5 billion of securities previously classified as AFS are expected to be classified as FVTPL, primarily representing
equities and debt securities whose cash flows do not represent solely payments of principal and interest.

Impairment
IFRS 9 introduces an expected credit loss impairment model that differs significantly from the incurred loss model under IAS 39 and is expected
to result in earlier recognition of credit losses. Additional details on the key elements of the new expected credit loss model are described below.

Scope
Under IFRS 9, the same impairment model is applied to all financial assets, except for financial assets classified or designated as at FVTPL and
equity securities designated as at FVOCI, which are not subject to impairment assessment. The scope of the IFRS 9 expected credit loss
impairment model includes amortized cost financial assets, debt securities classified as at FVOCI, and off balance sheet loan commitments and
financial guarantees which were previously provided for under IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets (IAS 37). The
above-mentioned reclassifications into or out of these categories under IFRS 9 and items that previously fell under the IAS 37 framework were
considered in determining the scope of our application of the new expected credit loss impairment model.

Expected credit loss impairment model
Under IFRS 9, credit loss allowances will be measured on each reporting date according to a three-stage expected credit loss impairment model:

•

•

•

Stage 1 – From initial recognition of a financial asset to the date on which the asset has experienced a significant increase in credit risk
relative to its initial recognition, a loss allowance is recognized equal to the credit losses expected to result from defaults occurring
over the next 12 months.
Stage 2 – Following a significant increase in credit risk relative to the initial recognition of the financial asset, a loss allowance is
recognized equal to the credit losses expected over the remaining lifetime of the asset.
Stage 3 – When a financial asset is considered to be credit-impaired, a loss allowance equal to full lifetime expected credit losses will
be recognized. Interest revenue is calculated based on the carrying amount of the asset, net of the loss allowance, rather than on its
gross carrying amount.

Stage 1 and Stage 2 credit loss allowances effectively replace the collectively-assessed allowance for loans not yet identified as impaired
recorded under IAS 39, while Stage 3 credit loss allowances effectively replace the individually and collectively assessed allowances for impaired
loans. Under IFRS 9, the population of financial assets and corresponding allowances disclosed as Stage 3 will not necessarily correspond to the
amounts of financial assets currently disclosed as impaired in accordance with IAS 39. Consistent with IAS 39, loans are written off when there is
no realistic probability of recovery. Accordingly, our policy on when financial assets are written-off will not significantly change on adoption of
IFRS 9.

Because all financial assets within the scope of the IFRS 9 impairment model will be assessed for at least 12-months of expected credit
losses, and the population of financial assets to which full lifetime expected credit losses applies is larger than the population of impaired loans
for which there is objective evidence of impairment in accordance with IAS 39, loss allowances are generally expected to be higher under IFRS 9
relative to IAS 39.

Changes in the required credit loss allowance, including the impact of movements between Stage 1 (12 month expected credit losses) and

Stage 2 (lifetime expected credit losses), will be recorded in profit or loss. Because of the impact of moving between 12 month and lifetime
expected credit losses and the application of forward looking information, provisions are expected to be more volatile under IFRS 9 than IAS 39.

Measurement
The measurement of expected credit losses will primarily be based on the product of the instrument’s probability of default (PD), loss given
default (LGD), and exposure at default (EAD), discounted to the reporting date. The main difference between Stage 1 and Stage 2 expected credit
losses is the respective PD horizon. Stage 1 estimates will use a maximum of a 12-month PD while Stage 2 estimates will use a lifetime PD.
Stage 3 estimates will continue to leverage existing processes for estimating losses on impaired loans, however, these processes will be
updated to reflect the requirements of IFRS 9, including the requirement to consider multiple forward-looking scenarios.

An expected credit loss estimate will be produced for each individual exposure, including amounts which are subject to a more simplified

model for estimating expected credit losses; however the relevant parameters will be modeled on a collective basis using largely the same
underlying data pool supporting our stress testing and regulatory capital expected loss processes. Models have been developed, primarily
leveraging our existing models for enterprise-wide stress testing.

For the small percentage of our portfolios that lack detailed historical information and/or loss experience, we will apply simplified
measurement approaches that may differ from what is described above. These approaches have been designed to maximize the available
information that is reliable and supportable for each portfolio and may be collective in nature.

Expected credit losses must be discounted to the reporting period using the effective interest rate, or an approximation thereof.

Movement between stages
Movements between Stage 1 and Stage 2 are based on whether an instrument’s credit risk as at the reporting date has increased significantly
relative to the date it was initially recognized. For the purposes of this assessment, credit risk is based on an instrument’s lifetime PD, not the

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

losses we expect to incur. The assessment of significant increases in credit risk is a new concept under IFRS 9 and will require significant
judgment.

Our assessment of significant increases in credit risk will be performed at least quarterly for each individual exposure based on three
factors. If any of the following factors indicates that a significant increase in credit risk has occurred, the instrument will be moved from Stage 1
to Stage 2:

(1) We have established thresholds for significant increases in credit risk based on both a percentage and absolute change in lifetime PD

relative to initial recognition. The exact thresholds applied will differ by product and/or business.

(2) Additional qualitative reviews will be performed to assess the staging results and make adjustments, as necessary, to better reflect the

(3)

positions which have significantly increased in risk.
IFRS 9 contains a rebuttable presumption that instruments which are 30 days past due have experienced a significant increase in
credit risk. We do not intend to rebut this presumption.

Movements between Stage 2 and Stage 3 are based on whether financial assets are credit-impaired as at the reporting date. The
determination of credit-impairment under IFRS 9 will be similar to the individual assessment of financial assets for objective evidence of
impairment under IAS 39.

The assessments for significant increases in credit risk since initial recognition and credit-impairment are performed independently as at
each reporting period. Assets can move in both directions through the stages of the impairment model. After a financial asset has migrated to
Stage 2, if it is no longer considered that credit risk has significantly increased relative to initial recognition in a subsequent reporting period, it
will move back to Stage 1. Similarly, an asset that is in Stage 3 will move back to Stage 2 if it is no longer considered to be credit-impaired.

Forward-looking information
The measurement of expected credit losses for each stage and the assessment of significant increases in credit risk must consider information
about past events and current conditions as well as reasonable and supportable forecasts of future events and economic conditions. The
estimation and application of forward-looking information will require significant judgment.

PD, LGD and EAD inputs used to estimate Stage 1 and Stage 2 credit loss allowances are modelled based on the macroeconomic variables

(or changes in macroeconomic variables) that are most closely correlated with credit losses in the relevant portfolio. Each macroeconomic
scenario used in our expected credit loss calculation will have forecasts of the relevant macroeconomic variables – including, but not limited to,
unemployment rates, gross domestic product, bond yields, credit spreads, equity indices, stock market volatility, residential and commercial real
estate prices, and commodity prices – for a five year period, subsequently reverting to long-run averages.

Our estimation of expected credit losses in Stage 1 and Stage 2 will be a discounted probability-weighted estimate that considers a

minimum of three future macroeconomic scenarios. Our base case scenario will be based on macroeconomic forecasts published by our internal
economics group. Upside and downside scenarios will be set relative to our base case scenario based on reasonably possible alternative
macroeconomic conditions. Scenario design, including the identification of additional downside scenarios will occur on at least an annual basis
and more frequently if conditions warrant.

Scenarios will be probability-weighted according to our best estimate of their relative likelihood based on historical frequency and current
trends and conditions. Probability weights will be updated on a quarterly basis. All scenarios considered will be applied to all portfolios subject
to expected credit losses with the same probabilities.

Loss rates used in collectively-assessed Stage 3 allowances will be adjusted based on the forward-looking macroeconomic scenarios used

in the Stage 1 and Stage 2 estimates. Individually-assessed allowances will be established on consideration of a range of possible outcomes,
which may include macroeconomic or non-macroeconomic scenarios, as appropriate.

Our assessment of significant increases in credit risk will be based on changes in probability-weighted forward-looking lifetime PD, using

the same macroeconomic scenarios as the calculation of expected credit losses.

Expected life
For instruments in Stage 2 or Stage 3, loss allowances will cover expected credit losses over the expected remaining lifetime of the instrument.
For most instruments, the expected life is limited to the remaining contractual life, adjusted as applicable for expected prepayments. However,
an exemption from this limit is granted for instruments that include both a loan and undrawn commitment component and where our contractual
ability to demand repayment and cancel the undrawn commitment does not limit our exposure to credit losses to the contractual notice period.
For products in scope of this exemption, the expected life is the period over which our exposure to credit losses is not mitigated by our normal
credit risk management actions. Determining the instruments in scope for this exemption and estimating the appropriate remaining life will
require significant judgment.

Products identified as in scope of the lifetime exemption include credit cards, overdraft balances and certain revolving lines of credit. The

expected life for these products will be determined using a behavioral life simulation, based on our historical experience.

Definition of default
The definition of default used in the measurement of expected credit losses and the assessment to determine movement between stages will be
consistent with the definition of default used for internal credit risk management purposes. IFRS 9 does not define default, but contains a
rebuttable presumption that default has occurred when an exposure is greater than 90 days past due. We will rebut this presumption for our
Canadian and U.S. credit card assets, which use a definition of default of 180 days for both accounting and regulatory capital purposes, based
on an analysis of write-off and cure rates which indicates that a more lagging criterion is appropriate.

Governance
As part of the implementation of IFRS 9, we have designed and implemented new controls and governance procedures in several areas that
contribute to the calculation of expected credit losses. These include controls over credit risk data and systems, expected credit loss models and
calculation engine, forecasts of future macroeconomic variables, design and probability-weighting of future macroeconomic scenarios, and the
determination of significant increases in credit risk.

In addition to the existing risk management framework, we have established an Allowance Committee to provide oversight to the IFRS 9

impairment process. The Allowance Committee is comprised of senior representatives from Finance, Risk Management and Economics and will
be responsible for reviewing and approving key inputs and assumptions used in our expected credit loss estimates. It also assesses the
appropriateness of the overall allowance results to be included in our financial statements. We have also established the Business Advisory
Working Group, comprised of senior representatives from the Business and Risk Management, which provides advice to the Allowance
Committee on certain measurement methodology and assumptions. The new committee structure, with underlying key controls, went into
operation in 2017.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

105

Regulatory capital
Under the Basel III regulatory capital framework, any shortfall of accounting allowances to expected losses calculated according to the Basel
rules for IRB portfolios is a deduction from CET1 capital. If accounting allowances exceed Basel expected losses, the excess is included as Tier 2
capital.

After the adoption of IFRS 9, expected loss models will be used for both regulatory capital and accounting purposes. Under both models,
expected losses are calculated as the product of PD, LGD and EAD. However, there are several key differences under current Basel rules which
could lead to significantly different expected loss estimates:

•

•

•

Basel PDs are based on long-run averages over an entire economic cycle. IFRS 9 PDs are based on current conditions, adjusted for
estimates of future conditions that will impact PD under several probability-weighted macroeconomic scenarios.
Basel PDs consider the probability of default over the next 12 months. IFRS 9 PDs consider the probability of default over the next
12 months only for instruments in Stage 1. Expected credit losses for instruments in Stage 2 are calculated using lifetime PDs.
Basel LGDs are based on severe but plausible downturn economic conditions. IFRS 9 LGDs are based on current conditions, adjusted
for estimates of future conditions that will impact LGD under several probability-weighted macroeconomic scenarios.

As at October 31, 2017, our shortfall of accounting allowances under IAS 39 to Basel expected losses was $1.2 billion. We expect the impact of
the impairment requirements of IFRS 9 to reduce but not eliminate the shortfall of accounting allowances to Basel expected losses as at
November 1, 2017. Going forward, the regulatory capital impact of further increases in our accounting allowances under IFRS 9 will be mitigated
to the extent of the remaining deduction from CET1 capital.

Hedge accounting
The new hedge accounting model under IFRS 9 aims to simplify hedge accounting, align the accounting for hedge relationships more closely with
an entity’s risk management activities and permit hedge accounting to be applied more broadly to a greater variety of hedging instruments and
risks eligible for hedge accounting.

The new standard does not explicitly address the accounting for macro hedging activities, which is being addressed by the IASB through a
separate project. As a result, IFRS 9 includes an accounting policy choice to retain IAS 39 for hedge accounting requirements until the amended
standard resulting from the IASB’s project on macro hedge accounting is effective. We will elect the accounting policy choice to continue
applying hedge accounting under the IAS 39 framework. The new hedge accounting disclosures required by the related amendments to IFRS 7
Financial Instruments: Disclosures, however, are required for the annual period beginning November 1, 2017.

Transition
To manage our transition to IFRS 9, we implemented a comprehensive enterprise-wide program led jointly by Finance and Risk Management that
focuses on key areas of impact, including financial reporting, data, systems and processes, as well as communications and training. Throughout
the project, we have provided regular updates to the Audit Committee, Risk Committee and senior management to ensure escalation of key
issues and risks.

During fiscal 2015 and 2016, we completed initial assessments of the scope of IFRS 9, differences from IAS 39, classification of financial
assets, financial and economic impacts, system and resource requirements, and key accounting interpretations. We also designed and began
building the systems, models, controls and processes required to implement IFRS 9.

During fiscal 2017, we completed the following steps:

•

•
•
•
•
•
•

Completed a parallel run of the full end to end process during the fourth quarter of 2017, the results of which were used to test our
models and methodologies against our key performance indicators;
Validated significant new impairment models;
Completed documentation of updated bank-wide accounting and risk policies;
Finalized governance and control frameworks over new processes and testing of internal controls;
Documented the roll-out and implementation of the IFRS 9 project and governance structure including key controls;
Continued to provide training and educational seminars to impacted internal stakeholders; and
Prepared external disclosures to be provided on transition to IFRS 9 and going forward on a quarterly or annual basis.

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (IFRS 15)
In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15, which establishes the principles for reporting about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue
and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers. The standard provides a single, principles based five-step model for revenue
recognition to be applied to contracts with customers except for revenue arising from items such as financial instruments, insurance contracts
and leases. The majority of our revenue, including net interest income, is not expected to be impacted. In April 2016, the IASB issued
amendments to IFRS 15, which clarify the underlying principles of IFRS 15 and provide additional transitional relief on initial application. IFRS 15
and its amendments will be effective for us on November 1, 2018.

We plan to adopt IFRS 15 by adjusting our Consolidated Balance Sheet at November 1, 2018, the date of initial application, with no

restatement of comparative periods.

To manage our transition to IFRS 15, we implemented a comprehensive enterprise-wide program and governance structure led by Finance

that focuses on key areas of impact, including financial reporting, systems and processes, training, as well as communications.

During fiscal 2017, we have continued to manage the IFRS 15 program through detailed assessment of our higher-risk revenue contracts
and accounting policies. In the upcoming year, we will continue our assessment of the remaining revenue contracts and finalize the changes
required to our applicable transition, interim and annual disclosures. While our implementation efforts are not complete, aside from the limited
changes necessary to comply with the enhanced presentation and disclosure requirements, we do not expect any material impacts of IFRS 15 on
our Consolidated Financial Statements.

As we prepare for our transition to IFRS 15, we will continue to monitor industry interpretations of the new standard and expect to adjust our

implementation accordingly.

IFRS 16 Leases (IFRS 16)
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases.
The standard removes the current requirement for lessees to classify leases as finance leases or operating leases by introducing a single lessee
accounting model that requires the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for most leases. Lessees will also
recognize depreciation expense on the lease asset and interest expense on the lease liability in the statement of income. There are no significant
changes to lessor accounting aside from enhanced disclosure requirements. IFRS 16 will be effective for us on November 1, 2019.

106

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows (IAS 7)
In January 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 7, which will require specific disclosures for movements in certain liabilities on the
statement of cash flows. These amendments will be effective for us on November 1, 2017 and will adopt these disclosures in our 2018
Consolidated Financial Statements. The adoption of these amendments is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial
statements.

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (IFRS 17)
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 to establish a comprehensive global insurance standard which provides guidance on the recognition,
measurement, presentation and disclosures of insurance contracts. This new standard will be effective for us on November 1, 2021. We are
currently assessing the impact of adopting this standard on our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Regulatory developments

Global systemically important bank (G-SIB) designation
On November 21, 2017, Royal Bank of Canada was designated as a G-SIB by the FSB. We remain in consultation with OSFI and other relevant
regulatory bodies to discuss and understand the impacts resulting from the G-SIB designation; however we do not expect any significant impacts
resulting from the designation. In accordance with BCBS requirements, we will begin disclosing the detailed template used in the calculation of
each of the 12 G-SIB indicators beginning in Q1 2018. The proposed 2018 CAR Guideline also clarifies that if, and when, a Canadian bank is
designated a G-SIB, the higher of the D-SIB and G-SIB surcharges will apply.

BCBS Pillar 3 disclosure requirements
In April 2017, OSFI issued final guidelines for the first phase of the Pillar 3 disclosure requirements, indicating that all D-SIBs are expected to
implement the “Revised Pillar 3 Disclosure Requirements”, issued by the BCBS in January 2015 for the reporting period ending October 31, 2018
(and referenced by BCBS as phase one). These guidelines replace existing disclosure requirements in the areas of credit risk, counterparty credit
risk and securitization activities. We are making progress and expect to meet OSFI’s stated timeline.

In March 2017, the BCBS issued its second phase of the Pillar 3 disclosure requirements entitled, “Pillar 3 disclosure requirements –

consolidated and enhanced framework”. The enhancements include the addition of a dashboard of key metrics and incorporates disclosure
requirements related to ongoing reforms to the regulatory environment, such as the TLAC regime for G-SIBs, the proposed operational risk
requirements, and the final standard for market risk. The disclosure standard also consolidates all existing Pillar 3 disclosure requirements of the
Basel III framework, including the leverage and liquidity ratios disclosure templates. This phase two requirement, together with the phase one
Revised Pillar 3 disclosure requirements, issued in January 2015, comprise the single Pillar 3 framework. OSFI has not yet released the
implementation date for the BCBS phase two disclosure requirements.

The BCBS has commenced its work on the final phase of the Pillar 3 disclosure requirements, which includes the standardized approach

RWA to benchmark internally modelled capital requirements, asset encumbrance, operational risk, and ongoing policy reform.

Capital treatment proposed or issued in connection with accounting changes
On March 29, 2017, the BCBS issued a standard with details on the interim regulatory treatment of accounting provisions under the Basel III
regulatory capital framework. The standard addresses the impact of new expected credit loss accounting requirements under IFRS 9 Financial
Instruments (IFRS 9) that will replace the current incurred loss models used for accounting purposes. IFRS 9 will be effective for us on
November 1, 2017. For further details on the adoption of IFRS 9, including applicable regulatory guidance, refer to the Critical accounting policies
and estimates section.

The standard retains the current regulatory treatment of accounting provisions under the standardized and the internal ratings-based
approaches until a longer-term solution is developed. It also sets out transitional arrangements which allow for a phase-in of the impact of the
new expected credit loss accounting standard on regulatory capital for up to five years, should individual jurisdictions choose to provide capital
relief. OSFI has not adopted any of these transitional arrangements.

On August 21, 2017, OSFI announced its intention to delay the domestic implementation of the BCBS frameworks related to the
Standardized Approach to Counterparty Credit Risk (SA-CCR) and the revisions to the capital requirements for bank exposures to Central
counterparties until Q1 2019. In addition, in its communication, OSFI announced its intention to delay the implementation of the BCBS Revised
Securitization Framework until Q1 2019.

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 in reports
filed or submitted under Canadian and U.S. securities laws is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified
under those laws and include controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information is accumulated and communicated to
management, including the President and Chief Executive Officer, and the Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required
disclosure.

As of October 31, 2017, management evaluated, under the supervision of and with the participation of the President and Chief Executive

Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined under rules adopted by the United
States Securities and Exchange Commission (U.S. SEC). Based on that evaluation, the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Chief
Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of October 31, 2017.

Internal control over financial reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial
reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements
for external purposes in accordance with IFRS. However, because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not
prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. See Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and the Report of
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

No changes were made in our internal control over financial reporting during the year ended October 31, 2017 that have materially affected,

or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

107

Related party transactions

In the ordinary course of business, we provide normal banking services and 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 12 and 28 of our audited
2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

Supplementary information

Selected annual information

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except as otherwise noted)

Total revenue (1)
Net income attributable to:

Shareholders
Non-controlling interest

Basic earnings per share (in dollars)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars)
Dividends declared per common shares (in dollars)
Total assets
Deposits

Table 77

2017

2016

2015

$ 40,669

$ 38,795

$ 35,703

11,428
41

10,405
53

9,925
101

$ 11,469

$ 10,458

$ 10,026

7.59
7.56
3.48
1,212,853
789,635

6.80
6.78
3.24
1,180,258
757,589

6.75
6.73
3.08
1,074,208
697,227

(1)

Effective Q4 2017, certain commissions and fees paid and related revenue are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense and non-interest income, respectively. Prior period amounts
have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

108

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Net interest income on average assets and liabilities

Table 78

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

Average balances

Interest

Average rate

Assets
Deposits with other banks

Canada
U.S.
Other International

Securities
Trading
Available-for-sale

$

11,380 $
21,508
17,215
50,103

130,816
83,787
214,603

11,679
16,842
15,415
43,936

153,114
72,440
225,554

$

$

146
192
(31)
307

114
71
(18)
167

1.28%
0.89
(0.18)
0.61%

0.98%
0.42
(0.12)
0.38%

3,520
1,379
4,899

3,366
1,227
4,593

Asset purchased under reverse repurchase
agreements and securities borrowed

205,993

191,243

3,021

1,816

Loans (1)

Canada
Retail
Wholesale

U.S.
Other International

Total interest-earning assets
Non-interest-bearing deposits with other banks
Customers’ liability under acceptances
Other assets
Total assets
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Deposits (2)
Canada
U.S.
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

Equity

350,155
74,955
425,110
75,967
27,201
528,278
998,977
23,953
14,550
149,114

338,270
69,028
407,298
75,734
29,409
512,441
973,174
17,586
13,247
172,393
$ 1,186,600 $ 1,176,400

$

498,134 $

79,354
70,028
647,516
37,205

487,194
83,001
67,365
637,560
50,262

128,831
9,460
14,839
837,851
122,800
14,549
138,797

110,231
8,931
15,437
822,421
112,071
13,248
159,215
$ 1,113,997 $ 1,106,955

11,672
3,534
15,206
2,391
1,080
18,677
26,904
–
–
–
$ 26,904

$ 5,560
640
364
6,564
1,515

1,396
270
19
9,764
–
–
–
$ 9,764

11,141
3,249
14,390
2,038
1,448
17,876
24,452
–
–
–
$ 24,452

$ 4,714
413
340
5,467
1,579

629
227
19
7,921
–
–
–
$ 7,921

72,607

69,445

n.a.

n.a.

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$ 1,186,600 $ 1,176,400

$ 9,764

$ 7,921

Net interest income and margin

$ 1,186,600 $ 1,176,400

$ 17,140

$ 16,531

Net interest income and margin (average earning assets)

Canada
U.S.
Other International

Total

$

$

595,790 $
243,276
159,912
998,978 $

572,671
246,065
154,438
973,174

$ 12,104
3,469
1,567
$ 17,140

$ 11,694
3,241
1,596
$ 16,531

2.69
1.65
2.28

1.47

3.33
4.71
3.58
3.15
3.97
3.54
2.69
–
–
–
2.27%

1.12%
0.81
0.52
1.01
4.07

1.08
2.85
0.13
1.17
–
–
–
0.88%

n.a.

0.82%

1.44%

2.03%
1.43
0.98
1.72%

2.20
1.69
2.04

0.95

3.29
4.71
3.53
2.69
4.92
3.49
2.51
–
–
–
2.08%

0.97%
0.50
0.50
0.86
3.14

0.57
2.54
0.12
0.96
–
–
–
0.72%

n.a.

0.67%

1.41%

2.04%
1.32
1.03
1.70%

(1)
(2)

Interest income includes loan fees of $561 million (2016 – $573 million).
Deposits include personal savings deposits with average balances of $178 billion (2016 – $166 billion), interest expense of $.5 billion (2016 – $.4 billion) and average rates of .3%
(2016 – .3%). Deposits also include term deposits with average balances of $353 billion (2016 – $362 billion), interest expense of $5.0 billion (2016 – $4.3 billion) and average rates of
1.42% (2016 – 1.20%).

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

109

Change in net interest income

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Deposits with other banks

Canada (3)
U.S. (3)
Other international (3)

Securities
Trading
Available-for-sale

Asset purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Loans

Canada
Retail
Wholesale

U.S.
Other international
Total interest income
Liabilities
Deposits
Canada
U.S.
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

Table 79

2017 (1) vs. 2016

Increase (decrease)
due to changes in

Average
volume (2)

Average
rate (2)

Net change

$

$

$
$

(3) $
20
(2)

$

35
101
(11)

(490)
192
140

391
279
6
(109)
424

$

106
(18)
13
(410)
106
13
(1)
(191) $
$
615

644
(40)
1,065

140
6
347
(259)
2,028

$

740
245
11
346
661
30
1
2,034

$
(6) $

32
121
(13)

154
152
1,205

531
285
353
(368)
2,452

846
227
24
(64)
767
43
–
1,843
609

(1)
(2)
(3)

Insurance segment assets and liabilities are included in Other assets and Other liabilities, respectively.
Volume/rate variance is allocated on the percentage relationships of changes in balances and changes in rates to the total net change in net interest income.
Geographic classification for selected assets and liabilities is based on the domicile of the booking point of the subject assets and liabilities.

Loans and acceptances by geography

Table 80

As at October 31 (Millions of Canadian dollars)

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

Canada

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail

Business
Sovereign (1)
Bank
Wholesale

U.S.

Retail
Wholesale

Other International

Retail
Wholesale

Total loans and acceptances
Total allowance for loan losses
Total loans and acceptances, net of allowance for loan losses

(1)

In 2015, we reclassified $4 billion from AFS securities to Loans.

110

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

$ 255,799
82,022
17,491
4,493
359,805
88,453
9,379
1,326
$ 99,158
$ 458,963

$ 241,800
82,205
16,601
3,878
344,484
76,266
8,586
1,278
86,130
$
$ 430,614

$ 229,987
84,637
15,516
4,003
334,143
71,246
8,508
530
80,284
$
$ 414,427

$ 215,624
86,984
14,650
4,067
321,325
64,643
3,840
413
68,896
$
$ 390,221

$ 206,134
86,102
13,902
4,026
310,164
58,920
3,807
823
63,550
$
$ 373,714

18,100
55,037
73,137

17,134
59,349
76,483

5,484
34,702
40,186

4,686
23,639
28,325

3,734
19,443
23,177

7,265
21,870
29,135
$ 561,235
(2,159)
$ 559,076

7,852
21,733
29,585
$ 536,682
(2,235)
$ 534,447

8,556
24,536
33,092
$ 487,705
(2,029)
$ 485,676

8,258
21,881
30,139
$ 448,685
(1,994)
$ 446,691

6,768
17,103
23,871
$ 420,762
(1,959)
$ 418,803

Loans and acceptances by portfolio and sector

As at October 31 (Millions of Canadian dollars)

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail

Business

Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil & gas
Utilities

Financing products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and investments
Industrial products
Mining & metals
Non-bank financial services
Other services
Real estate & related
Technology & media
Transportation & environment
Other
Sovereign
Bank

Wholesale

Total loans and acceptances

Total allowance for loan losses

Table 81

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

$ 270,348
92,294
18,035
4,493

$ 254,998
93,466
17,128
3,878

$ 233,975
94,346
15,859
4,003

$ 219,257
96,021
14,924
4,067

$ 209,238
93,260
14,142
4,026

$ 385,170

$ 369,470

$ 348,183

$ 334,269

$ 320,666

7,380
8,248
11,387

6,743
5,614
6,556
911
6,998
8,803
5,581
1,113
10,744
14,757
46,197
8,890
5,950
4,570
11,362
4,261

6,515
7,279
10,052

6,259
7,680
8,840
1,099
7,763
7,195
5,508
1,455
8,408
11,582
40,419
11,019
6,060
7,568
10,581
1,930

6,057
6,614
7,146

7,691
5,162
10,093
1,169
6,023
6,935
4,725
1,402
6,428
8,834
33,802
6,599
5,907
3,248
9,887
1,800

5,694
6,209
7,172

5,849
3,766
3,670
979
4,052
6,865
4,665
1,320
5,688
8,322
30,387
4,822
5,432
3,695
4,628
1,201

5,441
6,167
6,230

5,046
3,860
3,162
893
3,786
4,973
4,038
1,074
4,903
8,090
24,413
4,006
5,593
2,705
4,396
1,320

$ 176,065

$ 167,212

$ 139,522

$ 114,416

$ 100,096

$ 561,235

$ 536,682

$ 487,705

$ 448,685

$ 420,762

(2,159)

(2,235)

(2,029)

(1,994)

(1,959)

Total loans and acceptances, net of allowance for loan losses

$ 559,076

$ 534,447

$ 485,676

$ 446,691

$ 418,803

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

111

Impaired loans by portfolio and geography

As at October 31 (Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)

Residential mortgages
Personal
Small business

Retail
Business

Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil and gas
Utilities

Financing products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and investments
Industrial products
Mining & metals
Non-bank financial services
Other services
Real estate & related
Technology & media
Transportation & environment
Other
Sovereign
Bank
Wholesale

Acquired credit-impaired loans

Total impaired loans (1)
Canada

Residential mortgages
Personal
Small business

Retail

Business

Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil & gas
Utilities

Financing products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and investments
Industrial products
Mining & metals
Non-bank financial services
Other services
Real estate & related
Technology & media
Transportation & environment
Other
Sovereign
Bank
Wholesale

Total
U.S.

Retail
Wholesale

Total
Other International

Retail
Wholesale

Total
Total impaired loans
Allowance for impaired loans
Net impaired loans
Gross impaired loans as a % of loans and acceptances

Residential mortgages
Personal
Small business

Retail
Wholesale
Total

Allowance for impaired loans as a % of gross impaired loans

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

2017
634
276
38
948

28
29
105

315
10
107
7
21
27
34
3
32
157
345
82
23
47
–
–
1,372
256
2,576

323
198
38
559

22
4
45

13
–
–
7
5
3
25
3
29
48
187
12
23
–
–
–
426
985

59
736
795

345
451
796
2,576
(737)
1,839

0.23%
0.30%
0.85%
0.25%
0.92%
0.46%
28.61%

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

2016
709
304
46
1,059

43
43
165

1,264
78
111
21
21
72
43
15
3
109
241
93
45
57
–
2
2,426
418
3,903

368
228
46
642

34
9
91

57
15
–
21
18
5
39
12
–
49
121
27
24
–
–
–
522
1,164

56
1,736
1,792

380
567
947
3,903
(809)
3,094

0.28%
0.33%
1.19%
0.29%
1.69%
0.73%
20.72%

2015
646
299
45
990

41
11
130

156
57
109
28
17
185
45
17
1
69
297
34
53
43
–
2
1,295
–
2,285

356
223
45
624

39
8
65

39
20
–
5
17
3
39
7
–
51
161
34
29
(5)
–
–
512
1,136

10
204
214

356
579
935
2,285
(654)
1,631

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

0.28%
0.32%
1.13%
0.28%
0.93%
0.47%
28.64%

Table 82

2013
691
363
37
1,091

43
12
101

14
–
39
26
25
40
54
2
1
101
367
117
98
67
–
3
1,110
–
2,201

464
229
36
729

38
9
58

14
–
–
8
15
3
40
2
1
59
169
86
21
3
–
–
526
1,255

14
98
112

348
486
834
2,201
(599)
1,602

0.33%
0.39%
0.83%
0.34%
1.11%
0.52%
27.22%

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

2014
678
300
47
1,025

40
12
108

6
–
–
25
18
132
48
9
3
99
314
38
32
66
–
2
952
–
1,977

388
224
47
659

36
11
70

4
–
–
6
19
3
41
9
1
67
171
37
11
1
–
–
487
1,146

13
18
31

353
447
800
1,977
(632)
1,345

0.31%
0.31%
1.16%
0.31%
0.84%
0.44%
31.98%

(1)

Past due loans greater than 90 days not included in impaired loans were $307 million in 2017 (2016 – $337 million; 2015 – $314 million; 2014 – $316 million; 2013 – $346 million). For
further details, refer to Note 5 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

112

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Provision for credit losses by portfolio and geography

Table 83

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail

Business

Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil and gas
Utilities

Financing products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and investments
Industrial products
Mining & metals
Non-bank financial services
Other services
Real estate & related
Technology & media
Transportation & environment
Other
Sovereign
Bank
Wholesale

Acquired credit-impaired loans

Total provision for credit losses on impaired loans

Canada

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail

Business

Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil & gas
Utilities

Financial products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and investments
Industrial products
Mining & metals
Non-bank financial services
Other services
Real estate & related
Technology & media
Transportation & environment
Other
Sovereign
Bank
Wholesale
Total

U.S.

Retail
Wholesale

Other International

Retail
Wholesale

Total provision for credit losses on impaired loans
Total provision for credit losses on non-impaired loans
Total provision for credit losses
Total PCL as a % of average net loans and acceptances
PCL on impaired loans as a % of average net loans and acceptances

$

$

$

2017
56
409
435
32
932

2
14
11

(27)
5
(19)
4
10
1
16
(4)
2
20
115
13
–
53
–
–
216
2
$ 1,150

$

$

$

$
$

$

33
413
426
32
904

–
1
11

(15)
1
–
4
7
–
13
1
2
21
38
10
2
(1)
–
–
95
999

3
117
120

25
6
$
31
$ 1,150
–
$ 1,150
0.21%
0.21%

$

2016
77
458
442
34
$ 1,011

$

10
13
20

320
16
1
4
4
–
12
7
–
(5)
36
8
(4)
36
–
(3)
475
10
$ 1,496

$

$

$

42
459
435
34
970

10
3
19

99
–
–
5
4
–
10
7
–
14
26
2
8
6
–
–
$
213
$ 1,183

1
227
228

$

41
44
$
85
$ 1,496
50
$ 1,546
0.29%
0.28%

$

$

$

2015
47
388
378
32
845

9
3
33

47
9
39
6
–
18
4
8
7
4
29
5
8
24
–
(1)
252
–
$ 1,097

$

$

$

$
$

$

27
393
371
32
823

9
3
21

22
1
–
1
–
–
7
3
–
–
13
6
7
23
–
–
116
939

1
40
41

$

$

$

2014
94
441
353
44
932

3
2
27

(5)
32
3
7
–
29
14
2
–
18
58
14
2
26
–
–
232
–
$ 1,164

$

$

$

$
$

$

27
393
345
44
809

4
3
25

(5)
–
–
1
–
–
14
2
–
6
34
14
3
22
–
–
123
932

2
40
42

21
96
$
117
$ 1,097
–
$ 1,097
0.24%
0.24%

121
69
$
190
$ 1,164
–
$ 1,164
0.27%
0.27%

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$
$

$

2013
41
458
354
32
885

4
3
17

(6)
–
1
4
–
(6)
21
1
10
14
62
157
35
35
–
–
352
–
1,237

27
391
346
32
796

4
3
16

(6)
–
–
3
–
(8)
14
1
–
3
37
50
2
30
–
–
149
945

3
32
35

86
171
257
1,237
–
1,237
0.31%
0.31%

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

113

Allowance for credit losses by portfolio and geography

Table 84

2017
2,326
1,150

$

2016
2,120
1,546

$

2015
2,085
1,097

$

2014
2,050 $
1,164

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)

Allowance at beginning of year
Provision for credit losses
Write-offs by portfolio

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail

Business
Sovereign
Bank

Wholesale
Total write-offs by portfolio
Recoveries by portfolio

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail

Business
Sovereign
Bank

Wholesale
Total recoveries by portfolio
Net write-offs

Adjustments (1)

Total allowance for credit losses at end of year
Allowance against impaired loans
Canada

Residential mortgages
Personal
Small business

Retail

Business

Agriculture
Automotive
Consumer goods
Energy

Oil & gas
Utilities

Financing products
Forest products
Health services
Holding and investments
Industrial products
Mining and metals
Non-bank financial services
Other services
Real estate & related
Technology & media
Transportation & environment
Other
Sovereign
Bank

Wholesale

U.S.

Retail
Wholesale

Other International

Retail
Wholesale

Total allowance against impaired loans
Allowance against non-impaired loans

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Retail
Wholesale
Off-balance sheet and other items
Total allowance against non-impaired loans
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

$

$

$

$
$

$

$
$

$
$
$

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$
$
$
$
$

(53)
(543)
(565)
(38)

(1,199) $
(226) $
–
–
(226) $
(1,425) $

(42)
(556)
(564)
(40)

(64)
(494)
(497)
(40)

(1,202) $
(321) $
–
–
(321) $
(1,523) $

(1,095) $
(243) $
–
–
(243) $
(1,338) $

$

$
$

8
116
131
9
264
66
–
–
$
66
$
330
(1,095) $
(131)
2,250

$

$

$
$

5
111
122
10
248
38
–
–
$
38
286
$
(1,237) $
(103)
2,326

$

$

$
$

7
105
119
10
241
33
–
1
$
34
275
$
(1,063) $
1
2,120

$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$
$
$
$
$

31
91
19
141

3
4
11

3
–
–
3
6
1
13
4
1
19
36
11
8
1
–
–
124
265

1
150
151

168
153
321
737

128
391
379
37
935
487
91
1,513
2,250

0.40%
0.20%

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$
$
$
$
$

35
105
20
160

6
4
14

6
–
–
5
6
1
11
4
–
18
23
10
11
–
–
–
119
279

2
177
179

180
171
351
809

96
385
386
45
912
514
91
1,517
2,326

0.43%
0.23%

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

$

$
$
$
$
$

27
96
19
142

5
4
12

–
1
–
3
6
1
13
1
–
19
28
12
7
(1)
–
–
111
253

1
47
48

169
184
353
654

83
396
386
45
910
465
91
1,466
2,120

0.43%
0.23%

2013
2,087
1,237

(24)
(498)
(466)
(35)

(1,023)
(448)
–
–
(448)
(1,471)

2
96
112
9
219
51
–
–
51
270
(1,201)
(73)
2,050

36
97
16
149

6
4
15

1
–
–
4
6
2
15
1
–
23
42
46
6
(1)
–
–
170
319

2
19
21

146
113
259
599

(30)
(565)
(466)
(47)

(1,108) $
(221) $
–
–
(221) $
(1,329) $

2 $

106
114
9
231 $
32 $
–
–
32 $
263 $
(1,066) $
(63)
2,085 $

31 $
93
19
143 $

6 $
4
22

–
–
–
3
6
1
18
1
–
28
48
17
5
1
–
–
160 $
303 $

1 $

16
17 $

172 $
140
312 $
632 $

78 $

400
385
45
908 $
454 $
91 $
1,453 $
2,085 $

48
405
385
45
883
477
91
1,451
2,050

0.46%
0.25%

0.49%
0.30%

(1)

Under IFRS, other adjustments include $104 million of unwind of discount and $27 million of changes in exchange rate (2016 – $100 million and $3 million; 2015 – $80 million and $(81)
million; 2014 – $87 million and $(24) million). For further details, refer to Note 5 of our 2017 Annual Consolidated Financial Statements.

114

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Credit quality information by Canadian province

Table 85

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Loans and acceptances
Atlantic provinces (1)
Quebec
Ontario
Alberta
Other Prairie provinces (2)
B.C. and territories (3)

Total loans and acceptances in Canada

Gross impaired loans

Atlantic provinces (1)
Quebec
Ontario
Alberta
Other Prairie provinces (2)
B.C. and territories (3)

Total gross impaired loans in Canada

Provision for credit losses on impaired loans

Atlantic provinces (1)
Quebec
Ontario
Alberta
Other Prairie provinces (2)
B.C. and territories (3)

Total provision for credit losses on impaired loans in Canada

(1)
(2)
(3)

Comprises Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
Comprises Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Comprises British Columbia, Nunavut, Northwest Territories and Yukon.

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

$ 24,471
56,749
202,272
68,051
31,318
76,102

$ 23,947
53,518
185,434
66,277
30,143
71,295

$ 23,040
51,197
175,315
64,902
29,490
70,483

$ 22,130
50,748
159,817
61,197
27,341
68,988

$ 21,263
48,060
152,258
58,318
25,697
68,118

$ 458,963

$ 430,614

$ 414,427

$ 390,221

$ 373,714

$

$

$

$

77
176
213
284
125
110

985

66
85
617
112
64
55

999

$

$

$

$

$

$

101
207
336
313
93
114

1,164

67
92
654
226
64
80

$

1,183

$

93
213
341
224
115
150

1,136

57
96
590
77
52
67

939

$

$

$

$

81
205
391
185
73
211

1,146

51
92
588
71
40
90

932

$

$

$

$

83
177
424
233
97
241

1,255

50
78
605
74
39
99

945

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

115

EDTF recommendations index

We aim to present transparent, high-quality risk disclosures by providing disclosures in our 2017 Annual Report and Supplementary Financial
Information package (SFI), in accordance with recommendations from the Financial Stability Board’s (FSB) Enhanced Disclosure Task Force
(EDTF).

The following index summarizes our disclosure by EDTF recommendation:

Type of Risk

General

Risk governance, risk
management and
business model

Capital adequacy and
risk-weighted assets
(RWA)

Liquidity

Funding

Market risk

Credit risk

Other

Recommendation
1
2

Disclosure
Table of contents for EDTF risk disclosure
Define risk terminology and measures

3
4

5
6
7
8

9

10

11
12
13
14

15
16
17

18

19

20

21

22

23
24
25

26

27

28

29

30

31
32

Top and emerging risks
New regulatory ratios

Risk management organization
Risk culture
Risk in the context of our business activities
Stress testing

Minimum Basel III capital ratios and Domestic

systemically important bank surcharge

Composition of capital and reconciliation of the

accounting balance sheet to the regulatory balance
sheet

Flow statement of the movements in regulatory capital
Capital strategic planning
RWA by business segments
Analysis of capital requirement, and related

measurement model information

RWA credit risk and related risk measurements
Movement of risk-weighted assets by risk type
Basel back-testing

Quantitative and qualitative analysis of our liquidity

reserve

Encumbered and unencumbered assets by balance

sheet category, and contractual obligations for rating
downgrades

Maturity analysis of consolidated total assets,

liabilities and off-balance sheet commitments
analyzed by remaining contractual maturity at the
balance sheet date

Sources of funding and funding strategy

Relationship between the market risk measures for

trading and non-trading portfolios and the balance
sheet

Decomposition of market risk factors
Market risk validation and back-testing
Primary risk management techniques beyond reported

risk measures and parameters

Bank’s credit risk profile

Quantitative summary of aggregate credit risk

exposures that reconciles to the balance sheet

Policies for identifying impaired loans

Reconciliation of the opening and closing balances of
impaired loans and impairment allowances during
the year

Quantification of gross notional exposure for OTC
derivatives or exchange-traded derivatives

Credit risk mitigation, including collateral held for all

sources of credit risk

Other risk types
Publicly known risk events

Location of disclosure

Annual Report
page
116
52, 54-57
206-207
53
92-95

52, 54-57
54-57
100
56-57, 69

92-95

SFI
page
1
–

–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–

21-24

–
92-95
–
58-60

–
–
55, 58

75-77,
81-82

77, 80

82-83

77-79

73-74

68-72
69
68-72

58-68,
154-156
111-115

59-60, 101-102,
130
–

61-62

60

84-91
87-89,
193-194

25
–
28
26-27

42-44
28
42

–

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

31-44

40

–

33,37

46

41

–
–

116

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

REPORTS AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

117

Reports

125 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

118 Management’s Responsibility for Financial Reporting

118 Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial

Reporting

119

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm

120

Consolidated Financial Statements

120

Consolidated Balance Sheets

121

Consolidated Statements of Income

122

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

123

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

124

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

125

125

136

151

154

156

157

161

167

168

170

171

171

172

173

175

176

180

181

182

183

185

187

189

190

193

195

195

196

199

199

200

202

203

204

Note 1

General information

Note 2

Summary of significant accounting policies,
estimates and judgments

Note 3

Fair value of financial instruments

Note 4

Securities

Note 5

Loans

Note 6

Derecognition of financial assets

Note 7

Structured entities

Note 8

Derivative financial instruments and
hedging activities

Note 9

Premises and equipment

Note 10 Goodwill and other intangible assets

Note 11 Significant acquisition and dispositions

Note 12 Joint ventures and associated companies

Note 13 Other assets

Note 14 Deposits

Note 15 Insurance

Note 16 Segregated funds

Note 17 Employee benefits – Pension and other

post-employment benefits

Note 18 Other liabilities

Note 19 Subordinated debentures

Note 20 Trust capital securities

Note 21 Equity

Note 22 Share-based compensation

Note 23 Income taxes

Note 24 Earnings per share

Note 25 Guarantees, commitments, pledged assets

and contingencies

Note 26 Legal and regulatory matters

Note 27 Contractual repricing and maturity schedule

Note 28 Related party transactions

Note 29 Results by business segment

Note 30 Nature and extent of risks arising from

financial instruments

Note 31 Capital management

Note 32 Offsetting financial assets and financial

liabilities

Note 33 Recovery and settlement of on-balance
sheet assets and liabilities

Note 34 Parent company information

Note 35 Subsequent events

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

117

Management’s Responsibility for Financial Reporting

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Royal Bank of Canada 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 the Bank Act (Canada) and International Financial Reporting
Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. Financial information appearing throughout our Management’s
Discussion and Analysis is consistent with these consolidated financial statements.

Our internal controls are designed to provide reasonable assurance 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 independent directors. 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 Chief 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 our business and affairs as deemed
necessary to determine whether the provisions of the Bank Act are being complied with, and that we are in sound financial condition. In carrying
out its mandate, OSFI strives to protect the rights and interests of our depositors and creditors.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm appointed by our shareholders upon the recommendation of

the Audit Committee and Board, has 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.

David I. McKay
President and Chief Executive Officer

Rod Bolger
Chief Financial Officer

Toronto, November 28, 2017

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management of Royal Bank of Canada is responsible for establishing 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 Chief
Financial Officer and effected by the Board of Directors, management 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 International Financial
Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. It includes those policies and procedures that:

• Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions related to and dispositions of our

assets;

• Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with

generally accepted accounting principles, and our receipts and expenditures are made only in accordance with authorizations of our
management and directors; and

• Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that

could have a material effect on our financial statements.

Due to its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. Also,
projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.

Management evaluated, under the supervision of and with the participation of the President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial

Officer, the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2017, based on the criteria set forth in Internal
Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that
evaluation, management concluded that, as of October 31, 2017, internal control over financial reporting was effective based on the criteria
established in the Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013). Also, based on the results of our evaluation, management concluded that
there were no material weaknesses that have been identified in internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2017.

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2017, has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, as stated in their report, which expressed an unqualified opinion on our internal control over
financial reporting and appears herein.

David I. McKay
President and Chief Executive Officer

Rod Bolger
Chief Financial Officer

Toronto, November 28, 2017

118

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Independent Auditor’s Report

To the Shareholders of Royal Bank of Canada

We have completed integrated audits of Royal Bank of Canada’s (the Bank) 2017 and 2016 consolidated financial statements and its internal
control over financial reporting as at October 31, 2017. Our opinions, based on our audits are presented below.

Report on the consolidated financial statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Royal Bank of Canada, which comprise the consolidated balance sheets
as at October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016 and the consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows
for the years then ended, and the related notes, which comprise a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s responsibility for the consolidated financial statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with International
Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and for such internal control as management determines
is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance
with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free
from material misstatement. Canadian generally accepted auditing standards also require that we comply with ethical requirements.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence, on a test basis, about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated
financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of
the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant
to the Bank’s preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in
the circumstances. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting principles and policies used and the reasonableness of
accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion on

the consolidated financial statements.

Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Royal Bank of Canada as at
October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016 and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

Report on internal control over financial reporting
We have also audited Royal Bank of Canada’s internal control over financial reporting as at October 31, 2017, based on criteria established in
Internal Control–Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

Management’s responsibility for internal control over financial reporting
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.

Auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Bank’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit of
internal control over financial reporting 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 reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over
financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting,
assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, based on
the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances.

We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our audit opinion on the Bank’s internal control over financial reporting.

Definition of internal control over financial reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A
company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in
reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance
that transactions are recorded as 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 (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or
disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Inherent limitations
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or
that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Opinion
In our opinion, Royal Bank of Canada maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as at October 31,
2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control–Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Chartered Professional Accountants
Licensed Public Accountants
Toronto, Canada
November 28, 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

119

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Cash and due from banks

Interest-bearing deposits with banks

Securities (Note 4)

Trading
Available-for-sale

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed

Loans (Note 5)
Retail
Wholesale

Allowance for loan losses (Note 5)

Segregated fund net assets (Note 16)

Other

Customers’ liability under acceptances
Derivatives (Note 8)
Premises and equipment, net (Note 9)
Goodwill (Note 10)
Other intangibles (Note 10)
Other assets (Note 13)

Total assets

Liabilities and equity
Deposits (Note 14)

Personal
Business and government
Bank

Segregated fund net liabilities (Note 16)

Other

Acceptances
Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned
Derivatives (Note 8)
Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities (Note 15)
Other liabilities (Note 18)

Subordinated debentures (Note 19)

Total liabilities

Equity attributable to shareholders (Note 21)

Preferred shares
Common shares (shares issued – 1,452,534,303 and 1,484,234,375)
Retained earnings
Other components of equity

Non-controlling interests (Note 21)

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

David I. McKay
President and Chief Executive Officer

David F. Denison
Director

120

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

28,407 $

14,929

32,662

27,851

127,657
90,722

218,379

151,292
84,801

236,093

220,977

186,302

385,170
159,606

544,776
(2,159)

542,617

369,470
154,369

523,839
(2,235)

521,604

1,216

981

16,459
95,023
2,670
10,977
4,507
38,959

12,843
118,944
2,836
11,156
4,648
42,071

168,595

192,498
$ 1,212,853 $ 1,180,258

$

260,213 $
505,665
23,757

789,635

250,550
488,007
19,032

757,589

1,216

981

16,459
30,008
143,084
92,127
9,676
46,955

338,309

12,843
50,369
103,441
116,550
9,164
47,947

340,314

9,265

9,762

1,138,425

1,108,646

6,413
17,703
45,359
4,354

73,829

599

6,713
17,859
41,519
4,926

71,017

595

74,428

71,612
$ 1,212,853 $ 1,180,258

Consolidated Statements of Income

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

Interest income

Loans
Securities
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Deposits and other

Interest expense

Deposits and other
Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures

Net interest income

Non-interest income

Insurance premiums, investment and fee income (Note 15)
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
Net gains on available-for-sale securities (Note 4)
Share of profit in joint ventures and associates (Note 12)
Other

Total revenue

Provision for credit losses (Note 5)

Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense (Note 15)

Non-interest expense

Human resources (Note 17 and 22)
Equipment
Occupancy
Communications
Professional fees
Amortization of other intangibles (Note 10)
Other

Income before income taxes
Income taxes (Note 23)

Net income

Net income attributable to:

Shareholders
Non-controlling interests

Basic earnings per share (in dollars) (Note 24)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars) (Note 24)
Dividends per common share (in dollars)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

18,677 $
4,899
3,021
307

26,904

17,876
4,593
1,816
167

24,452

6,564
2,930
270

9,764

5,467
2,227
227

7,921

17,140

16,531

4,566
806
4,803
3,339
1,416
1,770
2,093
974
933
1,433
172
335
889

23,529

40,669

1,150

3,053

13,330
1,434
1,588
1,011
1,214
1,015
2,202

21,794

$

$

$

$

14,672
3,203
11,469 $

11,428 $
41
11,469 $
7.59 $
7.56
3.48

4,868
701
4,358
3,159
1,429
1,756
1,876
964
889
1,239
76
176
773

22,264

38,795

1,546

3,424

12,377
1,438
1,568
945
1,078
970
2,150

20,526

13,299
2,841

10,458

10,405
53

10,458

6.80
6.78
3.24

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

121

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes (Note 23)
Items that will be reclassified subsequently to income:

Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities

Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities
Reclassification of net losses (gains) on available-for-sale securities to income

Foreign currency translation adjustments

Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses)
Net foreign currency translation gains (losses) from hedging activities
Reclassification of losses (gains) on foreign currency translation to income

Net change in cash flow hedges

Net gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
Reclassification of losses (gains) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges to income

Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income:

Remeasurements of employee benefit plans (Note 17)
Net fair value change due to credit risk on financial liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes

Total comprehensive income (loss)

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

Shareholders
Non-controlling interests

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

11,469 $

10,458

134
(96)

38

(1,570)
438
(10)

(1,142)

622
(92)

530

790
(323)
467
(107)

$

$

$

11,362 $

11,323 $
39
11,362 $

73
(48)

25

147
113
–

260

(35)
52

17

(1,077)
(322)
(1,399)
(1,097)

9,361

9,306
55

9,361

122

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Balance at November 1, 2015
Changes in equity

Issues of share capital
Common shares purchased for cancellation
Preferred shares purchased for cancellation
Redemption of trust capital securities
Preferred shares redeemed
Sales of treasury shares
Purchases of treasury shares
Share-based compensation awards
Dividends on common shares
Dividends on preferred shares and other
Other
Net income
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes

Balance at October 31, 2016
Changes in equity

Issues of share capital
Common shares purchased for cancellation
Preferred shares purchased for cancellation
Redemption of trust capital securities
Preferred shares redeemed
Sales of treasury shares
Purchases of treasury shares
Share-based compensation awards
Dividends on common shares
Dividends on preferred shares and other
Other
Net income
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes

Other components of equity

Preferred
shares

Common
shares

Treasury
shares –
preferred

Treasury
shares –
common

Retained
earnings

Available-
for-sale
securities

Foreign
currency
translation

Cash flow
hedges

Total other
components
of equity

Equity
attributable to
shareholders

Non-controlling
interests

Total
equity

$

5,100 $ 14,573 $

(2) $

38 $ 37,811 $

315 $

4,427 $

(116) $

4,626 $

62,146 $

1,798 $ 63,944

1,855
–
(242)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

3,422
(56)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
172
(170)
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
4,973
(5,091)
–
–
–
–
–
–

(16)
(306)
(22)
–
–
–
–
(54)
(4,817)
(294)
211
10,405
(1,399)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
25

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
258

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
17

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
300

5,261
(362)
(264)
–
–
5,145
(5,261)
(54)
(4,817)
(294)
211
10,405
(1,099)

–
–
–
(1,200)
–
–
–
–
–
(63)
5
53
2

5,261
(362)
(264)
(1,200)
–
5,145
(5,261)
(54)
(4,817)
(357)
216
10,458
(1,097)

$

6,713 $ 17,939 $

– $

(80) $ 41,519 $

340 $

4,685 $

(99) $

4,926 $

71,017 $

595 $ 71,612

–
–
–
–
(300)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

227
(436)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
130
(130)
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
4,414
(4,361)
–
–
–
–
–
–

(1)
(2,674)
–
–
–
–
–
(40)
(5,096)
(300)
56
11,428
467

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
38

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(1,140)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
530

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(572)

226
(3,110)
–
–
(300)
4,544
(4,491)
(40)
(5,096)
(300)
56
11,428
(105)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
(34)
(1)
41
(2)

226
(3,110)
–
–
(300)
4,544
(4,491)
(40)
(5,096)
(334)
55
11,469
(107)

Balance at October 31, 2017

$

6,413 $ 17,730 $

– $

(27) $ 45,359 $

378 $

3,545 $

431 $

4,354 $

73,829 $

599 $ 74,428

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

C
o
n
s
o

l
i

d
a
t
e
d
F
i
n
a
n
c
i
a

l

S
t
a
t
e
m
e
n
t
s

R
o
y
a

l

B
a
n
k
o
f
C
a
n
a
d
a
:
A
n
n
u
a

l

R
e
p
o
r
t
2
0
1
7

1
2
3

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Cash flows from operating activities

Net income
Adjustments for non-cash items and others

Provision for credit losses
Depreciation
Deferred income taxes
Amortization and impairment of other intangibles
Net changes in investments in joint ventures and associates
Losses (Gains) on sale of premises and equipment
Losses (Gains) on available-for-sale securities
Losses (Gains) on disposition of business
Impairment of available-for-sale securities

Adjustments for net 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
Loans, net of securitizations
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Deposits, net of securitizations
Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned
Obligations related to securities sold short
Brokers and dealers receivable and payable
Other

Net cash from (used in) operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities

Change in interest-bearing deposits with banks
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities
Proceeds from maturity of available-for-sale securities
Purchases of available-for-sale securities
Proceeds from maturity of held-to-maturity securities
Purchases of held-to-maturity securities
Net acquisitions of premises and equipment and other intangibles
Proceeds from dispositions
Cash used in acquisitions

Net cash from (used in) investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities

Redemption of trust capital securities
Issue of subordinated debentures
Repayment of subordinated debentures
Issue of common shares
Common shares purchased for cancellation
Issue of preferred shares
Redemption of preferred shares
Preferred shares purchased for cancellation
Sales of treasury shares
Purchases of treasury shares
Dividends paid
Issuance costs
Dividends/distributions paid to non-controlling interests
Change in short-term borrowings of subsidiaries

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 period (1)
Cash and due from banks at end of period (1)
Cash flows from operating activities include:

Amount of interest paid
Amount of interest received
Amount of dividend received
Amount of income taxes paid

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

11,469 $

10,458

1,150
600
203
1,017
(331)
(1)
(246)
2
52

512
(90)
(1,183)
23,921
(24,423)
23,624
(22,608)
(34,675)
33,296
39,643
(20,361)
601
5,553
37,725

(4,811)
11,432
39,944
(60,364)
900
(1,195)
(1,364)
–
–
(15,458)

–
–
(119)
199
(3,110)
–
(300)
–
4,544
(4,491)
(5,309)
(1)
(34)
(30)
(8,651)
(138)
13,478
14,929
28,407 $

8,803 $

25,602
1,729
4,708

1,546
573
(479)
973
(184)
19
(176)
(268)
90

1,040
(67)
1,189
(13,224)
8,593
6,827
(19,297)
(11,369)
18,931
20,153
2,711
47
(1,230)
26,856

(3,109)
8,056
34,005
(55,327)
1,691
(3,155)
(1,257)
634
(2,964)
(21,426)

(1,200)
3,606
(1,500)
307
(362)
1,475
–
(264)
5,145
(5,261)
(4,997)
(16)
(63)
(4)
(3,134)
181
2,477
12,452
14,929

7,097
23,237
1,680
1,581

$

$

(1)

We are required to maintain balances with central banks and other regulatory authorities. The total balances were $2.3 billion as at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $3.3 billion;
November 1, 2015 – $2.6 billion).

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 General information

Royal Bank of Canada and its subsidiaries (the Bank) provide diversified financial services including personal and commercial banking, wealth
management, insurance, investor services and capital markets products and services on a global basis. Refer to Note 29 for further details on our
business segments.

The parent bank, Royal Bank of Canada, is a Schedule I Bank under the Bank Act (Canada) incorporated and domiciled in Canada. Our
corporate headquarters are located at Royal Bank Plaza, 200 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada and our head office is located at 1 Place Ville-
Marie, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Our common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange with the ticker
symbol RY.

These Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by

the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Unless otherwise stated, monetary amounts are stated in Canadian dollars. Tabular
information is stated in millions of dollars, except as noted. These Consolidated Financial Statements also comply 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 IFRS. The accounting policies outlined in Note 2 have been consistently applied to all periods presented.

On November 28, 2017, the Board of Directors authorized the Consolidated Financial Statements for issue.

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments

The significant accounting policies used in the preparation of these Consolidated Financial Statements, including the accounting requirements
prescribed by OSFI, are summarized below. These accounting policies conform, in all material respects, to IFRS as issued by the IASB.

General
Use of estimates and assumptions
In preparing our Consolidated Financial Statements, management is required to make subjective estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amount of assets, liabilities, net income and related disclosures. Estimates made by management are based on historical experience
and other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable. Key sources of estimation uncertainty include: securities impairment, determination
of fair value of financial instruments, the allowance for credit losses, derecognition of financial assets, insurance claims and policy benefit
liabilities, pensions and other post-employment benefits, income taxes, carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets, litigation
provisions, and deferred revenue under the credit card customer loyalty reward program. Accordingly, actual results may differ from these and
other estimates thereby impacting our future Consolidated Financial Statements. Refer to the relevant accounting policies in this Note for details
on our use of estimates and assumptions.

Significant judgments
In preparation of these Consolidated Financial Statements, management is required to make significant judgments that affect the carrying
amounts of certain assets and liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses recorded during the period. Significant judgments
have been made in the following areas and discussed as noted in the Consolidated Financial Statements:

Consolidation of structured entities

Fair value of financial instruments

Allowance for credit losses

Employee benefits

Goodwill and other intangibles

Note 2 – page 125
Note 7 – page 157

Note 2 – page 127
Note 3 – page 136

Note 2 – page 130
Note 5 – page 154

Note 2 – page 132
Note 17 – page 176

Note 2 – page 133
Note 10 – page 168
Note 11 – page 170

Securities impairment

Application of the effective
interest method

Derecognition of financial
assets

Income taxes

Provisions

Note 2 – page 126
Note 4 – page 151

Note 2 – page 128

Note 2 – page 131
Note 6 – page 156

Note 2 – page 132
Note 23 – page 187

Note 2 – page 134
Note 25 – page 190
Note 26 – page 193

Basis of consolidation
Our Consolidated Financial Statements include the assets and liabilities and results of operations of the parent company, Royal Bank of Canada,
and its subsidiaries including certain structured entities, after elimination of intercompany transactions, balances, revenues and expenses.

Consolidation
Subsidiaries are those entities, including structured entities, over which we have control. We control an entity when we are exposed, or have
rights, to variable returns from our involvement with the entity and have the ability to affect those returns through our power over the investee.
We have power over an entity when we have existing rights that give us the current ability to direct the activities that most significantly affect the
entity’s returns (relevant activities). Power may be determined on the basis of voting rights or, in the case of structured entities, other contractual
arrangements.

We are not deemed to control an entity when we exercise power over an entity in an agency capacity. In determining whether we are acting

as an agent, we consider the overall relationship between us, the investee and other parties to the arrangement with respect to the following
factors: (i) the scope of our decision making power; (ii) the rights held by other parties; (iii) the remuneration to which we are entitled; and
(iv) our exposure to variability of returns.

The determination of control is based on the current facts and circumstances and is continuously assessed. In some circumstances,

different factors and conditions may indicate that different parties control an entity depending on whether those factors and conditions are
assessed in isolation or in totality. Significant judgment is applied in assessing the relevant factors and conditions in totality when determining
whether we control an entity. Specifically, judgment is applied in assessing whether we have substantive decision making rights over the
relevant activities and whether we are exercising our power as a principal or an agent.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

125

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments (continued)

We consolidate all subsidiaries from the date we obtain control and cease consolidation when an entity is no longer controlled by us.
Our consolidation conclusions affect the classification and amount of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses reported in our Consolidated
Financial Statements.

Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries that we consolidate are shown on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a separate component of

equity which is distinct from our shareholders’ equity. The net income attributable to non-controlling interests is separately disclosed in our
Consolidated Statements of Income.

Investments in joint ventures and associates
Our investments in associated corporations and limited partnerships over which we have significant influence are accounted for using the equity
method. The equity method is also applied to our interests in joint ventures over which we have joint control. Under the equity method of
accounting, investments are initially recorded at cost, and the carrying amount is increased or decreased to recognize our share of the investee’s
net profit or loss, including our proportionate share of the investee’s other comprehensive income (OCI), subsequent to the date of acquisition.

Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations
Non-current assets (and disposal groups) are classified as held for sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered principally through a sale
transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is satisfied when the asset is available for immediate sale in its present condition,
management is committed to the sale, and it is highly probable to occur within one year. Non-current assets (and disposal groups) classified as
held for sale are measured at the lower of their previous carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell and if significant, are presented
separately from other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

A disposal group is classified as a discontinued operation if it meets the following conditions: (i) it is a component that can be

distinguished operationally and financially from the rest of our operations and (ii) it represents either a separate major line of business or is part
of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations. Disposal groups classified as
discontinued operations are presented separately from our continuing operations in our Consolidated Statements of Income.

Financial instruments – Recognition and measurement
Securities
Securities are classified at inception, based on management’s intention, as at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL), available-for-sale (AFS) or
held-to-maturity. Certain debt securities with fixed or determinable payments and which are not quoted in an active market may be classified as
loans and receivables.

Trading securities include securities purchased for sale in the near term which are classified as at FVTPL by nature and securities designated
as at FVTPL under the fair value option. 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. Dividends
and interest income accruing on Trading securities are recorded in Interest income. Interest and dividends accrued on interest-bearing and equity
securities sold short are recorded in Interest expense.

AFS securities include: (i) securities which may be sold to meet liquidity needs, 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, and (ii) loan substitute 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. AFS securities are measured at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses arising from changes in fair value are recorded
in OCI. Changes in foreign exchange rates for AFS equity securities are recognized in Other components of equity, while changes in foreign
exchange rates for AFS debt securities are recognized in Foreign exchange revenue, other than trading in Non-interest income. When the security
is sold, the cumulative gain or loss recorded in Other components of equity is included as Net gains on AFS securities in Non-interest income.
Purchase premiums or discounts on AFS debt securities are amortized over the life of the security using the effective interest method and are
recognized in Net interest income. Dividends and interest income accruing on AFS securities are recorded in Interest income.

At each reporting date, and more frequently when conditions warrant, we evaluate our AFS securities to determine whether there is any
objective evidence of impairment. Such evidence includes: for debt instruments, when an adverse effect on future cash flows from the asset or
group of assets can be reliably estimated; for equity securities, when there is a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment
below its cost.

When assessing debt instruments for impairment, we primarily consider counterparty ratings and security-specific factors, including

subordination, external ratings, and the value of any collateral held for which there may not be a readily accessible market. Significant judgment
is required in assessing impairment as management is required to consider all available evidence in determining whether objective evidence of
impairment exists and whether the principal and interest on the AFS debt security can be fully recovered. For complex debt instruments we use
cash flow projection models which incorporate actual and projected cash flows for each security based on security-specific factors using a
number of assumptions and inputs that involve management judgment, such as default, prepayment and recovery rates. Due to the subjective
nature of choosing these inputs and assumptions, the actual amount of the future cash flows and their timing may differ from the estimates used
by management and consequently may cause a different conclusion as to the recognition of impairment or measurement of impairment losses.

When assessing equity securities for impairment, we consider factors which include the length of time and extent the fair value has been

below cost, along with management’s assessment of the financial condition, business and other risks of the issuer. Management weighs all
these factors to determine the impairment but to the extent that management judgment may differ from the actual experience of the timing and
amount of the recovery of the fair value, the estimate for impairment could change from period to period based upon future events that may or
may not occur, and the conclusion for the impairment of the equity securities may differ.

If an AFS security is impaired, the cumulative unrealized loss previously recognized in Other components of equity is removed from equity

and recognized in Net gains on AFS securities under Non-interest income. This amount is determined as the difference between the cost/
amortized cost and current fair value of the security less any impairment loss previously recognized. Subsequent to impairment, further declines
in fair value are recorded in Non-interest income, while increases in fair value are recognized in Other components of equity until sold. For AFS
debt securities, reversal of previously recognized impairment losses is recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Income if the recovery is
objectively related to a specific event occurring after recognition of the impairment loss.

Held-to-maturity securities are debt securities where we have the intention and the ability to hold the investment until its maturity date.
These securities are initially recorded at fair value and are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any
impairment losses which we assess using the same impairment model as loans. Interest income and amortization of premiums and discounts on
debt securities are recorded in Net interest income. For held-to-maturity securities, reversal of previously recognized impairment losses is
recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Income if the recovery is objectively related to a specific event occurring after the recognition of

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Consolidated Financial Statements

the impairment loss. Reversals of impairment losses on held-to-maturity securities are recorded to a maximum of what the amortized cost of the
investment would have been, had the impairment not been recognized at the date the impairment is reversed. Held-to-maturity securities have
been included with AFS securities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

We account for all of our securities using settlement date accounting and changes in fair value between the trade date and settlement date
are reflected in income for securities classified or designated as at FVTPL, and changes in the fair value of AFS securities between the trade and
settlement dates are recorded in OCI except for changes in foreign exchange rates on debt securities, which are recorded in Non-interest income.

Fair value option
A financial instrument can be designated as at FVTPL (the fair value option) on its initial recognition. An instrument that is designated as at FVTPL
by way of this fair value option must have a reliably measurable fair value and satisfy one of the following criteria: (i) it eliminates or significantly
reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise from measuring assets or liabilities, or recognizing gains and
losses on them on a different basis (an accounting mismatch); (ii) it belongs to a group of financial assets or financial liabilities or both that are
managed, evaluated, and reported to key management personnel on a fair value basis in accordance with our risk management strategy, and we
can demonstrate that significant financial risks are eliminated or significantly reduced; or (iii) there is an embedded derivative in the financial or
non-financial host contract and the derivative is not closely related to the host contract. These instruments cannot be reclassified out of the
FVTPL category while they are held or issued.

Financial assets designated as at FVTPL are recorded at fair value and any unrealized gain or loss arising due to changes in fair value is
included in Trading revenue or Non-interest income – Other. Financial liabilities designated as at FVTPL are recorded at fair value and fair value
changes attributable to changes in our own credit risk are recorded in OCI. Amounts recognized in OCI will not be reclassified subsequently to net
income. The remaining fair value changes are recorded in Trading revenue or Non-interest income – Other. Upon initial recognition, if we
determine that presenting the effects of own credit risk changes in OCI would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in net income, the full
fair value change in our debt designated as at FVTPL is recognized in net income.

To determine the fair value adjustments on our debt designated as at FVTPL, we calculate the present value of the instruments based on the

contractual cash flows over the term of the arrangement by using our effective funding rate at the beginning and end of the period with the
change in present value recorded in OCI, Trading revenue or Non-interest income – Other as appropriate.

Determination of fair value
The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction
between market participants at the measurement date. We determine fair value by incorporating all factors that market participants would
consider in setting a price, including commonly accepted valuation approaches.

The Board of Directors provides oversight on valuation of financial instruments, primarily through the Audit Committee and Risk Committee.
The Audit Committee reviews the presentation and disclosure of financial instruments that are measured at fair value, while the Risk Committee
assesses the adequacy of governance structures and control processes for the valuation of these instruments.

We have established policies, procedures and controls for valuation methodologies and techniques to ensure that fair value is reasonably
estimated. Major valuation processes and controls include, but are not limited to, profit and loss decomposition, independent price verification
(IPV) and model validation standards. These control processes are managed by either Finance or Group Risk Management and are independent
of the relevant businesses and their trading functions. Profit and loss decomposition is a process to explain the fair value changes of certain
positions and is performed daily for trading portfolios. All fair value instruments are subject to IPV, a process whereby trading function valuations
are verified against external market prices and other relevant market data. Market data sources include traded prices, brokers and price vendors.
We give priority to those third-party pricing services and prices having the highest and most consistent accuracy. The level of accuracy is
determined over time by comparing third-party price values to traders’ or system values, to other pricing service values and, when available, to
actual trade data. Quoted prices for identical instruments from pricing services or brokers are generally not adjusted unless there are issues such
as stale prices. If multiple quotes for identical instruments are received, fair value is based on an average of the prices received or the quote from
the most reliable vendor, after the outlier prices that fall outside of the pricing range are removed. Other valuation techniques are used when a
price or quote is not available. Some valuation processes use models to determine fair value. We have a systematic and consistent approach to
control model use. Valuation models are approved for use within our model risk management framework. The framework addresses, among
other things, model development standards, validation processes and procedures, and approval authorities. Model validation ensures that a
model is suitable for its intended use and sets parameters for its use. All models are revalidated regularly by qualified personnel who are
independent of the model design and development. Annually our model risk profile is reported to the Board of Directors.

IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement permits an exception, through an accounting policy choice, to measure the fair value of a portfolio of
financial instruments on a net open risk position basis when certain criteria are met. We have elected to use this policy choice to determine the
fair value of certain portfolios of financial instruments, primarily derivatives, based on a net exposure to market or credit risk.

We record valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect counterparty credit quality of our derivative portfolio, differences between the
overnight index swap (OIS) curve and London Interbank Offered Rates (LIBOR) for collateralized derivatives, funding valuation adjustments (FVA)
for uncollateralized and under-collateralized over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives, unrealized gains or losses at inception of the transaction,
bid-offer spreads, unobservable parameters and model limitations. These adjustments may be subjective as they require significant judgment in
the input selection, such as implied probability of default and recovery rate, and are intended to arrive at a fair value that is determined based on
assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the financial instrument. The realized price for a transaction may be different from its
recorded value, previously estimated using management judgment. Valuation adjustments may therefore impact unrealized gains and losses
recognized in Non-interest income – Trading revenue or Other.

Valuation adjustments are recorded for the credit risk of our derivative portfolios in order to arrive at their fair values. Credit valuation
adjustments (CVA) take into account our counterparties’ creditworthiness, the current and potential future mark-to-market of transactions, and
the effects of credit mitigants such as master netting and collateral agreements. CVA amounts are derived from estimates of exposure at default,
probability of default, recovery rates on a counterparty basis, and market and credit factor correlations. Exposure at default is the value of
expected derivative related assets and liabilities at the time of default, estimated through modeling using underlying risk factors. Probability of
default and recovery rate are implied from the market prices for credit protection and the credit ratings of the counterparty. When market data is
unavailable, it is estimated by incorporating assumptions and adjustments that market participants would use for determining fair value using
these inputs. Correlation is the statistical measure of how credit and market factors may move in relation to one another. Correlation is estimated
using historical data. CVA is calculated daily and changes are recorded in Non-interest income – Trading revenue.

In the determination of the fair value of collateralized OTC derivatives using the OIS curve, our valuation approach accounts for the

difference between certain OIS rates and LIBOR as valuation adjustments.

FVA are also calculated to incorporate the cost and benefit of funding in the valuation of uncollateralized and under-collateralized OTC
derivatives. Future expected cash flows of these derivatives are discounted to reflect the cost and benefit of funding the derivatives by using a
funding curve, implied volatilities and correlations as inputs.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

127

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments (continued)

Where required, a valuation adjustment is made to reflect the unrealized gain or loss at inception of a financial instrument contract where

the fair value of that financial instrument is not obtained from a quoted market price or cannot be evidenced by other observable market
transactions based on a valuation technique incorporating observable market data.

A bid-offer valuation adjustment is required when a financial instrument is valued at the mid-market price, instead of the bid or offer price
for asset or liability positions, respectively. The valuation adjustment takes into account the spread from the mid to either the bid or offer price.
Some valuation models require parameter calibration from such factors as market observable option prices. The calibration of parameters

may be sensitive to factors such as the choice of instruments or optimization methodology. A valuation adjustment is also estimated to mitigate
the uncertainties of parameter calibration and model limitations.

In determining fair value, a hierarchy is used which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest

priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs
(Level 3). Determination of fair value based on this hierarchy requires the use of observable market data whenever available. Level 1 inputs are
unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2
inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets
that are not active, and model inputs that are either observable, or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term
of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 inputs are one or more inputs that are unobservable and significant to the fair value of the asset or liability.
Unobservable inputs are used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available at the measurement date. The
availability of inputs for valuation may affect the selection of valuation techniques. The classification of a financial instrument in the hierarchy for
disclosure purposes is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the measurement of fair value.

Where observable prices or inputs are not available, management judgment is required to determine fair values by assessing other relevant

sources of information such as historical data, proxy information from similar transactions, and through extrapolation and interpolation
techniques. For more complex or illiquid instruments, significant judgment is required in the determination of the model used, the selection of
model inputs, and in some cases the application of valuation adjustments to the model value or quoted price for inactively traded financial
instruments, as the selection of model inputs may be subjective and the inputs may be unobservable. Unobservable inputs are inherently
uncertain as there is little or no market data available from which to determine the level at which the transaction would occur under normal
business circumstances. Appropriate parameter uncertainty and market risk valuation adjustments for such inputs and other model risk
valuation adjustments are assessed in all such instances.

Interest
Interest is recognized in Interest income and Interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income for all interest-bearing financial
instruments using the effective interest method. The effective interest rate is the rate that discounts estimated future cash flows over the
expected life of the financial asset or liability to the net carrying amount upon initial recognition. Significant judgment is applied in determining
the effective interest rate due to uncertainty in the timing and amounts of future cash flows.

Transaction costs
Transaction costs are expensed as incurred for financial instruments classified or designated as at FVTPL. For other financial instruments,
transaction costs are capitalized on initial recognition. For financial assets and financial liabilities measured at amortized cost, capitalized
transaction costs are amortized through net income over the estimated life of the instrument using the effective interest method. For AFS
financial assets measured at fair value that do not have fixed or determinable payments and no fixed maturity, capitalized transaction costs are
recognized in net income when the asset is derecognized or becomes impaired.

Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities
Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset on the balance sheet when there exists both a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized
amounts and an intention to settle on a net basis, or realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and sold under repurchase agreements
We purchase securities under agreements to resell (reverse repurchase agreements) and take possession of these securities. We monitor the
market value of the securities purchased and additional collateral is obtained when appropriate. We have the right to liquidate the collateral
held in the event of counterparty default. Reverse repurchase agreements are treated as collateralized lending transactions. We also sell
securities under agreements to repurchase (repurchase agreements), which are treated as collateralized borrowing transactions. The securities
received under reverse repurchase agreements and securities delivered under repurchase agreements are not recognized on, or derecognized
from, our Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively, unless the risks and rewards of ownership are obtained or relinquished.

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, except when they are designated as at FVTPL and are recorded at fair value. Interest earned on reverse
repurchase agreements is included in Interest income, and interest incurred on repurchase agreements is included in Interest expense in our
Consolidated Statements of Income. Changes in fair value for reverse repurchase agreements and repurchase agreements designated as at
FVTPL are included in Trading revenue or Other in Non-interest income.

Derivatives
Derivatives are primarily used in sales and trading activities. Derivatives are also used to manage our exposure 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, cross currency swaps, foreign currency futures, foreign currency options, equity swaps 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 and are not closely related to the host contracts.

When derivatives are embedded in other financial instruments or host contracts, such combinations are known as hybrid instruments with
the effect that some of the cash flows of a hybrid instrument vary in a way similar to a stand-alone derivative. If the host contract is not carried at
fair value with changes in fair value reported in our Consolidated Statements of Income, the embedded derivative is generally required to be
separated from the host contract and accounted for separately as at FVTPL if the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative
are not closely related to those of the host contract. All embedded derivatives are presented on a combined basis with the host contracts
although they are separated for measurement purposes when conditions requiring separation are met.

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Consolidated Financial Statements

When derivatives are used in sales and trading activities, the realized and unrealized gains and losses on these derivatives are recognized

in Trading revenue in Non-interest income. Derivatives with positive fair values are reported as Derivative assets and derivatives with negative
fair values are reported as Derivative liabilities. In accordance with our policy for offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities, the net fair
value of certain derivative assets and liabilities are reported as an asset or liability, as appropriate. Valuation adjustments are included in the fair
value of Derivative assets and Derivative liabilities. Premiums paid and premiums received are shown in Derivative assets and Derivative
liabilities, respectively.

When derivatives are used to manage our own exposures, we determine for each derivative whether hedge accounting can be applied, as

discussed in the Hedge accounting section below.

Hedge accounting
We use derivatives and non-derivatives in our hedging strategies to manage our exposure to interest rate, 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 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.
We assess, both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, whether the hedging instruments are ‘highly effective’ in offsetting
changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. A hedge is regarded as highly effective only if the following criteria are met: (i) at
inception of the hedge and throughout its life, the hedge is expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash
flows attributable to the hedged risk, and (ii) actual results of the hedge are within a pre-determined range. In the case of hedging a forecast
transaction, the transaction must have a high probability of occurring and must present an exposure to variations in cash flows that could
ultimately affect the reported net profit or loss. Hedge accounting is discontinued when it is determined that the hedging instrument is no longer
effective as a hedge, the hedging instrument or hedged item is terminated or sold, or the forecast transaction is no longer deemed highly
probable. Refer to Note 8 for the fair value of derivatives and non-derivative 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 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 derivative, 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 carrying value of the hedged items
are amortized to Net income over the expected remaining life of the hedged items.

We predominantly use interest rate swaps to hedge our exposure to changes in a fixed interest rate instrument’s fair value caused by

changes in interest rates.

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 cumulative amounts
previously recognized in Other components of equity are reclassified to Net interest income during the periods when the variability in the cash
flows of the hedged item affects Net interest income. Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives are reclassified immediately to Net income
when the hedged item is sold or terminated early, or when the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur.

We predominantly use interest rate swaps to hedge the variability in cash flows related to a variable-rate asset or liability.

Net investment hedges
In hedging our foreign currency exposure to a net investment in a 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, or a portion thereof, previously recognized in Other components of equity are recognized in Net income on the disposal, or partial
disposal, of the foreign operation.

We use foreign exchange contracts and foreign currency-denominated liabilities to manage our foreign currency exposures to net

investments in foreign operations having a functional currency other than the Canadian dollar.

Loans
Loans are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market and which are not
classified as AFS. Loans are initially recognized at fair value. When loans are issued at a market rate, fair value is represented by the cash
advanced to the borrowers. Loans are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method less impairment, unless
we intend to sell them in the near future upon origination or they have been designated as at FVTPL, in which case they are carried at fair value.
We assess our loans (including debt securities classified as loans) for objective evidence of impairment at each balance sheet date.
Evidence of impairment may include indications that the borrower is experiencing significant financial difficulty, probability of bankruptcy or
other financial reorganization, as well as a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows evidenced by the adverse changes in the
payments status of the borrower or economic conditions that correlate with defaults. 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 of the loans becoming past due. Loans guaranteed by a Canadian government are classified as
impaired when the loan is contractually 365 days in arrears. Credit card balances are generally classified as impaired when a payment is 180
days in arrears.

Assets acquired to satisfy loan commitments are recorded at their fair value less costs to sell. 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 fair value of the assets
acquired is recognized by a charge to Provision for credit losses.

Interest on loans is recognized in Interest income – Loans using the effective interest method. The estimated future cash flows used in this
calculation include those determined by the contractual term of the asset, all fees that are considered to be integral to the effective interest rate,
transaction costs and all other premiums or discounts. 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 a
reasonable expectation that a loan will be originated, commitment and standby fees are also recognized as interest income over the expected
term of the resulting loans using the effective interest method. Otherwise, such fees are recorded as Other Liabilities and amortized into
Non-interest income over the commitment or standby period. Prepayment fees on mortgage loans are not included as part of the effective

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

129

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments (continued)

interest rate at origination as the amounts are not reliably measurable. If prepayment fees are received on a renewal of a mortgage loan, the fee
is included as part of the effective interest rate, and if not renewed, the prepayment fee is recognized in interest income at the prepayment date.

Allowance for credit losses
An allowance for credit losses is established if there is objective evidence that we will be unable to collect all amounts due on our loans portfolio
according to the original contractual terms or the equivalent value. This portfolio includes 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 for credit losses is increased by the impairment losses recognized 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 for credit losses
relating to off-balance sheet items is included in Provisions under Other Liabilities.

We assess whether objective evidence of impairment exists individually for loans that are individually significant and collectively for loans
that are not individually significant. If we determine that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed loan, whether
significant or not, the loan is included in a group of loans with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assessed for impairment. Loans
that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is recognized are not included in a collective assessment of
impairment.

Allowance for credit losses represent management’s best estimates of losses incurred in our loan portfolio at the balance sheet date.
Management’s judgment is required in making assumptions and estimations when calculating allowances on both individually and collectively
assessed loans. The underlying assumptions and estimates used for both individually and collectively assessed loans can change from period to
period and may significantly affect our results of operations.

Individually assessed loans
Loans which are individually significant are assessed individually for objective indicators of impairment. A loan is considered impaired when we
determine that we will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms or the equivalent value.

Credit exposures of individually significant loans are evaluated based on factors including the borrower’s overall financial condition,

resources and payment record, and where applicable, the realizable value of any collateral. If there is evidence of impairment leading to an
impairment loss, then the amount of the loss is determined as the difference between the carrying amount of the loan, including accrued
interest, and the estimated recoverable amount. The estimated recoverable amount is measured as the present value of expected future cash
flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate, including cash flows that may result from the realization of collateral less costs to
sell. Individually-assessed impairment losses reduce the carrying amount of the loan through the use of an allowance account and the amount
of the loss is recognized in Provision for credit losses in our Consolidated Statements of Income. Following impairment, interest income is
recognized on the unwinding of the discount from the initial recognition of impairment.

Significant judgment is required in assessing evidence of impairment and estimation of the amount and timing of future cash flows when
determining the impairment loss. When assessing objective evidence of impairment we primarily consider specific factors such as the financial
condition of the borrower, the borrower’s default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, local economic conditions and other
observable data. In determining the estimated recoverable amount we consider discounted expected future cash flows at the effective interest
rate using a number of assumptions and inputs. Management judgment is involved when choosing these inputs and assumptions used such as
the expected amount of the loan that will not be recovered and the cost of time delays in collecting principal and/or interest, and when
estimating the value of any collateral held for which there may not be a readily accessible market. Changes in the amount expected to be
recovered would have a direct impact on the Provision for credit losses and may result in a change in the Allowance for credit losses.

Collectively assessed loans
Loans which are not individually significant, or which are individually assessed and not determined to be impaired, are collectively assessed for
impairment. For the purposes of a collective evaluation of impairment, loans are grouped on the basis of similar risk characteristics, taking into
account loan type, industry, geographic location, collateral type, past due status and other relevant factors.

The collective impairment allowance is determined by reviewing factors including: (i) historical loss experience, which takes into

consideration historical probabilities of default, loss given default and exposure at default, in portfolios with similar credit risk characteristics,
and (ii) management’s judgment on the level of impairment losses based on historical experience relative to the actual level as reported at the
balance sheet date, taking into consideration the current portfolio credit quality trends, business and economic and credit conditions, the impact
of policy and process changes, and other supporting factors. Future cash flows for a group of loans are collectively evaluated for impairment on
the basis of the contractual cash flows of the loans in the group and historical loss experience for loans with credit risk characteristics similar to
those in the group. Historical loss experience is adjusted based on current observable data to reflect the effects of current conditions that did
not affect the period on which the historical loss experience is based and to remove the effects of conditions in the historical period that do not
currently exist. The methodology and assumptions used for estimating future cash flows are reviewed regularly to reduce any differences
between loss estimates and actual loss experience. Collectively-assessed impairment losses reduce the carrying amount of the aggregated loan
position through an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognized in Provision for credit losses. Following impairment, interest
income is recognized on the unwinding of the discount from the initial recognition of impairment.

The methodology and assumptions used to calculate collective impairment allowances are subject to uncertainty, in part because it is not
practicable to identify losses on an individual loan basis due to the large number of individually insignificant loans in the portfolio. Significant
judgment is required in assessing historical loss experience, the loss identification period and its relationship to current portfolios including
delinquency, and loan balances; and current business, economic and credit conditions including industry specific performance, unemployment
and country risks. Changes in these assumptions would have a direct impact on the Provision for credit losses and may result in changes in the
related Allowance for credit losses.

Write-off of loans
Loans and the related impairment allowance for credit losses are written off, either partially or in full, when there is no realistic prospect of
recovery. Where loans are secured, they are generally written off after receipt of any proceeds from the realization of the collateral. In
circumstances where the net realizable value of any collateral has been determined and there is no reasonable expectation of further recovery,
write off may be earlier. For credit cards, the balances and related allowance for credit losses are generally written off when payment is 180 days
in arrears. Personal loans are generally written off at 150 days past due, except for loans guaranteed or insured by a Canadian government or
Canadian government agency, which are written off when the loan is contractually 365 days in arrears.

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognized from our Consolidated Balance Sheets when our contractual rights to the cash flows from the assets have
expired, when we retain the rights to receive the cash flows of the assets but assume an obligation to pay those cash flows to a third party
subject to certain pass-through requirements or when we transfer our contractual rights to receive the cash flows and substantially all of the risk
and rewards of the assets have been transferred. When we retain substantially all of the risks and rewards of the transferred assets, the
transferred assets are not derecognized from our Consolidated Balance Sheets and are accounted for as secured financing transactions. When
we neither retain nor transfer substantially all risks and rewards of ownership of the assets, we derecognize the assets if control over the assets
is relinquished. If we retain control over the transferred assets, we continue to recognize the transferred assets to the extent of our continuing
involvement.

Management’s judgment is applied in determining whether the contractual rights to the cash flows from the transferred assets have expired

or whether we retain the rights to receive cash flows on the assets but assume an obligation to pay for those cash flows. We derecognize
transferred financial assets if we transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of the ownership in the assets. When assessing whether we have
transferred substantially all of the risk and rewards of the transferred assets, management considers the Bank’s exposure before and after the
transfer with the variability in the amount and timing of the net cash flows of the transferred assets. In transfers in which we retain the servicing
rights, management has applied judgment in assessing the benefits of servicing against market expectations. When the benefits of servicing are
greater than fair value, a servicing asset is recognized in Other assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. When the benefits of servicing are
less than fair value, a servicing liability is recognized in Other liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Derecognition of financial liabilities
We derecognize a financial liability from our Consolidated Balance Sheets when our obligation specified in the contract expires, or is discharged
or cancelled. We recognize the difference between the carrying amount of a financial liability transferred and the consideration paid in our
Consolidated Statements of Income.

Guarantees
Financial guarantee contracts are contracts that contingently require us to make specified payments (in cash, other assets, our own shares or
provision of services) to reimburse the holder for a loss it incurs because a specified debtor fails to make payment when due in accordance with
the original or modified terms of a debt instrument. Liabilities are recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at the inception of a guarantee
for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee. Financial guarantees are subsequently remeasured at the higher of (i) the
amount initially recognized less accumulated amortization and (ii) our best estimate of the present value of the expenditure required to settle the
present obligation at the end of the reporting period.

If the financial guarantee contract meets the definition of a derivative, it is measured at fair value at each balance sheet date and reported

under Derivatives on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Insurance and segregated funds
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 AFS or loans and receivables, except for investments supporting the policy benefit liabilities on life and health insurance contracts
and a portion of property and casualty contracts. These are designated as at FVTPL 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 dividends, 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. Changes in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities are included in
the Insurance policyholder benefits, claims and acquisition expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income in the period in which the
estimates change.

Premiums ceded for reinsurance and reinsurance recoveries on policyholder benefits and claims incurred are reported in income and

expense as appropriate. Reinsurance recoverables, which relate to paid benefits and unpaid claims, are included in Other assets.

Acquisition costs for new insurance business consist of commissions, 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 an insurance contract where the benefit amount is directly linked to the market

value of the investments held in the underlying fund. The contractual arrangement is such that the underlying segregated fund assets are
registered in our name but the segregated fund policyholders bear the risks and rewards of the funds’ investment performance. Liabilities for
these contracts are calculated based on contractual obligations using actuarial assumptions and are at least equivalent to the surrender or
transfer value calculated by reference to the value of the relevant underlying funds or indices. Segregated funds’ assets and liabilities are
separately presented on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. As the segregated fund policyholders bear the risks and rewards of the funds’
performance, investment income earned by the segregated funds and expenses incurred by the segregated funds are offset and are not
separately presented in our Consolidated Statements of Income. Fee income we earn from segregated funds includes management fees,
mortality, policy administration and surrender charges, and these fees are recorded in Non-interest income – Insurance premiums, investment
and fee income. We provide minimum death benefit and maturity value guarantees on segregated funds. The liability associated with these
minimum guarantees is recorded in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities.

Liability adequacy tests are performed for all insurance contract portfolios at each balance sheet date to ensure the adequacy of insurance

contract liabilities. Current best estimates of future contractual cash flows, claims handling and administration costs, and investment returns
from the assets backing the liabilities are taken into account in the tests. When the test results indicate that there is a deficiency in liabilities,
the deficiency is charged immediately to our Consolidated Statements of Income by writing down the deferred acquisition costs in Other assets
and/or increasing Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

131

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments (continued)

Employee benefits – Pensions and other post-employment benefits
Our defined benefit pension expense, which is included in Non-interest expense – Human resources, consists of the cost of employee pension
benefits for the current year’s service, net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset), past service cost and gains or losses on settlement.
Remeasurements of the net defined benefit obligation, which comprise actuarial gains and losses and return on plan assets (excluding amounts
included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability), are recognized immediately in OCI in the period in which they occur. Actuarial gains
and losses comprise experience adjustments (the effects of differences between the previous actuarial assumptions and what has actually
occurred), as well as the effects of changes in actuarial assumptions. Amounts recognized in OCI will not be reclassified subsequently to net
income. Past service cost is the change in the present value of the defined benefit obligation resulting from a plan amendment or curtailment
and is charged immediately to income.

For each defined benefit pension plan, we recognize the present value of our defined benefit obligations less the fair value of the plan
assets as a defined benefit liability reported in Other liabilities – Employee benefit liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. For plans
where there is a net defined benefit asset, the amount is reported as an asset in Other assets – Employee benefit assets on our Consolidated
Balance sheets.

The calculation of defined benefit expenses and obligations requires significant judgment as the recognition is dependent on discount rates
and various actuarial assumptions such as healthcare cost trend rates, projected salary increases, retirement age, and mortality and termination
rates. Due to the long-term nature of these plans, such estimates and assumptions are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. For our
pension and other post-employment benefit plans, the discount rate is determined by reference to market yields on high quality corporate
bonds. Since the discount rate is based on currently available yields, and involves management’s assessment of market liquidity, it is only a
proxy for future yields. Actuarial assumptions, set in accordance with current practices in the respective countries of our plans, may differ from
actual experience as country specific statistics are only estimates of future employee behaviour. These assumptions are determined by
management and are reviewed by actuaries at least annually. Changes to any of the above assumptions may affect the amounts of benefits
obligations, expenses and remeasurements that we recognize.

Our contributions to defined contribution pension plans are expensed when employees have rendered services in exchange for such

contributions. Defined contribution pension expense is included in Non-interest expense – Human resources.

Share-based compensation
We offer share-based compensation plans to certain key employees and to our non-employee directors.

To account for stock options granted to employees, compensation expense is recognized over the applicable vesting period with a
corresponding increase in equity. Fair value is determined by using option valuation models, which take into account the exercise price of the
option, the current share price, the risk free interest rate, the expected volatility of the share price over the life of the option and other relevant
factors. When the options are exercised, the exercise price proceeds together with the amount initially recorded in equity are credited to common
shares. Our other share-based compensation plans include performance deferred share plans and deferred share unit plans for key employees
(the Plans). The obligations for the Plans are accrued over their vesting periods. The Plans are settled in cash.

For cash-settled awards, our accrued obligations are adjusted to their fair value at each balance sheet date. For share-settled awards, our

expected obligations recognized in equity are based on the fair value of our common shares at the date of grant. Changes in our obligations, 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 for cash-settled awards and in Retained earnings for share-settled awards. Compensation expense is recognized in
the year the awards are earned by plan participants based on the vesting schedule of the relevant plans, net of estimated forfeitures.

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.

Income taxes
Income tax comprises current tax and deferred tax and is recognized in our Consolidated Statements of Income except to the extent that it relates
to items recognized directly in equity, in which case it is recognized in equity.

Current income tax payable on profits is recognized as an expense based on the applicable tax laws in each jurisdiction in the period in

which profits arise, calculated using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. Deferred tax is recognized on
temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for accounting and tax purposes. A deferred income tax asset or
liability is determined for each temporary difference, except for earnings related to our subsidiaries, branches, associates and interests in joint
ventures where the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future and we have the ability to control the timing of reversal.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the tax rates that are expected to be in effect in the period that the asset is realized
or the liability is settled, based on tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. Current tax
assets and liabilities are offset when they are levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities
within the same tax reporting group (which intends to settle on a net basis), and when there is a legal right to offset. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are offset when the same conditions are satisfied. Our Consolidated Statements of Income include items that are non-taxable or
non-deductible for income tax purposes and, accordingly, this causes the income tax provision to be different from what it would be if based on
statutory rates.

Deferred income taxes accumulated as a result of temporary differences and tax loss carryforwards are included in Other assets and Other
liabilities. On a quarterly basis, we review our deferred income tax assets to determine whether it is probable that the benefits associated with
these assets will be realized; this review involves evaluating both positive and negative evidence.

We are subject to income tax laws in various jurisdictions where we operate, and the complex tax laws are potentially subject to different

interpretations by us and the relevant taxation authorities. Significant judgment is required in the interpretation of the relevant tax laws, and the
determination of our tax provision which includes our best estimate of tax positions that are under audit or appeal by relevant taxation
authorities. We perform a review on a quarterly basis to incorporate our best assessment based on information available, but additional liability
and income tax expense could result based on decisions made by the relevant tax authorities.

The determination of our deferred tax asset or liability also requires significant management judgment as the recognition is dependent on
our projection of future taxable profits and tax rates that are expected to be in effect in the period the asset is realized or the liability is settled.
Any changes in our projection will result in changes in deferred tax assets or liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, and also deferred
tax expense in our Consolidated Statements of Income.

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Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Business combinations, goodwill and other intangibles
All business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. Non-controlling interests, if any, are recognized at their proportionate
share of the fair value of identifiable assets and liabilities, unless otherwise indicated. 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 on the date of acquisition.

Goodwill
Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing, which is undertaken at
the lowest level at which goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes. Impairment testing is performed annually as at August 1, or
more frequently if there are objective indicators of impairment, by comparing the recoverable amount of a cash-generating unit (CGU) with its
carrying amount. The recoverable amount of a CGU is the higher of its value in use and its fair value less costs of disposal. Value in use is the
present value of the expected future cash flows from a CGU. Fair value less costs of disposal is the amount obtainable from the sale of a CGU in
an orderly transaction between market participants, less disposal costs. The fair value of a CGU is estimated using valuation techniques such as
a discounted cash flow method, adjusted to reflect the considerations of a prospective third-party buyer. External evidence such as binding sale
agreements or recent transactions for similar businesses within the same industry is considered to the extent that it is available.

Significant judgment is involved in estimating the model inputs used to determine the recoverable amount of our CGUs, in particular future

cash flows, discount rates and terminal growth rates, due to the uncertainty in the timing and amount of cash flows and the forward-looking
nature of these inputs. Future cash flows are based on financial plans agreed by management which are estimated based on forecast results,
business initiatives, planned capital investments and returns to shareholders. Discount rates are based on the bank-wide cost of capital,
adjusted for CGU-specific risks and currency exposure as reflected by differences in expected inflation. Bank-wide cost of capital is based on
the Capital Asset Pricing Model. CGU-specific risks include country risk, business/operational risk, geographic risk (including political risk,
devaluation risk, and government regulation), currency risk, and price risk (including product pricing risk and inflation). Terminal growth rates
reflect the expected long-term gross domestic product growth and inflation for the countries within which the CGU operates. Changes in these
assumptions may impact the amount of impairment loss recognized in Non-interest expense.

The carrying amount of a CGU includes the carrying amount of assets, liabilities and goodwill allocated to the CGU. If the recoverable
amount is less than the carrying value, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the CGU
and then to the other non-financial assets of the CGU proportionately based on the carrying amount of each asset. Any impairment loss is
charged to income in the period in which the impairment is identified. Goodwill is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses.
Subsequent reversals of goodwill impairment are prohibited.

Upon disposal of a portion of a CGU, the carrying amount of goodwill related to the portion of the CGU sold is included in the determination

of gains or losses on disposal. The carrying amount is determined based on the relative fair value of the disposed portion to the total CGU.

Other intangibles
Intangible assets represent identifiable non-monetary assets and are acquired either separately or through a business combination, or generated
internally. Intangible assets acquired through a business combination are recognized separately from goodwill when they are separable or arise
from contractual or other legal rights, and their fair value can be measured reliably. The cost of a separately acquired intangible asset includes its
purchase price and directly attributable costs of preparing the asset for its intended use. In respect of internally generated intangible assets, cost
includes all directly attributable costs necessary to create, produce, and prepare the asset to be capable of operating in the manner intended by
management. Research and development costs that are not eligible for capitalization are expensed. After initial recognition, an intangible asset
is carried at its cost less any accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Intangible assets with a finite-life are
amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives as follows: computer software – 3 to 10 years; and customer relationships –
10 to 20 years. We do not have any intangible assets with indefinite lives.

Intangible assets are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting period. If there is an indication that an intangible asset may
be impaired, an impairment test is performed by comparing the carrying amount of the intangible asset to its recoverable amount. Where it is not
possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, we estimate the recoverable amount of the CGU to which the asset belongs.
If the recoverable amount of the asset (or CGU) is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the intangible asset is written down to its
recoverable amount as an impairment loss.

An impairment loss recognized previously is reversed if there is a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount of the

asset (or CGU) since the last impairment loss was recognized. If an impairment loss is subsequently reversed, the carrying amount of the asset
(or CGU) is revised to the lower of its recoverable amount and the carrying amount that would have been determined (net of amortization) had
there been no prior impairment.

Due to the subjective nature of these estimates, significant judgment is required in determining the useful lives and recoverable amounts
of our intangible assets, and assessing whether certain events or circumstances constitute objective evidence of impairment. Estimates of the
recoverable amounts of our intangible assets rely on certain key inputs, including future cash flows and discount rates. Future cash flows are
based on sales projections and allocated costs which are estimated based on forecast results and business initiatives. Discount rates are based
on the bank-wide cost of capital, adjusted for asset-specific risks. Changes in these assumptions may impact the amount of impairment loss
recognized in Non-interest expense.

Other
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. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the translation and settlement of these items are recognized in Non-interest income in
the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured at historical cost are translated into Canadian dollars at historical rates.
Non-monetary financial assets classified as AFS securities, such as equity instruments, that are measured at fair value are translated into
Canadian dollars at rates prevailing at the balance sheet date, and the resulting foreign exchange gains and losses are recorded in Other
components of equity until the asset is sold or becomes impaired.

Assets and liabilities of our foreign operations with functional currencies other than Canadian dollars 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 reporting period.

Unrealized gains or losses arising as a result of the translation of our foreign operations along with the effective portion of related hedges

are reported in Other components of equity on an after-tax basis. Upon disposal or partial disposal of a foreign operation, an appropriate portion
of the accumulated net translation gains or losses is included in Non-interest income.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

133

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments (continued)

Premises and equipment
Premises and equipment includes land, buildings, leasehold improvements, computer equipment, furniture, fixtures and other equipment, and
are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation, except for land which is not depreciated, and accumulated impairment losses. Cost comprises
the purchase price, any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for its intended use, and the
initial estimate of any disposal costs. 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. Depreciation methods, useful lives, and residual values are
reassessed at each reporting period and adjusted as appropriate. Gains and losses on disposal are recorded in Non–interest income.

Premises and equipment are assessed for indicators of impairment at each reporting period. If there is an indication that an asset may be

impaired, an impairment test is performed by comparing the asset’s carrying amount to its recoverable amount. Where it is not possible to
estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, we estimate the recoverable amount of the CGU to which the asset belongs and test for
impairment at the CGU level. An impairment charge is recorded to the extent the recoverable amount of an asset (or CGU), which is the higher of
value in use and fair value less costs of disposal, is less than its carrying amount. Value in use is the present value of the future cash flows
expected to be derived from the asset (or CGU). Fair value less costs of disposal is the amount obtainable from the sale of the asset (or CGU) in
an orderly transaction between market participants, less costs of disposal.

After the recognition of impairment, the depreciation charge is adjusted in future periods to reflect the asset’s revised carrying amount. If an

impairment is later reversed, the carrying amount of the asset is revised to the lower of the asset’s recoverable amount and the carrying amount
that would have been determined (net of depreciation) had there been no prior impairment loss. The depreciation charge in future periods is
adjusted to reflect the revised carrying amount.

Provisions
Provisions are liabilities of uncertain timing or amount and are recognized when we have a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a
past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount
of the obligation. Provisions are measured as the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting
date. Significant judgment is required in determining whether a present obligation exists and in estimating the probability, timing and amount of
any outflows. We record provisions related to litigation, asset retirement obligations, and the allowance for off-balance sheet and other items.
Provisions are recorded under Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

We are required to estimate the results of ongoing legal proceedings, expenses to be incurred to dispose of capital assets, and credit losses
on undrawn commitments and guarantees. The forward-looking nature of these estimates requires us to use a significant amount of judgment in
projecting the timing and amount of future cash flows. We record our provisions on the basis of all available information at the end of the
reporting period and make adjustments on a quarterly basis to reflect current expectations. Should actual results differ from our expectations,
we may incur expenses in excess of the provisions recognized.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recovered from a third party, such as an insurer,

a separate asset is recognized if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received.

Commissions and fees
Portfolio management and other management advisory and service fees are recognized based on the applicable service contracts. Fees related
to provision of services including asset management, wealth management, financial planning and custody services that cover a specified service
period, are recognized over the period in which the service is provided. Investment management and custodial fees are generally calculated as a
percentage of daily or period-end net asset values, and are received monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually, depending on the terms of the
contracts. Management fees are generally derived from assets under management (AUM) when our clients solicit the investment capabilities of
an investment manager and administrative fees are derived from assets under administration (AUA) where the investment strategy is directed by
the client or a designated third party manager. Performance-based fees, which are earned upon exceeding certain benchmarks or performance
targets, are recognized only when the benchmark or performance targets are achieved. Fees such as underwriting fees and brokerage fees that
are related to the provision of specific transaction type services are recognized when the service has been completed.

When service fees and other costs are incurred in relation to commissions and fees earned and we have significant risks and rewards
associated with delivering the service, we record these costs on a gross basis in either Non-interest expense – Other or Non-interest expense –
Human resources, as applicable.

Dividend income
Dividend income is recognized when the right to receive payment is established. This is the ex-dividend date for listed equity securities, and
usually the date when shareholders have approved the dividend for unlisted equity securities.

Leasing
A lease is an agreement whereby the lessor conveys to the lessee the right to use an asset for an agreed upon period of time in return for a
payment or series of payments. A finance lease is a lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of the
leased asset to the lessee, where title may or may not eventually be transferred. An operating lease is a lease other than a finance lease.

Operating leases
When we are the lessee in an operating lease, we record rental payments on a straight-line basis over the lease term in Non-interest expense.

Finance leases
When we are the lessee in a finance lease, we initially record both the leased asset and the related lease obligation in Premises and equipment,
Other intangibles and Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at an amount equal to the fair value of the leased asset or, if lower,
the present value of the minimum lease payments, each determined at the date of inception of the lease. Initial direct costs directly attributed to
the lease are recognized as an asset under the finance lease.

Earnings per share
Earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares
outstanding for the period. Net income available to common shareholders is determined after deducting dividend entitlements of preferred

134

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

shareholders, any gains (losses) on redemption of preferred shares net of related income taxes and the net income attributable to
non-controlling interests.

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. For contracts that may be settled in cash or in common shares at our option, diluted earnings per share is calculated
based on the assumption that such contracts will be settled in shares. Income and expenses associated with these types of contracts are
excluded from the Net income available to common shareholders, and the additional number of shares that would be issued is included in the
diluted earnings per share calculation. These contracts include our convertible Preferred Shares and Trust Capital Securities with the conversion
assumed to have taken place at the beginning of the period or on the date of issue, if later. For stock options whose exercise price is less than
the average market price of our common shares, they 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.

Share capital
We classify a financial instrument that we issue as a financial asset, financial liability or an equity instrument in accordance with the substance
of the contractual arrangement.

Our common shares held by us are classified as treasury shares in equity and accounted for at weighted average cost. Upon the sale of

treasury shares, the difference between the sale proceeds and the cost of the shares is recognized in Retained earnings. Financial instruments
issued by us are classified as equity instruments when there is no contractual obligation to transfer cash or other financial assets. Incremental
costs directly attributable to the issue of equity instruments are included in equity as a deduction from the proceeds, net of tax. 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.

Future changes in accounting policy and disclosure
The following standards have been issued, but are not yet effective for us. We are currently assessing the impact of adopting these standards on
our Consolidated Financial Statements:

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (IFRS 9)
In July 2014, the IASB issued the complete version of IFRS 9, first issued in November 2009, which brings together the classification and
measurement, impairment and hedge accounting phases of the IASB’s project to replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and
Measurement (IAS 39).

IFRS 9 introduces a principles-based approach to the classification of financial assets based on an entity’s business model and the nature

of the cash flows of the asset. All financial assets, including hybrid contracts, are measured as at FVTPL, fair value through OCI or amortized cost.
For financial liabilities, IFRS 9 includes the requirements for classification and measurement previously included in IAS 39.

IFRS 9 also introduces an expected credit loss impairment model for all financial assets not measured as at FVTPL. The model has three

stages: (1) on initial recognition, a loss allowance is recognized and maintained equal to 12 months of expected credit losses; (2) if credit risk
increases significantly relative to initial recognition, the loss allowance is increased to cover full lifetime expected credit losses; and (3) when a
financial asset is considered credit-impaired, the loss allowance continues to reflect lifetime expected credit losses and interest revenue is
calculated based on the carrying amount of the asset, net of the loss allowance, rather than its gross carrying amount. Changes in the required
loss allowance, including the impact of movement between 12 months and lifetime expected credit losses, will be recorded in profit or loss.

Finally, IFRS 9 introduces a new hedge accounting model that aligns the accounting for hedge relationships more closely with an entity’s

risk management activities, permits hedge accounting to be applied more broadly to a greater variety of hedging instruments and risks and
requires additional disclosures. IFRS 9 includes an accounting policy choice to retain the IAS 39 requirements for hedge accounting, which we
will elect to apply.

We adopted the own credit provisions of IFRS 9 in the second quarter of 2014. The new impairment and classification and measurement

requirements will be applied by adjusting our Consolidated Balance Sheet on November 1, 2017, the date of initial application, with no
restatement of comparative period financial information.

The adoption of IFRS 9 is expected to result in certain differences in the classification of financial assets when compared to our

classification under IAS 39. The most significant changes include approximately $25 billion of debt securities previously classified as AFS to be
classified as amortized cost, and approximately $2.5 billion of equities and debt securities previously classified as AFS to be classified as at
FVTPL. Based on current estimates, the adoption of IFRS 9 is expected to result in a reduction to retained earnings as at November 1, 2017 of
approximately $600 million, net of taxes. The primary impact is attributable to increases in the allowance for credit losses under the new
impairment requirements. We continue to monitor and refine certain elements of our impairment process in advance of Q1 2018 reporting.

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (IFRS 15)
In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15, which establishes the principles for reporting about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue
and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers. The standard provides a single, principles-based five-step model for revenue
recognition to be applied to contracts with customers except for revenue arising from items such as financial instruments, insurance contracts
and leases. The majority of our revenue, including net interest income, is not expected to be impacted. In April 2016, the IASB issued
amendments to IFRS 15, which clarify the underlying principles of IFRS 15 and provide additional transitional relief on initial application. IFRS 15
and its amendments will be effective for us on November 1, 2018.

IFRS 16 Leases (IFRS 16)
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases.
The standard removes the current requirement for lessees to classify leases as finance leases or operating leases by introducing a single lessee
accounting model that requires the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for most leases. Lessees will also
recognize depreciation expense on the lease asset and interest expense on the lease liability in the statement of income. There are no significant
changes to lessor accounting aside from enhanced disclosure requirements. IFRS 16 will be effective for us on November 1, 2019.

IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows (IAS 7)
In January 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 7, which will require specific disclosures for movements in certain liabilities on the
statement of cash flows. These amendments will be effective for us on November 1, 2017 and we will adopt these disclosures in our 2018
Consolidated Financial Statements. The adoption of these amendments is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial
statements.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

135

Note 2 Summary of significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments (continued)

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (IFRS 17)
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 to establish a comprehensive global insurance standard which provides guidance on the recognition,
measurement, presentation and disclosures of insurance contracts. IFRS 17 requires entities to measure insurance contract liabilities at their
current fulfillment values using one of three approaches. This new standard will be effective for us on November 1, 2021 and will be applied
retrospectively with restatement of comparatives unless impracticable.

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments

Carrying value and fair value of financial instruments
The following tables provide a comparison of the carrying and fair values for each classification of financial instruments. Embedded derivatives
are presented on a combined basis with the host contracts. For measurement purposes, they are carried at fair value when conditions requiring
separation are met.

Carrying value and fair value

Financial
instruments
classified as
at FVTPL

Financial
instruments
designated as
at FVTPL

Available-
for-sale
instruments
measured at
fair value

As at October 31, 2017
Carrying value

Fair value

Financial
instruments
measured at
amortized cost

Financial
instruments
measured at
amortized cost

Total
carrying
amount

Total
fair value

$

– $

20,752 $

–

$

11,910

$

11,910 $

32,662 $

32,662

–
14,845
14,845

81,998

383,857
154,525
538,382

–
44,598

246,235
411,156
21,685
679,076

–

9,137
–
49,440
9,265

–
14,771
14,771

127,657
90,722
218,379

127,657
90,648
218,305

81,999

220,977

220,978

380,782
153,967
534,749

383,926
158,691
542,617

380,851
158,133
538,984

–
44,598

95,023
45,811

95,023
45,811

$

246,147 $
412,495
21,708
680,350

260,213 $
505,665
23,757
789,635

260,125
507,004
23,780
790,909

–

30,008

30,008

9,138
–
49,426
9,559

143,084
92,127
48,308
9,265

143,085
92,127
48,294
9,559

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Financial assets
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities
Trading
Available-for-sale (1)

116,720
–
116,720

10,937
–
10,937

–
75,877
75,877

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase

agreements and securities borrowed

–

138,979

Loans

Retail
Wholesale

Other

Derivatives
Other assets (2)
Financial liabilities
Deposits

Personal
Business and government (3)
Bank (4)

Other

Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under

repurchase agreements and securities loaned

Derivatives
Other liabilities (5)

Subordinated debentures

69
1,837
1,906

95,023
–

$

184 $
(9)
–
175

30,008

–
92,127
(1,132)
–

–
2,329
2,329

–
1,213

13,794
94,518
2,072
110,384

–

133,947
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–
–

$

136

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Carrying value and fair value

Carrying value

Fair value

As at October 31, 2016

Financial
instruments
classified as
at FVTPL

Financial
instruments
designated as
at FVTPL

Available-
for-sale
instruments
measured at
fair value

Financial
instruments
measured at
amortized cost

Financial
instruments
measured at
amortized cost

Total
carrying
amount

Total
fair value

$

– $

15,967 $

–

$

11,884

$

11,884 $

27,851 $

27,851

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Financial assets
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities
Trading
Available-for-sale (1)

141,265
–
141,265

10,027
–
10,027

–
69,922
69,922

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase

agreements and securities borrowed

–

121,692

Loans

Retail
Wholesale

Other

Derivatives
Other assets (2)
Financial liabilities
Deposits

Personal
Business and government (3)
Bank (4)

Other

Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under

repurchase agreements and securities loaned

Derivatives
Other liabilities (5)

Subordinated debentures

71
1,437
1,508

118,944
–

$

113 $
–
–
113

50,369

–
116,550
282
–

–
904
904

–
894

15,142
82,871
730
98,743

–

88,863
–
10
131

–

–
–
–

–
–

$

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

AFS securities include held-to-maturity securities that are recorded at amortized cost.
Includes Customers’ liability under acceptances and financial instruments recognized in Other assets.
Business and government deposits include deposits from regulated deposit-taking institutions other than banks.
Bank deposits refer to deposits from regulated deposit-taking institutions.
Includes Acceptances and financial instruments recognized in Other liabilities.

–
14,879
14,879

64,610

368,145
151,047
519,192

–
43,981

235,295
405,136
18,302
658,733

–

14,578
–
43,865
9,631

–
15,207
15,207

151,292
84,801
236,093

151,292
85,129
236,421

64,498

186,302

186,190

369,012
150,720
519,732

–
43,979

368,216
153,388
521,604

118,944
44,875

369,083
153,061
522,144

118,944
44,873

$

235,490 $
406,881
18,312
660,683

250,550 $
488,007
19,032
757,589

250,745
489,752
19,042
759,539

–

50,369

50,369

14,583
–
43,838
9,700

103,441
116,550
44,157
9,762

103,446
116,550
44,130
9,831

Loans and receivables designated as at fair value through profit or loss
For our loans and receivables designated as at FVTPL, we measure the change in fair value attributable to changes in credit risk as the difference
between the total change in the fair value of the instrument during the period and the change in fair value calculated using the appropriate risk-
free yield curves.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Loans – Wholesale
Other assets

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Carrying amount of loans
and receivables
designated as at FVTPL (1)
20,752
$
138,979
2,329
343

Carrying amount of loans
and receivables
designated as at FVTPL (1)
15,967
$
121,692
904
132

$ 162,403

$ 138,695

(1)

The carrying amounts of loans and receivables designated as at FVTPL represent their maximum exposure to credit risk.

There were no significant changes in the fair value of the loans and receivables designated as at FVTPL attributable to changes in credit risk
during the years ended October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016, and cumulatively since initial recognition of the assets. The extent to which
credit derivatives or similar instruments mitigate the maximum exposure to credit risk is nominal as at October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

137

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

Liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss
For our financial liabilities designated as at FVTPL, we take into account changes in our own credit spread and the expected duration of the
instrument to measure the change in fair value attributable to changes in credit risk.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Term deposits
Personal
Business and government (3)
Bank (4)

Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned

Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Term deposits
Personal
Business and government (3)
Bank (4)

Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned

Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures

As at or for the year ended October 31, 2017 (1)

Contractual
maturity
amount

Carrying
value

$ 13,633 $ 13,794
94,518
2,072
110,384

93,532
2,072
109,237

133,967
–
–

133,947
–
–
$ 243,204 $ 244,331

Difference
between
carrying value
and contractual
maturity amount

Changes in fair
value attributable
to changes in
credit risk included
in OCI for positions
still held

Cumulative change
in fair value
attributable to
changes in credit
risk for positions
still held (2)

$

$

161
986
–
1,147

(20)
–
–
1,127

$

$

34
398
–
432

–
–
–
432

$

$

59
423
–
482

–
–
–
482

As at or for the year ended October 31, 2016 (1)

Contractual
maturity
amount

Carrying
value

$ 15,138 $ 15,142
82,871
730
98,743

81,860
730
97,728

88,863
10
128

88,863
10
131
$ 186,729 $ 187,747

Difference
between
carrying value
and contractual
maturity amount

Changes in fair
value attributable
to changes in
credit risk included
in OCI for positions
still held

Cumulative change
in fair value
attributable to
changes in credit
risk for positions
still held (2)

$

$

4
1,011
–
1,015

–
–
3
1,018

$

$

99
354
–
453

–
–
1
454

$

$

25
25
–
50

–
–
(2)
48

(1)
(2)

(3)
(4)

There are no changes in fair value attributable to changes in credit risk included in net income for positions still held.
The cumulative change is measured from the initial recognition of the liabilities designated as at FVTPL. For the year ended October 31, 2017, $16 million of fair value gains previously
included in OCI relate to financial liabilities derecognized during the year (October 31, 2016 – $14 million fair value gains).
Business and government term deposits include amounts from regulated deposit-taking institutions other than regulated banks.
Bank term deposits refer to amounts from regulated deposit-taking institutions.

Net gains (losses) from financial instruments classified and designated as at fair value through profit or loss
Financial instruments classified as at FVTPL, which includes mainly trading securities, derivatives, trading liabilities, and financial assets and
liabilities designated as at FVTPL are measured at fair value with realized and unrealized gains and losses recognized in Non-interest income,
primarily in Trading revenue.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Net gains (losses) (1)

Classified as at fair value through profit or loss (2)
Designated as at fair value through profit or loss (3)

By product line (1)

Interest rate and credit
Equities
Foreign exchange and commodities

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

$

$

1,112 $
(68)
1,044 $

662 $
(54)
436
1,044 $

371
216

587

404
(345)
528

587

(1)

(2)
(3)

Excludes the following amounts related to our insurance operations and included in Insurance premiums, investment and fee income in the Consolidated Statements of Income: Net losses
from financial instruments designated as at FVTPL of $148 million (October 31, 2016 – gains of $617 million).
Excludes derivatives designated in a hedging relationship. Refer to Note 8 for net gains (losses) on these derivatives.
For the year ended October 31, 2017, $645 million of net fair value losses on financial liabilities designated as at FVTPL, other than those attributable to changes in our own credit risk, were
included in Non-interest income (October 31, 2016 – gains of $428 million).

138

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Net interest income from financial instruments
Interest and dividend income arising from financial assets and financial liabilities and the associated costs of funding are reported in Net interest
income.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Interest income (1)

Financial instruments held as at fair value through profit or loss
Other categories of financial instruments

Interest expense (1)

Financial instruments held as at fair value through profit or loss
Other categories of financial instruments

Net interest income

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

6,043 $

20,861

26,904

5,181
19,271

24,452

$

3,934 $
5,830

9,764

2,952
4,969

7,921

$ 17,140 $ 16,531

(1)

Excludes the following amounts related to our insurance operations and included in Insurance premiums, investment and fee income in the Consolidated Statements of Income: Interest
income of $459 million (October 31, 2016 – $474 million), and Interest expense of $5 million (October 31, 2016 – $4 million).

Net fee income
For the year ended October 31, 2017, we earned $5,139 million in fees from banking services (October 31, 2016 – $4,817 million). For the year
ended October 31, 2017, we also earned $11,191 million in fees from investment management, trust, custodial, underwriting, brokerage and
other similar fiduciary services to retail and institutional clients (October 31, 2016 – $10,378 million1). These fees are included in Non-interest
income.

(1)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

139

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

Fair value of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and classified using the fair value hierarchy

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Fair value measurements using

Total
gross fair
value

Netting
adjustments

Assets/
liabilities
at fair value

Fair value measurements using

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total
gross fair
value

Netting
adjustments

Assets/
liabilities
at fair value

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

As at

Financial assets
Interest-bearing deposits with banks

Securities
Trading

Canadian government debt (1)

Federal
Provincial and municipal

U.S. state, municipal and agencies

debt (1)

Other OECD government debt (2)
Mortgage-backed securities (1)
Asset-backed securities

Non-CDO securities (3)

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities

Available-for-sale (4)

Canadian government debt (1)

Federal
Provincial and municipal

U.S. state, municipal and agencies

debt (1)

Other OECD government debt
Mortgage-backed securities (1)
Asset-backed securities

CDO
Non-CDO securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities
Loan substitute securities

Assets purchased under reverse

repurchase agreements and securities
borrowed

Loans
Other

Derivatives

Interest rate contracts
Foreign exchange contracts
Credit derivatives
Other contracts
Valuation adjustments

Total gross derivatives
Netting adjustments

Total derivatives
Other assets

Financial Liabilities

Deposits

Personal
Business and government
Bank

Other

Obligations related to securities

$

–

$ 20,752

$

–

$ 20,752

$

$

20,752

$

– $ 15,967

$

– $ 15,967

$

$

15,967

9,374
–

1,226
934
–

–
52
29,674

41,260

477
–

8
479
–

–
–
–
339
–

1,303

7,929
11,422

29,634
10,420
1,298

732
21,655
2,853

85,943

1,124
2,503

28,999
8,673
934

3,623
2,671
23,662
38
24

72,251

–
–

–
–
–

–
29
425

454

–
–

508
–
–

–
203
797
711
4

2,223

17,303
11,422

30,860
11,354
1,298

732
21,736
32,952

127,657

1,601
2,503

29,515
9,152
934

3,623
2,874
24,459
1,088
28

75,777

–
–

138,979
4,056

–
179

138,979
4,235

–
–
–
3,510
–

3,510

106,145
42,871
157
10,141
(722)

158,592

380
63
–
307
(3)

747

106,525
42,934
157
13,958
(725)

162,849

966

247

–

1,213

17,303
11,422

30,860
11,354
1,298

732
21,736
32,952

127,657

1,601
2,503

29,515
9,152
934

3,623
2,874
24,459
1,088
28

75,777

138,979
4,235

106,525
42,934
157
13,958
(725)

162,849
(67,826)

95,023
1,213

13,072
–

3,358
1,390
–

–
25
43,155

61,000

44
–

1
3,416
–

–
–
–
376
49

3,886

10,214
11,928

37,002
5,530
1,457

557
20,630
2,531

89,849

378
2,364

24,668
10,484
395

1,630
1,886
21,110
331
25

63,271

–
–

1
–
–

4
62
376

443

–
–

747
–
–

–
217
956
756
–

2,676

23,286
11,928

40,361
6,920
1,457

561
20,717
46,062

151,292

422
2,364

25,416
13,900
395

1,630
2,103
22,066
1,463
74

69,833

–
–

121,692
2,083

–
329

121,692
2,412

3
–
–
2,855
–

2,858

153,216
56,752
191
3,613
(1,429)

212,343

555
26
–
307
(3)

885

153,774
56,778
191
6,775
(1,432)

216,086

762

132

–

894

23,286
11,928

40,361
6,920
1,457

561
20,717
46,062

151,292

422
2,364

25,416
13,900
395

1,630
2,103
22,066
1,463
74

69,833

121,692
2,412

153,774
56,778
191
6,775
(1,432)

216,086
(97,142)

118,944
894

(97,142)

(67,826)

$ 47,039

$ 480,820

$ 3,603

$531,462 $

(67,826) $ 463,636

$ 68,506

$ 505,337

$ 4,333

$ 578,176

$

(97,142) $ 481,034

$

–
–
–

$ 13,513
94,509
2,072

$

465
–
–

$ 13,978
94,509
2,072

$

$

$

13,978
94,509
2,072

– $ 14,830
82,869
–
730
–

$

425
2
–

$ 15,255
82,871
730

$

$

15,255
82,871
730

30,008

30,008

32,672

17,696

50,369

50,369

sold short

12,407

17,601

Obligations related to assets sold

under repurchase agreements and
securities loaned

Derivatives

–

133,947

–

–

835
42
–
488
13

133,947

101,600
40,539
258
17,366
68

100,765
40,497
258
13,461
55

–
–
–
3,417
–

3,417

155,036

1,378

159,831

(67,704)

Interest rate contracts
Foreign exchange contracts
Credit derivatives
Other contracts
Valuation adjustments

Total gross derivatives
Netting adjustments

Total derivatives
Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures

133,947

–

88,863

–
–
–
3,135
–

3,135

145,055
57,438
263
5,543
(133)

208,166

101,600
40,539
258
17,366
68

159,831
(67,704)

92,127
(1,132)
–

1

–

1,003
41
–
429
7

1,480

88,863

146,058
57,479
263
9,107
(126)

212,781

(96,231)

88,863

146,058
57,479
263
9,107
(126)

212,781
(96,231)

116,550
292
131

130
–

(1,286)
–

24
–

(1,132)
–

124
–

80
131

88
–

292
131

$ 15,954

$ 415,392

$ 1,867

$433,213 $

(67,704) $ 365,509

$ 35,931

$ 413,365

$ 1,996

$ 451,292

$ (96,231)

$ 355,061

(1)

(2)
(3)
(4)

As at October 31, 2017, residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities (MBS) included in all fair value levels of trading securities were $17,977 million and $nil (October 31, 2016 –
$14,987 million and $10 million), respectively, and in all fair value levels of AFS securities were $13,352 million and $727 million (October 31, 2016 – $13,212 million and $346 million),
respectively.
OECD stands for Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
CDO stands for collateralized debt obligations.
Excludes $100 million of AFS securities (October 31, 2016 – $89 million) that are carried at cost.

140

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Fair values of our significant assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis are determined and classified in the fair value hierarchy table
using the following valuation techniques and inputs.

Interest-bearing deposits with banks
A majority of our deposits with banks are designated as at FVTPL. These FVTPL deposits are composed of short-dated deposits placed with
banks, and are included in Interest-bearing deposits with banks in the fair value hierarchy table. The fair values of these instruments are
determined using the discounted cash flow method. The inputs to the valuation models include interest rate swap curves and credit spreads,
where applicable. They are classified as Level 2 instruments in the hierarchy as the inputs are observable.

Government bonds (Canadian, U.S. and other OECD governments)
Government bonds are included in Canadian government debt, U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt, Other OECD government debt and
Obligations related to securities sold short in the fair value hierarchy table. The fair values of government issued or guaranteed debt securities in
active markets are determined by reference to recent transaction prices, broker quotes, or third-party vendor prices and are classified as Level 1
in the hierarchy. The fair values of securities that are not traded in active markets are based on either security prices, or valuation techniques
using implied yields and risk spreads derived from prices of actively traded and similar government securities. Securities with observable prices
or rate inputs as compared to transaction prices, dealer quotes or vendor prices are classified as Level 2 in the hierarchy. Securities where inputs
are unobservable are classified as Level 3 in the hierarchy.

Corporate and U.S. municipal bonds
The fair values of corporate and U.S. municipal bonds, which are included in Corporate debt and other debt, U.S. state, municipal and agencies
debt and Obligations related to securities sold short in the fair value hierarchy table, are determined using either recently executed transaction
prices, broker quotes, pricing services, or in certain instances, the discounted cash flow method using rate inputs such as benchmark yields
(Canadian Dealer Offered Rate, LIBOR and other similar reference rates) and risk spreads of comparable securities. Securities with observable
prices or rate inputs are classified as Level 2 in the hierarchy. Securities where inputs are unobservable are classified as Level 3 in the hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities and Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities (ABS) and MBS are included in Asset-backed securities, Mortgage-backed securities, Canadian government debt, U.S.
state, municipal and agencies debt, and Obligations related to securities sold short in the fair value hierarchy table. ABS include collateralized
debt obligations (CDO). Inputs for valuation of MBS and CDO are, when available, traded prices, dealer or lead manager quotes, broker quotes
and vendor prices of the identical securities. When prices of the identical securities are not readily available, we use industry standard models
with inputs such as discount margins, yields, default, prepayment and loss severity rates that are implied from transaction prices, dealer quotes
or vendor prices of comparable instruments. Where security prices and inputs are observable, ABS and MBS are classified as Level 2 in the
hierarchy. Otherwise, they are classified as Level 3 in the hierarchy.

Auction rate securities
Auction rate securities (ARS) are included in U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt, and Asset-backed securities in the fair value hierarchy
table. The valuation of ARS involves discounting forecasted cash flows from the underlying collateral and incorporating multiple inputs such as
default, prepayment, deferment and redemption rates, and credit spreads. These inputs are unobservable, and therefore, ARS are classified as
Level 3 in the hierarchy. All relevant data must be assessed and significant judgment is required to determine the appropriate valuation inputs.

Equities
Equities and Obligations related to securities sold short in the fair value hierarchy table consist of listed and unlisted common shares, private
equities and hedge funds with certain redemption restrictions. The fair values of common shares are based on quoted prices in active markets,
where available, and are classified as Level 1 in the hierarchy. Where quoted prices in active markets are not readily available, fair value is
determined based on quoted market prices for similar securities or through valuation techniques, such as multiples of earnings and the
discounted cash flow method with forecasted cash flows and discount rate as inputs. Private equities are classified as Level 3 in the hierarchy
as their inputs are not observable. Hedge funds are valued using Net Asset Values (NAV). If we can redeem a hedge fund at NAV prior to the next
quarter end, the fund is classified as Level 2 in the hierarchy. Otherwise, it is classified as Level 3 in the hierarchy.

Derivatives
The fair values of exchange-traded derivatives, such as interest rate and equity options and futures, are based on quoted market prices and are
classified as Level 1 in the hierarchy. OTC derivatives primarily consist of interest rate and cross currency swaps, interest rate options, foreign
exchange forward contracts and options, and commodity options and swaps. The exchange-traded or OTC interest rate, foreign exchange and
equity derivatives are included in Interest rate contracts, Foreign exchange contracts and Other contracts, respectively, in the fair value hierarchy
table. The fair values of OTC derivatives are determined using valuation models when quoted market prices or third-party consensus pricing
information are not available. The valuation models, such as discounted cash flow method or Black-Scholes option model, incorporate
observable or unobservable inputs for interest and foreign exchange rates, equity and commodity prices (including indices), credit spreads,
corresponding market volatility levels, and other market-based pricing factors. Other adjustments to fair value include bid-offer, CVA, FVA, OIS,
parameter and model uncertainties, and unrealized gain or loss at inception of a transaction. A derivative instrument is classified as Level 2 in
the hierarchy if observable market inputs are available or the unobservable inputs are not significant to the fair value. Otherwise, it is classified
as Level 3 in the hierarchy.

Securities borrowed or purchased under resale agreements and securities loaned or sold under repurchase agreements
In the fair value hierarchy table, these instruments are included in Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities
borrowed, and Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned. The fair values of these contracts are
determined using valuation techniques such as the discounted cash flow method using interest rate curves as inputs. They are classified as
Level 2 instruments in the hierarchy as the inputs are observable.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

141

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

Deposits
A majority of our deposits are measured at amortized cost but certain deposits are designated as at FVTPL. These FVTPL deposits include
deposits taken from clients, the issuance of certificates of deposits and promissory notes, and interest rate and equity linked notes, and are
included in Deposits in the fair value hierarchy table. The fair values of these instruments are determined using the discounted cash flow method
and derivative option valuation models. The inputs to the valuation models include benchmark yield curves, credit spreads, interest rates, equity
and interest rate volatility, dividends and correlation, where applicable. They are classified as Level 2 or 3 instruments in the hierarchy,
depending on the significance of the unobservable credit spreads, volatility, dividend and correlation rates.

Obligations related to securities sold short
Fair values of the Obligations related to securities sold short are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets, where available, and are
classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. Where quoted prices in active markets are not readily available, they are primarily classified as
Level 2.

Quantitative information about fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3 Instruments)
The following table presents fair values of our significant Level 3 financial instruments, valuation techniques used to determine their fair values,
ranges and weighted averages of unobservable inputs.

As at October 31, 2017 (Millions of Canadian dollars, except for prices, percentages and ratios)

Fair value

Range of input values (2) (3)

Products

Reporting line in the fair value
hierarchy table

Assets

Liabilities

Valuation
techniques

Non-derivative financial instruments
Auction rate securities

Corporate debt

Government debt and municipal

bonds

Private equities, hedge fund
investments and related
equity derivatives

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Asset-backed securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Loans
Obligations related to securities

sold short

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Corporate debt and other debt

Equities
Derivative related assets
Derivative related liabilities
Loan substitute securities

Derivative financial instruments
Interest rate derivatives and

interest-rate-linked
structured notes (7)

Derivative related assets
Derivative related liabilities

Equity derivatives and equity-
linked structured notes (7)

Other (8)

Total

Derivative related assets
Deposits
Derivative related liabilities

Asset-backed securities
Derivative related assets
Deposits
Derivative related liabilities
Other liabilities

508
197

33
179

–
793

1,136
–

4

415

302

6
30

Discounted cash flows

Price-based
Discounted cash flows

–

97

Price-based
Discounted cash flows

Market comparable
Price-based
Discounted cash flows

Discounted cash flows
Option pricing model

843

Significant
unobservable
inputs (1)

Discount margins
Default rates
Prepayment rates
Recovery rates

Prices
Yields
Capitalization rates
Credit spread
Credit enhancement

Low

High

1.13%
3.00%
4.00%
40.00%

$ 20.00
n.a.
n.a.
1.11%
12.82%

2.95%
3.40%
10.00%
97.50%

$ 119.30
n.a.
n.a.
11.59%
17.10%

Prices
Yields

$ 63.43
0.17%

$ 93.29
13.04%

EV/EBITDA multiples
P/E multiples
EV/Rev multiples
Liquidity discounts (5)
Discount rate
Net asset values/prices (6)

Interest rates
CPI swap rates
IR-IR correlations
FX-IR correlations
FX-FX correlations

9.30X
4.80X
1.50X
15.00%
11.00%
n.a.

2.23%
1.72%
19.00%
29.00%
68.00%

16.60X
27.40X
9.51X
40.00%
11.00%
n.a.

2.56%
1.90%
67.00%
56.00%
68.00%

Weighted
average / Inputs
distribution (4)

$

$

1.71%
3.00%
4.29%
95.95%

113.77
n.a.
n.a.
6.35%
14.16%

64.18
3.22%

13.32X
19.42X
5.75X
25.24%
11.00%
n.a.

Even
Even
Even
Even
Even

Lower
Middle
Middle
Lower

Discounted cash flows
Option pricing model

Dividend yields
Equity (EQ)-EQ correlations
EQ-FX correlations
EQ volatilities

0.02%
15.00%
(70.00)%

10.49%
97.34%
39.10%
3.00% 110.00%

465
369

–
69
24

$ 3,603

$ 1,867

142

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

As at October 31, 2016 (Millions of Canadian dollars, except for prices, percentages and ratios)

Fair value

Range of input values (2) (3)

Products

Reporting line in the fair value
hierarchy table

Assets

Liabilities

Valuation
techniques

Significant
unobservable
inputs (1)

Low

High

Weighted
average / Inputs
distribution (4)

Non-derivative financial instruments
Auction rate securities

Corporate debt

Government debt and municipal

bonds

Private equities, hedge fund
investments and related
equity derivatives

Derivative financial instruments
Interest rate derivatives and

interest-rate-linked structured
notes (7)

Equity derivatives and equity-
linked structured notes (7)

Other (8)

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Asset-backed securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Loans
Obligations related to securities

sold short

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Corporate debt and other debt

Equities
Derivative related assets
Derivative related liabilities
Loan substitute securities

717
193

98
329

31
920

1,132
77

–

Discounted cash flows

Price-based
Discounted cash flows

Price-based
Discounted cash flows

Market comparable
Price-based
Discounted cash flows

1

168

Derivative related assets
Derivative related liabilities

566

Discounted cash flows
Option pricing model

1,014

Discount margins
Default rates
Prepayment rates
Recovery rates

1.57%
3.00%
4.00%
40.00%

3.75%
9.30%
10.00%
97.50%

Prices
Yields
Capitalization rates
Credit spread
Credit enhancement

$ 20.00 $ 127.54 $

5.25%
5.99%
1.51%
12.04%

8.85%
8.35%
12.54%
16.05%

Prices
Yields

$ 60.00 $
1.48%

99.79 $

20.92%

EV/EBITDA multiples
P/E multiples
EV/Rev multiples
Liquidity discounts (5)
Discount rate
Net asset values/prices (6)

Interest rates
CPI swap rates
IR-IR correlations
FX-IR correlations
FX-FX correlations

6.94X
12.12X
0.30X
15.00%
12.00%
n.a.

1.79%
1.49%
19.00%
29.00%
68.00%

15.50X
23.25X
5.90X
40.00%
17.00%
n.a.

2.43%
1.97%
67.00%
56.00%
68.00%

Discounted cash flows

Dividend yields
Option pricing model Equity (EQ)-EQ correlations
EQ-FX correlations
EQ volatilities

0.04%
13.90%
(71.40)%

20.64%
97.40%
32.40%
3.00% 118.00%

Derivative related assets
Deposits
Derivative related liabilities

Asset-backed securities
Derivative related assets
Deposits
Derivative related liabilities
Other liabilities

217

28
25

425
242

2
56
88

$ 4,333 $ 1,996

2.43%
3.02%
4.44%
92.37%

111.93
7.39%
7.17%
7.02%
14.04%

63.30
4.16%

9.65X
14.45X
3.42X
29.21%
16.53%
n.a.

Even
Even
Even
Even
Even

Lower
Middle
Middle
Lower

Total

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)
(6)

(7)
(8)

n.a.

The acronyms stand for the following: (i) Enterprise Value (EV); (ii) Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA); (iii) Price / Earnings (P/E); (iv) Revenue (Rev);
(v) Consumer Price Index (CPI); Interest Rate (IR); Foreign Exchange (FX); and Equity (EQ).
The low and high input values represent the actual highest and lowest level inputs used to value a group of financial instruments in a particular product category. These input ranges do not
reflect the level of input uncertainty, but are affected by the different underlying instruments within the product category. The input ranges will therefore vary from period to period based on
the characteristics of the underlying instruments held at each balance sheet date. Where provided, the weighted average of the input values is calculated based on the relative fair values of
the instruments within the product category. The weighted averages for derivatives are not presented in the table as they would not provide a comparable metric; instead, distribution of
significant unobservable inputs within the range for each product category is indicated in the table.
Price-based inputs are significant for certain debt securities and are based on external benchmarks, comparable proxy instruments or pre-quarter-end trade data. For these instruments, the
price input is expressed in dollars for each $100 par value. For example, with an input price of $105, an instrument is valued at a premium over its par value.
The level of aggregation and diversity within each derivative instrument category may result in certain ranges of inputs being wide and inputs being unevenly distributed across the range. In
the table, we indicated whether the majority of the inputs are concentrated toward the upper, middle, or lower end of the range, or evenly distributed throughout the range.
Fair value of securities with liquidity discount inputs totalled $54 million (October 31, 2016 – $127 million).
NAV of a hedge fund is total fair value of assets less liabilities divided by the number of fund units. The NAV of the funds and the corresponding equity derivatives referenced to NAV are not
considered observable as we cannot redeem certain of these hedge funds at NAV prior to the next quarter end. Private equities are valued based on NAV or valuation techniques. The range
for NAV per unit or price per share has not been disclosed for the hedge funds or private equities due to the dispersion of prices given the diverse nature of the investments.
The structured notes contain embedded equity or interest rate derivatives with unobservable inputs that are similar to those of the equity or interest rate derivatives.
Other primarily includes certain insignificant instruments such as commodity derivatives, foreign exchange derivatives, credit derivatives, bank-owned life insurance and Bank funding and
deposits.
not applicable

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

143

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

Sensitivity to unobservable inputs and interrelationships between unobservable inputs
Yield, credit spreads/discount margins
A financial instrument’s yield is the interest rate used to discount future cash flows in a valuation model. An increase in the yield, in isolation,
would result in a decrease in a fair value measurement and vice versa. A credit spread/discount margin is the difference between a debt
instrument’s yield and a benchmark instrument’s yield. Benchmark instruments have high credit quality ratings, similar maturities and are often
government bonds. The credit spread/discount margin therefore represents the discount rate used to determine the present value of future cash
flows of an asset to reflect the market return required for uncertainty in the estimated cash flows. The credit spread/discount margin for an
instrument forms part of the yield used in a discounted cash flow method. Generally, an increase in the credit spread or discount margin will
result in a decrease in fair value, and vice versa.

Funding spread
Funding spreads are credit spreads specific to our funding or deposit rates. A decrease in funding spreads, on its own, will increase fair value of
our liabilities, and vice versa.

Default rates
A default rate is the rate at which borrowers fail to make scheduled loan payments. A decrease in the default rate will typically increase the fair
value of the loan, and vice versa. This effect will be significantly more pronounced for a non-government guaranteed loan than a government
guaranteed loan.

Prepayment rates
A prepayment rate is the rate at which a loan will be repaid in advance of its expected amortization schedule. Prepayments change the future
cash flows of a loan. An increase in the prepayment rate in isolation will result in an increase in fair value when the loan interest rate is lower
than the then current reinvestment rate, and a decrease in the prepayment rate in isolation will result in a decrease in fair value when the loan
interest rate is lower than the then current reinvestment rate. Prepayment rates are generally negatively correlated with interest rates.

Recovery and loss severity rates
A recovery rate is an estimation of the amount that can be collected in a loan default scenario. The recovery rate is the recovered amount divided
by the loan balance due, expressed as a percentage. The inverse concept of recovery is loss severity. Loss severity rate is an estimation of the
loan amount not collected when a loan defaults. The loss severity rate is the loss amount divided by the loan balance due, expressed as a
percentage. Generally, an increase in the recovery rate or a decrease in the loss severity rate will increase the loan fair value, and vice versa.

Capitalization rates
A capitalization rate is a rate of return on a real estate property investment calculated by dividing a property’s income by the property’s value.
A lower capitalization rate increases the property value, and vice versa.

Volatility rates
Volatility measures the potential variability of future prices and is often measured as the standard deviation of price movements. Volatility is an
input to option pricing models used to value derivatives and issued structured notes. Volatility is used in valuing equity, interest rate, commodity
and foreign exchange options. A higher volatility rate means that the underlying price or rate movements are more likely to occur. Higher volatility
rates may increase or decrease an option’s fair value depending on the option’s terms. The determination of volatility rates is dependent on
various factors, including but not limited to, the underlying’s market price, the strike price and maturity.

Dividend yields
A dividend yield is the underlying equity’s expected dividends expressed as an annual percentage of its price. Dividend yield is used as an input
for forward equity price and option models. Higher dividend yields will decrease the forward price, and vice versa. A higher dividend yield will
increase or decrease an option’s value, depending on the option’s terms.

Correlation rates
Correlation is the linear relationship between the movements in two different variables. Correlation is an input to the valuation of derivative
contracts and issued structured notes when an instrument’s payout is determined by correlated variables. When variables are positively
correlated, an increase in one variable will result in an increase in the other variable. When variables are negatively correlated, an increase in one
variable will result in a decrease in the other variable. The referenced variables can be within a single asset class or market (equity, interest rate,
commodities, credit and foreign exchange) or between variables in different asset classes (equity to foreign exchange, or interest rate to foreign
exchange). Changes in correlation will either increase or decrease a financial instrument’s fair value depending on the terms of the instrument.

Interest rates
An interest rate is the percentage amount charged on a principal or notional amount. Increasing interest rates will decrease the discounted cash
flow value of a financial instrument, and vice versa.

Consumer Price Index swap rates
A CPI swap rate is expressed as a percentage of an increase in the average price of a basket of consumer goods and services, such as
transportation, food and medical care. An increase in the CPI swap rate will cause inflation swap payments to be larger, and vice versa.

EV/EBITDA multiples, P/E multiples, EV/Rev multiples, and liquidity discounts
Private equity valuation inputs include EV/EBITDA multiples, P/E multiples and EV/Rev multiples. These are used to calculate either enterprise
value or share value of a company based on a multiple of earnings or revenue estimates. Higher multiples equate to higher fair values for all
multiple types, and vice versa. A liquidity discount may be applied when few or no transactions exist to support the valuations.

144

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Credit Enhancement
Credit enhancement is an input to the valuation of securitized transaction and is the amount of loan loss protection for a senior tranche. Credit
enhancement is expressed as a percentage of the transaction size. An increase in credit enhancement will cause the credit spread to decrease
and the tranche fair value to increase, and vice versa.

Interrelationships between unobservable inputs
Unobservable inputs, including the above discount margin, default rate, prepayment rate, and recovery and loss severity rates, may not be
independent of each other. For example, the discount margin can be affected by a change in default rate, prepayment rate, or recovery and loss
severity rates. Discount margins will generally decrease when default rates decline or when recovery rates increase.

Changes in fair value measurement for instruments measured on a recurring basis and categorized in Level 3
The following tables present the changes in fair value measurements on a recurring basis for instruments included in Level 3 of the fair value
hierarchy.

For the year ended October 31, 2017

Total
realized/
unrealized
gains
(losses)
included in
earnings

Total
unrealized
gains
(losses)
included
in OCI (1)

Fair value
at beginning
of period

Purchases
of assets/
issuances
of liabilities

Sales of
assets/
settlements
of liabilities
and other (2)

Transfers
into
Level 3

Transfers
out of
Level 3

Fair value
at end of
period

Changes in
unrealized gains
(losses) included
in earnings for
assets and
liabilities for
positions still held

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Securities
Trading

Canadian government debt
Provincial and municipal

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities

CDO
Non-CDO securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities

Available-for-sale

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Asset-backed securities
Non-CDO securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities
Loan substitute securities

Loans
Other

Net derivative balances (3)
Interest rate contracts
Foreign exchange contracts
Credit derivatives
Other contracts
Valuation adjustments

Other assets

Liabilities
Deposits

Personal
Business and government

Other

$

– $
1
–

– $
–
–

– $
–
–

– $
–
–

– $
(1)
–

– $
–
–

– $
–
–

– $
–
–

–
4
62
376

443

747

217
956
756
–

2,676

329

(448)
(15)
–
(122)
(10)
–

–
–
(4)
(143)

(147)

(5)

–
(1)
62
–

56

(5)

49
49
–
80
–
–

–

1
(18)

(17)

(19)

7
(34)
45
–

(1)

(5)

(20)
2
–
2
–
–

–
7
52
275

334

–

–
119
45
4

168

405

33
(3)
–
(76)
–
–

–
(10)
(68)
(81)

(160)

(215)

(21)
(55)
(197)
–

(488)

(512)

(2)
(7)
–
2
(6)
–

–
–
20
17

37

–

–
–
–
–

–

–

4
1
–
(58)
–
–

–
(1)
(34)
(1)

(36)

–

–
(188)
–
–

(188)

(33)

(71)
(6)
–
(9)
–
–

–
–
29
425

454

508

203
797
711
4

2,223

179

(455)
21
–
(181)
(16)
–

$

2,853 $

82 $

(39) $

861 $

(1,173) $ (16) $ (343) $ 2,225 $

–
–
–

–
–
(3)
(119)

(122)

n.a.

n.a.
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.

n.a.

–

74
17
–
52
–
–

21

5
–

–
–

5

Obligations related to securities sold short
Other liabilities

(1)
(88)

–
(4)

–
2

–
–

$

(425) $
(2)

(20) $
–

14 $
–

(387) $
–

85 $ (277) $

545 $ (465) $

–

1
66

–

–
–

2

–
–

–

–
(24)

$

(516) $

(24) $

16 $

(387) $

152 $ (277) $

547 $ (489) $

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

145

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

For the year ended October 31, 2016

Total
realized/
unrealized
gains
(losses)
included in
earnings

Total
unrealized
gains
(losses)
included
in OCI (1)

Fair value
at beginning
of period

Purchases
of assets/
issuances
of liabilities

Sales of
assets/
settlements
of liabilities
and other (2)

Changes in
unrealized gains
(losses) included
in earnings for
assets and
liabilities for
positions still held

Transfers
into
Level 3

Transfers
out of
Level 3

Fair value
at end of
period

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Securities
Trading

Canadian government debt
Provincial and municipal

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities

CDO
Non-CDO securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities

Available-for-sale

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Asset-backed securities
Non-CDO securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities
Loan substitute securities

Loans
Other

Net derivative balances (3)
Interest rate contracts
Foreign exchange contracts
Credit derivatives
Other contracts
Valuation adjustments

Other assets

Liabilities
Deposits

Personal
Business and government

Other

$

5 $

16
15

5
23
191
123

378

797

197
1,757
987
–

3,738

472

(446)
58
(1)
(313)
(47)
–

– $
(2)
(1)

– $
–
–

–
(4)
–
(160)

(167)

(12)

(1)
(5)
50
–

32

17

(18)
(66)
–
(121)
–
(2)

–
–
5
7

12

26

18
17
(49)
–

12

(13)

1
(6)
–
(1)
–
–

– $

– $

21
8

–
23
144
492

688

(34)
(22)

(5)
(39)
(294)
(89)

(483)

93

(157)

(23)
(2,825)
(308)
–

(3,313)

– $
–
–

(5) $
–
–

– $
1
–

1
1
159
10

171

–

–
21
–
–

21

(1)
–
(143)
(7)

(156)

–

–
(446)
–
–

(446)

–
4
62
376

443

747

217
956
756
–

2,676

(641)

396

(4)

329

(18)
(2)
1
213
23
–

29
23
–
51
–
–

(26)
(3)
–
88
14
–

(448)
(15)
–
(122)
(10)
–

26
2,437
76
–

2,632

102

30
(19)
–
(39)
–
2

–
–
–

–
–
–
(163)

(163)

n.a.

n.a.
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.

n.a.

–

(17)
(64)
(2)
55
–
–

(16)
(1)

–
(11)

(28)

$

3,839 $

(325) $

5 $

3,396 $

(4,220) $ 691 $ (533) $ 2,853 $

(191)

Obligations related to securities sold short
Other liabilities

–
(47)

–
(22)

–
(3)

(1)
(93)

$

(389) $
(8)

(24) $
(1)

2 $
–

(207) $
–

82 $ (562) $ 673 $ (425) $

9

–
23

(2)

–
–

–

–
54

(2)

(1)
(88)

$

(444) $

(47) $

(1) $

(301) $

114 $ (564) $ 727 $ (516) $

(1)

(2)
(3)

n.a.

These amounts include the foreign currency translation gains or losses arising on consolidation of foreign subsidiaries relating to the Level 3 instruments, where applicable. The unrealized
gains on AFS securities recognized in OCI were $84 million for the year ended October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – losses of $27 million), excluding the translation gains or losses arising
on consolidation.
Other includes amortization of premiums or discounts recognized in net income.
Net derivatives as at October 31, 2017 included derivative assets of $747 million (October 31, 2016 – $885 million) and derivative liabilities of $1,378 million (October 31, 2016 –
$1,480 million).
not applicable

Transfers between fair value hierarchy levels for instruments carried at fair value on a recurring basis
Transfers between Level 1 and Level 2, and transfers into and out of Level 3 are assumed to occur at the end of the period. For an asset or a
liability that transfers into Level 3 during the period, the entire change in fair value for the period is excluded from the Total realized/unrealized
gains (losses) included in earnings column of the above reconciliation, whereas for transfers out of Level 3 during the period, the entire change
in fair value for the period is included in the same column of the above reconciliation.

Transfers between Level 1 and 2 are dependent on whether fair value is obtained on the basis of quoted market prices in active markets

(Level 1).

During the year ended October 31, 2017, transfers out of Level 1 to Level 2 included Trading U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt and
Obligations related to securities sold short of $1,143 million and $1,472 million, respectively. During the year ended October 31, 2016, transfers
out of Level 1 to Level 2 included $266 million of Trading U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt and $490 million of Obligations related to
securities sold short.

During the year ended October 31, 2017, transfers out of Level 2 to Level 1 included $339 million of Trading U.S. state, municipal and
agencies debt and $80 million of Obligations related to securities sold short. During the year ended October 31, 2016, transfers out of Level 2 to
Level 1 included $424 million of Trading U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt, $65 million of AFS U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt and
$11 million of Obligations related to securities sold short.

Transfers between Level 2 and Level 3 are primarily due to either a change in the market observability for an input, or a change in an

unobservable input’s significance to a financial instrument’s fair value.

146

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

For the year ended October 31, 2017, transfers of Other contracts were due to changes in the market observability of inputs, and transfers

relating to AFS Corporate debt and other debt, and Personal deposits were due to changes in the significance of unobservable inputs to their fair
value.

During the year ended October 31, 2017, significant transfers out of Level 3 to Level 2 included $188 million of AFS Corporate debt and
other debt, and $545 million of Personal deposits. In addition, during the year ended October 31, 2017, significant transfers out of Level 3 to
Level 2 included $52 million (net assets) of OTC equity options in Other contracts comprised of $321 million of derivative related assets and
$269 million of derivative related liabilities. During the year ended October 31, 2016, significant transfers out of Level 3 to Level 2 included
$143 million of Trading Corporate debt and other debt, $446 million of AFS Corporate debt and other debt and $673 million of Personal
deposits. In addition, during the year ended October 31, 2016, significant transfers out of Level 3 to Level 2 included $28 million (net assets) of
OTC equity options in Other contracts comprised of $682 million of derivative related assets and $654 million of derivative related liabilities and
$24 million (net assets) of commodity swaps in Other contracts comprised of $126 million of derivative related assets and $102 million of
derivative related liabilities.

During the year ended October 31, 2017, significant transfers out of Level 2 to Level 3 included $277 million of Personal deposits. In

addition, during the year ended October 31, 2017, significant transfers out of Level 2 to Level 3 included $11 million (net liabilities) of OTC equity
options in Other contracts comprised of $94 million of derivative related assets and $105 million of derivative related liabilities. During the year
ended October 31, 2016, significant transfers out of Level 2 to Level 3 included $159 million of Trading Corporate debt and other debt,
$396 million of Loans and $562 million of Personal deposits. In addition, during the year ended October 31, 2016, significant transfers out of
Level 2 to Level 3 included $58 million (net assets) of OTC equity options in Other contracts comprised of $407 million of derivative related
assets and $349 million of derivative related liabilities.

Positive and negative fair value movements of Level 3 financial instruments from using reasonably possible alternative assumptions
A financial instrument is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy if one or more of its unobservable inputs may significantly affect the
measurement of its fair value. In preparing the financial statements, appropriate levels for these unobservable input parameters are chosen so
that they are consistent with prevailing market evidence or management judgment. Due to the unobservable nature of the prices or rates, there
may be uncertainty about the valuation of these Level 3 financial instruments.

The following table summarizes the impacts to fair values of Level 3 financial instruments using reasonably possible alternative
assumptions. This sensitivity disclosure is intended to illustrate the potential impact of the relative uncertainty in the fair value of Level 3
financial instruments. In reporting the sensitivities below, we offset balances in instances where: (i) the move in valuation factor caused an
offsetting positive and negative fair value movement, (ii) both offsetting instruments are in Level 3, and (iii) exposures are managed and reported
on a net basis. With respect to overall sensitivity, it is unlikely in practice that all reasonably possible alternative assumptions would
simultaneously be realized.

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Positive fair value
movement from
using reasonably
possible
alternatives

Negative fair value
movement from
using reasonably
possible
alternatives

Level 3
fair value

Positive fair value
movement from
using reasonably
possible
alternatives

Negative fair value
movement from
using reasonably
possible
alternatives

Level 3
fair value

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Securities
Trading

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Asset-backed securities
Corporate debt and other debt
Equities

$

– $
–
29
425

Available-for-sale

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Asset-backed securities
Corporate debt and other debt
Equities
Loan substitute securities

Loans
Derivatives

Deposits
Derivatives
Other

508
203
797
711
4
179
747

$

$

3,603 $

(465) $

(1,378)

Securities sold short and other liabilities

(24)

$

(1,867) $

– $
–
–
–

8
15
6
40
2
2
34

107 $

11 $
37

–

48 $

–
–
–
–

(20)
(21)
(6)
(24)
–
(3)
(30)

$

1 $
4
62
376

747
217
956
756
–
329
885

(104) $

4,333 $

(11) $
(48)

(427) $

(1,480)

–

(89)

(59) $

(1,996) $

– $
–
1
–

14
13
8
74
–
9
17

136 $

13 $
33

–

46 $

–
–
(1)
–

(31)
(19)
(8)
(13)
–
(10)
(16)

(98)

(13)
(53)

–

(66)

Sensitivity results
As at October 31, 2017, the effects of applying other reasonably possible alternative assumptions to the Level 3 asset positions would be an
increase of $107 million and a decrease of $104 million in fair value, of which $71 million and $70 million would be recorded in Other
components of equity, respectively. The effects of applying these assumptions to the Level 3 liability positions would result in a decrease of
$48 million and an increase of $59 million in fair value.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

147

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

Level 3 valuation inputs and approaches to developing reasonably possible alternative assumptions
The following is a summary of the unobservable inputs used in the valuation of the Level 3 instruments and our approaches to developing
reasonably possible alternative assumptions used to determine sensitivity.

Financial assets or liabilities
Asset-backed securities,
corporate debt, government
debt, municipal bonds and loans

Sensitivity methodology
Sensitivities are determined based on adjusting, plus or minus one standard deviation, the bid-offer
spreads or input prices if a sufficient number of prices is received, adjusting input parameters such as
credit spreads or using high and low vendor prices as reasonably possible alternative assumptions.

Auction rate securities

Private equities, hedge fund
investments and related equity
derivatives

Interest rate derivatives

Equity derivatives

Sensitivity of ARS is determined by decreasing the discount margin between 11% and 26% and increasing
the discount margin between 27% and 44%, depending on the specific reasonable range of fair value
uncertainty for each particular financial instrument’s market. Changes to the discount margin reflect
historical monthly movements in the student loan asset-backed securities market.

Sensitivity of direct private equity investments is determined by (i) adjusting the discount rate by 2% when
the discounted cash flow method is used to determine fair value, (ii) adjusting the price multiples based on
the range of multiples of comparable companies when price-based models are used, or (iii) using an
alternative valuation approach. Net asset values of the private equity funds, hedge funds and related equity
derivatives are provided by the fund managers, and as a result, there are no other reasonably possible
alternative assumptions for these investments.

Sensitivities of interest rate and cross currency swaps are derived using plus or minus one standard
deviation of the inputs, and an amount based on model and parameter uncertainty, where applicable.

Sensitivity of the Level 3 position is determined by shifting the unobservable model inputs by plus or minus
one standard deviation of the pricing service market data including volatility, dividends or correlations, as
applicable.

Bank funding and deposits

Sensitivities of deposits are calculated by shifting the funding curve by plus or minus certain basis points.

Structured notes

Sensitivities for interest-rate-linked and equity-linked structured notes are derived by adjusting inputs by
plus or minus one standard deviation, and for other deposits, by estimating a reasonable move in the
funding curve by plus or minus certain basis points.

148

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Fair value for financial instruments that are carried at amortized cost and classified using the fair value hierarchy

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Held-to-maturity securities (2)
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase

agreements and securities borrowed

Loans

Retail
Wholesale

Other assets

Deposits

Personal
Business and government
Bank

Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned

Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Held-to-maturity securities (2)
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase

agreements and securities borrowed

Loans

Retail
Wholesale

Other assets

Deposits

Personal
Business and government
Bank

Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase

agreements and securities loaned

Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures

As at October 31, 2017

Fair value may not approximate carrying value

Fair value measurements using

$

Level 2

30
14,754

23,394

309,855
139,128

448,983

433

$

Level 3

–
17

–

4,936
5,909

10,845

202

$

Total

30
14,771

Total
fair value

11,910
14,771

$

23,394

81,999

314,791
145,037

459,828

635

487,594

11,064

498,658

62,981
149,618
5,079

217,678

1,364
311
9,504

726
979
14

1,719

–
5,382
55

63,707
150,597
5,093

219,397

1,364
5,693
9,559

$ 228,857

$ 7,156

$ 236,013

$ 748,473

As at October 31, 2016

Fair value may not approximate carrying value

Fair value measurements using

$

Level 2

64
15,194

22,812

297,602
137,216

434,818

457

$

Level 3

–
11

–

5,006
7,349

12,355

293

$

Total

64
15,207

Total
fair value

11,884
15,207

$

22,812

64,498

302,608
144,565

447,173

750

473,345

12,659

486,006

59,475
163,782
5,883

229,140

1,551
265
9,643

901
1,149
42

2,092

–
5,106
57

60,376
164,931
5,925

231,232

1,551
5,371
9,700

380,782
153,967

534,749

44,598

688,027

246,147
412,495
21,708

680,350

9,138
49,426
9,559

369,012
150,720

519,732

43,979

655,300

235,490
406,881
18,312

660,683

14,583
43,838
9,700

Fair value always
approximates
carrying value (1)

Level 1

$

$

11,880
–

58,605

65,991
8,930

74,921

43,963

189,369

182,440
261,898
16,615

460,953

7,774
43,733
–

$

512,460

$

–
–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

Fair value always
approximates
carrying value (1)

Level 1

$

$

11,820
–

41,686

66,404
6,155

72,559

43,229

169,294

175,114
241,950
12,387

429,451

13,032
38,467
–

$

480,950

$

–
2

–

–
–

–

–

2

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

$ 240,599

$ 7,255

$ 247,854

$ 728,804

(1)

(2)

Certain financial instruments have not been assigned to a level as the carrying amount always approximates their fair values due to their short-term nature (instruments that are receivable or
payable on demand, or with original maturity of three months or less) and insignificant credit risk.
Included in Securities – Available-for-sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Fair values of financial assets and liabilities carried at amortized cost and disclosed in the table above are determined using the following
valuation techniques and inputs.

Held-to-maturity securities
Fair values of Canadian Federal and OECD government bonds, and corporate bonds are based on quoted prices. Fair values of certain Non-OECD
government bonds are based on vendor prices or the discounted cash flow method with yield curves of other countries’ government bonds as
inputs.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

149

Note 3 Fair value of financial instruments (continued)

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed, and Obligations related to assets sold under repurchase
agreements and securities loaned
Valuation methods used for the long-term instruments are described in the Fair value of assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis and
classified using the fair value hierarchy section of this note. The carrying values of short-term instruments generally approximate their fair values.

Loans – Retail
Retail loans include residential mortgages, personal and small business loans and credit cards. For residential mortgages, and personal and
small business loans, we segregate the portfolio based on certain attributes such as product type, contractual interest rate, term to maturity and
credit scores, if applicable. Fair values of these loans are determined by the discounted cash flow method using applicable inputs such as
prevailing interest rates, contractual and posted client rates, client discounts, credit spreads, prepayment rates and loan-to-value ratios. Fair
values of credit card receivables are also calculated based on a discounted cash flow method with portfolio yields, charge offs and monthly
payment rates as inputs. The carrying values of short-term and variable rate loans generally approximate their fair values.

Loans – Wholesale
Wholesale loans include Business, Bank and Sovereign loans. Where market prices are available, loans are valued based on market prices.
Otherwise, fair value is determined by the discounted cash flow method using the following inputs: market interest rates and market based
spreads of assets with similar credit ratings and terms to maturity, loss given default, expected default frequency implied from credit default
swap prices, if available, and relevant pricing information such as contractual rate, origination and maturity dates, redemption price, coupon
payment frequency and date convention.

Deposits
Deposits are comprised of demand, notice, and term deposits which include senior deposit notes we have issued to provide us with long-term
funding. Fair values of term deposits are determined by one of several valuation techniques: (i) for term deposits and similar instruments, we
segregate the portfolio based on term to maturity. Fair values of these instruments are determined by the discounted cash flow method using
inputs such as client rates for new sales of the corresponding terms; and (ii) for senior deposit notes, we use actual traded prices, vendor prices
or the discounted cash flow method using a market interest rate curve and our funding spreads as inputs. The carrying values of short-term term
deposits, and demand and notice deposits generally approximate their fair values.

Other assets and Other liabilities
Other assets and Other liabilities include receivables and payables relating to certain commodities. Fair values of the commodity receivables and
payables are calculated by the discounted cash flow method using applicable inputs such as market interest rates, counterparties’ credit
spreads, our funding spreads, commodity forward prices and spot prices.

Subordinated debentures
Fair values of Subordinated debentures are based on recent transaction prices.

150

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 4 Securities

Carrying value of securities
The following table presents the contractual maturities of the carrying values of financial instruments held at the end of the period:

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Trading (2)

Canadian government debt
U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Other OECD government debt
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities
Corporate debt and other debt

Bankers’ acceptances
Certificates of deposit
Other (3)

Equities

Available-for-sale (2)

Canadian government debt

Federal

Amortized cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

Provincial and municipal

Amortized cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt

Amortized cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

Other OECD government debt

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
Cost
Fair value

Loan substitute securities

Cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

Amortized cost
Fair value

Held-to-maturity (2)
Amortized cost
Fair value

As at October 31, 2017

Term to maturity (1)

Within 3
months

3 months
to 1 year

1 year to
5 years

5 years to
10 years

Over
10 years

With no
specific
maturity

Total

$ 1,757
3,527
834
–
85

$ 11,362
2,031
4,846
–
63

$ 8,047
4,685
4,843
67
249

$ 1,447
4,145
260
22
162

$ 6,112
16,472
571
1,209
173

$

–
–
–
–
–

$ 28,725
30,860
11,354
1,298
732

246
28
2,625
–

9,102

5
5
1.7%

25
25
1.6%

1,284
1,284
1.2%

824
824
0.4%

–
–
–

960
956
1.2%

3,332
3,336
1.3%

–
–

–
–
–

–
22
5,038
–

–
67
6,010
–

23,362

23,968

–
–
–

71
71
2.0%

2,768
2,765
1.6%

2,367
2,367
1.0%

–
–
–

67
67
1.6%

2,917
2,918
1.5%

–
–

–
–
–

1,528
1,521
0.9%

1,838
1,836
2.1%

1,087
1,085
1.5%

5,894
5,901
1.5%

–
–
–

688
690
1.6%

17,006
17,060
1.8%

–
–

–
–
–

6,430
6,430

8,190
8,188

28,041
28,093

9
9

54
54

5,960
5,941

–
4
2,784
–

8,824

17
17
1.8%

41
40
2.8%

1,723
1,720
3.0%

60
60
1.1%

15
15
2.9%

3,030
3,039
2.6%

461
464
2.8%

–
–

–
–
–

5,347
5,355

4,754
4,761

–
5
4,907
–

29,449

58
58
4.3%

539
531
4.1%

22,615
22,661
2.7%

–
–
–

919
919
2.2%

1,774
1,745
2.4%

680
681
4.6%

–
–

–
–
–

26,585
26,595

4,068
4,006

–
–
–
32,952

32,952

246
126
21,364
32,952

127,657

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

875
1,188

29
28
4.3%

904
1,216

–
–

1,608
1,601
1.1%

2,514
2,503
2.5%

29,477
29,515
2.5%

9,145
9,152
1.3%

934
934
2.3%

6,519
6,497
2.2%

24,396
24,459
1.8%

875
1,188

29
28
4.3%

75,497
75,877

14,845
14,771

Total carrying value of securities (2)

$ 15,541

$ 31,604

$ 58,021

$ 18,933

$ 60,112

$ 34,168

$ 218,379

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

151

Note 4 Securities (continued)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Trading (2)

Canadian government debt
U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt
Other OECD government debt
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities
Corporate debt and other debt

Bankers’ acceptances
Certificates of deposit
Other (3)

Equities

Available-for-sale (2)

Canadian government debt

Federal

Amortized cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

Provincial and municipal

Amortized cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt

Amortized cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

Other OECD government debt

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
Cost
Fair value

Loan substitute securities

Cost
Fair value
Yield (4)

Amortized cost
Fair value

Held-to-maturity (2)
Amortized cost
Fair value

As at October 31, 2016

Term to maturity (1)

Within 3
months

3 months
to 1 year

1 year to
5 years

5 years to
10 years

Over
10 years

With no
specific
maturity

Total

$ 6,761
6,582
1,639
–
42

$ 10,350
6,150
1,646
34
80

$ 9,208
5,912
2,808
3
219

$ 2,742
5,988
389
1
139

$ 6,153
15,729
438
1,419
81

$

– $ 35,214
40,361
–
6,920
–
1,457
–
561
–

361
155
1,748
–

–
132
4,450
–

–
14
7,473
–

–
2
2,472
–

–
19
3,891
–

17,288

22,842

25,637

11,733

27,730

–
–
–
46,062

46,062

361
322
20,034
46,062

151,292

43
43
0.5%

–
–
–

1,030
1,029
2.7%

3,109
3,108
(0.1)%

–
–
–

671
671
–

1,520
1,521
1.7%

–
–

–
–
–

6,373
6,372

130
130

1
1
0.3%

139
139
1.3%

895
896
0.9%

1,396
1,398
1.1%

16
16
2.2%

9
8
1.1%

2,933
2,934
1.8%

–
–

–
–
–

291
293
1.5%

1,863
1,873
1.9%

1,735
1,734
1.9%

9,070
9,095
1.1%

27
27
2.2%

539
540
1.1%

16,457
16,495
1.6%

–
–

–
–
–

5,389
5,392

29,982
30,057

116
116

4,521
4,583

27
27
1.8%

90
92
4.1%

1,161
1,159
2.7%

293
292
1.0%

19
20
2.8%

834
835
2.2%

553
558
2.8%

–
–

–
–
–

2,977
2,983

5,718
5,953

56
58
4.2%

252
260
3.8%

20,668
20,598
2.4%

7
7
3.9%

330
332
2.3%

1,733
1,679
2.2%

552
558
4.7%

–
–

–
–
–

23,598
23,492

4,394
4,425

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

1,291
1,552

70
74
4.5%

1,361
1,626

–
–

418
422
1.7%

2,344
2,364
2.2%

25,489
25,416
2.4%

13,875
13,900
0.8%

392
395
2.3%

3,786
3,733
1.6%

22,015
22,066
1.8%

1,291
1,552

70
74
4.5%

69,680
69,922

14,879
15,207

Total carrying value of securities (2)

$ 23,790

$ 28,350

$ 60,215

$ 20,434

$ 55,616

$ 47,688 $ 236,093

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

Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities shown above since borrowers may have the right to extend or prepay obligations with or without penalties.
Trading securities and AFS securities are recorded at fair value. Held-to-maturity securities, included in Available-for-sale securities on the balance sheet, are recorded at amortized cost.
Primarily composed of corporate debt, supra-national debt, and commercial paper.
The weighted average yield is derived using the contractual interest rate and the carrying value at the end of the year for the respective securities.

152

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities (1) (2)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Canadian government debt

Federal
Provincial and municipal

U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt (3)
Other OECD government debt
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities

CDO
Non-CDO securities

Corporate debt and other debt
Equities
Loan substitute securities

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

As at

Cost/
Amortized
cost

Gross
unrealized
gains

Gross
unrealized
losses

$

1,608 $
2,514
29,477
9,145
934

2 $
7
242
18
1

3,610
2,909
24,396
875
29

13
10
106
320
–

(9) $

(18)
(204)
(11)
(1)

–
(45)
(43)
(7)
(1)

Fair
value

1,601
2,503
29,515
9,152
934

3,623
2,874
24,459
1,188
28

Cost/
Amortized
cost

Gross
unrealized
gains

Gross
unrealized
losses

Fair
value

$

418 $

4 $

2,344
25,489
13,875
392

1,628
2,158
22,015
1,291
70

22
57
35
5

2
5
89
273
4

– $
(2)
(130)
(10)
(2)

422
2,364
25,416
13,900
395

–
(60)
(38)
(12)
–

1,630
2,103
22,066
1,552
74

$ 75,497 $

719 $

(339) $ 75,877

$ 69,680 $

496 $

(254) $ 69,922

(1)
(2)

(3)

Excludes $14,845 million of held-to-maturity securities as at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $14,879 million) that are carried at amortized cost.
The majority of the MBS are residential. Cost/Amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and fair value related to commercial MBS are $727 million, $1 million, $1 million
and $727 million, respectively as at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $346 million, $1 million, $1 million and $346 million).
Includes securities issued by U.S. non-agencies backed by government insured assets, MBS and asset-backed securities issued by U.S. government agencies.

AFS securities are assessed for objective evidence of impairment at each reporting date and more frequently when conditions warrant.
Depending on the nature of the securities under review, we apply specific methodologies to assess whether the cost/amortized cost of the
security would be recovered. As at October 31, 2017, our gross unrealized losses on AFS securities were $339 million (October 31, 2016 –
$254 million). We believe that there is no objective evidence of impairment on our AFS securities that are in an unrealized loss position as at
October 31, 2017.

Net gains and losses on available-for-sale securities (1)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Realized gains
Realized losses
Impairment losses

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

246 $
(22)
(52)
172 $

179
(17)
(86)

76

(1)

The following related to our insurance operations are excluded from Net gains and losses on AFS securities and are included in Insurance premiums, investment and fee income in the
Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended October 31, 2017: Realized gains of $23 million (October 31, 2016 - $14 million), realized losses of $1 million (October 31, 2016 –
$nil) and $nil in impairment losses (October 31, 2016 – $4 million).

During the year ended October 31, 2017, $172 million of net gains were recognized in Non-interest income as compared to $76 million in the
prior year. The current year reflects net realized gains of $224 million mainly comprised of distributions from, and gains on sales of certain
Equities, Other OECD government debt, and Loan substitute securities. Also included in the net gains are $52 million of impairment losses
primarily on certain Equities and U.S. state, municipal and agencies debt. This compares to net realized gains for the year ended October 31,
2016 of $162 million which was partially offset by $86 million of impairment losses.

Held-to-maturity securities
Held-to-maturity securities measured 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 and interest. The
impairment review of held-to-maturity securities is primarily based on the impairment model for loans. We believe that there is no objective
evidence of impairment on our held-to-maturity securities as at October 31, 2017.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

153

Note 4 Securities (continued)

Reclassification of financial instruments

The following table provides information regarding certain securities that we reclassified in prior reporting periods:

Financial instruments reclassified in prior periods

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Financial assets – FVTPL reclassified to available-for-sale (1)
CDO
Financial assets – Available-for-sale reclassified to loans and receivables (2) (3)
Canadian government debt – Federal
Financial assets – Available-for-sale reclassified to held-to-maturity (2)
Canadian government debt – Federal

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Carrying value

Fair value

Carrying value

Fair value

$

$

–

$

–

$

–

$

–

2,747

3,674
6,421

2,737

3,645
6,382

$

$

3,692

3,923
7,615

3,697

3,970
7,667

$

(1)
(2)

(3)

On October 1, 2011, we reclassified $1,872 million of certain CDO from classified as FVTPL to AFS.
On October 1, 2015, we reclassified $4,132 million and $5,240 million, respectively, of certain debt securities from classified as AFS to loans and receivables, and from classified as AFS to
held-to-maturity.
During the year ended October 31, 2016, we reclassified $897 million of certain debt securities from classified as AFS to loans and receivables.

The following table provides the amounts recorded in net income and OCI from the debt securities after the reclassification.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

FVTPL reclassified to available-for-sale
CDO
Available-for-sale reclassified to loans and receivables (2)
Canadian government debt – Federal
Available-for-sale reclassified to held-to-maturity (2)
Canadian government debt – Federal

For the year ended

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Unrealized gains
(losses) during
the period (1)

Interest income/
gains (losses)
recognized in net
income during
the period

Unrealized gains
(losses) during
the period (1)

Interest income/
gains (losses)
recognized in net
income during
the period

$

–

$

(15)

(77)
(92)

$

$

–

56

128
184

$

$

(4)

(7)

(38)
(49)

$

$

11

91

135
237

(1)

(2)

This represents the unrealized gains or losses that would have been recognized in profit or loss (for reclassifications from FVTPL) or OCI (for reclassifications from AFS) had the assets not
been reclassified.
Interest income/gains (losses) recognized in net income during the period includes amortization of net unrealized gains associated with reclassified assets that were included in Other
components of equity on the date of reclassification.

Note 5 Loans

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Retail (1)

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards (2)
Small business (3)

Wholesale (1)
Business (4)
Bank (5)
Sovereign (6)

Total loans
Allowance for loan losses

October 31, 2017

United
States

Other
International

Canada

As at

Total

Canada

October 31, 2016

United
States

Other
International

Total

$ 255,799
82,022
17,491
4,493

$ 11,449
6,357
294
–

$ 3,100 $ 270,348 $ 241,800
82,205
92,294
16,601
18,035
3,878
4,493

3,915
250
–

$ 10,014
6,853
267
–

$ 3,184 $ 254,998
93,466
17,128
3,878

4,408
260
–

359,805

18,100

7,265

385,170

344,484

17,134

7,852

369,470

74,425
1,027
7,370

82,822

442,627
(1,406)

51,556
2,498
934

54,988

73,088
(234)

20,310
437
1,049

21,796

29,061
(519)

146,291
3,962
9,353

159,606

544,776
(2,159)

65,756
1,027
6,625

73,408

417,892
(1,491)

58,010
445
827

59,282

76,416
(262)

20,304
207
1,168

21,679

29,531
(482)

144,070
1,679
8,620

154,369

523,839
(2,235)

Total loans net of allowance for loan losses $ 441,221

$ 72,854

$ 28,542 $ 542,617 $ 416,401

$ 76,154

$ 29,049 $ 521,604

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)

Geographic information is based on residence of borrower.
The credit cards business is managed as a single portfolio and includes both consumer and business cards.
Includes small business exposure managed on a pooled basis.
Includes small business exposure managed on an individual client basis.
Bank refers primarily to regulated deposit-taking institutions and securities firms.
Sovereign refers to all central governments and agencies, central banks, as well as other qualifying public sector entities and multilateral development banks.

154

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Loans maturity and rate sensitivity

Maturity term (1)

Rate sensitivity

As at October 31, 2017

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Retail
Wholesale

Total loans
Allowance for loan losses

Total loans net of allowance for loan losses

Under
1 year (2)

1 to 5
years

Over 5
years

Total

Floating

Fixed
Rate

Non-rate-
sensitive

Total

$ 202,221 $ 165,337 $

123,570

27,907

17,612 $ 385,170
159,606

8,129

$ 112,299 $ 267,124 $

21,202

136,111

5,747 $ 385,170
159,606
2,293

$ 325,791 $ 193,244 $

25,741 $ 544,776
(2,159)

$ 542,617

$ 133,501 $ 403,235 $

8,040 $ 544,776
(2,159)

$ 542,617

Maturity term (1)

Rate sensitivity

As at October 31, 2016

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Retail
Wholesale (3)

Total loans
Allowance for loan losses

Total loans net of allowance for loan losses

Under
1 year (2)

1 to 5
years

Over 5
years

Total

Floating

Fixed
Rate

Non-rate-
sensitive

Total

$ 190,834 $ 161,953 $

121,625

23,721

16,683 $ 369,470
154,369

9,023

$ 116,355 $ 247,021 $

24,223

126,790

6,094 $ 369,470
154,369
3,356

$ 312,459 $ 185,674 $

25,706 $ 523,839
(2,235)

$ 521,604

$ 140,578 $ 373,811 $

9,450 $ 523,839
(2,235)

$ 521,604

(1)
(2)
(3)

Generally, based on the earlier of contractual repricing or maturity date.
Includes variable rate loans that can be repriced at the clients’ discretion without penalty.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Allowance for credit losses

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Retail

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Wholesale
Business
Bank

Acquired credit-impaired loans
Total allowance for loan losses
Allowance for off-balance sheet and other items (1)
Total allowance for credit losses

Individually assessed
Collectively assessed
Total allowance for credit losses

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Retail

Residential mortgages
Personal
Credit cards
Small business

Wholesale
Business
Bank

Acquired credit-impaired loans
Total allowance for loan losses
Allowance for off-balance sheet and other items (1)
Total allowance for credit losses

Individually assessed
Collectively assessed
Total allowance for credit losses

For the year ended October 31, 2017

Balance at
beginning of
period

Provision
for credit

losses Write-offs Recoveries

Unwind of
discount

Exchange
rate changes/
other

Balance
at end
of period

90 $

(53) $

8 $

273 $
529
386
65
1,253

422
427
29
968

(543)
(565)
(38)
(1,199)

979
–
979
3
2,235
91

180
–
180
2
1,150
–
2,326 $ 1,150 $ (1,425) $

(226)
–
(226)
–
(1,425)
–

365 $

86 $

(139) $

1,961
2,326 $ 1,150 $ (1,425) $

(1,286)

1,064

(21) $
(11)
–
(3)
(35)

(69)
–
(69)
–
(104)
–
(104) $

(52) $
(52)
(104) $

– $
(1)
–
(6)
(7)

297
512
379
56
1,244

(18)
–
(18)
(2)
(27)
–

912
–
912
3
2,159
91
(27) $ 2,250

(3) $

304
(24)
1,946
(27) $ 2,250

For the year ended October 31, 2016

Balance at
beginning of
period

Provision
for credit

losses Write-offs Recoveries

Unwind of
discount

Exchange
rate changes/
other

Balance
at end
of period

77 $

(42) $

5 $

242 $
530
386
64
1,222

458
442
34
1,011

(556)
(564)
(40)
(1,202)

805
2
807
–
2,029
91

528
(3)
525
10
1,546
–
2,120 $ 1,546 $ (1,523) $

(321)
–
(321)
–
(1,523)
–

252 $

351 $

(224) $

1,868
2,120 $ 1,546 $ (1,523) $

(1,299)

1,195

(24) $
(14)
–
(3)
(41)

(59)
–
(59)
–
(100)
–
(100) $

(50) $
(50)
(100) $

15 $
–
–
–
15

273
529
386
65
1,253

(12)
979
1
–
(11)
979
(7)
3
(3)
2,235
91
–
(3) $ 2,326

11 $
(14)

365
1,961
(3) $ 2,326

116
131
9
264

66
–
66
–
330
–
330 $

47 $

283
330 $

111
122
10
248

38
–
38
–
286
–
286 $

25 $

261
286 $

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(1)

The allowance for off-balance sheet and other items is reported separately in Other liabilities – Provisions.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

155

Note 5 Loans (continued)

Net interest income after provision for credit losses

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Net interest income
Provision for credit losses

Net interest income after provision for credit losses

Loans past due but not impaired

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$ 17,140 $ 16,531
1,546

1,150

$ 15,990 $ 14,985

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

As at

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

1 to 29 days (1)

30 to 89 days

90 days
and greater

Total 1 to 29 days (1)

30 to 89 days

90 days
and greater

Retail
Wholesale

$

$

3,097
1,251

4,348

$

$

1,337
424

1,761

$

$

307
–

307

$ 4,741
1,675

$ 6,416

$

$

3,450
848

4,298

$

$

1,296
372

1,668

$

$

337
–

337

Total

$ 5,083
1,220

$ 6,303

(1)

Amounts presented may include loans past due as a result of administrative processes, such as mortgage loans on which payments are restrained pending payout due to sale or refinancing.
Past due loans arising from administrative processes are not representative of the borrowers’ ability to meet their payment obligations.

Gross carrying value of loans individually determined to be impaired (1)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Retail (2)
Wholesale (2)
Business
Bank

Acquired credit-impaired loans

Total

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

– $

16

1,126
–
256
1,382 $

2,130
2
418

2,566

(1)
(2)

Average balance of gross individually assessed impaired loans for the year ended October 31, 2017 was $2,065 million (October 31, 2016 – $2,037 million).
Excludes acquired credit-impaired (ACI) loans.

Acquired credit-impaired loans
ACI loans resulting from the acquisition of City National include Retail, Wholesale and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) covered
loans. The following table provides further details of our ACI loans.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

City National
Unpaid principal balance (1)
Credit-related fair value adjustments
Interest rate and other related premium/(discount)

Carrying value
Individually assessed allowance

Carrying value net of related allowance

(1)

Represents contractual amount owed net of write-offs since the acquisition of the loan.

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

245 $
(5)
16

256
(3)
253 $

409
(12)
21

418
(3)

415

FDIC covered loans
FDIC covered loans are loans that, as at the reporting date, are subject to loss-share agreements with the FDIC under which the FDIC reimburses
us for 80% of the net losses incurred on the underlying loan portfolio. As at October 31, 2017, the balance of FDIC covered loans recorded in
Loans on the Consolidated Balance Sheet was $6 million (October 31, 2016 – $374 million). The decrease in FDIC covered loans during the
period was primarily due to the expiry of certain loss-share agreements and loan repayments. As at October 31, 2017, the balances for
indemnification assets and clawback liabilities were $nil and $26 million (October 31, 2016 – $2 million and $26 million), respectively.

Note 6 Derecognition of financial assets

We enter into transactions in which we transfer financial assets such as loans or securities to structured entities or other third parties. The
majority of assets transferred under repurchase agreements, securities lending agreements, and in our Canadian residential mortgage
securitization transactions do not qualify for derecognition as we continue to be exposed to substantially all of the risks and rewards of the
transferred assets, such as prepayment, credit, price, interest rate and foreign exchange risks.

156

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Transferred financial assets not derecognized
Securitization of Canadian residential mortgage loans
We securitize insured Canadian residential mortgage loans through the creation of MBS pools under the National Housing Act MBS (NHA MBS)
program. All loans securitized under the NHA MBS program are required to be insured by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation
(CMHC) or a third-party insurer. We require the borrower to pay the insurance for mortgages in which the loan amount is greater than 80% of the
original appraised value of the property (loan-to-value (LTV) ratio). For residential mortgage loans securitized under this program with an LTV ratio
less than 80%, we are required to insure the mortgages at our own expense. Under the NHA MBS program, we are responsible for making all
payments due on our issued MBS, regardless of whether we collect the necessary funds from the mortgagor or the insurer. When a borrower
defaults on a mortgage payment, we submit a claim to the insurer if the amount recovered from the collection or foreclosure process is lower
than the sum of the principal balance, accrued interest and collection costs on the outstanding loan. The insurance claim process is managed by
the insurance provider in accordance with the insurer’s policies and covers the entire unpaid loan balance plus generally up to 12 months of
interest, selling costs and other eligible expenses. If an insurance claim is denied, a loss is recognized in Provision for credit losses in our
Consolidated Statements of Income. The amount recorded as a loss is not significant to our Consolidated Financial Statements and no significant
losses were incurred due to legal action arising from mortgage default during 2017 and 2016.

We sell the NHA MBS pools primarily to a government-sponsored structured entity under the Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) program. The
entity periodically issues CMBs, which are guaranteed by the government, and sells them to third-party investors. Proceeds of the CMB issuances
are used by the entity to purchase the NHA MBS pools from eligible NHA MBS issuers who participate in the issuance of a particular CMB series.
Our continuing involvement includes servicing the underlying residential mortgage loans we have securitized, either ourselves or through a third-
party servicer. We also act as counterparty in interest rate swap agreements where we pay the entity the interest due to CMB investors and
receive the interest on the underlying MBS and reinvested assets. As part of the swaps, we are also required to maintain a principal reinvestment
account for principal payments received on the underlying mortgage loans to meet the repayment obligation upon maturity of the CMB. We
reinvest the collected principal payments in permitted investments as outlined in the swap agreements.

We have determined that certain of the NHA MBS program loans transferred to the entity do not qualify for derecognition as we have not
transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership. As a result, these transferred MBS continue to be classified as residential
mortgage loans and recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The cash received for these transferred MBS is treated as a secured
borrowing and a corresponding liability is recorded in Deposits – Business and government on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Securities sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned
We also enter into transactions such as repurchase agreements and securities lending agreements where we transfer assets under agreements
to repurchase them at a future date and retain substantially all of the risks and rewards associated with the assets. These transferred assets
remain on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and are accounted for as collateralized borrowing transactions.

The following table provides information on the carrying amount and fair value of the transferred assets that did not qualify for derecognition,
and their associated liabilities.

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Canadian
residential
mortgage
loans (1) (2)

Securities
sold under
repurchase
agreements (3)

Securities
loaned (3)

Total

Canadian
residential
mortgage
loans (1) (2)

Securities
sold under
repurchase
agreements (3)

Securities
loaned (3)

Total

$ 33,948

$

139,249

$

3,835

$ 177,032

$ 33,648

$

100,556

$ 2,885

$ 137,089

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Carrying amount of

transferred assets that
do not qualify for
derecognition
Carrying amount of

associated liabilities

33,861

139,249

3,835

176,945

33,670

100,556

2,885

137,111

Fair value of transferred

assets

$ 33,529

$

139,249

$

3,835

$ 176,613

$ 33,574

$

100,556

$ 2,885

$ 137,015

Fair value of associated

liabilities

34,314

139,249

3,835

177,398

34,730

100,556

2,885

138,171

Fair value of net position $

(785) $

–

$

–

$

(785)

$ (1,156) $

–

$

–

$

(1,156)

(1)

(2)
(3)

Includes Canadian residential mortgage loans transferred primarily to Canada Housing Trust at the initial securitization and other permitted investments used for funding requirements after
the initial securitization.
CMB investors have legal recourse only to the transferred assets, and do not have recourse to our general assets.
Does not include over-collateralization of assets pledged.

Note 7 Structured entities

In the normal course of business, we engage in a variety of financial transactions with structured entities to support our financing and investing
needs as well as those of our customers. A structured entity is an entity in which voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding
control. Structured entities are generally created to achieve a narrow and well defined objective with restrictions around their ongoing activities.
We consolidate a structured entity when we control the entity in accordance with our accounting policy as described in Note 2. In other cases, we
may sponsor or have an interest in such an entity but may not consolidate it.

Consolidated structured entities
We consolidate the following structured entities, whose assets and liabilities are recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Third-party
investors in these structured entities generally have recourse only to the assets of the related entity and do not have recourse to our general
assets unless we breach our contractual obligations to those entities. In the ordinary course of business, the assets of each consolidated
structured entity can generally only be used to settle the obligations of that entity.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

157

Note 7 Structured entities (continued)

RBC-administered multi-seller conduit
We administer multi-seller ABCP conduit programs (multi-seller conduits) which primarily purchase financial assets from clients and finance
those purchases by issuing ABCP.

We generally do not maintain ownership in the multi-seller conduits and generally do not have rights to, or control of, their assets. As the

administrative agent, we earn a residual fee for providing services such as coordinating funding activities, transaction structuring,
documentation, execution and monitoring. We serve as the placement agent for the multi-seller conduits and may purchase ABCP issued by
these conduits from time to time in order to facilitate the overall program liquidity. The ABCP issued by each multi-seller conduit has recourse to
the financial assets owned by each conduit, and is non-recourse to us except through our participation in liquidity and/or credit enhancement
facilities.

In 2017, we began issuing ABCP through a multi-seller conduit administered by us. This conduit is primarily used to purchase financial
assets, in multiple currencies, from clients and finance those purchases by issuing ABCP or borrowing from us. Unlike the other multi-seller
conduits that we administer, this conduit does not have a first loss investor which has substantive power to direct the significant operating
activities of the conduit. This conduit is consolidated because we have exposure to variability of returns from performance in the multi-seller
arrangements through providing transaction-specific and program-wide liquidity, credit and loan facilities to the conduit and have decision-
making power over the relevant activities. We also earn an administration fee for providing administrative services to the conduit. As of
October 31, 2017, $583 million of financial assets held by the conduit was included in Loans and $499 million of ABCP issued by the conduit
was included in Deposits on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. For more information on unconsolidated multi-seller conduit programs, refer to
unconsolidated structured entities below.

Credit card securitization vehicle
We securitize a portion of our credit card receivables through a structured entity on a revolving basis. The entity purchases co-ownership
interests in a pool of credit card receivables and issues senior and subordinated term notes collateralized by that co-ownership interest in the
underlying pool of credit card receivables. Investors who purchase the term notes have recourse only to that co-ownership interest in the
underlying pool of credit card receivables.

We continue to service the credit card receivables and perform an administrative role for the entity. We also retain risk in the underlying pool

of credit card receivables through our retained interest in the transferred assets, the cash reserve balance we fund from time to time, and also
through certain subordinated notes which we retain. Additionally, we may own some senior notes as investments or for market-making activities;
we have provided subordinated loans to the entity to pay upfront expenses; and we act as counterparty to interest rate and cross currency swap
agreements which hedge the entity’s interest rate and currency risk exposure.

We consolidate the structured entity because we have decision making power over the timing and size of future issuances and other
relevant activities which were predetermined by us at inception. We also obtain significant funding benefits and are exposed to variability from
the performance of the underlying credit cards through our retained interest. As at October 31, 2017, $7.5 billion of notes issued by our credit
card securitization vehicle were included in Deposits on our Consolidated Balance Sheets (October 31, 2016 – $9.8 billion).

Collateralized commercial paper vehicle
We established a funding vehicle that provides loans to us and finances those loans by issuing commercial paper to third-party investors. The
structured entity’s commercial paper carries an equivalent credit rating to RBC because we are obligated to advance funds to the entity in the
event there are insufficient funds from other sources to settle maturing commercial paper. We pledge collateral to secure the loans and are
exposed to the market and credit risks of the pledged securities. We administer the entity and earn an administration fee for providing these
services.

We consolidate the structured entity because we have decision making power over the relevant activities, are the sole borrower from the

structure, and are exposed to a majority of the residual ownership risks through the credit support provided. As at October 31, 2017,
$12.2 billion of commercial paper issued by the vehicle was included in Deposits on our Consolidated Balance Sheets (October 31, 2016 –
$9.6 billion).

Innovative capital vehicles
RBC Capital Trust was created to issue innovative capital instruments, the proceeds from which were used to purchase mortgages from RBC. We
consolidate the trust as, through our roles as trustee, administrative agent and equity investor, we have the decision making power over the
relevant activities of the trust and are exposed to variability from the performance of the underlying mortgages. Refer to Note 20 for further
details on our innovative capital instruments.

Covered bonds
We periodically transfer mortgages to RBC Covered Bond Guarantor Limited Partnership (the Guarantor LP) to support funding activities and asset
coverage requirements under our covered bonds program. The Guarantor LP was created to guarantee interest and principal payments under the
covered bond program. The covered bonds guaranteed by the Guarantor LP are direct, unsecured and unconditional obligations of RBC;
therefore, investors have a claim against the Bank which will continue if the covered bonds are not paid by the Bank and the mortgage assets in
the Guarantor LP are insufficient to satisfy the obligations owing on the covered bonds. We act as general partner, limited partner, swap
counterparty, lender and liquidity provider to the Guarantor LP, servicer for the underlying mortgages as well as the registered issuer of the
covered bonds.

We consolidate the Guarantor LP as we have the decision making power over the relevant activities through our role as general partner and
are exposed to variability from the performance of the underlying mortgages. As at October 31, 2017, the total amount of mortgages transferred
and outstanding was $52.5 billion (October 31, 2016 – $53.8 billion) and $37.3 billion of covered bonds were recorded as Deposits on our
Consolidated Balance Sheets (October 31, 2016 – $40.5 billion).

Municipal bond TOB structures
We sell taxable and tax-exempt municipal bonds into Tender Option Bond (TOB) structures, which consist of a credit enhancement (CE) trust and
a TOB trust. The CE trust purchases a bond from us, financed with a trust certificate issued to the TOB trust. The TOB trust then issues floating-rate
certificates to short-term investors and a residual certificate that is held by us. We are the remarketing agent for the floating-rate certificates and
provide a liquidity facility to the TOB trust which require us to purchase any certificates tendered but not successfully remarketed. We also provide

158

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

a letter of credit to the CE trust under which we are required to extend funding if there are any losses on the underlying bonds. We earn interest on
the residual certificate and receive market-based fees for acting as remarketing agent and providing the liquidity facility and letter of credit.

We consolidate both the CE trust and TOB trust when we are the holder of the residual certificate as we have decision making power over
the relevant activities, including the selection of the underlying municipal bonds and the ability to terminate the structure, and are exposed to
variability from the performance of the underlying municipal bonds. As at October 31, 2017, $5.2 billion of municipal bonds were included in
AFS securities related to consolidated TOB structures (October 31, 2016 - $2.5 billion) and a corresponding $5.2 billion of floating-rate
certificates were included in Deposits on our Consolidated Balance Sheets (October 31, 2016 – $2.5 billion).

Non-RBC managed investment funds
We enter into certain fee-based equity derivative transactions where our investments in the reference funds are held by an intermediate limited
partnership entity (intermediate entity) in which we hold a substantial majority of the equity interests. We consolidate the intermediate entity
because we have decision making power to direct all the activities of the entity and are exposed to a majority of the risks and rewards through
our equity investments. As at October 31, 2017, $68 million of Trading securities representing our investments in the reference funds were
recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets (October 31, 2016 – $179 million).

RBC managed investment funds
We are sponsors and investment managers of mutual and pooled funds, which give us the ability to direct the investment decisions of the funds.
We consolidate those mutual and pooled funds in which our interests, which include direct investment in seed capital plus management or
performance fees, indicate that we are acting as a principal. As at October 31, 2017, $473 million of Trading securities held in the consolidated
funds (October 31, 2016 - $498 million) and $148 million of Other liabilities representing the fund units held by third parties (October 31,
2016 – $126 million) were recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Unconsolidated structured entities
We have interests in certain structured entities that we do not consolidate but have recorded assets and liabilities on our Consolidated Balance
Sheets related to our transactions and involvement with these entities.

The following table presents the assets and liabilities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and our maximum exposure to loss

related to our interests in unconsolidated structured entities. It also presents the size of each class of unconsolidated structured entity, as
measured by the total assets of the entities in which we have an interest.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
On-balance sheet assets

Securities
Loans
Derivatives
Other assets

On-balance sheet liabilities

Derivatives
Other liabilities

Maximum exposure to loss (4)

$
Total assets of unconsolidated structured entities $

Multi-seller
conduits (1) (2)

Structured
finance

As at October 31, 2017

Non-RBC
managed
investment
funds

RBC
managed
investment
funds

Third-party
securitization
vehicles (3)

Other

Total

$

$

$

$

1,028 $
371
17
–

– $

1,078
–
443

2,903 $
–
–
–

162 $
–
–
177

– $

3,246
–
–

707
750
32
77

1,416 $ 1,521 $

2,903 $

339 $

3,246 $ 1,566

41 $
–

41 $

– $
–

– $

– $
–

– $

– $
–

– $

– $
–

– $

–
–

–

38,639 $ 4,280 $

3,153 $

367 $

6,767 $ 2,062

$

$

$

$

$

4,800
5,445
49
697

10,991

41
–

41

55,268

37,871 $ 16,778 $ 533,219 $ 329,907 $ 62,411 $ 79,655

$ 1,059,841

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
On-balance sheet assets

Securities
Loans
Derivatives
Other assets

On-balance sheet liabilities

Derivatives
Other liabilities

Maximum exposure to loss (4)

Multi-seller
conduits (1) (2)

Structured
finance

As at October 31, 2016

Non-RBC
managed
investment
funds

RBC
managed
investment
funds

Third-party
securitization
vehicles

Other

Total

$

$

$

$

$

675 $
733
11
–

– $

1,179
–
549

2,543 $
–
–
3

213 $
–
–
156

– $

4,359
3
–

1,419 $ 1,728 $

2,546 $

369 $

4,362 $

68 $
–

68 $

– $
–

– $

– $

27

27 $

– $
–

– $

– $
–

– $

777
–
21
75

873

3
1

4

39,475 $ 4,725 $

3,378 $

370 $

8,998 $ 1,301

$

$

$

$

$

4,208
6,271
35
783

11,297

71
28

99

58,247

Total assets of unconsolidated structured entities $

38,703 $ 20,650 $ 587,125 $ 308,683 $ 113,627 $ 63,792

$ 1,132,580

(1)

(2)
(3)
(4)

Total assets of unconsolidated structured entities represent the maximum assets that may have to be purchased by the conduits under purchase commitments outstanding. Of the purchase
commitments outstanding, the conduits have purchased financial assets totalling $25.2 billion as at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $24.6 billion).
Securities include $1 billion of asset-backed commercial paper (ABCP) purchased pursuant to the Risk Retention Rules (October 31, 2016 – $670 million).
Excludes on-balance sheet assets which are held by our consolidated structured entities.
The maximum exposure to loss resulting from our interests in these entities consists mostly of investments, loans, fair value of derivatives, liquidity and credit enhancement facilities. The
maximum exposure to loss of the multi-seller conduits is higher than the on-balance sheet assets primarily because of the notional amounts of the backstop liquidity and credit enhancement
facilities. Refer to Note 25.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

159

Note 7 Structured entities (continued)

Below is a description of our involvement with each significant class of unconsolidated structured entity.

Multi-seller conduits
We administer multi-seller ABCP conduit programs. Multi-seller conduits primarily purchase financial assets from clients and finance those
purchases by issuing ABCP.

In certain multi-seller conduit arrangements, we do not maintain any ownership of the multi-seller conduits that we administer and have no

rights to, or control of, its assets. As the administrative agent, we earn a residual fee for providing services such as coordinating funding
activities, transaction structuring, documentation, execution and monitoring. The ABCP issued by each multi-seller conduit is in the conduit’s
own name with recourse to the financial assets owned by the multi-seller conduit, and is non-recourse to us except through our participation in
liquidity and/or credit enhancement facilities.

In October 2014, the U.S. federal regulators adopted regulations related to the credit risk retention requirements for asset-backed securities
(Risk Retention Rules) of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Risk Retention Rules went into effect in December 2016. We purchase ABCP from the U.S. multi-
seller conduits to comply with this requirement. We continue to serve as a placement agent for the multi-seller conduits and may purchase ABCP
issued by these conduits from time to time in order to facilitate the overall program liquidity.

We provide transaction-specific and program-wide liquidity facilities to the multi-seller conduits. In addition, we provide program-wide
credit enhancement to the multi-seller conduits which obligate us to purchase assets or advance funds in the event the multi-seller conduit does
not otherwise have funds from other sources, such as from the liquidity facilities, to settle maturing ABCP. In some cases, we or another third
party may provide transaction-specific credit enhancement which can take various forms. We receive market-based fees for providing these
liquidity and credit facilities.

For certain transactions, we act as counterparty to foreign exchange forward contracts and interest rate swaps to facilitate our clients’
securitization of fixed rate and/or foreign currency denominated assets through the conduits. These derivatives expose us to foreign exchange
and interest rate risks that are centrally managed by our foreign exchange trading and swap desks, respectively, and credit risk on the underlying
assets that is mitigated by the credit enhancement described below.

Each transaction is structured with transaction-specific first loss protection provided by the third-party seller. This enhancement can take

various forms, including but not limited to overcollateralization, excess spread, subordinated classes of financial assets, guarantees or letters of
credit. The amount of this enhancement varies but is generally sized to cover a multiple of loss experience.

An unrelated third party (expected loss investor) absorbs losses, up to a maximum contractual amount, that may occur in the future on the
assets in the multi-seller conduits 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 commensurate with its risk position. The expected loss investor has
substantive power to direct the majority of the activities which significantly impact the conduit’s economic performance, including initial
selection and approval of the asset purchase commitments and liquidity facilities, approval of renewal and amendment of these transactions
and facilities, sale or transfer of assets, ongoing monitoring of asset performance, mitigation of losses, and management of the ABCP liabilities.

We do not consolidate these multi-seller conduits as we do not control the conduit as noted above.

Structured finance
We purchased U.S. ARS from certain trusts (U.S. ARS Trusts) which fund their long-term investments in student loans by issuing short-term senior
and subordinated notes. We are subject to losses on these U.S. ARS Trusts if defaults are experienced on the underlying student loans; however,
in the majority of these structures, the principal and accrued interest on the student loans are guaranteed by U.S. government agencies. We act
as auction agent for some of these entities but have no legal obligation to purchase the notes issued by these entities in the auction process. We
do not consolidate these U.S. ARS Trusts as we do not have decision making power over the investing and financing activities of the Trusts,
which are the activities that most significantly affect the performance of the Trusts.

Additionally, we invest in certain municipal bond TOB structures that we do not consolidate. These structures are similar to those

consolidated municipal bond TOB structures described above; however, the residual certificates are held by third-parties. We provide liquidity
facilities on the floating-rate certificates which may be drawn if certificates are tendered but not able to be remarketed. We do not have decision
making power over the relevant activities of the structures; therefore, we do not consolidate these structures. The assets transferred into these
programs are derecognized from our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

We provide senior warehouse financing to structured entities that are established by third parties to acquire loans for the purposes of
issuing a term collateralized loan obligation (CLO) transaction. Subordinated financing is provided during the warehouse phase by one or more
third-party equity investors. We act as the arranger and placement agent for the term CLO transaction. Proceeds from the sale of the term CLO are
used to repay our senior warehouse financing, at which point we have no further involvement with the transaction. We do not consolidate these
CLO structures as we do not have decision making power over the relevant activities of the entity, which include the initial selection and
subsequent management of the underlying debt portfolio.

Non-RBC managed investment funds
We enter into fee-based equity derivative transactions with third parties including mutual funds, unit investment trusts and other investment
funds. These transactions provide their investors with the desired exposure to a reference fund, and we economically hedge our exposure to
these derivatives by investing in those reference funds. We also act as custodian or administrator for several funds. We do not consolidate those
reference funds that are managed by third parties as we do not have power to direct their investing activities.

We provide liquidity facilities to certain third-party investment funds. The funds issue unsecured variable-rate preferred shares and invest in

portfolios of tax-exempt municipal bonds. Undrawn liquidity commitments expose us to the liquidity risk of the preferred shares and drawn
commitments expose us to the credit risk of the underlying municipal bonds. We do not consolidate these third-party managed funds as we do
not have power to direct their investing activities.

RBC managed investment funds
We are sponsors and investment managers of mutual and pooled funds, which gives us the ability to direct the investment decisions of the
funds. We do not consolidate those mutual and pooled funds if we exercise our decision making power as an agent on behalf of other unit
holders.

160

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Third-party securitization vehicles
We hold interests in securitization vehicles that provide funding to certain third parties on whose behalf the entities were created. The activities
of these entities are limited to the purchase and sale of specified assets from the sponsor and the issuance of asset-backed notes collateralized
by those assets. The underlying assets are typically receivables, including auto loans and leases. We, as well as other financial institutions, are
obligated to provide funding up to our maximum commitment level and are exposed to credit losses on the underlying assets after various credit
enhancements. Enhancements can take various forms, including but not limited to overcollateralization, excess spread, subordinated classes of
financial assets, guarantees or letters of credit. The amount of this enhancement varies but is generally sized to cover a multiple of loss
experience. We do not consolidate these entities as we do not have decision making power over the relevant activities, including the entities’
investing and financing activities.

Other
Other structured entities include credit investment products and tax credit funds.

We use structured entities 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, including credit derivatives, to purchase protection
from these entities (credit protection) and convert various risk factors such as yield, currency or credit risk of underlying assets to meet the needs
of the investors. We act as sole arranger and swap provider for certain entities and, in some cases, fulfill other administrative functions for the
entities. We do not consolidate these credit investment product entities as we do not have decision making power over the relevant activities,
which include selection of the collateral and reference portfolio, and are not exposed to a majority of the benefits or risks of the entities.

We created certain funds to pass through tax credits received from underlying low-income housing, historic rehabilitation real estate
projects to third parties, or new market tax credits (tax credit funds). We are sponsors of the tax credit funds as a result of our responsibility to
manage the funds, arrange the financing, and perform the administrative duties of these tax credit funds. We do not consolidate the tax credit
funds as the third-party investors in these funds have the decision making power to select the underlying investments and are exposed to the
majority of the residual ownership and tax risks of the funds.

We also purchase passive interests in renewable energy tax credit entities created and controlled by third parties. We do not consolidate

these third party funds as we do not have decision making power over the relevant activities and our investments are managed as part of larger
portfolios which are held for trading purposes.

Other interests in unconsolidated structured entities
In the normal course of business, we buy and sell passive interests in certain third-party structured entities, including mutual funds, exchange
traded funds, and government-sponsored asset backed securities vehicles. Our investments in these entities are managed as part of larger
portfolios which are held for trading, liquidity or hedging purposes. We did not create or sponsor these entities and do not have any decision
making power over their ongoing activities. Our maximum exposure to loss is limited to our on-balance sheet investments in these entities,
which are not included in the table above. As at October 31, 2017, $63.3 billion (October 31, 2016 – $50.8 billion) of investments in these
entities were included in Trading and AFS securities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. Refer to Note 3 and Note 4 for further details on our
investment securities.

Sponsored entities
We are a sponsor of certain structured entities in which we have interests but do not consolidate. In determining whether we are a sponsor of a
structured entity, we consider both qualitative and quantitative factors, including the purpose and nature of the entity, our initial and continuing
involvement and whether we hold subordinated interests in the entity. We are considered to be the sponsor of certain credit investment
products, tax credit entities, RBC managed mutual funds and a commercial mortgage securitization vehicle. During the year ended October 31,
2017, we transferred commercial mortgages with a carrying amount of $407 million (October 31, 2016 – $660 million) to a sponsored
securitization vehicle in which we did not have any interests as at the end of the reporting period.

Financial support provided to structured entities
During the years ended October 31, 2017 and 2016, we have not provided any financial or non-financial support to any consolidated or
unconsolidated structured entities when we were not contractually obligated to do so. Furthermore, we have no intention to provide such support
in the future.

Note 8 Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities

Derivative instruments are categorized as either financial or non-financial derivatives. Financial derivatives are financial contracts whose value is
derived from an underlying interest rate, foreign exchange rate, credit risk, and equity or equity index. Non-financial derivatives are contracts
whose value is derived from a precious metal, commodity instrument or index. The notional amount of derivatives represents the contract
amount used as a reference point to calculate payments. Notional amounts are generally not exchanged by counterparties, and do not reflect our
exposure at default.

Financial derivatives
Forwards and futures
Forward contracts are non-standardized agreements that are transacted between counterparties in the OTC market, whereas futures are
standardized contracts with respect to amounts and settlement dates, and are traded on regular futures 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 settlement

at a predetermined future date.

Equity forwards and futures are contractual obligations to buy or sell at a fixed value (the specified price) of an equity index, a basket of

stocks or a single stock at a predetermined future date.

Swaps
Swaps are OTC contracts in which two counterparties exchange a series of cash flows based on agreed upon rates applied to a notional amount.
Examples of swap agreements are described below.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

161

Note 8 Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities (continued)

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 notional 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.

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 specified price, at or by a
predetermined 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 but are not
limited to interest rate options, foreign currency options, equity options and index options.

Credit derivatives
Credit derivatives are OTC contracts that transfer credit risk related to an underlying financial instrument (referenced asset) from one
counterparty to another. Credit derivatives include credit default swaps, credit default baskets and total return swaps.

Credit default swaps provide protection against the decline in the value of the referenced asset as a result of specified credit events such as
default or bankruptcy. They are similar in structure to an option, whereby the purchaser pays a premium to the seller of the credit default swap in
return for payment contingent on a credit event affecting 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 amounts based on changes in the

value of a referenced asset or group of assets, including any returns such as interest earned on these assets, in exchange for amounts that are
based on prevailing market funding rates.

Other derivative products
Other contracts are stable value and equity derivative contracts.

Non-financial derivatives
Other contracts also include non-financial derivative products such as precious metal and commodity derivative contracts in both the OTC and
exchange markets.

Derivatives issued for trading purposes
Most of our derivative transactions relate to client-driven sales and trading activities, and associated market risk hedging. Sales activities
include the structuring and marketing of derivative products to clients, enabling them to modify or reduce 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 the active management of derivative transactions with the expectation of
profiting from favourable movements in prices, rates, or indices. Arbitrage activities involve identifying and profiting from price differentials
between markets and product types. Any realized and unrealized gains or losses on derivatives used for trading purposes are recognized
immediately in Non-interest income – Trading revenue.

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, equity
and foreign exchange risk related to our funding, lending, investment activities and asset/liability management.

Interest rate swaps are used to manage our exposure to interest rate risk by modifying the repricing or maturity characteristics of existing

and/or forecasted assets and liabilities, including funding and investment activities. Purchased 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 predominantly use credit derivatives to manage our credit exposures. We mitigate industry sector concentrations
and single-name exposures related to our credit portfolio by purchasing credit derivatives to transfer credit risk to third parties.

Certain derivatives and cash instruments are specifically designated and qualify for hedge accounting. We apply hedge accounting to
minimize volatility in earnings and capital caused by changes in interest rates or foreign exchange rates. Interest rate and currency fluctuations
will either cause assets and liabilities to appreciate or depreciate in market value or cause variability in forecasted cash flows. When a hedging
relationship is effective, gains, losses, revenue and expenses of the hedging instrument will offset the gains, losses, revenue and expenses of
the hedged item. We assess and measure the effectiveness of a hedging relationship based on the change in the fair value or cash flows of the
derivative hedging instrument relative to the change in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk. When cash
instruments are designated as hedges of foreign exchange risks, only changes in their value due to foreign exchange risk are included in the
assessment and measurement of hedge effectiveness.

From time to time, we also enter into derivative transactions to economically hedge certain exposures that do not otherwise qualify for
hedge accounting, or where hedge accounting is not considered economically feasible to implement. In such circumstances, changes in fair
value are reflected in Non-interest income.

Before- and after-tax unrealized gain relating to de-designated hedges of $67 million and $49 million, respectively (October 31, 2016 –
unrealized losses of $95 million and $70 million, respectively) included in Other components of equity as at October 31, 2017, are expected to
be reclassified to Net interest income within the next 12 months.

162

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The following table presents the fair values of the derivative and non-derivative instruments categorized by their hedging relationships, as

well as derivatives that are not designated in hedging relationships.

Derivatives and non-derivative instruments

October 31, 2017
Designated as hedging instruments
in hedging relationships

As at

October 31, 2016
Designated as hedging instruments
in hedging relationships

Fair value
hedges

Cash flow
hedges

Net
investment
hedges

Not designated
in a hedging
relationship

Fair value
hedges

Cash flow
hedges

Net
investment
hedges

Not designated
in a hedging
relationship

$

736 $

482 $

41 $

93,764 $ 1,686 $

546 $

183 $ 116,529

740
–

499
–

246
19,950

90,642
n.a.

430
–

1,266
–

113
19,982

114,741
n.a.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Assets

Derivative instruments

Liabilities

Derivative instruments
Non-derivative instruments

n.a.

not applicable

Results of hedge activities recorded in Net income and Other comprehensive income

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Fair value hedges

Gains (losses) on hedging instruments (1)
Gains (losses) on hedged items attributable to the hedged risk (1)
Ineffective portion (1) (2)

Cash flow hedges

Ineffective portion (1)
Effective portion (3)
Reclassified to income during the period (4)

Net investment hedges
Ineffective portion (1)
Foreign currency gains (losses) (3)
Gains (losses) from hedges (3)

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

(1,076) $
991
(85)

(1)
622
95

–
(1,570)
438

(235)
135
(100)

1
(35)
(71)

–
147
113

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

Amounts are recorded in Non-interest income.
Amounts include losses of $82 million (October 31, 2016 – $97 million) that are excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and are offset by economic hedges.
Amounts are included in OCI, net of taxes.
After-tax gains of $70 million were reclassified from Other components of equity to Net-interest income during the year ended October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $52 million after-tax
losses).

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

163

Note 8 Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities (continued)

Notional amount of derivatives by term to maturity (absolute amounts)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
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

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

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
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

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

As at October 31, 2017

Within
1 year

Term to maturity

1 to
5 years

Over 5
years (1)

Total

Trading

Other than
Trading

$ 1,156,843
2,570,180
77,953
61,765

$

31,989
3,450,280
124,083
106,887

$

–
2,331,289
59,435
63,685

$ 1,188,832
8,351,749
261,471
232,337

$ 1,188,832
7,854,309
261,471
232,337

$

–
497,440
–
–

1,326,223
80,436
281,590
55,851
55,922
1,975
56,166

33,195
35,726
8,274
10,872

83
291
198,360

33,543
35,662
551,576
13,913
9,187
7,686
49,652

19,688
23,478
695
317

–
142
44,858

623
39,440
268,119
3,386
2,829
3,814
19,241

55
9
–
–

–
–
528

1,360,389
155,538
1,101,285
73,150
67,938
13,475
125,059

52,938
59,213
8,969
11,189

83
433
243,746

1,343,196
149,254
1,048,891
73,150
67,938
13,330
120,737

52,938
59,213
8,969
11,189

83
433
243,607

17,193
6,284
52,394
–
–
145
4,322

–
–
–
–

–
–
139

$ 6,011,705

$ 4,503,636

$ 2,792,453

$ 13,307,794

$ 12,729,877

$ 577,917

As at October 31, 2016

Within
1 year

Term to maturity

1 to
5 years

Over 5
years (1)

$

522,944
1,991,365
114,519
97,283

$

9,121
3,485,607
161,584
182,233

$

–
2,285,420
70,160
71,503

$

1,288,656
8,869
272,029
28,601
28,676
1,581
58,863

26,076
35,269
18,196
10,978

312
423
178,615

44,980
34,931
544,195
16,538
14,723
10,314
59,133

14,496
19,551
165
–

–
3
55,820

939
30,866
251,371
4,619
4,924
4,306
22,355

3
–
–
–

–
–
617

Total

Trading

532,065
7,762,392
346,263
351,019

1,334,575
74,666
1,067,595
49,758
48,323
16,201
140,351

40,575
54,820
18,361
10,978

312
426
235,052

$

532,065
7,464,144
346,263
351,019

1,314,103
69,626
1,013,958
49,758
48,323
15,842
136,205

40,575
54,820
18,361
10,978

312
426
235,052

Other than
Trading

$

–
298,248
–
–

20,472
5,040
53,637
–
–
359
4,146

–
–
–
–

–
–
–

(1)

(2)

Includes contracts maturing in over 10 years with a notional value of $899 billion (October 31, 2016 – $883 billion). The related gross positive replacement cost is $58 billion (October 31,
2016 – $79 billion).
Credit derivatives with a notional value of $0.1 billion (October 31, 2016 – $0.4 billion) are economic hedges. Trading credit derivatives comprise protection purchased of $8.5 billion
(October 31, 2016 – $10.1 billion) and protection sold of $4.8 billion (October 31, 2016 – $5.7 billion).

$ 4,683,255

$ 4,653,394

$ 2,747,083

$ 12,083,732

$ 11,701,830

$ 381,902

164

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The following tables indicate the periods when the cash flows from hedged items are expected to affect profit or loss for cash flow hedges.

As at October 31, 2017

Within 1 year
938
$
(1,070)

1 to 2 years
243
$
(939)

2 to 3 years
151
$
(3,501)

3 to 5 years
59
$
(476)

Over 5 years
98
$
(71)

Total
$ 1,489
(6,057)

$

(132)

$

(696)

$

(3,350)

$

(417)

$

27

$ (4,568)

As at October 31, 2016

Within 1 year
192
$
(387)

1 to 2 years
175
$
(789)

2 to 3 years
122
$
(559)

3 to 5 years
90
$
(3,136)

Over 5 years
39
$
(77)

$

Total
618
(4,948)

$

(195)

$

(614)

$

(437)

$

(3,046)

$

(38)

$ (4,330)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cash inflows from assets
Cash outflows from liabilities

Net cash flows

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cash inflows from assets
Cash outflows from liabilities

Net cash flows

Fair value of derivative instruments

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
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

Credit derivatives
Other contracts

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

Credit derivatives
Other contracts

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Positive

Negative

Positive

Negative

$

324 $

101,481
3,108
–

104,913

13,643
4,229
21,740
1,324
–

40,936

157
13,775

319
96,408
–
3,696

100,423

14,562
3,438
19,054
–
1,217

38,271

246
17,183

$

267 $

146,464
4,455
–

151,186

18,565
5,423
27,499
2,084
–

53,571

191
6,662

244
138,742
–
5,601

144,587

18,853
4,438
29,165
–
1,857

54,313

242
8,994

159,781

156,123

211,610

208,136

1,612
–
–

1,612

246
207
1,545

1,998

–
184

1,177
–
–

1,177

250
318
1,700

2,268

12
184

2,588
–
–

2,588

257
314
2,636

3,207

–
113

1,471
–
–

1,471

338
542
2,286

3,166

21
113

3,794

3,641

5,908

4,771

163,575
(725)
(67,827)

159,764
68
(67,705)

217,518
(1,432)
(97,142)

212,907
(126)
(96,231)

95,023

92,127

118,944

116,550

Total gross fair values before:

Valuation adjustments determined on a pooled basis
Impact of netting agreements that qualify for balance sheet offset

Impact of netting agreements that do not qualify for balance sheet offset (1)

(58,804)

(58,804)

(79,296)

(79,296)

$ 36,219 $ 33,323

$ 39,648 $ 37,254

(1)

Additional impact of offsetting credit exposures on contracts that do not qualify for balance sheet offset.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

165

Note 8 Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities (continued)

Fair value of derivative instruments by term to maturity

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

As at

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities

Less than
1 year

1 to
5 years

Over
5 years

Total
$ 26,292 $ 28,810 $ 39,921 $ 95,023
92,127

26,334

26,414

39,379

Less than
1 year

1 to
5 years

Total
$ 30,475 $ 39,357 $ 49,112 $ 118,944
116,550

39,507

30,962

46,081

Over
5 years

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 transactions to the same credit approval, limit and monitoring standards that we use for managing other

transactions that create credit exposure. This includes evaluating 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 use 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.

Offsetting is a technique that can reduce credit exposure from derivatives and is generally facilitated through the use of master netting
agreements and achieved when specific criteria are met in accordance with our accounting policy in Note 2. A 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. 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.

Mark-to-market provisions in our agreements with some counterparties, typically in the form of a Credit Support Annex, provide us with the right
to request that the counterparty pay down or collateralize the current market value of its derivatives positions when the value passes a specified
threshold amount.

Replacement cost represents the total fair value of all outstanding contracts in a gain position after factoring in the master netting
agreements. The credit equivalent amount is defined as the sum of the replacement cost plus an add-on amount for potential future credit
exposure as defined by OSFI. The risk-weighted amount is determined by applying the standard OSFI defined measures of counterparty risk to
the credit equivalent amount.

Derivative-related credit risk

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Over-the-counter contracts
Interest rate contracts

Forward rate agreements
Swaps
Options purchased

Foreign exchange contracts

Forward contracts
Swaps
Options purchased

Credit derivatives (4)
Other contracts

Exchange-traded contracts

October 31, 2017 (1)

October 31, 2016 (1)

Replacement
cost

Credit
equivalent
amount (2)

Risk-weighted
equivalent (3)

Replacement
cost

Credit
equivalent
amount (2)

Risk-weighted
equivalent (3)

As at

$

$

264
10,890
283

5,421
10,476
360
109
7,750
1,391

$

328
24,318
883

11,555
12,643
1,125
936
6,332
8,340

$

59
4,187
527

3,634
4,498
472
149
2,945
167

$

232
15,118
334

6,914
13,763
416
31
1,409
2,933

$

250
27,214
1,092

12,952
12,492
1,045
920
6,188
11,756

53
5,429
662

3,896
3,790
456
188
3,463
235

$

36,944

$

66,460

$

16,638

$

41,150

$

73,909

$

18,172

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

The amounts presented are net of master netting agreements in accordance with Basel III.
The total credit equivalent amount includes collateral applied of $18 billion (October 31, 2016 – $21 billion).
The risk-weighted balances are calculated in accordance with Basel III.
Excludes credit derivatives issued for other-than-trading purposes related to bought protection.

166

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Replacement cost of derivative instruments by risk rating and by counterparty type

Risk rating (1)

Counterparty type (2)

As at October 31, 2017

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Gross positive replacement cost
Impact of master netting

agreements

Replacement cost (after netting

agreements)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Gross positive replacement cost
Impact of master netting

AAA, AA

Total
$ 26,707 $ 108,320 $ 19,672 $ 8,876 $ 163,575 $ 45,723 $ 18,694 $ 99,158 $ 163,575

Banks

Other

Total

BBB

A

BB or
lower

OECD
governments

14,468

98,605

10,167

3,391

126,631

38,508

8,342

79,781

126,631

$ 12,239 $

9,715 $ 9,505 $ 5,485 $ 36,944 $ 7,215 $ 10,352 $ 19,377 $ 36,944

Risk rating (1)

Counterparty type (2)

As at October 31, 2016

AAA, AA

Total
$ 37,119 $ 151,992 $ 20,634 $ 7,773 $ 217,518 $ 62,112 $ 21,824 $ 133,582 $ 217,518

Banks

Other

Total

BBB

A

BB or
lower

OECD
governments

agreements

20,704

139,912

14,255

1,567

176,438

52,535

9,494

114,409

176,438

Replacement cost (after netting

agreements)

$ 16,415 $ 12,080 $ 6,379 $ 6,206 $ 41,080 $ 9,577 $ 12,330 $ 19,173 $ 41,080

(1)

(2)

Our internal risk ratings for major counterparty types approximate those of public ratings 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 OSFI.

Note 9 Premises and equipment

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cost
Balance at October 31, 2016
Additions (1)
Acquisitions through business combination
Transfers from work in process
Disposals
Foreign exchange translation
Other
Balance at October 31, 2017
Accumulated depreciation
Balance at October 31, 2016
Depreciation
Disposals
Foreign exchange translation
Other
Balance at October 31, 2017
Net carrying amount at October 31, 2017

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cost
Balance at October 31, 2015
Additions (1)
Acquisitions through business combination
Transfers from work in process
Disposals
Foreign exchange translation
Other
Balance at October 31, 2016
Accumulated depreciation
Balance at October 31, 2015
Depreciation
Disposals
Foreign exchange translation
Other
Balance at October 31, 2016
Net carrying amount at October 31, 2016

Land

Buildings

Computer
equipment

Furniture,
fixtures
and other
equipment

Leasehold
improvements

Work in
process

$ 171
–
–
–
(9)
(4)
(1)
$ 157

$

–
–
–
–
–
$
–
$ 157

$

$

$

$
$

1,379
1
–
7
(23)
(9)
8
1,363

570
74
(15)
(2)
(19)
608
755

$

$

$

$
$

1,686
211
–
43
(90)
(11)
36
1,875

1,209
229
(89)
(8)
26
1,367
508

$

$

$

$
$

1,352
25
–
37
(47)
(7)
(46)
1,314

961
111
(44)
(3)
(41)
984
330

$

$

$

$
$

2,566
43
–
96
(68)
(18)
(33)
2,586

1,710
186
(61)
(12)
(4)
1,819
767

Land

Buildings

Computer
equipment

Furniture,
fixtures
and other
equipment

Leasehold
improvements

$

$

$

$
$

123
–
52
–
(3)
–
(1)
171

–
–
–
–
–
–
171

$

$

$

$
$

1,294
1
94
14
(15)
1
(10)
1,379

534
48
(4)
(1)
(7)
570
809

$

$

$

$
$

1,508
156
55
83
(38)
(17)
(61)
1,686

1,070
219
(38)
(13)
(29)
1,209
477

$

$

$

$
$

1,292
35
2
40
(47)
(4)
34
1,352

875
126
(40)
(8)
8
961
391

$

$

$

$
$

2,464
46
63
137
(111)
(8)
(25)
2,566

1,642
180
(107)
(7)
2
1,710
856

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

132 $
226
–
(183)
–
–
(22)
153 $

– $
–
–
–
–
– $
153 $

Work in
process

168 $
249
51
(274)
–
(1)
(61)
132 $

– $
–
–
–
–
– $
132 $

Total

7,286
506
–
–
(237)
(49)
(58)
7,448

4,450
600
(209)
(25)
(38)
4,778
2,670

Total

6,849
487
317
–
(214)
(29)
(124)
7,286

4,121
573
(189)
(29)
(26)
4,450
2,836

(1)

As at October 31, 2017, we had total contractual commitments of $268 million to acquire premises and equipment (October 31, 2016 – $301 million).

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

167

Note 10 Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill
The following table presents changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by CGU for the years ended October 31, 2017 and 2016.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
At October 31, 2015
Acquisition
Dispositions
Currency translations

At October 31, 2016
Acquisition
Dispositions
Currency translations

Canadian
Banking

Caribbean
Banking

Canadian
Wealth
Management

Global Asset
Management

U.S. Wealth
Management
(including
City National)

International
Wealth
Management

Investor &
Treasury
Services

Capital
Markets

Insurance

$ 2,527 $ 1,820 $

–
–
–

–
–
(49)

$ 2,527 $ 1,771 $

–
–
–

–
–
(77)

579 $
–
–
3

582 $
–
–
(6)

2,219 $
–
–
(256)

1,963 $
–
–
43

673 $

2,113
–
68

2,854 $
–
(2)
(107)

142 $
–
–
(27)

115 $
–
–
5

118 $
–
(6)
–

112 $
–
–
–

149 $ 1,062 $

–
(1)
–

–
–
22

Total
9,289
2,113
(7)
(239)

148 $ 1,084 $ 11,156
–
–
(2)
–
(177)
(35)

–
–
–

At October 31, 2017

$ 2,527 $ 1,694 $

576 $

2,006 $

2,745 $

120 $

112 $

148 $ 1,049 $ 10,977

We perform our annual impairment test by comparing the carrying amount of each CGU to its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount of a
CGU is represented by its value in use, except in circumstances where the carrying amount of a CGU exceeds its value in use. In such cases, we
determine the CGU’s fair value less costs of disposal and its recoverable amount is the greater of its value in use and fair value less costs of
disposal. Our annual impairment test is performed as at August 1.

In our 2017 and 2016 annual impairment tests, the recoverable amounts of our Caribbean Banking and International Wealth Management

CGUs were based on fair value less costs of disposal. The recoverable amounts of all other CGUs tested were based on value in use.

Value in use
We calculate value in use using a five-year discounted cash flow method, with the exception of our U.S. Wealth Management (including City
National) CGU where cash flow projections covering a ten-year period were used, which more closely aligns with the strategic growth plan
resulting from the acquisition of City National. Future cash flows are based on financial plans agreed by management, estimated based on
forecast results, business initiatives, capital required to support future cash flows and returns to shareholders. Key drivers of future cash flows
include net interest margins and average interest-earning assets. The values assigned to these drivers over the forecast period are based on past
experience, external and internal economic forecasts, and management’s expectations of the impact of economic conditions on our financial
results. Beyond the initial cash flow projection period, cash flows are assumed to increase at a constant rate using a nominal long-term growth
rate (terminal growth rate). Terminal growth rates are based on the current market assessment of gross domestic product and inflation for the
countries within which the CGU operates. The discount rates used to determine the present value of each CGU’s projected future cash flows are
based on the bank-wide cost of capital, adjusted for the risks to which each CGU is exposed. CGU-specific risks include: country risk, business/
operational risk, geographic risk (including political risk, devaluation risk, and government regulation), currency risk, and price risk (including
product pricing risk and inflation).

The estimation of value in use involves significant judgment in the determination of inputs to the discounted cash flow model and is most
sensitive to changes in future cash flows, discount rates and terminal growth rates applied to cash flows beyond the forecast period. These key
inputs and assumptions used to determine the recoverable amount of each CGU using value in use were tested for sensitivity by applying a
reasonably possible change to those assumptions. The post-tax discount rates were increased by 1%, terminal growth rates were decreased by
1%, and future cash flows were reduced by 10%. As at August 1, 2017, no reasonably possible change in an individual key input or assumption,
as described, would result in a CGU’s carrying amount exceeding its recoverable amount based on value in use.

The terminal growth rates and pre-tax discount rates used in our discounted cash flow models are summarized below.

Group of cash generating units
Canadian Banking
Caribbean Banking
Canadian Wealth Management
Global Asset Management
U.S. Wealth Management (including City National)
International Wealth Management
Insurance
Investor & Treasury Services
Capital Markets

(1)

Pre-tax discount rates are determined implicitly based on post-tax discount rates.

As at

August 1, 2017

August 1, 2016

Discount
rate (1)

Terminal
growth
rate

Discount
rate (1)

Terminal
growth
rate

10.1%
12.0
11.2
11.1
13.4
10.5
10.6
11.0
15.0

3.0%
4.3
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0

10.0%
12.1
11.2
11.1
13.6
9.6
10.9
12.0
14.1

3.0%
4.3
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0

Fair value less costs of disposal – Caribbean Banking
For our Caribbean Banking CGU, we calculated fair value less costs of disposal using a discounted cash flow method that projects future cash
flows over a 5-year period. Cash flows are based on management forecasts, adjusted to approximate the considerations of a prospective third-
party buyer. Cash flows beyond the initial 5-year period are assumed to increase at a constant rate using a nominal long-term growth rate. Future
cash flows, terminal growth rates, and discount rates are based on the same factors noted above. This fair value measurement is categorized as
level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as certain significant inputs are not observable.

168

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The estimation of fair value less costs of disposal involves significant judgment in the determination of inputs to the discounted cash flow
model and is most sensitive to changes in future cash flows, discount rates and terminal growth rates applied to cash flows beyond the forecast
period. These key inputs and assumptions were tested for sensitivity by applying a reasonably possible change to those assumptions. As at
August 1, 2017, the recoverable amount of our Caribbean Banking CGU, based on fair value less costs of disposal, was 115% of its carrying
amount. If the post-tax discount rate was increased by 1%, holding other individual factors constant, the recoverable amount would approximate
the carrying amount. No other reasonably possible change in an individual key input or assumption, including decreasing the terminal growth
rates by 1% or reducing future cash flows by 10%, would result in the CGU’s carrying amount exceeding its recoverable amount based on fair
value less costs of disposal.

Fair value less costs of disposal – International Wealth Management
For our International Wealth Management CGU, we calculated fair value less costs of disposal using a multiples-based approach. Each business
within the CGU was valued using either a Price-to-assets-under-administration (P/AUA) or Price-to-revenue (P/Rev) multiple, as appropriate, to
reflect the considerations of a prospective third-party buyer. In 2017 and 2016, we applied a P/AUA multiple of 2.5% to AUA as at August 1 and
a P/Rev multiple of 2.5x to revenue for the 12 months preceding the testing date. These multiples represent our best estimate from a range of
reasonably possible inputs based on precedent transactions for comparable businesses. This fair value measurement is categorized as level 3
in the fair value hierarchy as certain significant inputs are not observable.

The estimation of fair value less costs of disposal involves significant judgment in the determination of the appropriate valuation approach

and inputs and is most sensitive to changes in the P/AUA and P/Rev multiples. These key inputs were tested for sensitivity by reducing each
multiple to the low end of the range of reasonably possible inputs considered. As at August 1, 2017, no reasonably possible change in an
individual key input or assumption, as described, would result in the CGU’s carrying amount exceeding its recoverable amount based on fair
value less costs of disposal.

Other intangible assets
The following table presents the carrying amount of our other intangible assets.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Gross carrying amount
Balance at October 31, 2016
Additions
Acquisitions through business combination
Transfers
Dispositions
Impairment losses
Currency translations
Other changes

Balance at October 31, 2017

Accumulated amortization
Balance at October 31, 2016
Amortization charge for the year
Dispositions
Impairment losses
Currency translations
Other changes

Balance at October 31, 2017

Net balance, at October 31, 2017

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Gross carrying amount
Balance at October 31, 2015
Additions
Acquisitions through business combinations
Transfers
Dispositions
Impairment losses
Currency translations
Other changes

Balance at October 31, 2016

Accumulated amortization
Balance at October 31, 2015
Amortization charge for the year
Dispositions
Impairment losses
Currency translations
Other changes

Balance at October 31, 2016

Net balance, at October 31, 2016

Internally
generated
software

$

4,435
26
–
692
–
(2)
(22)
14

Other
software

$ 1,389
70
–
60
(8)
(12)
(16)
(51)

As at October 31, 2017

Core
deposit
intangibles

Customer
list and
relationships

In process
software

$

$

1,784
–
–
–
–
–
(69)
–

$

1,761
–
–
–
–
–
6
(14)

778
896
–
(752)
(2)
–
(5)
(23)

Total

$ 10,147
992
–
–
(10)
(14)
(106)
(74)

$

5,143

$ 1,432

$

1,715

$

1,753

$

892

$ 10,935

$ (3,223) $ (1,054) $

(595)
–
–
15
(22)

(111)
7
–
10
54

$ (3,825) $ (1,094) $

(348) $
(156)
–
–
17
–

(487) $

(874) $
(153)
–
–
(10)
15

(1,022) $

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

$ (5,499)
(1,015)
7
–
32
47

$ (6,428)

$

1,318

$

338

$

1,228

$

731

$

892

$

4,507

Internally
generated
software

$

3,929
11
23
569
(10)
–
(33)
(54)

Other
software

$ 1,193
58
47
34
(6)
–
19
44

$

$

4,435

$ 1,389

$

$ (2,750) $
(560)
7
–
31
49

(893) $

(97)
5
–
(18)
(51)

$ (3,223) $ (1,054) $

As at October 31, 2016

Core
deposit
intangibles

Customer
list and
relationships

In process
software

$

$

1,538
–
322
–
–
–
(99)
–

$

580
765
–
(603)
–
–
(2)
38

194
–
1,558
–
–
–
32
–

1,784

$

1,761

$

778

$ 10,147

Total

7,434
834
1,950
–
(16)
–
(83)
28

(194) $
(158)
–
–
4
–

(348) $

(783) $
(155)
–
–
64
–

(874) $

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

$ (4,620)
(970)
12
–
81
(2)

$ (5,499)

$

1,212

$

335

$

1,436

$

887

$

778

$

4,648

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

169

Note 11 Significant acquisition and dispositions

Acquisition
Wealth Management
On November 2, 2015, we completed the acquisition of City National. City National’s business gives us an expansion platform for long-term
growth in the U.S. and the opportunity to enhance and complement our existing U.S. businesses in line with our strategic goals.

Total consideration of $7.1 billion (US$5.5 billion) at the date of close included $3.4 billion (US$2.6 billion) in cash, 41.6 million RBC
common shares issued at a price of US$57.16 per share for a total value of $3.1 billion (US$2.4 billion), US$275 million of first preferred shares
(Series C-1 and Series C-2), with a fair value of $380 million (US$290 million), as well as share-based compensation amounts of $204 million
(US$156 million), including the conversion of 3.8 million stock options with a fair value of $147 million (US$112 million), based on the
Black-Scholes model.

Our purchase price allocation assigned $47.8 billion to assets and $44.7 billion to liabilities on the acquisition date. Goodwill of

$2.1 billion reflects the expected synergies from the combined U.S. Wealth Management operations, expected growth of the platform, and the
ability to cross sell products between segments. Goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes. In the year of acquisition, City
National increased our 2016 consolidated revenue and net income by $1,988 million and $290 million, respectively. All results of operations are
included in our Wealth Management segment and goodwill is allocated to our U.S. Wealth Management (including City National) CGU (previously
called U.S. Wealth Management).

The following table presents the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as at the acquisition date.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage)
Percentage of shares acquired
Purchase consideration

Fair value of identifiable assets acquired

Cash and due from banks
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities
Trading
Available-for-sale
Held-to-maturity

Loans (1)
Retail
Wholesale
Other assets

Total fair value of identifiable assets acquired

Fair value of identifiable liabilities assumed

Deposits

Personal
Business and government
Bank

Other liabilities

Total fair value of identifiable liabilities assumed

Fair value of identifiable net assets acquired
Intangible assets (2)
Goodwill

Total purchase consideration

$

$

100%
7,138

499
2,779

321
7,409
4,723

9,597
20,555
1,885

$ 47,768

10,481
31,593
169
2,450

$ 44,693

$

3,075
1,950
2,113

$

7,138

(1)

(2)

The fair value of loans reflects estimates of incurred and expected future credit losses at the acquisition date and interest rate premiums or discounts relative to prevailing market rates. Gross
contractual receivables amount to $30.1 billion.
Intangible assets primarily include core deposits and customer relationships which are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of 10 years.

Dispositions
Wealth Management
On May 12, 2017, we completed the sale of our trust, custody and fund administration business in the Caribbean to SMP Group Limited. The
transaction did not have a significant impact on our Consolidated Statements of Income.

Insurance
On July 1, 2016, we completed the sale of RBC General Insurance Company, which included certain home and auto insurance manufacturing
businesses, including claims, underwriting and product development capabilities, to Aviva Canada Inc. We also entered into an exclusive
15-year distribution agreement with Aviva Canada Inc. to market and sell a full suite of property and casualty insurance products to our existing
and new clients. As a result of the transaction, we recorded a pre-tax gain on disposal of $287 million in Non-interest income – Other
($235 million after-tax).

Investor & Treasury Services
On October 21, 2016, we completed the sale of RBC Investor Services España S.A.U. and its wholly-owned subsidiary to Banco Inversis S.A. The
transaction did not have a significant impact on our Consolidated Statements of Income.

170

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 12 Joint ventures and associated companies

The following table summarizes the carrying value of our interests in joint ventures and associated companies accounted for under the equity
method as well as our share of the income of those entities.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Carrying amount

Share of:

Net income
Other comprehensive income

Joint ventures

Associated companies

As at and for the year ended

October 31
2017
164

$

October 31
2016
151

$

October 31
2017
526

$

October 31
2016
465

$

328
(8)

320

$

124
(5)

119

$

$

7
–

7

$

52
–

52

We do not have any joint ventures or associated companies that are individually material to our financial results.

On December 21, 2016, our joint venture, Moneris Solutions Corporation (Moneris), completed the sale of its U.S. operations to Vantiv, Inc.
for proceeds of $576 million (US$430 million). We have a 50% interest in Moneris and recognized the gain of $212 million (before- and after-tax)
as Share of profit in joint ventures and associates in Non-interest income.

During the year ended October 31, 2017, we recognized impairment losses of $4 million with respect to our interests in associated
companies (October 31, 2016 – reversal of impairment losses of $8 million) and recognized no gains on sales of associated companies
(October 31, 2016 – $nil).

Certain of our subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are subject to regulatory requirements of the jurisdictions in which they operate.

When these subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates 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. As at October 31, 2017, restricted net assets of these subsidiaries, joint
ventures and associates were $29.4 billion (October 31, 2016 – $28.4 billion).

Note 13 Other assets

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cash collateral
Margin deposits
Receivable from brokers, dealers and clients
Accounts receivable and prepaids
Investments in joint ventures and associates
Employee benefit assets
Insurance-related assets

Collateral loans
Policy loans
Reinsurance assets
Other

Deferred income tax asset
Taxes receivable
Accrued interest receivable
Precious metals
Other

As at

$

October 31
2017
13,657
5,867
1,870
3,574
690
59

October 31
2016
$ 18,979
4,308
2,458
3,487
616
29

1,103
95
549
268
1,732
3,031
2,111
1,082
3,271

1,198
98
713
43
2,827
2,264
1,870
306
2,875

$

38,959

$ 42,071

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

171

Note 14 Deposits

The following table details our deposit liabilities.

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

As at

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Personal
Business and government
Bank

Demand (1)
$ 134,184
229,337
8,587

Notice (2)
$ 47,366
9,520
158

Term (3)
$ 78,663
266,808
15,012

Total
$ 260,213
505,665
23,757

Demand (1)
$ 128,206
221,506
8,533

Notice (2)
$ 46,096
10,740
49

Term (3)
$ 76,248
255,761
10,450

Total
$ 250,550
488,007
19,032

$ 372,108

$ 57,044

$ 360,483

$ 789,635

$ 358,245

$ 56,885

$ 342,459

$ 757,589

Non-interest-bearing (4)

Canada
United States
Europe (5)
Other International

Interest-bearing (4)

Canada
United States
Europe (5)
Other International

$ 84,498
34,441
616
6,059

$ 4,871
90
–
5

$

–
–
–
–

$ 89,369
34,531
616
6,064

$ 78,692
34,172
1,009
5,753

$ 4,686
93
–
4

$

–
–
–
–

$ 83,378
34,265
1,009
5,757

212,456
847
30,148
3,043

14,990
32,263
1,585
3,240

274,934
55,840
19,613
10,096

502,380
88,950
51,346
16,379

200,911
999
32,864
3,845

14,979
32,388
1,108
3,627

272,999
41,427
17,966
10,067

488,889
74,814
51,938
17,539

$ 372,108

$ 57,044

$ 360,483

$ 789,635

$ 358,245

$ 56,885

$ 342,459

$ 757,589

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

(5)

Demand deposits are deposits for which we do not have the right to require notice of withdrawal, which includes both savings and chequing accounts.
Notice deposits are deposits for which we can legally require notice of withdrawal. These deposits are primarily savings accounts.
Term deposits are deposits payable on a fixed date, and include term deposits, guaranteed investment certificates and similar instruments.
The geographical splits of the deposits are based on the point of origin of the deposits and where the revenue is recognized. As at October 31, 2017, deposits denominated in U.S. dollars,
British pounds, Euro and other foreign currencies were $283 billion, $16 billion, $37 billion and $29 billion, respectively (October 31, 2016 – $264 billion, $16 billion, $37 billion and
$29 billion).
Europe includes the United Kingdom, Luxembourg and the Channel Islands.

The following table presents the contractual maturities of our term deposit liabilities.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Within 1 year:

less than 3 months
3 to 6 months
6 to 12 months

1 to 2 years
2 to 3 years
3 to 4 years
4 to 5 years
Over 5 years

Aggregate amount of term deposits in denominations of one hundred thousand dollars or more

The following table presents the average deposit balances and average rates of interest.

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

71,841
41,221
82,588
52,033
40,400
30,062
18,745
23,593

$ 72,346
40,487
51,608
50,676
39,499
31,482
29,854
26,507

$ 360,483

$ 342,459

$ 328,000

$ 309,000

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)
Canada
United States
Europe
Other International

For the year ended

October 31, 2017
Average
balances
$ 581,059
112,551
53,928
22,778

Average
rates
0.96%
0.57
0.25
1.01

October 31, 2016
Average
balances
$ 561,711
113,125
50,341
24,454

Average
rates
0.84%
0.37
0.15
1.07

$ 770,316

0.85%

$ 749,631

0.73%

172

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 15 Insurance

Risk management
Insurance risk is the risk of fluctuations in the timing, frequency or severity of insured events, relative to our expectations at the time of
underwriting. We do not have a high degree of concentration risk due to our geographic diversity and business mix. Concentration risk is not a
major concern for the life and health insurance business as it does not have a material level of regional specific characteristics like those
exhibited in the property and casualty insurance business. Exposure to concentrations of insurance risks for the property and casualty business,
up to the sale of certain home and auto insurance manufacturing businesses to Aviva Canada Inc. on July 1, 2016, was primarily mitigated
through prudent underwriting practices and diversification by product offerings and geographical areas. Reinsurance is also used for all
insurance businesses to lower our risk profile and limit the liability on a single claim. We manage underwriting and pricing risk through the use of
underwriting guidelines which detail the class, nature and type of business that may be accepted, pricing policies by product line and centralized
control of policy wordings. The risk that claims are handled or paid inappropriately is mitigated by using a range of IT system controls and
manual processes conducted by experienced staff. These, together with a range of detailed policies and procedures, ensure that all claims are
handled in a timely, appropriate and accurate manner.

Reinsurance
In the ordinary course of business, our insurance operations reinsure risks to other insurance and reinsurance companies in order to lower our
risk profile, 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 obligations to the insured. 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 amounts (ceded premiums)
included in Non-interest income are shown in the table below.

Net premiums and claims

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Gross premiums
Premiums ceded to reinsurers

Net premiums

Gross claims and benefits
Reinsurers’ share of claims and benefits

Net claims

For the year ended

October 31
2017
4,215
(340)

October 31
2016
4,335
(1,160)

$

3,875

2,840
(53)

2,787

$

$

$

3,175

3,754
(546)

3,208

$

$

$

$

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities
All actuarial assumptions are set in conjunction with Canadian Institute of Actuaries Standards of Practice and OSFI requirements. The
assumptions that have the greatest effect on the measurement of insurance liabilities, the processes used to determine them and the
assumptions used as at October 31, 2017 are as follows:

Life insurance
Mortality and morbidity – Mortality estimates are based on standard industry insured mortality tables, adjusted where appropriate to reflect our
own experience. Morbidity assumptions are made with respect to the rates of claim incidence and claim termination for health insurance policies
and are based on a combination of industry and our own experience.

Future investment yield – Assumptions are based on the current yield rate, a reinvestment assumption and an allowance for future credit losses
for each line of business, and are developed using interest rate scenario testing, including prescribed scenarios for determination of minimum
liabilities as set out in the actuarial standards.

Policyholder behaviour – Under certain policies, the policyholder has a contractual right to change benefits and premiums, as well as convert
policies to permanent forms of insurance. All policyholders have the right to terminate their policies through lapse. Lapses represent the
termination of policies due to non-payment of premiums. Lapse assumptions are primarily based on our recent experience adjusted for emerging
industry experience where applicable.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

173

Note 15 Insurance (continued)

Significant insurance assumptions

Life Insurance

Canadian Insurance
Mortality rates (1)
Morbidity rates (2)
Reinvestment yield (3)
Lapse rates (4)

International Insurance
Mortality rates (1)
Reinvestment yield (3)

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

0.11%
1.74
3.90
0.50

0.47
3.14

0.13%
1.68
4.00
0.50

0.43
2.75

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

Average annual death rate for the largest portfolio of insured policies.
Average net settlement rate for the individual and group disability insurance portfolio.
Ultimate reinvestment rate of the insurance operations.
Ultimate policy termination rate (lapse rate) for the largest permanent life insurance portfolio that relies on higher termination rate to maintain its profitability (lapse-supported policies).

Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities
The following table summarizes our gross and reinsurers’ share of insurance liabilities at the end of the year.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Life insurance policyholder liabilities

Life, health and annuity
Investment contracts (1)

Non-life insurance policyholder liabilities

Unearned premium provision (1)
Unpaid claims provision

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Gross

Ceded

Net

Gross

Ceded

Net

$

$

$

$

$

9,653 $
34

9,687 $

393 $
–

393 $

9,260
34

9,294

23 $
23

46 $

– $
2

2 $

23
21

44

9,733 $

395 $

9,338

$

$

$

$

$

9,137 $
22

9,159 $

545 $
–

545 $

8,592
22

8,614

23 $
27

50 $

– $
4

4 $

23
23

46

9,209 $

549 $

8,660

(1)

Insurance liabilities for investment contracts and unearned premium provision are reported in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Reconciliation of life insurance policyholder liabilities

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Balances, beginning of the year
New and in-force policies
Changes in assumption and methodology
Net change in investment contracts

Balances, end of the year

Reconciliation of non-life insurance policyholder liabilities

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Balances, beginning of the year
Changes in unearned premiums provision

Written premiums
Less: Net premiums earned
Less: Disposal (1)

Changes in unpaid claims provision and adjustment expenses

Incurred claims
Less: Claims paid
Less: Disposal (1)

Balances, end of the year

$

October 31, 2017

Gross
9,159 $
865
(349)
12

Ceded

545 $
53
(205)
–

$

Net
8,614
812
(144)
12

October 31, 2016

Gross
8,094 $
1,132
(78)
11

Ceded

519 $
26
–
–

Net
7,575
1,106
(78)
11

$

9,687 $

393 $

9,294

$

9,159 $

545 $

8,614

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Gross

Ceded

$

50 $

4 $

Net
46

$

Gross
1,476 $

Ceded

38 $

Net
1,438

119
(119)
–

64
(68)
–

1
(1)
–

(2)
–
–

118
(118)
–

66
(68)
–

665
(665)
(429)

482
(439)
(1,040)

19
(21)
–

18
(4)
(46)

$

46 $

2 $

44

$

50 $

4 $

646
(644)
(429)

464
(435)
(994)

46

(1)

RBC General Insurance Company was sold to Aviva Canada Inc. in 2016, which includes certain home and auto insurance manufacturing businesses. Refer to Note 11.

174

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The net increase in Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities over the prior year was comprised of the net increase in life and health
liabilities and reinsurance attributable to business growth partially offset by market movements on assets backing life and health liabilities.
During the year, we reviewed all key actuarial methods and assumptions which are used in determining the policy benefit liabilities resulting in a
$144 million net decrease to insurance liabilities comprised of: (i) a decrease of $87 million for assumption updates due to reduced provisions
for credit and interest rate risk; (ii) a decrease of $64 million arising from insurance risk related assumption updates largely due to mortality,
morbidity, maintenance, property and casualty margin for adverse deviation and expense assumptions, impacting both gross and ceded
insurance policyholder liabilities; offset by an increase of $7 million due to valuation system and data changes.

Sensitivity analysis
The following table presents the sensitivity of the level of insurance policyholder liabilities disclosed in this note to reasonably possible changes
in the actuarial assumptions used to calculate them. The percentage change in each variable is applied to a range of existing actuarial modelling
assumptions to derive the possible impact on net income. The analyses are performed where a single assumption is changed while holding other
assumptions constant, which is unlikely to occur in practice.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)
Increase in market interest rates (1)
Decrease in market interest rates (1)
Increase in equity market values (2)
Decrease in equity market values (2)
Increase in maintenance expenses (3)
Life Insurance (3)

Adverse change in annuitant mortality rates
Adverse change in assurance mortality rates
Adverse change in morbidity rates
Adverse change in lapse rates

Change in
variable

1%
1
10
10
5

2
2
5
10

Net income impact for year ended

$

October 31
2017
(1)
3
3
(4)
(29)

(117)
(60)
(183)
(220)

$

October 31
2016
(2)
7
4
(4)
(30)

(129)
(46)
(183)
(229)

(1)

(2)

(3)

Sensitivities for market interest rates include the expected current period earnings impact of a 100 basis points shift in the yield curve by increasing the current reinvestment rates while
holding the assumed ultimate rates constant. The sensitivity consists of both the impact on assumed reinvestment rates in the actuarial liabilities and any changes in fair value of assets and
liabilities from the yield curve shift.
Sensitivities to changes in equity market values are composed of the expected current period earnings impact from differences in the changes in fair value of the equity asset holdings and
the partially offsetting impact on the actuarial liabilities.
Sensitivities to changes in maintenance expenses and life insurance actuarial assumptions include the expected current period earnings impact from recognition of increased liabilities due
to an adverse change in the given assumption over the lifetime of all inforce policies.

Note 16 Segregated funds

We offer certain individual variable insurance contracts that allow policyholders to invest in segregated funds. The investment returns on these
funds are passed directly to the policyholders. Amounts invested are at the policyholders’ risk, except where the policyholders have selected
options providing maturity and death benefit guarantees. A liability for the guarantees is recorded in Insurance claims and policy benefit
liabilities.

Segregated funds net assets are recorded at fair value. All of our segregated funds net assets are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value
hierarchy. The fair value of the segregated funds liabilities is equal to the fair value of the segregated funds net assets. Segregated funds net
assets and segregated funds liabilities are presented on separate lines on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following tables present the
composition of net assets and the changes in net assets for the year.

Segregated funds net assets

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cash
Investment in mutual funds
Other liabilities, net

Changes in net assets

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Net assets, beginning of year
Additions (deductions):

Deposits from policyholders
Net realized and unrealized gains
Interest and dividends
Payment to policyholders
Management and administrative fees

Net assets, end of year

As at

October 31
2017
1
1,217
(2)

$

October 31
2016
1
981
(1)

$

$ 1,216

$ 981

For the year ended

October 31
2017
981

$

October 31
2016
$ 830

430
87
26
(279)
(29)

330
41
25
(221)
(24)

$ 1,216

$ 981

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

175

Note 17 Employee benefits – Pension and other post-employment benefits

Plan characteristics
We sponsor a number of programs that provide pension and post-employment benefits to eligible employees. The majority of beneficiaries of the
pension plans are located in Canada and other beneficiaries of the pension plans are primarily located in the U.S., the U.K. and the Caribbean.
The pension arrangements including investment, plan benefits and funding decisions are governed by local pension committees or trustees, who
are legally segregated from the Bank, or management. Significant plan changes require the approval of the Board of Directors.

Our defined benefit pension plans provide pension benefits based on years of service, contributions and average earnings at retirement.

Our primary defined benefit pension plans are closed to new members. New employees are generally eligible to join defined contribution
pension plans. The specific features of these plans vary by location. We also provide supplemental non-registered (non-qualified) pension plans
for certain executives and senior management that are typically unfunded or partially funded.

Our defined contribution pension plans provide pension benefits based on accumulated employee and Bank contributions. The Bank

contributions are based on a percentage of an employee’s annual earnings and a portion of the Bank contribution may be dependent on the
amount being contributed by the employee and their years of service.

Our primary other post-employment benefit plans provide health, dental, disability and life insurance coverage and cover a number of

current and retired employees who are mainly located in Canada. These plans are unfunded unless required by legislation.

We measure our benefit obligations and pension assets as at October 31 each year. All plans are valued using the projected unit-credit
method. 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 plan, the most recent funding actuarial valuation was completed
on January 1, 2017, and the next valuation will be completed on January 1, 2018.

For the year ended October 31, 2017, total contributions to our pension plans (defined benefit and defined contribution plans) and other
post-employment benefit plans were $612 million and $62 million (October 31, 2016 – $409 million and $49 million), respectively. For 2018,
total contributions to our pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans are expected to be $616 million and $78 million, respectively.

Risks
By their design, the defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit plans expose the Bank to various risks such as investment
performance, reductions in discount rates used to value the obligations, increased longevity of plan members, future inflation levels impacting
future salary increases as well as future increases in healthcare costs. These risks will reduce over time due to the membership closure of our
primary defined benefit pension plans and migration to defined contribution pension plans.

The following table presents the financial position related to all of our material pension and other post-employment benefit plans worldwide,
including executive retirement arrangements.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Canada

Fair value of plan assets
Present value of defined benefit obligation

Net (deficit)

International

Fair value of plan assets
Present value of defined benefit obligation

Net (deficit)

Total

Fair value of plan assets
Present value of defined benefit obligation

Total net (deficit)

Effect of asset ceiling

Total net (deficit), net of effect of asset ceiling

Amounts recognized in our Consolidated Balance Sheets

Employee benefit assets
Employee benefit liabilities

Total net (deficit), net of effect of asset ceiling

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Defined benefit
pension plans

Other post-
employment
benefit plans

Defined benefit
pension plans

Other post-
employment
benefit plans

$ 12,505
12,834

$

$

$

(329)

1,068
1,171

(103)

$ 13,573
14,005

$

$

$

$

(432)

(1)

(433)

59
(492)

(433)

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1
1,714

(1,713)

–
131

(131)

1
1,845

(1,844)

–

(1,844)

–
(1,844)

(1,844)

$ 11,416
12,680

$

$

$

(1,264)

1,043
1,199

(156)

$ 12,459
13,879

$

$

$

$

(1,420)

(3)

(1,423)

29
(1,452)

(1,423)

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1
1,760

(1,759)

–
134

(134)

1
1,894

(1,893)

–

(1,893)

–
(1,893)

(1,893)

176

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The following table presents an analysis of the movement in the financial position related to all of our material pension and other post-
employment benefit plans worldwide, including executive retirement arrangements.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Change in fair value of plan assets
Opening fair value of plan assets

Interest income
Remeasurements

Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)

Change in foreign currency exchange rate
Contributions – Employer
Contributions – Plan participant
Payments
Payments – amount paid in respect of any settlements
Other

Closing fair value of plan assets

Change in present value of benefit obligation
Opening benefit obligation
Current service costs
Past service costs
Interest expense
Remeasurements

Actuarial losses (gains) from demographic assumptions
Actuarial losses (gains) from financial assumptions
Actuarial losses (gains) from experience adjustments

Change in foreign currency exchange rate
Contributions – Plan participant
Payments
Payments – amount paid in respect of any settlements
Other

Closing benefit obligation

Unfunded obligation
Wholly or partly funded obligation

Total benefit obligation

As at or for the year ended

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Defined benefit
pension plans (1)

Other post-
employment
benefit plans

Defined benefit
pension plans (1)

Other post-
employment
benefit plans

$ 12,459
426

$

749
25
444
50
(566)
–
(14)

$ 13,573

$

1
–

1
–
62
19
(82)
–
–

1

$ 11,896
498

$

447
(138)
257
52
(536)
(4)
(13)

$ 12,459

$

11
–

2
–
49
18
(79)
–
–

1

$ 13,879
380
(2)
468

$ 1,894
40
–
68

$ 11,974
313
(5)
496

$ 1,657
36
(3)
71

(2)
(188)
(31)
18
50
(566)
–
(1)

(36)
3
(59)
(2)
19
(82)
–
–

(5)
1,644
79
(128)
52
(536)
(4)
(1)

(17)
194
17
–
18
(79)
–
–

$ 14,005

$

30
13,975

$ 14,005

$ 1,845

$ 1,694
151

$ 1,845

$ 13,879

$

33
13,846

$ 13,879

$ 1,894

$ 1,732
162

$ 1,894

(1)

For pension plans with funding deficits, the benefit obligations and fair value of plan assets as at October 31, 2017 were $12,824 million and $12,332 million, respectively (October 31,
2016 – $12,705 million and $11,267 million, respectively).

Pension and other post-employment benefit expense
The following table presents the composition of our pension and other post-employment benefit expense related to our material pension and
other post-employment benefit plans worldwide.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Current service costs
Past service costs
Net interest expense (income)
Remeasurements of other long term benefits
Administrative expense

Defined benefit pension expense
Defined contribution pension expense

For the year ended

Pension plans

Other post-employment benefit
plans

$

October 31
2017
380
(2)
42
–
14

$

$

434
168

602

$

October 31
2016
313
(5)
(2)
–
13

$

$

319
152

471

$

October 31
2017
40
–
68
(2)
–

$

$

106
–

106

$

October 31
2016
36
(3)
71
16
–

$

$

120
–

120

Service costs for the year ended October 31, 2017 totalled $370 million (October 31, 2016 – $300 million) for pension plans in Canada and
$8 million (October 31, 2016 – $8 million) for International plans. Net interest expense (income) for the year ended October 31, 2017 totalled
$37 million (October 31, 2016 – $(6) million) for pension plans in Canada and $5 million (October 31, 2016 – $4 million) for International plans.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

177

Note 17 Employee benefits – Pension and other post-employment benefits (continued)

Pension and other post-employment benefit remeasurements
The following table presents the composition of our remeasurements recorded in OCI related to our material pension and other post-employment
benefit plans worldwide.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Actuarial (gains) losses:

Changes in demographic assumptions
Changes in financial assumptions
Experience adjustments

Return on plan assets (excluding interest based on discount rate)
Change in asset ceiling (excluding interest income)

For the year ended

Defined benefit pension plans

Other post-employment benefit
plans

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

(2)
(188)
(31)
(749)
(2)

(972)

$

(5)
1,644
79
(447)
3

$ 1,274

$

$

(34)
6
(62)
(1)
–

(91)

$

$

(20)
186
12
(2)
–

176

Remeasurements recorded in OCI for the year ended October 31, 2017 were gains of $963 million (October 31, 2016 – losses of $1,180 million)
for pension plans in Canada and gains of $9 million (October 31, 2016 – losses of $94 million) for International plans.

Investment policy and strategies
Defined benefit pension plan assets are invested prudently in order to meet our longer-term pension obligations. The pension plan’s investment
strategy is to hold a diversified mix of investments by asset class and geographic location in order to reduce investment-specific risk to the
funded status while maximizing the expected returns to meet pension obligations. Investment of the plan’s assets is conducted with careful
consideration of the pension obligation’s sensitivity to interest rates and credit spreads which are key risk factors impacting the obligation’s
value. The asset mix policy is therefore consistent with an asset/liability framework. Factors taken into consideration in developing our asset mix
include but are not limited to the following:

(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)

the nature of the underlying benefit obligations, including the duration and term profile of the liabilities;
the member demographics, including expectations for normal retirements, terminations, and deaths;
the financial position of the pension plans;
the diversification benefits obtained by the inclusion of multiple asset classes; and
expected asset returns, including asset and liability volatility and correlations.

To implement our asset mix policy, we may invest in debt securities, equity securities, alternative investments and derivative instruments. Our
holdings in certain investments, including common shares, debt securities rated lower than BBB and residential and commercial mortgages,
cannot exceed a defined percentage of the market value of our defined benefit pension plan assets. We may use derivative instruments as either
a synthetic investment to more efficiently replicate the performance of an underlying security, or as a hedge against financial risks within the
plan. To manage our credit risk exposure, where derivatives instruments are not centrally cleared, counterparties are required to meet minimum
credit ratings and enter into collateral agreements.

Our defined benefit pension plan assets are primarily comprised of debt and equity securities and alternative investments. Our equity
securities generally have unadjusted quoted market prices in an active market (Level 1) and our debt securities generally have quoted market
prices for similar assets in an active market (Level 2). Alternative investments and other includes cash, hedge funds, and private fund
investments including infrastructure, real estate leases, private equity and debt. In the case of private fund investments, no quoted market prices
are usually available (Level 2 or Level 3). These fund assets are either valued by an independent valuator or priced using observable market
inputs.

During the year ended October 31, 2017, investment management focused on fund opportunities and optimizing mix to increase

diversification and improve expected returns within the plan’s alternative and equity asset classes. Over time, an increasing allocation to debt
securities is being used to reduce asset/liability duration mismatch and hence variability of the plan’s funded status due to interest rate
movement. Longer maturity debt securities, given their price sensitivity to movements in interest rates, are considered to be a good economic
hedge to risk associated with the plan’s liabilities, which are discounted using predominantly long maturity bond interest rates as inputs.

Asset allocation of defined benefit pension plans (1)

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentages)

Fair value

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Percentage
of total
plan assets

Quoted
in active
market (2)

Percentage
of total
plan assets

Quoted
in active
market (2)

Fair value

Equity securities

Domestic
Foreign

Debt securities

Domestic government bonds
Foreign government bonds
Corporate and other bonds
Alternative investments and other

$

1,752
3,314

2,502
387
2,896
2,722

13%
25

18
3
21
20

100%
100

$ 1,487
2,971

–
–
–
16

2,536
533
2,648
2,284

12%
24

20
4
21
19

100%
89

–
–
–
24

$

13,573

100%

41%

$ 12,459

100%

38%

(1)
(2)

The asset allocation is based on the underlying investments held directly and indirectly through the funds as this is how we manage our investment policy and strategies.
If our assessment of whether or not an asset was quoted in an active market was based on direct investments, 45% of our total plan assets would be classified as quoted in an active market
(October 31, 2016 – 42%).

178

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The allocation to equity securities of our pension plans in Canada is 38% (October 31, 2016 – 37%) and that of our International plans is 22%
(October 31, 2016 – 17%). The allocation to debt securities of our pension plans in Canada is 42% (October 31, 2016 – 45%) and that of our
International plans is 42% (October 31, 2016 – 60%). The allocation to alternative investments and other in our pension plans in Canada is 20%
(October 31, 2016 – 18%) and that of our International plans is 36% (October 31, 2016 – 23%).

As at October 31, 2017, the plan assets include 1 million (October 31, 2016 – 1 million) of our common shares with a fair value of
$121 million (October 31, 2016 – $99 million) and $41 million (October 31, 2016 – $62 million) of our debt securities. For the year ended
October 31, 2017, dividends received on our common shares held in the plan assets were $4 million (October 31, 2016 – $4 million).

Maturity profile
The following table presents the maturity profile of our defined benefit pension plan obligation.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except participants and years)

Number of plan participants
Actual benefit payments 2017
Benefits expected to be paid 2018
Benefits expected to be paid 2019
Benefits expected to be paid 2020
Benefits expected to be paid 2021
Benefits expected to be paid 2022
Benefits expected to be paid 2023-2027
Weighted average duration of defined benefit payments

As at

October 31, 2017

Canada

International

Total

$

71,267

496 $
575
600
623
645
665
3,572
15.2 years

8,447

70 $
53
53
59
62
66
369
19.6 years

79,714
566
628
653
682
707
731
3,941
15.6 years

Significant assumptions
Our methodologies to determine significant assumptions used in calculating the defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit
expense are as follows:

Discount rate
For the Canadian pension and other post-employment benefit plans, all future expected benefit payments at each measurement date are
discounted at spot rates from a derived Canadian AA corporate bond yield curve. The derived curve is based on actual short and mid-maturity
corporate AA rates and extrapolated longer term rates. The extrapolated corporate AA rates are derived from observed corporate A, corporate AA
and provincial AA yields. For the International pension and other post-employment benefit plans, all future expected benefit payments at each
measurement date are discounted at spot rates from a local AA corporate bond yield curve. Spot rates beyond 30 years are set to equal the
30-year spot rate. The discount rate is the equivalent single rate that produces the same discounted value as that determined using the entire
discount curve. This valuation methodology does not rely on assumptions regarding reinvestment returns.

Rate of increase in future compensation
The assumptions for increases in future compensation are developed separately for each plan, where relevant. Each assumption is set based on
the price inflation assumption and compensation policies in each market, as well as relevant local statutory and plan-specific requirements.

Healthcare cost trend rates
Healthcare cost calculations are based on both short and long term trend assumptions established using the plan’s recent experience as well as
market expectations.

Weighted average assumptions to determine benefit obligation

Discount rate
Rate of increase in future compensation
Healthcare cost trend rates (1)

– Medical
– Dental

As at

Defined benefit
pension plans

Other post-employment
benefit plans

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

3.50%
3.30%

n.a.
n.a.

3.50%
3.30%

n.a.
n.a.

3.70%
n.a.

4.00%
3.90%

3.60%
n.a.

4.10%
4.00%

(1)
n.a.

For our other post-employment benefit plans, the assumed trend rates used to measure the expected benefit costs of the defined benefit obligations are also the ultimate trend rates.
not applicable

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

179

Note 17 Employee benefits – Pension and other post-employment benefits (continued)

Mortality assumptions
Mortality assumptions are significant in measuring our obligations under the defined benefit pension plans. These assumptions have been set
based on country specific statistics. Future longevity improvements have been considered and included where appropriate. The following table
summarizes the mortality assumptions used for material plans.

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Life expectancy at 65 for a member currently at

Life expectancy at 65 for a member currently at

Age 65

Age 45

Age 65

Age 45

Male

Female

Male

Female

Male

Female

Male

Female

23.2
20.7
24.1

23.7
22.7
26.2

24.2
22.3
26.2

24.6
24.2
28.4

23.1
20.8
24.0

23.6
22.8
26.0

24.1
20.5
26.1

24.6
22.9
28.3

(In years)

Country

Canada
United States
United Kingdom

Sensitivity analysis
Assumptions adopted can have a significant effect on the obligations for defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit plans. The
increase (decrease) in obligation in the following table has been determined assuming all other assumptions are held constant. In practice, this
is unlikely to occur, as changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated. The following table presents the sensitivity analysis of key
assumptions for 2017.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Discount rate

Impact of 50bps increase in discount rate
Impact of 50bps decrease in discount rate

Rate of increase in future compensation

Impact of 50bps increase in rate of increase in future compensation
Impact of 50bps decrease in rate of increase in future compensation

Mortality rate

Impact of an increase in longevity by one additional year

Healthcare cost trend rate

Impact of 100bps increase in healthcare cost trend rate
Impact of 100bps decrease in healthcare cost trend rate

n.a.

not applicable

Note 18 Other liabilities

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Cash collateral
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Payroll and related compensation
Payable to brokers, dealers and clients
Negotiable instruments
Accrued interest payable
Deferred income
Taxes payable
Precious metals certificates
Dividends payable
Insurance related liabilities
Deferred income taxes
Provisions
Employee benefit liabilities
Other

180

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Increase (decrease) in obligation

Defined benefit
pension plans

Other post-
employment
benefit plans

$ (1,033)
1,152

$ (127)
142

61
(61)

340

n.a.
n.a.

1
(1)

39

94
(78)

As at

October 31
2017
15,422 $
1,293
7,192
2,932
2,080
1,781
2,079
2,342
387
1,394
334
97
460
2,336
6,826
46,955 $

$

$

October 31
2016

14,545
1,191
6,448
2,919
2,277
1,630
1,971
2,730
485
1,309
328
989
485
3,345
7,295

47,947

Note 19 Subordinated debentures

The debentures are unsecured obligations and are subordinated in right of payment to the claims of depositors and certain other creditors. The
amounts presented below are net of our own holdings in these debentures, and include the impact of fair value hedges used for managing
interest rate risk.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage and foreign currency)

Maturity
August 12, 2019
November 2, 2020
July 15, 2022
June 8, 2023
July 17, 2024 (2)
December 6, 2024
June 4, 2025 (2)
January 20, 2026 (2)
January 27, 2026 (2)
September 29, 2026 (2)
November 1, 2027
June 26, 2037
October 1, 2083
June 29, 2085

Deferred financing costs

Earliest par value
redemption date

November 2, 2015 (1)

July 17, 2019
December 6, 2019
June 4, 2020
January 20, 2021

September 29, 2021
November 1, 2022

June 26, 2017 (8)

Any interest payment date
Any interest payment date

Interest
rate
9.00%
3.18%
5.38%
9.30%
3.04% (3)
2.99% (4)
2.48% (5)
3.31% (6)
4.65%
3.45% (7)
4.75%
2.86%

(9)

(10)

Denominated in
foreign currency
(millions)
US$75

US$150

US$1,500

TT$300
JPY 10,000

US$174

As at

$

October 31
2017
106
–
207
110
1,002
2,003
992
1,456
1,882
1,014
57
–
224
224

$

October 31
2016
115
–
218
110
1,014
2,055
1,003
1,496
2,057
1,061
60
131
224
233

$

$

9,277
(12)

9,265

$

$

9,777
(15)

9,762

The terms and conditions of the debentures are as follows:
(1)
(2)

All $1.5 billion outstanding subordinated debentures were redeemed on November 2, 2015 for 100% of their principal amount plus accrued interest to the redemption date.
The notes include non-viability contingency capital (NVCC) provisions, necessary for the notes to qualify as Tier 2 regulatory capital under Basel III. NVCC provisions require the conversion of
the instrument into a variable number of common shares in the event that OSFI deems the Bank non-viable or a federal or provincial government in Canada publicly announces that the Bank
has accepted or agreed to accept a capital injection. In such an event, each note is convertible into common shares pursuant to an automatic conversion formula with a multiplier of 1.5 and a
conversion price based on the greater of: (i) a floor price of $5.00 and (ii) the current market price of our common shares based on the volume weighted average trading price of our common
shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The number of shares issued is determined by dividing the par value of the note (including accrued and unpaid interest on such note) by the
conversion price and then times the multiplier.
Interest at stated interest rate until earliest par value redemption date, and thereafter at a rate of 1.08% above the 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
Interest at stated interest rate until earliest par value redemption date, and thereafter at a rate of 1.10% above the 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
Interest at stated interest rate until earliest par value redemption date, and thereafter at a rate of 1.10% above the 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
Interest at stated interest rate until earliest par value redemption date, and thereafter at a rate of 2.35% above the 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
Interest at stated interest rate until earliest par value redemption date, and thereafter at a rate of 1.12% above the 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
All ¥10,000 million outstanding subordinated debentures were redeemed on June 26, 2017 for 100% of their principal amount plus accrued interest to the redemption date.
Interest at a rate of 40 basis points above the 30-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
Interest at a rate of 25 basis points above the U.S. dollar 3-month London Interbank Mean Rate (LIMEAN). In the event of a reduction of the annual dividend we declare on our common shares,
the interest payable on the debentures 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.

(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)

All redemptions, cancellations and exchanges of subordinated debentures are subject to the consent and approval of OSFI, except for the
debentures maturing August 12, 2019 and July 15, 2022.

Maturity schedule
The aggregate maturities of subordinated debentures, based on the maturity dates under the terms of issue, are as follows:

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
1 to 5 years
5 to 10 years
Thereafter

October 31
2017
313
8,459
505

$

$

9,277

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

181

Note 20 Trust capital securities

We issued innovative capital instruments, RBC Trust Capital Securities (RBC TruCS), through the structured entity RBC Capital Trust (Trust).

The Trust has issued non-voting RBC TruCS Series 2010, 2011, 2015 and 2008-1 (RBC TruCS 2010, 2011, 2015 and 2008-1). RBC TruCS
2010 and 2011 were redeemed in 2010 and 2011, respectively. On December 31, 2015, the Trust redeemed all issued and outstanding RBC
TruCS 2015 for cash at a redemption price of $1,000 per unit.

The holders of the remaining outstanding RBC TruCS do not have any conversion rights or any other redemption rights. As a result, upon
consolidation of the Trust, RBC TruCS are classified as non-controlling interests. Holders of RBC TruCS 2008-1 are eligible to receive semi-annual
non-cumulative fixed cash distributions until June 30, 2018, and floating-rate cash distributions thereafter.

No cash distributions will be payable by the Trust on RBC 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 Trust will be distributed to us as
holders of residual interest in the Trust. Should the Trust 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 RBC TruCS.

Significant terms and conditions of RBC Trust Capital Securities

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)

Issuance date

Distribution dates

RBC Capital Trust (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Included in Non-controlling interests

Earliest
redemption date

Annual
yield

At the option of the
issuer

As at

October 31
2017
Principal
amount

October 31
2016
Principal
amount

1,200,000 Trust Capital Securities – Series 2015
500,000 Trust Capital Securities – Series 2008-1

October 28, 2005
April 28, 2008

June 30, December 31
June 30, December 31

4.87% (6) December 31, 2010
6.82% (6)
June 30, 2013

$

$

–
500

–
500

The significant terms and conditions of the RBC TruCS are as follows:

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

Subject to the approval of OSFI, the Trust may, on the earliest redemption date specified above, and on any distribution date thereafter, redeem in whole (but not in part) RBC TruCS 2008-1,
without the consent of the holders.
Issuer Redemption Price: RBC TruCS 2008-1 may be redeemed for cash equivalent to (i) the Early Redemption Price, if the redemption occurs prior to June 30, 2018 or (ii) the Redemption
Price, if the redemption occurs on or after June 30, 2018. 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 provide 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, 2018, plus 77 basis points.
Automatic Exchange Event: Without the consent of the holders, each RBC TruCS 2008-1 will be exchanged automatically for 40 of our non-cumulative redeemable First Preferred Shares
Series Al, upon occurrence of any of the following events: (i) proceedings are commenced for our winding-up; (ii) OSFI takes control of us; (iii) we have a Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 5% or
Total capital ratio of less than 8%; or (iv) 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 AI pay semi-annual non-cumulative cash dividends.
From time to time, we purchase some of the innovative capital instruments and hold them temporarily. As at October 31, 2017, we held $0.2 million RBC TruCS 2008-1 (October 31, 2016 –
$nil) as treasury holdings. Treasury holdings are deducted from regulatory capital.
Regulatory capital: In accordance with OSFI Capital Adequacy Requirements, effective January 2013, RBC TruCS no longer qualify as additional Tier 1 capital due to their lack of non-viability
contingent capital terms and conditions. As such, outstanding RBC TruCS are being phased out of regulatory capital in accordance with OSFI guidelines.
The non-cumulative cash distribution on the RBC TruCS 2015 was 4.87% paid semi-annually until December 31, 2015. The non-cumulative cash distribution on the RBC TruCS 2008-1 is
6.82% paid semi-annually until June 30, 2018, and one half of the sum of the 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 3.5% thereafter.

182

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 21 Equity

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.
Common – An unlimited number of shares without nominal or par value may be issued.

Outstanding share capital
The following table details our common and preferred shares outstanding.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except the number
of shares and dividends per share)
Preferred shares

First preferred (1)

Non-cumulative, fixed rate

Series W
Series AA
Series AB (2)
Series AC
Series AD
Series AE
Series AF
Series AG
Series BH
Series BI
Series BJ
Series C-1 (3)

Non-cumulative, 5-Year Rate Reset

Series AJ
Series AL
Series AZ
Series BB
Series BD
Series BF
Series BK (4)
Series BM (5)

Non-cumulative, floating rate

Series AK

Non-cumulative, fixed rate/floating rate

Series C-2 (6)

Common shares
Balance at beginning of year
Issued in connection with the acquisition of City National
Issued in connection with share-based compensation

plans (7)

Purchased for cancellation (8)
Balance at end of year

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
Balance at end of year

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Number of
shares
(thousands)

Dividends
declared
per share

Number of
shares
(thousands)

Dividends
declared per
share

Amount

Amount

$

12,000
12,000
–
8,000
10,000
10,000
8,000
10,000
6,000
6,000
6,000
82

13,579
12,000
20,000
20,000
24,000
12,000
29,000
30,000

2,421

300
300
–
200
250
250
200
250
150
150
150
107

339
300
500
500
600
300
725
750

61

$

1.23
1.11
0.99
1.15
1.13
1.13
1.11
1.13
1.23
1.23
1.31
US$ 55.00

0.88
1.07
1.00
0.98
0.90
0.90
1.38
1.38

0.62

$

12,000
12,000
12,000
8,000
10,000
10,000
8,000
10,000
6,000
6,000
6,000
82

13,579
12,000
20,000
20,000
24,000
12,000
29,000
30,000

2,421

300
300
300
200
250
250
200
250
150
150
150
107

339
300
500
500
600
300
725
750

61

$

1.23
1.11
1.18
1.15
1.13
1.13
1.11
1.13
1.23
1.23
1.51
US$ 55.00

0.88
1.07
1.00
0.98
0.90
0.90
1.29
0.98

0.60

20

31
$ 6,413

US$ 67.50

20

31
$ 6,713

US$ 67.50

$

3.48

1,485,394
–

$ 17,939
–

3,477
(35,973)
1,452,898

227
(436)
$ 17,730

31
5,286
(5,311)
6

(1,159)
46,862
(46,066)
(363)

$

$

$

$

–
130
(130)
–

(80)
4,414
(4,361)
(27)

$

3.24

1,443,423
41,619

$ 14,573
3,115

4,981
(4,629)
1,485,394

307
(56)
$ 17,939

(63)
7,267
(7,173)
31

532
64,678
(66,369)
(1,159)

$

$

$

$

(2)
172
(170)
–

38
4,973
(5,091)
(80)

(1)

(2)
(3)

(4)

(5)
(6)

(7)
(8)

First Preferred Shares were issued at $25 per share with the exception of Non-Cumulative Perpetual First Preferred Shares, Series C-1 (Series C-1) and Non-Cumulative Fixed Rate/Floating Rate
First Preferred Shares, Series C-2 (Series C-2) which were issued at US$1,000 per share (equivalent to US$25 per depositary share).
On September 27, 2017, we redeemed all 12 million issued and outstanding Non-Cumulative First Preferred Shares, Series AB, for cash at a redemption price of $25 per share.
On November 2, 2015, we issued 175 thousand Series C-1, totalling $227 million, in connection with the acquisition of City National. On February 24, 2016, we purchased for cash 3,717,969
depositary shares, each representing a one-fortieth interest in a share of Series C-1. The purchased depositary and underlying Series C-1 shares were subsequently cancelled. On
November 13, 2017, we redeemed all remaining Non-Cumulative Perpetual First Preferred Shares Series C-1 (82 thousand shares) for cash at a redemption price of US$1,000 per share
(equivalent to US$25 per related depositary share).
On December 16, 2015, we issued 27 million Non-Cumulative 5-Year Rate Reset First Preferred Shares, Series BK (Series BK) and on December 31, 2015, we issued an additional 2 million
Series BK, totalling $725 million.
On March 7, 2016, we issued 30 million Non-Cumulative 5-year Rate Reset First Preferred Shares, Series BM, totalling $750 million.
On November 2, 2015, we issued 100 thousand Series C-2, totalling $153 million, in connection with the acquisition of City National. On February 24, 2016, we purchased for cash 3,184,562
depositary shares, each representing a one-fortieth interest in a share of Series C-2. The purchased depositary and underlying Series C-2 shares were subsequently cancelled.
Includes fair value adjustments to stock options of $46 million (2016 – $60 million).
During the year ended October 31, 2017, we purchased common shares for cancellation at an average cost of $86.47 per share with a book value of $12.15 per share. During the year ended
October 31, 2016, we purchased common shares for cancellation at an average cost of $78.10 per share with a book value of $12.03 per share.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

183

Note 21 Equity (continued)

Significant terms and conditions of preferred shares

As at October 31, 2017
Preferred shares
First preferred

Non-cumulative, fixed rate

Series W (4)
Series AA
Series AC
Series AD
Series AE
Series AF
Series AG
Series BH (5)
Series BI (5)
Series BJ (5)
Series C-1 (6)

Initial
Period
Annual Yield

Premium

Current
Dividend
per share (1)

Earliest
redemption date (2)

Issue Date

Redemption
price (2) (3)

4.90%
4.45%
4.60%
4.50%
4.50%
4.45%
4.50%
4.90%
4.90%
5.25%
5.50%

$

January 31, 2005 $
February 24, 2010
.306250
April 4, 2006
.278125
May 24, 2011
November 1, 2006
.287500 November 24, 2011
February 24, 2012 December 13, 2006
.281250
January 19, 2007
February 24, 2012
.281250
March 14, 2007
May 24, 2012
.278125
April 26, 2007
.281250
May 24, 2012
June 5, 2015
.306250 November 24, 2020
July 22, 2015
.306250 November 24, 2020
October 2, 2015
February 24, 2021
.328125
US$ 13.750000 November 13, 2017

25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
26.00
26.00
26.00
November 2, 2015 US$ 1,000.00

Non-cumulative, 5-Year Rate Reset (7)

Series AJ
Series AL
Series AZ (5)
Series BB (5)
Series BD (5)
Series BF (5)
Series BK (5)
Series BM (5)

Non-cumulative, floating rate

Series AK (8)

Non-cumulative, fixed rate/floating rate

5.00% 1.93%
5.60% 2.67%
4.00% 2.21%
3.90% 2.26%
3.60% 2.74%
3.60% 2.62%
5.50% 4.53%
5.50% 4.80%

February 24, 2014 September 16, 2008
.220000
November 3, 2008
February 24, 2014
.266250
January 30, 2014
May 24, 2019
.250000
June 3, 2014
August 24, 2019
.243750
January 30, 2015
.225000
May 24, 2020
March 13, 2015
.225000 November 24, 2020
May 24, 2021 December 16, 2015
.343750
March 7, 2016
.343750

August 24, 2021

1.93%

.169192

February 24, 2019

February 24, 2014

25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00
25.00

25.00

Series C-2 (9)

6.75% 4.052% US$ 16.875000 November 7, 2023

November 2, 2015 US$ 1,000.00

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

Non-cumulative preferential dividends of each Series are payable quarterly, as and when declared by the Board of Directors, on or about the 24th day (13th and 7th day for Series C-1 and
Series C-2, respectively) of February, May, August and November.
Subject to the consent of OSFI and the requirements of the Bank Act (Canada), we may, on or after the dates specified above, redeem First Preferred Shares. In the case of Series AJ, AL, AZ,
BB, BD, BF, BK, BM and AK, these may be redeemed for cash at a price per share of $25 if redeemed on the earliest redemption date and on the same date every fifth year thereafter. In the
case of Series W, AA, AC, AD, AE, AF, AG, BH, BI and BJ, these may be redeemed for cash at a price per share of $26 if redeemed during the 12 months commencing on the earliest redemption
date and decreasing by $0.25 each 12-month period thereafter to a price per share of $25 if redeemed four years from the earliest redemption date or thereafter. Series C-1 and Series C-2
may be redeemed at a price of US$1,000 on the earliest redemption date and any dividend payment date thereafter.
Subject to the consent of OSFI and the requirements of the Bank Act (Canada), we may purchase the First Preferred Shares of each Series for cancellation at the lowest price or prices at which,
in the opinion of the Board of Directors, such shares are obtainable.
Subject to the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange, we may, on or after February 24, 2010, convert First Preferred Shares Series W into our common shares. First Preferred Shares Series W
may be converted into that number of common shares determined by dividing the current redemption price by the greater of $2.50 and 95% of the weighted average trading price of common
shares at such time.
The preferred shares include non-viability contingency capital (NVCC) provisions, necessary for the shares to qualify as Tier 1 regulatory capital under Basel III. NVCC provisions require the
conversion of the instrument into a variable number of common shares in the event that OSFI deems the Bank non-viable or a federal or provincial government in Canada publicly announces
that the Bank has accepted or agreed to accept a capital injection. In such an event, each preferred share is convertible into common shares pursuant to an automatic conversion formula
with a multiplier of 1 and with a conversion price based on the greater of: (i) a floor price of $5 and (ii) the current market price of our common shares based on the volume weighted average
trading price of our common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The number of shares issued is determined by dividing the preferred share value ($25 plus declared and unpaid
dividends) by the conversion price.
Series C-1 do not qualify as Tier 1 regulatory capital. On November 13, 2017, we redeemed all issued and outstanding Non-Cumulative Perpetual First Preferred Shares Series C-1
(82 thousand shares) for cash at a redemption price of US$1,000 per share (equivalent to US$25 per related depositary share).
The dividend rate will reset on the earliest redemption date and every fifth year thereafter at a rate equal to the 5-year Government of Canada bond yield plus the premium indicated. The
holders have the option to convert their shares into non-cumulative floating rate First Preferred Shares subject to certain conditions on the earliest redemption date and every fifth year
thereafter at a rate equal to the three-month Government of Canada Treasury Bill rate plus the premium indicated.
The dividend rate is equal to the three-month Government of Canada Treasury Bill rate plus the premium indicated. The holders have the option to convert their shares into non-cumulative
First Preferred Shares, Series AJ subject to certain conditions on February 24, 2019 and every fifth year thereafter.
The dividend rate will change on the earliest redemption date at a rate equal to the 3-month LIBOR plus the premium indicated. Series C-2 do not qualify as Tier 1 regulatory capital.

Restrictions on the payment of dividends
We are prohibited by the Bank Act (Canada) 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. We have agreed that if the Trust fails 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 20.

Currently, these limitations do not restrict the payment of dividends on our preferred or common shares.

Dividend reinvestment plan
Our dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP) provides common and preferred shareholders with a means to receive additional common shares rather
than cash dividends. The plan is only open to shareholders residing in Canada or the United States. The requirements of our DRIP are satisfied
through either open market share purchases or shares issued from treasury. During 2017 and 2016, the requirements of our DRIP were satisfied
through open market share purchases.

184

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Shares available for future issuances
As at October 31, 2017, 43.8 million common shares are available for future issue relating to our DRIP and potential exercise of stock options
outstanding. In addition, we may issue up to 38.9 million common shares from treasury under the RBC Umbrella Savings and Securities Purchase
Plan that was approved by shareholders on February 26, 2009.

Non-controlling interests

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
RBC Trust Capital Securities (1)

Series 2008-1

Other

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

511
88

599

$

$

511
84

595

(1)

As at October 31, 2017, RBC TruCS Series 2008-1 includes $11 million of accrued interest (October 31, 2016 – $11 million), net of $0.2 million treasury holdings (October 31, 2016 – $nil).

Note 22 Share-based compensation

Stock option plans
We have stock option plans for certain key employees. Under the plans, options are periodically granted to purchase common shares. The
exercise price for the majority of the grants 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 preceding the day of grant. The exercise price for the remaining grants is the closing market share price of our common shares
on the New York Stock Exchange on the date of grant. All options vest over a four-year period, and are exercisable for a period not exceeding 10
years from the grant date.

The compensation expense recorded for the year ended October 31, 2017, in respect of the stock option plans was $8 million (October 31,

2016 – $8 million). The compensation expense related to non-vested options was $5 million at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 –
$4 million), to be recognized over the weighted average period of 1.5 years (October 31, 2016 – 1.9 years).

Analysis of the movement in the number and weighted average exercise price of options is set out below:

A summary of our stock option activity and related information

(Canadian dollars per share except share amounts)
Outstanding at beginning of year
Granted (1)
Exercised (2) (3)
Forfeited in the year

Outstanding at end of year

Exercisable at end of year

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Number of
options
(thousands)
10,650
1,509
(3,477)
(116)

Weighted
average
exercise price (4)
57.64
$
90.23
51.14
75.96

Number of
options
(thousands)
8,182
7,403
(4,825)
(110)

Weighted
average
exercise price (4)
55.78
$
55.74
50.97
69.79

8,566

4,337

$

$

64.96

50.04

10,650

6,909

$

$

57.64

49.47

(1)

(2)

(3)
(4)

During 2016, total consideration in our acquisition of City National included share-based compensation amounts of US$156 million, including the conversion of 3.8 million stock options with
a fair value of US$112 million, based on the Black-Scholes model. Refer to Note 11 for details on this acquisition.
Cash received for options exercised during the year was $178 million (October 31, 2016 – $246 million) and the weighted average share price at the date of exercise was $93.48 (October 31,
2016 – $76.90).
New shares were issued for all stock options exercised in 2017 and 2016.
The weighted average exercise prices reflect the conversion of foreign currency-denominated options at the exchange rates as of October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016. For foreign currency-
denominated options exercised during the year, the weighted average exercise prices are translated using exchange rates as at the settlement date.

Options outstanding as at October 31, 2017 by range of exercise price

(Canadian dollars per share except share amounts and years)
$19.40 – $45.64
$46.14 – $55.04
$58.65 – $72.77
$73.14 – $74.39
$75.12 – $90.23

Options outstanding

Options exercisable

Number
outstanding
(thousands)
1,655
1,479
1,375
1,786
2,271

Weighted
average
exercise price (1)
38.46
$
51.96
63.67
74.28
86.17

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
3.01
2.98
5.86
7.89
8.35

Number
exercisable
(thousands)
1,655
1,479
1,030
172
1

Weighted
average
exercise price (1)
38.46
$
51.96
61.82
74.08
75.12

8,566

$

64.96

5.90

4,337

$

50.04

(1)

The weighted average exercise prices reflect the conversion of foreign currency-denominated options at the exchange rate as of October 31, 2017.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

185

Note 22 Share-based compensation (continued)

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the year ended October 31, 2017 was estimated at $5.28 (October 31, 2016 – $4.83).
This was determined by applying the Black-Scholes model on the date of grant, taking into account the specific terms and conditions under
which the options are granted, such as the vesting period and expected share price volatility estimated by considering both historic average
share price volatility and implied volatility derived from traded options over our common shares of similar maturity to those of the employee
options. The following assumptions were used to determine the fair value of options granted:

Weighted average assumptions

(Canadian dollars per share except percentages and years)

Share price at grant date
Risk-free interest rate
Expected dividend yield
Expected share price volatility
Expected life of option

For the year ended

$

October 31
2017
90.30
1.27%
4.14%
14%
6 years

$

October 31
2016
72.49
0.94%
4.07%
16%
6 years

Employee savings and share ownership plans
We offer many employees an opportunity to own our common 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 commission-based 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. For the year ended October 31, 2017, we contributed $92 million (October 31, 2016 – $91 million), under
the terms of these plans, towards the purchase of our common shares. As at October 31, 2017, an aggregate of 36 million common shares were
held under these plans (October 31, 2016 – 37 million common shares).

Deferred share and other plans
We offer deferred share unit plans to executives, certain key employees and non-employee directors of RBC. Under these plans, participants 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 participants 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 or
termination of employment/directorship. The cash value of the DSUs is equivalent to the market value of common shares when conversion
takes place.

We have a deferred bonus plan for certain key employees within Capital Markets. The deferred bonus is invested as RBC share units and a
specified percentage vests on each of the three anniversary dates following the grant date. Each vested amount is paid in cash and is based on
the original number of RBC share units plus accumulated dividends valued using the average closing price of RBC common shares during the five
trading days immediately preceding the vesting date.

We offer performance deferred share award plans to certain key employees, all of which vest at the end of three years. Upon vesting, the

award is paid in cash and is based on the original number of RBC share units granted plus accumulated dividends valued using the average
closing price of RBC common shares during the five trading days immediately preceding the vesting date. A portion of the award under certain
plans may be increased or decreased up to 25%, depending on our total shareholder return compared to a defined peer group of global financial
institutions.

We maintain non-qualified deferred compensation plans for certain key employees in the United States. These plans allow eligible
employees to defer a portion of their annual income and a variety of productivity and recruitment bonuses and allocate the deferrals among
specified fund choices, including a RBC Share Accounted fund that tracks the value of our common shares.

The following table presents the units granted under the deferred share and other plans for the year.

Units granted under deferred share and other plans

(Units and per unit amounts)
Deferred share unit plans
Deferred bonus plan
Performance deferred share award plans
Deferred compensation plans
Other share-based plans

For the year ended

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Units
granted
(thousands)
343
4,347
2,185
99
794

Weighted
average
fair value
per unit
$ 91.87
100.30
88.79
91.49
90.68

Units
granted
(thousands)
388
4,545
2,656
124
1,394

Weighted
average
fair value
per unit
$ 74.89
83.30
74.49
72.52
76.04

7,768

$ 93.24

9,107

$ 79.11

Our liabilities for the awards granted under the deferred share and other plans are measured at fair value, determined based on the quoted
market price of our common shares and specified fund choices as applicable. Annually, our obligation is increased by additional units earned by
plan participants, and is offset by forfeitures, cancellations, and the settlement of vested units. In addition, our obligation is impacted by
fluctuations in the market price of our common shares and specified fund units. For performance deferred share award plans, the estimated
outcome of meeting the performance conditions also impacts our obligation.

186

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The following tables present the units that have been earned by the participants, our obligations for these earned units under the deferred

share and other plans, and the related compensation expenses (recoveries) recognized for the year.

Obligations under deferred share and other plans

(Millions of Canadian dollars except units)
Deferred share unit plans
Deferred bonus plan
Performance deferred share award plans
Deferred compensation plans (1)
Other share-based plans

(1)

Excludes obligations not determined based on the quoted market price of our common shares.

Compensation expenses recognized under deferred share and other plans

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Deferred share unit plans
Deferred bonus plan
Performance deferred share award plans
Deferred compensation plans
Other share-based plans

Note 23 Income taxes

The components of tax expense are as follows.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Income taxes (recoveries) in Consolidated Statements of Income
Current tax

Tax expense for current year
Adjustments for prior years
Recoveries arising from previously unrecognized tax loss, tax credit or temporary difference of a prior period

Deferred tax

Origination and reversal of temporary difference
Effects of changes in tax rates
Adjustments for prior years
Write-down (reversal of a previous write-down)

Income taxes (recoveries) in Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and Changes in Equity

Other comprehensive income

Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities
Reclassification of net losses (gains) on available-for-sale securities to income
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses)
Net foreign currency translation gains (losses) from hedging activities
Net gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
Reclassification of losses (gains) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges to income
Remeasurements of employee benefit plans
Net fair value change due to credit risk on financial liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss

Issuance costs
Share-based compensation awards

Total income taxes

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Units
(thousands)
4,642
12,021
5,924
3,651
2,021
28,259

Carrying
amount
468
$
1,213
597
368
201
$ 2,847

Units
(thousands)

4,490 $

Carrying
amount
376
1,444
502
333
157
31,003 $ 2,812

14,644
5,999
3,972
1,898

For the year ended

$

October 31
2017
96
343
312
342
108

$

October 31
2016
62
195
246
134
91

$

1,201

$

728

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

3,261
(22)
–

3,239

(32)
(8)
5
(1)

(36)

3,012
(26)
(61)

2,925

(111)
(3)
27
3

(84)

3,203

2,841

62
(38)
(3)
142
195
(3)
273
(124)
–
(35)

469

29
(20)
3
51
(13)
19
(373)
(118)
(6)
(10)

(438)

$

3,672

$

2,403

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

187

Note 23 Income taxes (continued)

Our effective tax rate changed from 21.4% for 2016 to 21.8% for 2017, principally due to lower tax exempt income and the impact from the gain
on sale of RBC General Insurance Company in 2016. These factors were partially offset by our share of a gain related to the sale of our U.S.
operations of Moneris in the current year.

The following is an analysis of the differences between the income tax expense reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income and the

amounts calculated at the Canadian statutory rate.

Reconciliation to statutory tax rate

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except for percentage amounts)
Income taxes at Canadian statutory tax rate
Increase (decrease) in income taxes resulting from
Lower average tax rate applicable to subsidiaries
Tax-exempt income from securities
Tax rate change
Effect of previously unrecognized tax loss, tax credit or temporary differences
Other

Income taxes in Consolidated Statements of Income / effective tax rate

For the year ended

October 31, 2017
$ 3,888

26.5% $ 3,524

October 31, 2016

(518)
(293)
(8)
–
134

$ 3,203

(3.5)
(2.0)
(0.1)
–
0.9

(340)
(410)
(3)
(61)
131
21.8% $ 2,841

26.5%

(2.6)
(3.1)
–
(0.4)
1.0

21.4%

Deferred tax assets and liabilities result from tax loss carryforwards and temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and
their carrying amounts on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Net deferred tax asset/(liability)
Allowance for credit losses
Deferred compensation
Business realignment charges
Tax loss carryforwards
Deferred income
Available-for-sale securities
Premises and equipment and intangibles
Deferred expense
Pension and post-employment related
Other

Comprising

Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Net deferred tax asset/(liability)
Allowance for credit losses
Deferred compensation
Business realignment charges
Tax loss carryforwards
Deferred income
Available-for-sale securities
Premises and equipment and intangibles
Deferred expense
Pension and post-employment related
Other

Comprising

Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities

As at October 31, 2017

Net Asset
November 1,
2016

Change
through
equity

Change
through profit
or loss

Exchange rate
differences

Acquisitions/
disposals

Net Asset
October 31,
2017

$

$

$

$

$

484
1,558
8
32
95
10
(1,081)
(60)
825
(33)

$

–
35
–
–
–
47
(1)
–
(273)
(12)

$

9
(65)
3
(12)
(105)
(5)
66
135
23
(13)

1,838

$ (204)

$

36

$

(7)
(37)
–
(1)
(1)
(3)
13
1
(4)
4

(35)

$

$

2,827
(989)

1,838

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

$

$

$

$

486
1,491
11
19
(11)
49
(1,003)
76
571
(54)

1,635

1,732
(97)

1,635

As at October 31, 2016

Net Asset
November 1,
2015

Change
through
equity

Change
through profit
or loss

Exchange rate
differences

Acquisitions/
disposals

Net Asset
October 31,
2016

$

$

$

$

$

372
1,296
6
54
147
12
(539)
(86)
412
197

$

–
10
–
(1)
–
(12)
–
8
373
8

$

90
40
2
(19)
(32)
1
62
5
39
(104)

1,871

$

386

$

84

$

2
23
–
(2)
1
4
(10)
–
1
(7)

12

$

$

2,072
(201)

1,871

20
189
–
–
(21)
5
(594)
13
–
(127)

(515)

$

$

$

$

484
1,558
8
32
95
10
(1,081)
(60)
825
(33)

1,838

2,827
(989)

1,838

188

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The tax loss carryforwards amount of deferred tax assets relates to losses in our Caribbean, Canadian and Japanese operations. Deferred tax
assets of $19 million were recognized at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $32 million) in respect of tax losses incurred in current or
preceding years for which recognition is dependent on the projection of future taxable profits. Management’s forecasts support the assumption
that it is probable that the results of future operations will generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the deferred tax assets. The forecasts rely
on continued liquidity and capital support to our business operations, including tax planning strategies implemented in relation to such support.

As at October 31, 2017, unused tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences of $387 million, $582 million and $40 million
(October 31, 2016 – $372 million, $541 million and $3 million) available to be offset against potential tax adjustments or future taxable income
were not recognized as deferred tax assets. This amount includes unused tax losses of $2 million which expire within one year (October 31,
2016 – $26 million), $4 million which expire in two to four years (October 31, 2016 – $3 million) and $381 million which expire after four years
(October 31, 2016 – $343 million). There are $7 million of tax credits that will expire in one year (October 31, 2016 - $nil), $92 million that will
expire in two to four years (October 31, 2016 – $73 million) and $483 million that will expire after four years (October 31, 2016 – $468 million).
In addition, there are deductible temporary differences of $1 million that will expire in two to four years (October 31, 2016 – $nil) and $39 million
that will expire after four years (October 31, 2016 – $3 million).

The amount of temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches and associates and interests in joint ventures

for which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognized in the parent bank is $13.5 billion as at October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 –
$11.7 billion).

Tax examinations and assessments
During the year, we received proposal letters (the Proposals) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), in respect of the 2012 taxation year, which
suggest that Royal Bank of Canada owes additional income taxes of approximately $250 million, excluding interest, as the tax deductibility of
certain dividends was denied on the basis that they were part of a “dividend rental arrangement”. This Proposal is consistent with
reassessments also received during the year for approximately $209 million of additional income tax and interest for taxation year 2011 and
approximately $225 million of tax and interest reassessments received last year for taxation years 2010 and 2009 in respect of the same matter.
The dividends to which the Proposals and reassessments relate were received in transactions similar to those addressed in the 2015
Canadian Federal Budget, which disallowed deduction of these dividends from similar arrangements with prospective application effective
May 1, 2017. It is possible that the CRA will reassess us for significant additional income tax for subsequent years on the same basis. We are
confident that our tax filing position was appropriate and intend to defend ourselves vigorously.

Note 24 Earnings per share

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts)
Basic earnings per share

Net Income
Preferred share dividends
Net income attributable to non-controlling interest

Net income available to common shareholders

Weighted average number of common shares (in thousands)
Basic earnings per share (in dollars)

Diluted earnings per share

Net income available to common shareholders
Dilutive impact of exchangeable shares

Net income available to common shareholders including dilutive impact of exchangeable shares

Weighted average number of common shares (in thousands)
Stock options (1)
Issuable under other share-based compensation plans
Exchangeable shares (2)

Average number of diluted common shares (in thousands)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars)

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

$

11,469
(300)
(41)

11,128

1,466,988
7.59

11,128
15

11,143

1,466,988
3,273
744
3,416

$

$

$

10,458
(294)
(53)

10,111

1,485,876
6.80

10,111
15

10,126

1,485,876
3,329
731
4,201

1,474,421
7.56

$

1,494,137
6.78

$

(1)

(2)

The dilutive effect of stock options was calculated using the treasury stock method. When the exercise price of options outstanding is greater than the average market price of our common
shares, the options are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share. For the year ended October 31, 2017, no outstanding options were excluded from the calculation of
diluted earnings per share. For the year ended October 31, 2016, an average of 802,371 outstanding options with an average exercise price of $78.58 were excluded from the calculation of
diluted earnings per share.
Includes exchangeable preferred shares and trust capital securities.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

189

Note 25 Guarantees, commitments, pledged assets and contingencies

Guarantees and commitments
We use guarantees and other off-balance sheet credit instruments to meet the financing needs of our clients.

The table below summarizes our maximum exposure to credit losses related to our guarantees and commitments provided to third parties.

The maximum exposure to credit risk relating to a guarantee is 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 maximum
exposure to credit risk relating to a commitment to extend credit is the full amount of the commitment. In both cases, the maximum risk
exposure is significantly greater than the amount recognized as a liability in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Financial guarantees

Financial standby letters of credit

Commitments to extend credit
Backstop liquidity facilities
Credit enhancements
Documentary and commercial letters of credit
Other commitments to extend credit

Other credit-related commitments

Securities lending indemnifications
Performance guarantees
Other

Maximum exposure to credit losses
As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

18,746

$

18,886

38,939
2,261
286
186,971

101,844
6,579
154

38,910
2,598
232
181,491

90,230
6,844
50

Our credit review process, our policy for requiring collateral security, and the types of collateral security held are generally the same for
guarantees and commitments as for loans. Our clients generally have the right to request settlement of, or draw on, our guarantees and
commitments within one year. However, certain guarantees can only be drawn if specified conditions are met. These conditions, along with
collateral requirements, are described below. We believe that it is highly unlikely that all or substantially all of the guarantees and commitments
will be drawn or settled within one year, and contracts may expire without being drawn or settled.

Financial guarantees
Financial standby letters of credit
Financial standby letters of credit represent irrevocable assurances that we will make payments in the event that a client cannot meet its
payment obligations to the third party. For certain guarantees, the guaranteed party can request payment from us even though the client has not
defaulted on its obligations. The term of these guarantees generally have a term of 8 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.

Commitments to extend credit
Backstop liquidity facilities
Backstop liquidity facilities are provided to ABCP conduit 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 limited circumstances, when predetermined performance
measures of the financial assets owned by these programs are not met. The average remaining term of these liquidity facilities is approximately
four years.

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 insolvency

and generally do not require us to purchase non-performing or defaulted assets.

Credit enhancements
We provide partial credit enhancement to multi-seller ABCP programs administered by us to protect commercial paper investors in the event that
the collections on the underlying assets together with the transaction-specific credit enhancements or the liquidity facilities prove 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 enhancements from us and other third parties related to each transaction. The average remaining term of these credit facilities is
approximately three years.

Documentary and commercial letters of credit
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, where some are collateralized based on the underlying agreement with the
client and others are collateralized by cash deposits or other assets of the third party which may include the underlying shipment of goods to
which they relate.

Other commitments to extend credit
Commitments to extend credit represent unused portions of authorizations to extend credit in the form of loans, bankers’ acceptances or letters
of credit where we do not have the ability to unilaterally withdraw the credit extended to the borrower.

190

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Other credit-related commitments
Securities lending indemnifications
In securities lending transactions, we act 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, securities that are issued or guaranteed by the
Canadian government, U.S. government or other OECD countries or high quality debt or equity instruments.

Performance guarantees
Performance guarantees represent irrevocable assurances that we will make payments to third-party beneficiaries in the event that a client fails
to perform under a specified non-financial contractual obligation. Such obligations typically include works and service contracts, performance
bonds, and warranties related to international trade. 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.

Indemnifications
In the normal course of our operations, we provide indemnifications which are often standard contractual terms to counterparties in transactions
such as purchase and sale contracts, fiduciary, agency, licensing, custodial and service agreements, clearing system arrangements, participation
as a member of exchanges, director/officer contracts and leasing transactions. These indemnification 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 vary based on the contract. The nature of the indemnification 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 payments under such
indemnifications.

Uncommitted amounts
Uncommitted amounts represent undrawn credit facilities for which we have the ability to unilaterally withdraw the credit extended to the
borrower. These include both retail and commercial commitments. As at October 31, 2017, the total balance of uncommitted amounts was
$260 billion (October 31, 2016 – $271 billion(1)).

Other commitments
We act as underwriter for certain new issuances under which we alone or together with a syndicate of financial institutions purchase the new
issue for resale to investors. In connection with these activities, our commitments were $38 million as at October 31, 2017, (October 31, 2016 –
$540 million).

We invest in private companies, directly or through third party investment funds, including Small Business Investment Companies, real estate
funds and Low Income Housing Tax Credit funds. These funds are generally structured as closed-end limited partnerships wherein we hold a
limited partner interest. For the year ended October 31, 2017, we have unfunded commitments of CAD $937 million (October 31, 2016 –
$898 million) representing the aggregate amount of cash we are obligated to be contributed as capital to these partnerships under the terms of
the relevant contracts.

Pledged assets and collateral
In the ordinary course of business, we pledge assets and enter in collateral agreements with terms and conditions that are usual and customary
to our regular lending, borrowing and trading activities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following are examples of our general
terms and conditions on pledged assets and collateral:

•
•
•
•

The risks and rewards of the pledged assets reside with the pledgor.
The pledged asset is returned to the pledgor when the necessary conditions have been satisfied.
The right of the pledgee to sell or re-pledge the asset is dependent on the specific agreement under which the collateral is pledged.
If there is no default, the pledgee must return the comparable asset to the pledgor upon satisfaction of the obligation.

We are also required to provide intraday pledges to the Bank of Canada when we use the Large Value Transfer System (LVTS), which is a real-time
electronic wire transfer system that continuously processes all Canadian dollar large-value or time-critical payments throughout the day. The
pledged assets earmarked for LVTS activities are normally released back to us at the end of the settlement cycle each day. Therefore, the pledged
assets amount is not included in the table below. For the year ended October 31, 2017, we had on average $3.7 billion of assets pledged
intraday to the Bank of Canada on a daily basis (October 31, 2016 – $3.4 billion). There are infrequent occasions where we are required to take
an overnight advance from the Bank of Canada to cover a settlement requirement, in which case an equivalent value of the pledged assets would
be used to secure the advance. There were no overnight advances taken on October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016.

(1)

Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

191

Note 25 Guarantees, commitments, pledged assets and contingencies (continued)

Details of assets pledged against liabilities and collateral assets held or re-pledged are shown in the following tables:

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Sources of pledged assets and collateral
Bank assets

Cash and due from banks
Loans
Securities
Other assets

Client assets (1)

Collateral received and available for sale or re-pledging (2)
Less: not sold or re-pledged (2)

Uses of pledged assets and collateral

Securities lent (2)
Securities borrowed (2)
Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to securities lent or sold under repurchase agreements (2)
Securitization
Covered bonds
Derivative transactions
Foreign governments and central banks
Clearing systems, payment systems and depositories
Other

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

6
83,141
60,708
19,520

$

–
85,351
55,479
23,307

163,375

164,137

298,470
(82,522)

215,948

250,181
(69,631)

180,550

$ 379,323

$ 344,687

$ 31,635
48,929
30,008
139,536
43,346
38,504
22,134
3,298
2,916
19,017

$ 25,187
34,817
50,369
102,229
43,502
40,293
29,183
1,574
3,521
14,012

$ 379,323

$ 344,687

(1)
(2)

Primarily relates to Obligations related to securities lent or sold under repurchase agreements, Securities lent and Derivative transactions.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Lease commitments
Finance lease commitments
We lease computer equipment from third parties under finance lease arrangements. The leases have various terms, escalation and renewal
rights. The future minimum lease payments under the finance leases are as follows:

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Future minimum lease payments

No later than one year
Later than one year and no later than five years

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

Total future
minimum
lease
payments

Future
interest
charges

Present
value of
finance lease
commitments

Total future
minimum
lease
payments

Future
interest
charges

Present
value of
finance lease
commitments

$

$

17
21

38

$

$

(2)
(2)

(4)

$

$

15
19

34

$

$

21
20

41

$

$

(2)
(2)

(4)

$

$

19
18

37

The net carrying amount of computer equipment held under finance lease as at October 31, 2017 was $44 million (October 31, 2016 –
$47 million).

192

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Operating lease commitments
We are obligated under a number of non-cancellable operating leases for premises and equipment. These leases have various terms, escalation
and renewal rights. The lease agreements do not include any clauses that impose any restriction on our ability to pay dividends, engage in debt
financing transactions, or enter into further lease agreements. The minimum future lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are
as follows.

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

As at

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Future minimum lease payments

No later than one year
Later than one year and no later than five years
Later than five years

Less: Future minimum sublease payments to be received

Land and
buildings

$

643
2,006
2,868

5,517
(21)

Net future minimum lease payments

$ 5,496

$

Note 26 Legal and regulatory matters

Equipment

Equipment

$

$

Land and
buildings

$

662
1,993
2,140

4,795
(24)

$ 4,771

$

94
192
–

286
–

286

70
206
–

276
–

276

We are a large global institution that is subject to many different complex legal and regulatory requirements that continue to evolve. We are and
have been subject to a variety of legal proceedings, including civil claims and lawsuits, regulatory examinations, investigations, audits and
requests for information by various governmental regulatory agencies and law enforcement authorities in various jurisdictions. Some of these
matters may involve novel legal theories and interpretations and may be advanced under criminal as well as civil statutes, and some
proceedings could result in the imposition of civil, regulatory enforcement or criminal penalties. We review the status of all proceedings on an
ongoing basis and will exercise judgment in resolving them in such manner as we believe to be in our best interest. This is an area of significant
judgment and uncertainty and the extent of our financial and other exposure to these proceedings after taking into account current accruals
could be material to our results of operations in any particular period. The following is a description of our significant legal proceedings.

LIBOR regulatory investigations and litigation
Various regulators and competition and enforcement authorities around the world, including in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the U.S., are
conducting investigations related to certain past submissions made by panel banks in connection with the setting of the U.S. dollar London
interbank offered rate (LIBOR). These investigations focus on allegations of collusion between the banks that were on the panel to make
submissions for certain LIBOR rates. Royal Bank of Canada is a member of certain LIBOR panels, including the U.S. dollar LIBOR panel, and has in
the past been the subject of regulatory requests for information. In addition, Royal Bank of Canada and other U.S. dollar panel banks have been
named as defendants in private lawsuits filed in the U.S. with respect to the setting of LIBOR including a number of class action lawsuits which
have been consolidated before the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The complaints in those private lawsuits assert
claims against us and other panel banks under various U.S. laws, including U.S. antitrust laws, the U.S. Commodity Exchange Act, and state law.
On December 20, 2016, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York dismissed a substantial portion of the consolidated LIBOR
class action on jurisdictional grounds and lack of standing. Based on the facts currently known, it is not possible at this time for us to predict the
ultimate outcome of these investigations or proceedings or the timing of their resolution.

Royal Bank of Canada Trust Company (Bahamas) Limited proceedings
On April 13, 2015, a French investigating judge notified Royal Bank of Canada Trust Company (Bahamas) Limited (RBC Bahamas) of the issuance
of an ordonnance de renvoi referring RBC Bahamas and other unrelated persons to the French tribunal correctionnel to face the charge of
complicity in estate tax fraud relating to actions taken relating to a trust for which RBC Bahamas serves as trustee. RBC Bahamas believes that its
actions did not violate French law and contested the charge in the French court. On January 12, 2017, the French court acquitted all parties
including RBC Bahamas. The French prosecutor’s office has appealed. The appeal is currently scheduled to be heard commencing on March 2,
2018.

On October 28, 2016, Royal Bank of Canada was granted an exemption by the U.S. Department of Labor that will allow Royal Bank of
Canada and its current and future affiliates to continue to qualify for the Qualified Professional Asset Manager exemption under the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act despite any potential conviction of RBC Bahamas in the French proceeding for a temporary one year period from
the date of conviction. An application to grant more lengthy exemptive relief is pending.

RBC Bahamas continues to review the trustee’s and the trust’s legal obligations, including liabilities and potential liabilities under

applicable tax and other laws. Based on the facts currently known, it is not possible at this time to predict the ultimate outcome of these matters;
however, we believe that the ultimate resolution will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, although it may be
material to our results of operations in the period it occurs.

Interchange fees litigation
Since 2011, seven proposed class actions have been commenced in Canada: Bancroft-Snell v. Visa Canada Corporation, et al., 9085-4886
Quebec Inc. v. Visa Canada Corporation, et al., Coburn and Watson’s Metropolitan Home v. Bank of America Corporation, et al. (Watson),
Macaronies Hair Club and Laser Centre Inc. v. BofA Canada Bank, et al., 1023926 Alberta Ltd. v. Bank of America Corporation, et al., The Crown &
Hand Pub Ltd. v. Bank of America Corporation, et al., and Hello Baby Equipment Inc. v. BofA Canada Bank, et al. The defendants in each action are
VISA Canada Corporation (Visa), MasterCard International Incorporated (MasterCard), Royal Bank of Canada and other financial institutions. The
plaintiff class members are Canadian merchants who accept Visa and/or MasterCard branded credit cards for payment. The actions allege,
among other things, that from March 2001 to the present, Visa and MasterCard conspired with their issuing banks and acquirers to set default
interchange rates and merchant discount fees and that certain rules (Honour All Cards and No Surcharge) have the effect of increasing the
merchant discount fees. The actions include claims of civil conspiracy, breach of the Competition Act, interference with economic relations and
unjust enrichment. The claims seek unspecified general and punitive damages. In Watson, a decision to partially certify the action as a class
proceeding was released on March 27, 2014, and was appealed. On August 19, 2015, the British Columbia Court of Appeal struck the plaintiff
class representative’s cause of action under section 45 of the Competition Act and reinstated the plaintiff class representative’s cause of action

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

193

Note 26 Legal and regulatory matters (continued)

in civil conspiracy by unlawful means, among other rulings. In October 2016, the trial court in Watson denied a motion by the plaintiff to revive
the stricken section 45 Competition Act claim, and also denied the plaintiff’s motion to add new causes of action. The plaintiff class
representative has now appealed that decision. The Watson proceeding has been set down for trial commencing September 2018. Based on the
facts currently known, it is not possible at this time for us to predict the ultimate outcome of this proceeding or the timing of its resolution.

Foreign exchange matters
Various regulators are conducting inquiries regarding potential violations of antitrust law by a number of banks, including Royal Bank of Canada,
regarding foreign exchange trading. On March 3, 2017, the Brazilian civil antitrust authority Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE)
initiated a civil administrative proceeding against the Royal Bank of Canada and certain other financial institutions and individuals.

Beginning in 2015, putative class actions were brought against Royal Bank of Canada and/or RBC Capital Markets, LLC in the United States
and Canada. These actions were each brought against multiple foreign exchange dealers and allege, among other things, collusive behaviour in
global foreign exchange trading. In September 2017, the US District Court entered an order preliminarily approving RBC Capital Market’s pending
settlement with class plaintiffs. A hearing on the fairness of the proposed settlements is currently scheduled by the US District Court for May
2018. RBC denies liability in connection with the proposed settlement. The Canadian class actions and one other US action that is purportedly
brought on behalf of different classes of plaintiffs remain pending.

In its discretion RBC may choose to resolve claims, litigations, or similar matters at any time. Based on the facts currently known, it is not

possible at this time to predict the ultimate outcome of the Foreign Exchange Matters or the timing of their ultimate resolution.

Panama Papers inquiries
Following media reports on the contents of files misappropriated from a Panamanian-based law firm, Mossack Fonseca & Co about special
purpose entities associated with that firm, regulatory, tax and enforcement authorities are conducting inquiries. The inquiries focus on, among
other issues, the potential use of such entities by third parties to avoid tax and disclosure obligations. Royal Bank of Canada has received, and is
responding to, information and document requests by a number of such authorities.

Inquiries on sales practices
We have received inquiries about our sales practices and related compensation arrangements. In addition, in March 2017, the Financial
Consumer Agency of Canada announced that it will begin a review of sales practices in the Canadian federally regulated financial sector. The
Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions is also involved in conducting this joint sales practices review.

Other matters
We are a defendant in a number of other actions alleging that certain of our practices and actions were improper. The lawsuits involve a variety of
complex issues and the timing of their resolution is varied and uncertain. Management believes that we will ultimately be successful in resolving
these lawsuits, to the extent that we are able to assess them, without material financial impact to the Bank. This is, however, an area of
significant judgment and the potential liability resulting from these lawsuits could be material to our results of operations in any particular
period.

Various other legal proceedings are pending that challenge certain of our other practices or actions. While this is an area of significant

judgment and some matters are currently inestimable, we consider that the aggregate liability, to the extent that we are able to assess it,
resulting from these other proceedings will not be material to our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

194

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 27 Contractual repricing and maturity schedule

The following table details our exposure to interest rate risk. The carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities are reported below
based on the earlier of their contractual repricing date or maturity date.

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 trading instruments and certain loans and deposits. Taking into account these assumptions on the consolidated
contractual repricing and maturity schedule at October 31, 2017, would result in a change in the under-one-year gap from $7.0 billion to
$84.4 billion.

Immediately
interest
rate-sensitive

Under
3 months

3 to 6
months

6 to 12
months

1 to 5
years

Over
5 years

Non-rate-
sensitive

As at October 31, 2017

$

13,422 $ 42,857 $

34 $

59 $

471 $

30 $

4,196 $

1
–

27,713
29,494

6,751
3,084

12,393
2,302

17,966
27,510

31,429
27,116

31,404
1,216

Total

61,069
127,657
90,722

2,351
133,500
95,023
–
3

220,977
542,617
95,023
1,216
73,572
$ 244,300 $ 440,533 $ 50,807 $ 61,049 $ 241,129 $ 76,371 $ 98,664 $ 1,212,853

192,206
128,786
–
–
19,477

1,938
193,244
–
–
–

19,017
21,921
–
–
–

4,712
41,583
–
–
–

–
17,701
–
–
95

753
5,882
–
1,216
53,997

$ 300,077 $ 155,964 $ 23,745 $ 53,600 $ 108,687 $ 16,785 $ 130,777 $

789,635

3,381

133,809

4,366

–

–

–

1,528

143,084

966
–
–
71
–
511
750

1,164
–
–
23
224
–
800

2,227
–
–
15,374
224
–
200

–
92,127
–
68
–
–
–

30,008
92,127
1,216
73,090
9,265
599
73,829
$ 395,653 $ 307,798 $ 30,322 $ 55,898 $ 130,204 $ 40,256 $ 252,722 $ 1,212,853
–
$ (151,353) $ 132,735 $ 20,485 $ 5,151 $ 110,925 $ 36,115 $ (154,058) $
–
$ (77,711) $ 28,201 $ 6,076 $ 10,636 $ 130,947 $ (2,071) $ (96,078) $
–
(5,485)
–
$ (151,353) $ 132,735 $ 20,485 $ 5,151 $ 110,925 $ 36,115 $ (154,058) $

3,550
–
1,216
48,009
–
88
67,554

13,813
–
–
7,617
2,041
–
–

8,288
–
–
1,928
6,776
–
4,525

(57,980)

(73,642)

(20,022)

104,534

14,409

38,186

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Assets
Cash and deposits with banks
Trading securities
Available-for-sale securities
Assets purchased under reverse
repurchase agreements and
securities borrowed

Loans (net of allowance for loan losses)
Derivatives
Segregated fund net assets
Other assets

Liabilities
Deposits
Obligations related to assets sold

under repurchase agreements and
securities loaned

Obligations related to securities

sold short

Derivatives
Segregated fund net liabilities
Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures
Non-controlling interests
Shareholders’ equity

Total gap
Canadian dollar
Foreign currency
Total gap

Note 28 Related party transactions

Related parties
Related parties include associated companies, post-employment benefit plans for the benefit of our employees, key management personnel
(KMP), the Board of Directors (Directors), close family members of KMP and Directors, and entities which are, directly or indirectly, controlled by,
jointly controlled by or significantly influenced by KMP, Directors or their close family members.

Key management personnel and Directors
KMP are defined as those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling our activities, directly or indirectly.
They include the senior members of our organization called the Group Executive. The Group Executive is comprised of the President and Chief
Executive Officer and individuals that report directly to him, including the Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human
Resources Officer, Group Chief Risk Officer, Chief Strategy & Corporate Development Officer, and Group Heads for Wealth Management and
Insurance, Capital Markets and Investor & Treasury Services, Technology & Operations, and Personal & Commercial Banking. The Directors do
not plan, direct, or control the activities of the entity; they oversee the management of the business and provide stewardship.

Compensation of key management personnel and Directors

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Salaries and other short-term employee benefits (1)
Post-employment benefits (2)
Share-based payments

For the year ended

$

October 31
2017
33
2
37
72

$

$

October 31
2016
26
2
41
69

$

(1)

(2)

Includes the portion of the annual variable short-term incentive bonus that certain executives elected to receive in the form of DSUs. Refer to Note 22 for further details. Directors receive
retainers but do not receive salaries and other short-term employee benefits.
Directors do not receive post-employment benefits.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

195

Note 28 Related party transactions (continued)

Stock options, stock awards and shares held by key management personnel, Directors and their close family members

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except number of units)
Stock options (1)
Other non-option stock based awards (1)
RBC common and preferred shares

(1)

Directors do not receive stock options or any other non-option stock based awards.

As at

October 31, 2017

October 31, 2016

No. of
units held
2,174,841
1,371,104
632,631

4,178,576

Value
$ 60
138
64

$ 262

No. of
units held
2,110,038
1,703,221
789,295

4,602,554

Value
$ 42
143
66

$ 251

Transactions, arrangements and agreements involving key management personnel, Directors and their close family members
In the normal course of business, we provide certain banking services to KMP, Directors, and their close family members. These transactions
were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and security, as for comparable transactions with persons of a similar
standing and did not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavourable features.

As at October 31, 2017, total loans to KMP, Directors and their close family members were $10 million (October 31, 2016 – $10 million). We
have no allowance or provision for credit losses relating to these loans as at and for the years ended October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016. No
guarantees, pledges or commitments have been given to KMP, Directors or their close family members.

Joint ventures and associates
In the normal course of business, we provide certain banking and financial services to our joint ventures and associates, including loans, interest
and non-interest bearing deposits. These transactions meet the definition of related party transactions and were made on substantially the same
terms as for comparable transactions with third parties.

As at October 31, 2017, loans to joint ventures and associates were $200 million (October 31, 2016 – $71 million) and deposits from joint

ventures and associates were $123 million (October 31, 2016 – $25 million). We have no allowance or provision for credit losses relating to
loans to joint ventures and associates as at and for the years ended October 31, 2017 and October 31, 2016. $1 million of guarantees have been
given to joint ventures and associates for the year ended October 31, 2017 (October 31, 2016 – $nil).

Other transactions, arrangements or agreements involving joint ventures and associates

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Commitments and other contingencies
Other fees received for services rendered
Other fees paid for services received

Note 29 Results by business segment

As at or for the year
ended

October 31
2017
870
40
182

$

October 31
2016
554
40
189

$

Composition of business segments
For management purposes, based on the products and services offered, we are organized into five business segments: Personal & Commercial
Banking, Wealth Management, Insurance, Investor & Treasury Services and Capital Markets.

Personal & Commercial Banking is comprised of our personal and business banking operations, and our auto financing and retail

investment businesses including our online discount brokerage channel and operates through four business lines: Personal Financial Services,
Business Financial Services, Cards and Payment Solutions (Canadian Banking), and Caribbean & U.S. Banking. In Canada, we provide a broad
suite of financial products and services through our extensive branch, automated teller machines, online, mobile and telephone banking
networks, as well as through a large number of proprietary sales professionals. In the Caribbean, we offer a broad range of financial products and
services to individuals, business clients and public institutions in targeted markets. In the U.S., we serve the cross-border banking needs of
Canadian clients within the U.S. through online channels.

Wealth Management is comprised of Canadian Wealth Management, U.S. Wealth Management (including City National), International

Wealth Management and Global Asset Management. We serve affluent, high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth clients (UHNW) in key
financial centres mainly in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., the Channel Islands and Asia with a comprehensive suite of investment, trust, banking,
credit and other wealth management solutions. We also provide asset management products and services directly to institutional and individual
clients through our distribution channels and third-party distributors.

Insurance is comprised of our insurance operations in Canada and globally and operates under two business lines: Canadian Insurance and

International Insurance, providing a wide range of life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth, group and reinsurance products and solutions. In
Canada, we offer our products and services through our proprietary distribution channels, comprised of the field sales force which includes retail
insurance branches, our field sales representatives, advice centers and online, as well as through independent insurance advisors and affinity
relationships. Outside Canada, we operate in reinsurance markets globally offering life, accident and annuity reinsurance products.

Investor & Treasury Services is a specialist provider of asset services, custody, payments and treasury services for financial and other

institutional investors worldwide. We also provide Canadian dollar cash management, correspondent banking and trade finance for financial
institutions globally and short-term funding and liquidity management for RBC.

Capital Markets provides public and private companies, institutional investors, governments and central banks globally with a wide range of

capital markets products and services across our two main business lines: Corporate and Investment Banking and Global Markets. In North
America, we offer a full suite of products and services which include corporate and investment banking, equity and debt origination and
distribution, and structuring and trading. Outside North America, we have a select presence in the U.K., Europe, and Other International, where

196

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

we offer a diversified set of capabilities in our key sectors of expertise such as energy, mining and infrastructure and we have a growing presence
in industrial, consumer and health care in Europe.

All other enterprise level activities that are not allocated to these five business segments, such as enterprise funding, securitizations, net

charges associated with unattributed capital, and consolidation adjustments, including the elimination of the Taxable equivalent basis (Teb)
gross-up amounts, are included in Corporate Support. Teb adjustments gross up income from certain tax-advantaged sources from Canadian
taxable corporate dividends and U.S. tax credit investments recorded in Capital Markets to their effective tax equivalent value with the
corresponding offset recorded in the provision for income taxes. Management believes that these Teb adjustments are necessary for Capital
Markets to reflect how it is managed and enhances the comparability of revenue across our taxable and tax-advantaged sources. Our use of Teb
adjustments may not be comparable to similarly adjusted amounts at other financial institutions. The Teb adjustment for the year ended
October 31, 2017 was $548 million (October 31, 2016 – $736 million).

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 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 in
the Canadian dollar.

Management reporting framework
Our management reporting framework is intended to measure the performance of each business segment as if it were a stand-alone business
and reflects the way our business segments are managed. This approach is intended to ensure that our business segment results reflect all
relevant revenue and expenses associated with the conduct of each business. We regularly monitor these segment results for the purpose of
making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. 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 five business segments are reported
under Corporate Support.

Our assumptions and methodologies used in our management reporting framework are periodically reviewed by us to ensure that they

remain valid. The capital attribution methodologies involve a number of assumptions and estimates that are revised periodically.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

197

Note 29 Results by business segment (continued)

6,825
92

1,260
3,686

1,787
263

1,524

6,467
61

1,120
3,790

1,496
286

1,210

Personal &
Commercial
Banking
$ 10,787 $
5,076

Wealth
Management (1)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Net interest income (3) (4)
Non-interest income (3) (5)

Total revenue (5)
Provision for credit losses
Insurance policyholder benefits,

15,863
1,054

claims and acquisition
expense

Non-interest expense (5)

Net income (loss) before income

taxes

Income taxes (recoveries)

–
7,176

7,633
1,878

For the year ended October 31, 2017

Investor &
Treasury
Services

Insurance

Capital
Markets (2)

Corporate
Support (2)

Total

Canada

2,248 $
7,827

10,075
34

–
7,611

2,430
592

– $

679 $

4,566

4,566
–

3,053
584

929
203

1,756

2,435
–

–
1,466

969
228

3,565 $
4,617

(139) $
(313)

17,140 $ 11,965 $
23,529

12,701

8,182
62

–
4,719

3,401
876

(452)
–

–
238

(690)
(574)

40,669
1,150

24,666
951

3,053
21,794

14,672
3,203

1,793
11,219

10,703
2,472

9,178
107

–
6,889

2,182
468

United
States
3,572 $
5,606

Other
International
1,603
5,222

Net income

$

5,755 $

1,838 $

726 $

741 $

2,525 $

(116) $

11,469 $

8,231 $

1,714 $

Non-interest expense includes:

Depreciation and
amortization

Impairment of other

intangibles

Restructuring provisions

$

582 $

526 $

33 $

105 $

352 $

17 $

1,615 $

959 $

465 $

191

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

2
–

2
–

2
–

–
–

–
–

Total assets

$ 433,532 $

89,493 $ 15,122 $ 133,126 $ 506,118 $ 35,462 $ 1,212,853 $ 644,292 $ 323,895 $ 244,666

Total assets include:

Additions to premises and

equipment and intangibles $

331 $

269 $

43 $

74 $

296 $

485 $

1,498 $

1,021 $

321 $

156

Total liabilities

$ 433,554 $

89,571 $ 15,172 $ 132,987 $ 505,952 $ (38,811) $ 1,138,425 $ 569,889 $ 323,911 $ 244,625

Personal &
Commercial
Banking
$ 10,337 $
4,675

Wealth
Management (1)

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Net interest income (3) (4)
Non-interest income (3) (5)

Total revenue (5)
Provision for credit losses
Insurance policyholder benefits,

15,012
1,122

claims and acquisition
expense

Non-interest expense (5)

Net income (loss) before

income taxes

Income taxes (recoveries)

–
6,933

6,957
1,773

For the year ended October 31, 2016

Investor &
Treasury
Services

Insurance

Capital
Markets (2)

Corporate
Support (2)

Total

Canada

1,955 $
7,048

9,003
48

–
7,015

1,940
467

– $

825 $

5,151

5,151
1

3,424
622

1,104
204

1,446

2,271
(3)

–
1,460

814
201

3,804 $
4,146

(390) $
(202)

16,531 $ 11,685 $
22,264

12,357

7,950
327

–
4,466

3,157
887

(592)
51

–
30

(673)
(691)

38,795
1,546

24,042
1,231

3,424
20,526

13,299
2,841

2,304
10,532

9,975
2,158

8,286
254

–
6,204

1,828
397

United
States
3,241 $
5,045

Other
International
1,605
4,862

Net income

$

5,184 $

1,473 $

900 $

613 $

2,270 $

18 $

10,458 $

7,817 $

1,431 $

Non-interest expense includes:

Depreciation and
amortization (6)
Impairment of other

intangibles

Restructuring provisions

$

547 $

505 $

31 $

101 $

348 $

11 $

1,543 $

903 $

455 $

185

–
–

–
10

–
–

–
–

–
–

3
–

3
10

3
1

–
4

–
5

Total assets

$ 411,251 $

91,901 $ 14,245 $ 139,701 $ 492,899 $ 30,261 $ 1,180,258 $ 614,834 $ 328,088 $ 237,336

Total assets include:

Additions to premises and

equipment and intangibles $

302 $

2,532 $

27 $

63 $

278 $

386 $

3,588 $

849 $

2,585 $

154

Total liabilities

$ 411,320 $

91,908 $ 14,281 $ 139,608 $ 493,044 $ (41,515) $ 1,108,646 $ 543,072 $ 328,205 $ 237,369

(1)

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

(6)

In Q1 2016, we changed the organizational structure of our Wealth Management operations resulting in a new operating segment, U.S. Wealth Management (including City National),
representing our legacy U.S. Wealth Management operations and City National. This new operating segment is combined with our other Wealth Management operations as a single reportable
segment because they have comparable products, regulatory frameworks, processes, customers and distribution channels, and show similar economic characteristics (such as pre-tax
margin).
Taxable equivalent basis.
Inter-segment revenue and share of profits in joint ventures and associates are not material except as disclosed in Note 12.
Interest revenue is reported net of interest expense as we rely primarily on net interest income as a performance measure.
Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

198

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 30 Nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments

We are exposed to credit, market and liquidity and funding risks as a result of holding financial instruments. Our risk measurement and
objectives, policies and methodologies for managing these risks are disclosed in the shaded text along with those tables specifically marked
with an asterisk (*) on pages 57 to 84 of the Management’s Discussion and Analysis. These shaded text and tables are an integral part of these
Consolidated Financial Statements.

Concentrations of credit risk exist if a number of our counterparties are engaged in similar activities, 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 certain of our on- and off-balance sheet financial instruments are
summarized in the following table.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)
On-balance sheet assets other than

derivatives (1)

Derivatives before master netting

agreements (2) (3)

Off-balance sheet credit instruments (4)
Committed and uncommitted (5)
Other

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except percentage amounts)
On-balance sheet assets other than

derivatives (1)

Derivatives before master netting

agreements (2) (3)

Off-balance sheet credit instruments (4)
Committed and uncommitted (5) (6)
Other

Canada

%

United
States

%

Europe

%

Other
International

%

Total

As at October 31, 2017

$ 531,294

68% $ 145,824

19% $ 55,265

7% $

49,829

6% $ 782,212

14,915

9

24,530

15

118,469

72

5,661

4

163,575

$ 546,209

58% $ 170,354

18% $ 173,734

18% $

55,490

6% $ 945,787

$ 297,690
72,876

61% $ 136,465
19,541
57

28% $ 32,934
33,970
15

7% $

27

$ 370,566

60% $ 156,006

25% $ 66,904

11% $

21,729
936

22,665

4% $ 488,818
127,323
1

4% $ 616,141

Canada

%

United
States

%

Europe

%

Other
International

%

Total

As at October 31, 2016

$ 485,575

67% $ 141,703

20% $ 55,610

8% $

40,096

5% $ 722,984

19,393

9

23,091

11

167,084

76

7,950

4

217,518

$ 504,968

54% $ 164,794

17% $ 222,694

24% $

48,046

5% $ 940,502

$ 301,490
62,725

61% $ 149,036
18,236
54

30% $ 30,575
34,032
16

6% $

29

$ 364,215

60% $ 167,272

27% $ 64,607

11% $

12,947
1,017

13,964

3% $ 494,048
116,010
1

2% $ 610,058

(1)

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

(6)

Includes assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed, loans and customers’ liability under acceptances. The largest concentrations in Canada are Ontario
at 50% (October 31, 2016 – 49%), the Prairies at 19% (October 31, 2016 – 20%), British Columbia and the territories at 15% (October 31, 2016 – 15%) and Quebec at 11% (October 31,
2016 – 11%). No industry accounts for more than 42% (October 31, 2016 – 36%) of total on-balance sheet credit instruments.
A further breakdown of our derivative exposures by risk rating and counterparty type is provided in Note 8.
Excludes credit derivatives classified as other than trading.
Balances presented are contractual amounts representing our maximum exposure to credit risk.
Represents our maximum exposure to credit risk. Retail and wholesale commitments respectively comprise 39% and 61% of our total commitments (October 31, 2016 – 42% and 58%). The
largest concentrations in the wholesale portfolio relate to Financing products at 13% (October 31, 2016 – 14%), Sovereign at 10% (October 31, 2016 – 6%), Non-bank financial services at
9% (October 31, 2016 – 9%), Real estate & related at 9% (October 31, 2016 – 9%), and Utilities at 9% (October 31, 2016 – 8%).
Amounts have been revised from those previously presented.

Note 31 Capital management

Regulatory capital and capital ratios
OSFI formally establishes risk-based capital and leverage targets for deposit-taking institutions in Canada. We are required to calculate our
capital ratios using the Basel III framework. Under Basel III, regulatory capital includes Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1), Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.
CET1 capital mainly consists of common shares, retained earnings and other components of equity. Regulatory adjustments under Basel III
include deductions of goodwill and other intangibles, certain deferred tax assets, defined benefit pension fund assets, investments in banking,
financial and insurance entities, and the shortfall of provisions to expected losses. Tier 1 capital comprises predominantly CET1, with additional
items that consist of capital instruments such as certain preferred shares, and certain non-controlling interests in subsidiaries. Tier 2 capital
includes subordinated debentures that meet certain criteria and certain loan loss allowances. Total capital is the sum of CET1, additional Tier 1
capital and Tier 2 capital.

Regulatory capital ratios are calculated by dividing CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital by risk-weighted assets. The leverage ratio is calculated by
dividing Tier 1 capital by an exposure measure. The exposure measure consists of total assets (excluding items deducted from Tier 1 capital) and
certain off-balance sheet items converted into credit exposure equivalents. Adjustments are also made to derivatives and secured financing
transactions to reflect credit and other risks.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

199

Note 31 Capital management (continued)

During 2017, we complied with all capital and leverage requirements imposed by OSFI.

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except Capital ratios and leverage ratios)
Capital (1)

Common Equity Tier 1 capital
Tier 1 capital
Total capital

Risk-weighted assets used in calculation of capital ratios (1) (2)

Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio
Tier 1 capital ratio
Total capital ratio

Total capital risk-weighted assets (1)

Credit risk
Market risk
Operational risk
Regulatory floor adjustment (3)

Capital ratios and leverage ratios (1) (4)
Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio
Tier 1 capital ratio
Total capital ratio
Leverage ratio
Leverage ratio exposure (billions)

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$

$

51,572
58,361
67,556

48,181
55,270
64,950

474,478
474,478
474,478

376,519
27,618
59,203
11,138

447,436
448,662
449,712

369,751
23,964
55,997
–

$ 474,478

$ 449,712

10.9%
12.3%
14.2%
4.4%
$ 1,315.5

10.8%
12.3%
14.4%
4.4%
$ 1,265.1

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

Capital, RWA, and capital ratios are calculated using OSFI Capital Adequacy Requirements based on the Basel III framework (“all-in” basis). The leverage ratio is calculated using OSFI
Leverage Requirements Guideline based on the Basel III framework.
In 2016, the CVA scalars of 64%, 71% and 77% were applied to CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital, respectively. In fiscal 2017, the scalars were 72%, 77% and 81%, respectively. In 2018, the
scalars will be 80%, 83% and 86%, respectively.
Before any capital floor requirement as applicable, there are three different levels of RWAs for the calculation of the CET1, Tier 1, and Total capital ratios arising from the option we have
chosen for the phase-in of the CVA capital charge. Since the introduction of Basel II in 2008, OSFI has prescribed a capital floor requirement for institutions that use the advanced internal
ratings-based (AIRB) approach for credit risk. The capital floor is determined by comparing a capital requirement under Basel I and Basel III, as specified by OSFI. If the capital requirement
under the Basel III standards is less than 90% of the capital requirements as calculated under the Basel I standards, the difference is added to the RWAs.
To enhance comparability among other global financial institutions, our transitional CET1, Tier 1, Total capital and leverage ratios as at October 31, 2017 were 11.3%, 12.3%, 14.1%, and
4.5%, respectively. Transitional is defined as capital calculated according to the current year’s phase-in of regulatory adjustments and phase-out of non-qualifying capital instruments.

Note 32 Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities

Offsetting within our Consolidated Balance Sheets may be achieved where financial assets and liabilities are subject to master netting
arrangements that provide the currently enforceable right of offset and where there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or realize the assets
and settle the liabilities simultaneously. For derivative contracts and repurchase and reverse repurchase arrangements, this is generally achieved
when there is a market mechanism for settlement (e.g. central counterparty exchange or clearing house) which provides daily net settlement of
cash flows arising from these contracts. Margin receivables and margin payables are generally offset as they settle simultaneously through a
market settlement mechanism. These are generally presented in Other assets or Other liabilities.

Amounts that do not qualify for offsetting include master netting arrangements that only permit outstanding transactions with the same
counterparty to be offset in an event of default or occurrence of other predetermined events. Such master netting arrangements include the ISDA
Master Agreement or certain derivative exchange or clearing counterparty agreements for derivative contracts, global master repurchase
agreement and global master securities lending agreements for repurchase, reverse repurchase and other similar secured lending and borrowing
arrangements.

The amount of financial collateral received or pledged subject to master netting arrangements or similar agreements but do not qualify for

offsetting refers to the collateral received or pledged to cover the net exposure between counterparties by enabling the collateral to be realized in
an event of default or the occurrence of other predetermined events. Certain amounts of collateral are restricted from being sold or re-pledged
unless there is an event of default or the occurrence of other predetermined events.

200

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

The tables below provide the amount of financial instruments that have been offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the amounts
that do not qualify for offsetting but are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements or similar agreements. The amounts presented are
not intended to represent our actual exposure to credit risk.

Financial assets subject to offsetting, enforceable master netting arrangements or similar agreements

Amounts subject to offsetting and enforceable netting arrangements

As at October 31, 2017

Gross amounts
of financial
assets before
balance sheet
offsetting

Amounts of
financial
liabilities
offset on the
balance sheet

Amounts subject to master
netting arrangements or
similar agreements but do
not qualify for offsetting on
the balance sheet (1)

Net amount of
financial assets
presented on the
balance sheet

Impact of
master
netting
agreements

Financial
collateral
received (2)

Net amount

Amounts not
subject to
enforceable
netting
arrangements

Total amount
recognized
on the
balance sheet

$

$

239,944
151,451
2,593
393,988

$

$

20,470
67,827
1,050
89,347

$

$

219,474
83,624
1,543
304,641

$

$

24
58,804
–
58,828

$ 218,970
16,357
78
$ 235,405

$

$

480
8,463
1,465
10,408

$

$

1,503
11,399
62
12,964

$

$

220,977
95,023
1,605
317,605

Amounts subject to offsetting and enforceable netting arrangements

As at October 31, 2016

Gross amounts
of financial
assets before
balance sheet
offsetting

Amounts of
financial
liabilities
offset on the
balance sheet

Amounts subject to master
netting arrangements or
similar agreements but do
not qualify for offsetting on
the balance sheet (1)

Net amount of
financial assets
presented on the
balance sheet

Impact of
master
netting
agreements

Financial
collateral
received (2)

Net amount

Amounts not
subject to
enforceable
netting
arrangements

Total amount
recognized
on the
balance sheet

$

$

199,586
208,936
1,244
409,766

$

$

14,290
97,142
803
112,235

$

$

185,296
111,794
441
297,531

$

$

422
79,296
–
79,718

$ 184,359
17,249
46
$ 201,654

$

$

515
15,249
395
16,159

$

$

1,006
7,150
91
8,247

$

$

186,302
118,944
532
305,778

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Assets purchased under reverse
repurchase agreements and
securities borrowed

Derivative assets (3)
Other financial assets

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Assets purchased under reverse
repurchase agreements and
securities borrowed

Derivative assets (3)
Other financial assets

(1)

(2)
(3)

Financial collateral is reflected at fair value. The amount of financial instruments and financial collateral disclosed is limited to the net balance sheet exposure, and any over-collateralization
is excluded from the table.
Includes cash collateral of $12 billion (October 31, 2016 – $11 billion) and non-cash collateral of $224 billion (October 31, 2016 – $191 billion).
Includes cash margin of $0.6 billion (October 31, 2016 – $2.2 billion) which offset against the derivative balance on the balance sheet.

Financial liabilities subject to offsetting, enforceable master netting arrangements or similar agreements

Amounts subject to offsetting and enforceable netting arrangements

As at October 31, 2017

Gross amounts
of financial
liabilities
before balance
sheet offsetting

Amounts of
financial
assets offset
on the
balance sheet

Amounts subject to master
netting arrangements or
similar agreements but do
not qualify for offsetting on
the balance sheet (1)

Net amount of
financial liabilities
presented on the
balance sheet

Impact of
master
netting
agreements

Financial
collateral
pledged (2)

Net amount

Amounts not
subject to
enforceable
netting
arrangements

Total amount
recognized
on the
balance sheet

$

$

161,883
145,855
3,027
310,765

$

$

20,470
67,705
1,364
89,539

$

$

141,413
78,150
1,663
221,226

$

$

24
58,804
–
58,828

$ 141,256
10,697
444
$ 152,397

$

$

133
8,649
1,219
10,001

$

$

1,671
13,977
5
15,653

$

$

143,084
92,127
1,668
236,879

Amounts subject to offsetting and enforceable netting arrangements

As at October 31, 2016

Gross amounts
of financial
liabilities
before balance
sheet offsetting

Amounts of
financial
assets offset
on the
balance sheet

Amounts subject to master
netting arrangements or
similar agreements but do
not qualify for offsetting on
the balance sheet (1)

Net amount of
financial liabilities
presented on the
balance sheet

Impact of
master
netting
agreements

Financial
collateral
pledged (2)

Net amount

Amounts not
subject to
enforceable
netting
arrangements

Total amount
recognized
on the
balance sheet

$

$

117,031
203,874
3,271
324,176

$

$

14,290
96,231
2,231
112,752

$

$

102,741
107,643
1,040
211,424

$

$

422
79,296
–
79,718

$ 102,029
15,993
514
$ 118,536

$

$

290
12,354
526
13,170

$

$

700
8,907
15
9,622

$

$

103,441
116,550
1,055
221,046

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Obligations related to assets sold
under repurchase agreements
and securities loaned
Derivative liabilities (3)
Other financial liabilities

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Obligations related to assets sold
under repurchase agreements
and securities loaned
Derivative liabilities (3)
Other financial liabilities

(1)

(2)
(3)

Financial collateral is reflected at fair value. The amount of financial instruments and financial collateral disclosed is limited to the net balance sheet exposure, and any over-collateralization
is excluded from the table.
Includes cash collateral of $10 billion (October 31, 2016 – $14 billion) and non-cash collateral of $142 billion (October 31, 2016 – $105 billion).
Includes cash margin of $0.3 billion (October 31, 2016 – $0.8 billion) which offset against the derivative balance on the balance sheet.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

201

Note 33 Recovery and settlement of on-balance sheet assets and liabilities

The table below presents an analysis of assets and liabilities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets by amounts to be recovered or
settled within one year and after one year, as at the balance sheet date, based on contractual maturities and certain other assumptions outlined
in the footnotes below. As warranted, we manage the liquidity risk of various products based on historical behavioural patterns that are often not
aligned with contractual maturities. Amounts to be recovered or settled within one year, as presented below, may not be reflective of our long-
term view of the liquidity profile of certain balance sheet categories.

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Assets
Cash and due from banks (1)
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities

Trading (2)
Available-for-sale

Assets purchased under reverse repurchase

agreements and securities borrowed

Loans

Retail
Wholesale
Allowance for loan losses
Segregated fund net assets
Other

Customers’ liability under acceptances
Derivatives (2)
Premises and equipment, net
Goodwill
Other intangibles
Other assets

Liabilities
Deposits (3)
Segregated fund net liabilities
Other

Within one
year

October 31, 2017
After one
year

Total

Within one
year

October 31, 2016
After one
year

Total

As at

$ 26,695
32,662

$

1,712
–

$

28,407
32,662

$ 12,049
27,850

$

2,880
1

$

14,929
27,851

116,841
15,930

10,816
74,792

127,657
90,722

142,045
12,153

9,247
72,648

151,292
84,801

214,353

6,624

220,977

182,618

3,684

186,302

97,784
38,573

287,386
121,033

–

1,216

16,443
92,606
–
–
–
30,738

16
2,417
2,670
10,977
4,507
8,221

385,170
159,606
(2,159)
1,216

16,459
95,023
2,670
10,977
4,507
38,959

81,683
34,887

287,787
119,482

–

981

12,841
116,533
–
–
–
33,754

2
2,411
2,836
11,156
4,648
8,317

369,470
154,369
(2,235)
981

12,843
118,944
2,836
11,156
4,648
42,071

$ 682,625

$ 532,387

$ 1,212,853

$ 656,413

$ 526,080

$ 1,180,258

$ 624,802
–

$ 164,833
1,216

$

789,635
1,216

$ 579,571
–

$ 178,018
981

$

757,589
981

Acceptances
Obligations related to securities sold short
Obligations related to assets sold under

repurchase agreements and securities loaned

Derivatives (2)
Insurance claims and policy benefit liabilities
Other liabilities

Subordinated debentures

16,443
28,041

143,072
90,156
131
34,980
–

16
1,967

12
1,971
9,545
11,975
9,265

16,459
30,008

143,084
92,127
9,676
46,955
9,265

12,841
41,927

103,412
114,321
118
33,314
–

2
8,442

29
2,229
9,046
14,633
9,762

12,843
50,369

103,441
116,550
9,164
47,947
9,762

$ 937,625

$ 200,800

$ 1,138,425

$ 885,504

$ 223,142

$ 1,108,646

(1)
(2)

(3)

Cash and due from banks are assumed to be recovered within one year, except for cash balances not available for use by the Bank.
Trading securities classified as at FVTPL and trading derivatives not designated in hedging relationships are presented as within one year as this best represents in most instances the
short-term nature of our trading activities. Non-trading derivatives designated in hedging relationships are presented according to the recovery or settlement of the related hedged item.
Demand deposits of $372 billion (October 31, 2016 – $358 billion) are presented as within one year due to their being repayable on demand or at short notice on a contractual basis.
In practice, these deposits relate to a broad range of individuals and customer-types which form a stable base for our operations and liquidity needs.

202

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 34 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

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Assets
Cash and due from banks
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities
Investments in bank subsidiaries and associated corporations (1)
Investments in other subsidiaries and associated corporations
Assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses
Net balances due from bank subsidiaries (1)
Other assets

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Deposits
Net balances due to other subsidiaries
Other liabilities

Subordinated debentures
Shareholders’ equity

(1)

Bank refers primarily to regulated deposit-taking institutions and securities firms.

Condensed Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Interest income (1)
Interest expense

Net interest income
Non-interest income (2) (3)

Total revenue (3)

Provision for credit losses
Non-interest expense (3)

Income before income taxes
Income taxes

Net income before equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries
Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net of taxes

Total comprehensive income

As at

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$ 12,901
20,864
109,082
31,302
65,576
49,615
474,052
20,579
136,069

$

3,164
16,126
132,100
30,248
61,705
25,129
458,675
5,437
162,790

$ 920,040

$ 895,374

$ 605,849
58,598
172,869

$ 573,933
55,473
185,583

837,316

814,989

8,895
73,829

9,368
71,017

$ 920,040

$ 895,374

For the year ended

October 31
2017
$ 18,419
6,556

October 31
2016
$ 17,542
5,486

11,863
4,476

16,339

1,033
8,631

6,675
1,601

5,074
6,395

12,056
4,072

16,128

1,456
8,190

6,482
1,544

4,938
5,520

$ 11,469

$ 10,458

(107)

(1,097)

$ 11,362

$ 9,361

(1)
(2)
(3)

Includes dividend income from investments in subsidiaries and associated corporations of $25 million (October 31, 2016 – $23 million).
Includes share of profit from associated corporations of $12 million (October 31, 2016 – $19 million).
Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. Comparative
amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

203

Note 34 Parent company information (continued)

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

(Millions of Canadian dollars)
Cash flows from operating activities

Net income
Adjustments to determine net cash from operating activities:

Change in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
Change in deposits, net of securitizations
Change in loans, net of securitizations
Change in trading securities
Change in obligations related to assets sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned
Change in assets purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed
Change in obligations related to securities sold short
Other operating activities, net

Net cash from (used in) operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Change in interest-bearing deposits with banks
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 and other intangibles
Change in cash invested in subsidiaries
Change in net funding provided to subsidiaries

Net cash from (used in) investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Issue of subordinated debentures
Repayment of subordinated debentures
Issue of common shares
Common shares purchased for cancellation
Issue of preferred shares
Redemption of preferred shares
Preferred shares purchased for cancellation
Dividends paid
Issuance costs

Net cash from (used in) 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
Amount of interest received
Amount of dividends received
Amount of income taxes paid

Note 35 Subsequent events

For the year ended

October 31
2017

October 31
2016

$ 11,469

$ 10,458

(6,395)
33,166
(14,025)
24,671
14,018
(24,486)
(4,809)
6,059

39,668

(4,738)
5,823
25,599
(34,903)
(938)
(116)
(12,018)

(21,291)

–
(119)
199
(3,110)
–
(300)
–
(5,309)
(1)

(8,640)

9,737
3,164

$

$

$ 12,901

$

6,286
18,128
40
1,656

(5,520)
7,030
(14,488)
9,004
8,511
(1,711)
3,145
(2,736)

13,693

(288)
2,868
20,802
(33,668)
(750)
(3,140)
2,275

(11,901)

3,606
(1,500)
307
(362)
1,475
–
(264)
(4,997)
(16)

(1,751)

41
3,123

3,164

5,331
17,411
30
736

On November 13, 2017, we redeemed all 82,000 outstanding Non-Cumulative Perpetual First Preferred Shares Series C-1 for cash at a
redemption price of US$1,000 per share (equivalent to US$25.00 per related depositary share).

204

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Consolidated Financial Statements

Ten-year statistical review

Condensed Balance Sheet

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2011

2010

2009

2008

IFRS

CGAAP

Assets
Cash and due from banks
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
Securities
Assets purchased under reverse

repurchase agreements and securities
borrowed

Loans net of allowance
Other

Total Assets

Liabilities
Deposits
Other
Subordinated debentures
Trust capital securities
Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries

$

28,407 $
32,662
218,379

14,929 $
27,851
236,093

12,452 $ 17,421 $ 15,550 $ 12,428 $ 12,428
6,460
9,039
22,690
167,022
182,710
215,508

8,399
199,148

10,246
161,602

$ 13,247 $
12,181
179,558

8,440 $

13,254
183,519

7,584 $ 11,086
20,041
8,919
171,134
177,298

220,977
542,617
169,811

186,302
521,604
193,479

174,723
472,223
176,612

135,580
435,229
144,773

117,517
408,850
126,079

112,257
378,241
149,180

84,947
347,530
175,446

84,947
296,284
165,485

72,698
273,006
175,289

41,580
258,395
161,213

44,818
289,540
187,240

$ 1,212,853 $ 1,180,258 $ 1,074,208 $ 940,550 $ 859,745 $ 823,954 $ 793,833

$ 751,702 $ 726,206 $ 654,989 $ 723,859

$ 789,635 $ 757,589 $ 697,227 $ 614,100 $ 563,079 $ 512,244 $ 479,102
263,625
8,749
894
n.a.

341,295
9,762
–
n.a.

305,675
7,362
–
n.a.

264,088
7,859
–
n.a.

239,763
7,443
–
n.a.

259,174
7,615
–
n.a.

339,525
9,265
–
n.a.

$ 444,181 $ 414,561 $ 378,457 $ 438,575
242,744
8,131
1,400
2,371

256,124
7,749
–
1,941

229,699
6,461
1,395
2,071

263,030
6,681
727
2,256

Total Liabilities

$ 1,138,425 $ 1,108,646 $ 1,010,264 $ 886,047 $ 810,285 $ 779,033 $ 752,370

$ 709,995 $ 687,255 $ 618,083 $ 693,221

Equity attributable to shareholders

Non-controlling interest

Total equity

73,829

599

74,428

71,017

62,146

52,690

47,665

43,160

39,702

41,707

38,951

36,906

30,638

595

1,798

1,813

1,795

1,761

1,761

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

71,612

63,944

54,503

49,460

44,921

41,463

41,707

38,951

36,906

30,638

Total liabilities and equity

$ 1,212,853 $ 1,180,258 $ 1,074,208 $ 940,550 $ 859,745 $ 823,954 $ 793,833

$ 751,702 $ 726,206 $ 654,989 $ 723,859

Condensed Income Statement

(Millions of Canadian dollars)

Net interest income
Non-interest income (1)
Total revenue (1)
Provision for credit losses (PCL)
Insurance policyholder benefits, claims

and acquisition expense
Non-interest expense (NIE) (1)
Non-controlling interest
Net income from continuing operations
Net loss from discontinued operations
Net income

2017

17,140 $
23,529
40,669
1,150

3,053
21,794
n.a.
11,469
–
11,469 $

$

$

16,531 $
22,264
38,795
1,546

3,424
20,526
n.a.
10,458
–

IFRS

CGAAP

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2011

2010

2009

14,771 $ 14,116 $ 13,249 $ 12,439 $ 11,357
16,281
17,433
20,932
27,638
30,682
35,703
1,133
1,237
1,097

19,992
34,108
1,164

16,708
29,147
1,299

$ 10,600 $ 10,338 $ 10,705 $
15,744
26,082
1,240

15,736
26,441
2,167

16,830
27,430
975

2,963
19,020
n.a.
10,026
–

3,573
17,661
n.a.
9,004
–
9,004 $

2,784
16,214
n.a.
8,342
–
8,342 $

3,621
14,641
n.a.
7,558
(51)
7,507 $

3,358
14,167
n.a.
6,970
(526)
6,444

3,360
14,453
104
6,650
(1,798)
4,852 $

3,546
13,469
99
5,732
(509)
5,223 $

3,042
13,436
100
5,681
(1,823)
3,858 $

$

10,458 $

10,026 $

2008

9,054
12,528
21,582
1,595

1,631
12,351
81
4,555
–
4,555

Other Statistics – reported

(Millions of Canadian dollars, except
percentages and per share amounts)

PROFITABILITY MEASURES (2)

Earnings per shares (EPS) – basic

– diluted

Return on common equity (ROE)
Return on risk-weighted assets

(RWA) (3)

Efficiency ratio (1), (2)

KEY RATIOS

PCL on impaired loans as a % of

IFRS

CGAAP

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2011

2010

2009

2008

$
$

7.59 $
7.56 $

6.80 $
6.78 $

6.75 $
6.73 $

6.03 $
6.00 $

5.53 $
5.49 $

4.96 $
4.91 $

17.0%

16.3%

18.6%

19.0%

19.7%

19.6%

2.49%
53.6%

2.34%
52.9%

2.45%
53.3%

2.52%
51.8%

2.67%
52.8%

2.70%
50.2%

4.25
4.19
18.7%

2.44%
51.3%

$
$

3.21 $
3.19 $

3.49 $
3.46 $

2.59 $
2.57 $

12.9%

14.9%

11.9%

1.87%
52.7%

2.03%
51.6%

1.50%
50.8%

3.41
3.38
18.1%

1.78%
57.2%

Average net loans and acceptances

0.21%

0.28%

0.24%

0.27%

0.31%

0.35%

0.33%

0.34%

0.45%

0.72%

0.53%

Net interest margin (average earning

assets)

SHARE INFORMATION (4)

Common shares outstanding (000s) –

1.72%

1.70%

1.71%

1.86%

1.88%

1.97%

1.86%

1.84%

1.99%

2.19%

1.71%

end of period

1,452,898

1,485,394

1,443,423

1,442,233

1,441,056

1,445,303

1,424,922

1,417,610

Dividends declared per common share $
Dividend yield
Dividend payout ratio
Book value per share
Common share price (RY on TSX) –

$

3.48 $
3.8%
46%
46.41 $

3.24 $
4.3%
48%
43.32 $

3.08 $
4.1%
46%
39.51 $

2.84 $
3.8%
47%
33.69 $

2.53 $
4.0%
46%
29.87 $

1,438,376
2.08
3.9%
45%
24.25

2.28 $
4.5%
46%
26.52 $

1,438,376
$

2.08 $
3.9%
47%
25.65 $

2.00 $
3.6%
52%
23.99 $

1,341,260
2.00
4.2%
59%
20.90

2.00 $
4.8%
52%
22.67 $

$

$

close, end of period
Market capitalization (TSX)
Market price to book value

$ 100.87 $
146,554
2.17

83.80 $

74.77 $

80.01 $

70.02 $

56.94 $

124,476
1.93

107,925
1.89

115,393
2.38

100,903
2.34

82,296
2.15

48.62
69,934
2.00

48.62 $

54.39 $

54.80 $

69,934
1.90

77,502
2.27

77,685
2.42

CAPITAL MEASURES – CONSOLIDATED (5)

Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio
Tier 1 capital ratio
Total capital ratio
Leverage Ratio

10.9%
12.3%
14.2%
4.4%

10.8%
12.3%
14.4%
4.4%

10.6%
12.2%
14.0%
4.30%

9.9%
11.4%
13.4%
n.a.

9.6%
11.7%
14.0%
n.a.

n.a.
13.1%
15.1%
n.a.

n.a.
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.

n.a.
13.3%
15.3%
n.a.

n.a.
13.0%
14.4%
n.a.

n.a.
13.0%
14.2%
n.a.

46.84
62,825
2.24

n.a.
9.0%
11.0%
n.a.

(1)

(2)
(3)
(4)

(5)

Effective Q4 2017, service fees and other costs incurred in association with certain commissions and fees earned are presented on a gross basis in non-interest expense. As at November 1,
2014, comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform with this presentation.
Ratios for 2009-2012 represent continuing operations.
Return on risk-weighted assets (RWA) for fiscal 2011 is based on RWA reported under CGAAP and Income reported under IFRS.
On April 6, 2006, we paid a stock dividend of one common share on each of our issued and outstanding common shares. The effect was the same as two-for-one split of our common shares.
All common share and per share information have been adjusted retroactively for the stock dividend.
Effective 2013 we calculate the capital ratios and multiples using the Basel III (all-in basis) framework unless otherwise stated. 2008-2012 capital ratios and multiples were calculated using
the Basel II framework. 2004-2007 capital ratios and 2005-2007 asset-to-capital multiples were calculated using the Basel I framework. Capital ratios and multiples for 2011 were
determined under Canadian GAAP.

Ten-year statistical review

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

205

Glossary

Acceptances
A bill of exchange or negotiable instrument drawn by
the borrower for payment at maturity 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.

Acquired Credit Impaired (ACI) loans
Are loans identified as impaired on the acquisition
date based on specific risk characteristics such as
indications that the borrower is experiencing
significant financial difficulty, probability of
bankruptcy or other financial reorganization,
payment status and economic conditions that
correlate with defaults.

Allowance for credit losses
The amount deemed adequate by management 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.

Asset-backed securities (ABS)
Securities created through the securitization of a
pool of assets, for example auto loans or credit card
loans.

Assets under administration (AUA)
Assets administered by us, which are beneficially
owned by clients, as at October 31, unless otherwise
noted. Services provided in respect of assets under
administration are of an administrative nature,
including safekeeping, collecting investment
income, settling purchase and sale transactions,
and record keeping.

Assets under management (AUM)
Assets managed by us, which are beneficially owned
by clients, as at October 31, unless otherwise noted.
Services provided in respect of assets under
management include the selection of investments
and the provision of investment advice. We have
assets under management that are also
administered by us and included in assets under
administration.

Commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS)
Securities created through the securitization of
commercial mortgages.

Commitments to extend credit
Unutilized amount of credit facilities available to
clients either in the form of loans, bankers’
acceptances and other on-balance sheet financing,
or through off-balance sheet products such as
guarantees and letters of credit.

Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital
A regulatory Basel III capital measure comprised
mainly of common shareholders’ equity less
regulatory deductions and adjustments for goodwill
and intangibles, defined benefit pension fund
assets, shortfall in allowances and other specified
items.

Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio
A risk-based capital measure calculated as CET1
capital divided by risk-weighted assets.

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.

Credit default swaps (CDS)
A derivative contract that provides the purchaser
with a one-time payment should the referenced
entity/entities default (or a similar triggering event
occur).

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 financial 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
available to common shareholders.

Auction rate securities (ARS)
Debt securities whose interest rate is regularly reset
through an auction process.

Earnings per share (EPS), basic
Calculated as net income available to common
shareholders divided by the average number of
shares outstanding.

Average earning assets
Average earning assets include interest-bearing
deposits with other banks including certain
components of cash and due from banks, securities,
assets purchased under reverse repurchase
agreements and securities borrowed, loans, and
excludes segregated fund net assets and other
assets. The averages are based on the daily
balances for the period.

Basis point (bp)
One one-hundredth of a percentage point (.01%).

Collateral
Assets pledged as security for a loan or other
obligation. Collateral can take many forms, such as
cash, highly rated securities, property, inventory,
equipment and receivables.

Collateralized debt obligation (CDO)
Securities with multiple tranches that are issued by
structured entities and collateralized by debt
obligations including bonds and loans. Each tranche
offers a varying degree of risk and return so as to
meet investor demand.

Earnings per share (EPS), diluted
Calculated as net income available to common
shareholders 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 necessary to support our
various businesses, given their risks, consistent with
our desired solvency standard and credit ratings.
The identified risks for which we calculate Economic
Capital are credit, market (trading and non-trading),
operational, business, fixed asset, and insurance.
Additionally, Economic Capital includes goodwill
and intangibles, and allows for diversification
benefits across risks and business segments.

206

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Glossary

Expected credit losses
The difference between the contractual cash flows
due to us in accordance with the relevant
contractual terms and the cash flows that we expect
to receive, discounted to the balance sheet date.

Fair value
Fair value of a financial instrument is the price that
would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer
a liability in an orderly transaction between market
participants at the measurement date.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
An independent U.S. government agency that aims
to preserve and promote public confidence in the
U.S. financial system by insuring deposits in banks
and thrift institutions; identifying, monitoring and
addressing risks to these deposits; and limiting the
effect on the economic and financial system when a
bank or thrift institution fails.

Funding Valuation Adjustment
Funding valuation adjustments are calculated to
incorporate cost and benefit of funding in the
valuation of uncollateralized and under-
collateralized OTC derivatives. Future expected cash
flows of these derivatives are discounted to reflect
the cost and benefit of funding the derivatives by
using a funding curve, implied volatilities and
correlations as inputs.

Guarantees and standby letters of credit
These primarily represent irrevocable assurances
that a bank will make payments in the event that its
client cannot meet its financial obligations to third
parties. Certain other guarantees, such as bid and
performance bonds, represent non-financial
undertakings.

Hedge
A risk management technique used to mitigate
exposure from market, interest rate or foreign
currency exchange risk 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 liabilities 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 investment fund, marketed to accredited
high net worth investors, that is subject to limited
regulation and restrictions on its investments
compared to retail mutual funds, and that often
utilize aggressive strategies such as selling short,
leverage, program trading, swaps, arbitrage and
derivatives.

High-quality liquid assets (HQLA)
Assets are considered to be HQLA if they can be
easily and immediately converted into cash at little
or no loss of value during a time of stress.

Home equity products
This is comprised of residential mortgages and
secured personal loans whereby the borrower
pledges real estate as collateral.

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
IFRS are principles-based standards, interpretations
and the framework adopted by the International
Accounting Standards Board.

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 written off after payments are 180 days past
due.

Innovative capital instruments
Innovative capital instruments are capital
instruments issued by structured entities, whose
primary purpose is to raise capital. We previously
issued innovative capital instruments, RBC Trust
Capital Securities (RBC TruCS) through RBC Capital
Trust. As per OSFI Basel III guidelines, non-qualifying
innovative capital instruments treated as additional
Tier 1 capital are subject to phase out over a ten year
period beginning on January 1, 2013.

Leverage Ratio
A Basel III regulatory measure, the ratio divides
Tier 1 capital by the sum of total assets plus
specified off-balance sheet items.

Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR)
The Liquidity Coverage Ratio is a Basel III metric that
measures the sufficiency of HQLA available to meet
net short-term financial obligations over a thirty day
period in an acute stress scenario.

Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
Calculated based on the total facility amount for the
residential mortgage and homeline product divided
by the value of the related residential property.

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 subordinated
debentures.

Net interest margin (on average earning assets)
Calculated as net interest income divided by average
earning assets.

Normal course issuer bid (NCIB)
A program for the repurchase of our own 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 arrangements offered to clients, which
include credit derivatives, written put options,
backstop liquidity facilities, stable value products,
financial standby letters of credit, performance
guarantees, credit enhancements, mortgage loans
sold with recourse, commitments to extend credit,
securities lending, documentary and commercial
letters of credit, note issuances and revolving
underwriting facilities, securities lending
indemnifications and indemnifications.

Office of the Superintendent of Financial
Institutions Canada (OSFI)
The primary regulator of federally chartered financial
institutions and federally administered pension
plans in Canada. OSFI’s mission is to safeguard
policyholders, depositors and pension plan
members from undue loss.

Operating leverage
The difference between our revenue growth rate and
non-interest expense growth rate.

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.

that significantly affect the entity’s returns are
directed by means of contractual arrangements.
Structured entities often have restricted activities,
narrow and well defined objectives, insufficient
equity to finance their activities, and financing in the
form of multiple contractually-linked instruments.

Primary dealer
A formal designation provided to a bank or
securities broker-dealer permitted to trade directly
with a country’s central bank. Primary dealers
participate in open market operations, act as
market-makers of government debt and provide
market information and analysis to assist with
monetary policy.

Provision for credit losses (PCL)
The amount charged to income necessary to bring
the allowance for credit losses to a level determined
appropriate by management. This includes both
provisions on impaired loans and loans not yet
identified as impaired.

Repurchase agreements
These involve the sale of securities for cash and the
simultaneous repurchase of the securities for value
at a later date. These transactions normally do not
constitute economic sales and therefore are treated
as collateralized financing transactions.

Residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS)
Securities created through the securitization of
residential mortgage loans.

Return on common equity (ROE)
Net income available to common shareholders,
expressed as a percentage of average common
equity.

Reverse repurchase agreements
These involve the purchase of securities for cash
and the simultaneous sale of the securities for value
at a later date. These transactions normally do not
constitute economic sales and therefore are treated
as collateralized financing transactions.

Risk-weighted assets (RWA)
Assets adjusted by a regulatory risk-weight factor to
reflect the riskiness of on and off-balance sheet
exposures. Certain assets are not risk-weighted, but
deducted from capital. The calculation is defined by
guidelines issued by OSFI. For more details, refer to
the Capital management section.

Securities lending
Transactions in which the owner of a security agrees
to lend it under the terms of a prearranged 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 security. There are two types of
securities lending arrangements: lending with and
without credit or market risk indemnification. In
securities lending without indemnification, the bank
bears no risk of loss. For transactions in which the
bank provides an indemnification, it bears the 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 securities and
then borrows the securities in order to deliver them
to the purchaser upon settlement. At a later date,
the seller buys identical securities in the market to
replace the borrowed securities.

Securitization
The process by which various financial assets are
packaged into newly issued securities backed by
these assets.

Structured entities
A structured entity is an entity in which voting or
similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding
who controls the entity, such as when the activities

Standardized Approach
Risk weights prescribed by OSFI are used to
calculate risk-weighted assets for the credit risk
exposures. Credit assessments by OSFI-recognized
external credit rating agencies of S&P, Moody’s,
Fitch and DBRS are used to risk-weight our
Sovereign and Bank exposures based on the
standards and guidelines issued by OSFI. For our
Business and Retail exposures, we use the standard
risk weights prescribed by OSFI.

Structured investment vehicle
Managed investment vehicle that holds mainly
highly rated asset-backed securities and funds itself
using the short-term commercial 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
lenders due to the combination of higher interest
rates for the borrowers, poorer credit histories, and
adverse financial situations usually associated with
subprime applicants.

Taxable equivalent basis (teb)
Income from certain specified tax advantaged
sources (eligible Canadian taxable corporate
dividends) 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
Tier 1 capital comprises predominantly of CET1
capital, with additional Tier 1 items such as
preferred shares, innovative instruments and
non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Tier 1
instruments.

Tier 2 capital
Tier 2 capital consists mainly of subordinated
debentures that meet certain criteria, certain loan
loss allowances and non-controlling interests in
subsidiaries’ Tier 2 instruments.

Total capital and total capital ratio
Total capital is defined as the total of Tier 1 and Tier
2 capital. The total capital ratio is calculated by
dividing total capital by risk-weighted assets.

Tranche
A security class created whereby the risks and
returns associated with a pool of assets are
packaged into several classes of securities offering
different risk and return profiles from those of the
underlying asset pool. Tranches are typically rated
by ratings agencies, and reflect both the credit
quality of underlying collateral as well as the level of
protection based on the tranches’ relative
subordination.

Trust Capital Securities (RBC TruCS)
Transferable trust units issued by structured entities
RBC Capital Trust or RBC Capital Trust II for the
purpose of raising innovative Tier 1 capital.

Value-at-Risk (VaR)
A generally accepted risk-measurement concept 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.

Glossary

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

207

Principal subsidiaries

Principal subsidiaries (1)

Royal Bank Holding Inc.

Royal Mutual Funds Inc.
RBC Insurance Holdings Inc.

RBC Insurance Company of Canada
RBC Life Insurance Company

RBC Direct Investing Inc.
RBC Phillips, Hager & North Investment Counsel Inc.
R.B.C. Holdings (Bahamas) Limited

RBC Caribbean Investments Limited

Royal Bank of Canada Insurance Company Ltd.

Investment Holdings (Cayman) Limited
RBC (Barbados) Funding Ltd.

Capital Funding Alberta Limited

RBC Global Asset Management Inc.

RBC Investor Services Trust
RBC Investor Services Bank S.A.
RBC (Barbados) Trading Bank Corporation
BlueBay Asset Management (Services) Ltd

RBC USA Holdco Corporation (2)
RBC Capital Markets, LLC (2)
RBC Bank (Georgia), National Association (2)
City National Bank
RBC Global Asset Management (U.S.) Inc.

RBC Dominion Securities Limited
RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

RBC Finance S.à r.l./B.V. (2)

RBC Holdings (Luxembourg) S.A R.L.

RBC Holdings (Channel Islands) Limited

Royal Bank of Canada (Channel Islands) Limited

RBC Holdings (Barbados) Ltd.

RBC Financial (Caribbean) Limited

RBC Europe Limited

RBC Capital Trust

Royal Bank Mortgage Corporation

The Royal Trust Company

Royal Trust Corporation of Canada

Principal office address (2)

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
St. Michael, Barbados
George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
St. Michael, Barbados
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
St. James, Barbados
London, England

New York, New York, U.S.
New York, New York, U.S.
Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Amsterdam, Netherlands
Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Jersey, Channel Islands
Guernsey, Channel Islands

St. Michael, Barbados
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

London, England

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

RBC Covered Bond Guarantor Limited Partnership

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Carrying value of
voting shares owned
by the Bank (3)

56,397

19,080

8,378

3,200

3,171

1,820

1,624

1,173

692

229

154

(1)
(2)

(3)

The Bank directly or indirectly controls each subsidiary.
Each subsidiary is incorporated or organized under the law of the state or country in which the principal office is situated, except for RBC USA Holdco Corporation which is incorporated under
the laws of the State of Delaware, U.S., RBC Capital Markets, LLC, which is organized under the laws of the State of Minnesota, U.S. RBC Finance S.à r.l. / B.V. is a company incorporated in the
Netherlands with its official seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and place of effective management, central administration, and principal establishment in Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of
Luxembourg. RBC Bank (Georgia), National Association is a national banking association organized under the laws of the U.S. with its main office in Atlanta, Georgia and management offices
in Raleigh, North Carolina.
The carrying value (in millions of Canadian dollars) of voting shares is stated as the Bank’s equity in such investments.

208

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

Principal subsidiaries

Shareholder Information

Corporate headquarters
Street address:
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario M5J 2J5
Canada
Tel: 1-888-212-5533

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

Transfer Agent and Registrar
Main Agent:
Computershare Trust
Company of Canada
1500 Robert-Bourassa Blvd.
Suite 700
Montreal, Quebec H3A 3S8
Canada
Tel: 1-866-586-7635 (Canada and
the U.S.) or 514-982-7555
(International)
Fax: 514-982-7580
website: computershare.com/rbc

Co-Transfer Agent (U.S.):
Computershare Trust
Company, N.A.
250 Royall Street
Canton, Massachusetts 02021
U.S.A.

Co-Transfer Agent (U.K.):
Computershare Investor
Services PLC
Securities Services – Registrars
P.O. Box 82, The Pavilions,
Bridgwater Road,
Bristol BS99 6ZZ
U.K.

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
(SIX)

All preferred shares are listed on
the TSX with the exception of the
series C-2. The related depository
shares of the series C-2 preferred
shares are listed on the NYSE.

Valuation day price
For Canadian income tax
purposes, Royal Bank of Canada’s
common stock was quoted at
$29.52 per share on the Valuation
Day (December 22, 1971). This is
equivalent to $7.38 per share
after adjusting for the two-for-one
stock split of March 1981 and the
two-for-one stock split of February
1990. The one-for-one stock
dividends in October 2000 and
April 2006 did not affect the
Valuation Day amount for our
common shares.

Shareholder contacts
For dividend information, change
in share registration or address,
lost stock certificates, tax forms,
estate transfers or dividend
reinvestment, please contact:
Computershare Trust Company of
Canada
100 University Avenue, 8th Floor
Toronto, Ontario M5J 2Y1
Canada

Tel: 1-866-586-7635 (Canada and
the U.S.) or 514-982-7555
(International)
Fax: 1-888-453-0330 (Canada and
the U.S.) or 416-263-9394
(International)
email: service@computershare.com

For other shareholder inquiries,
please contact:
Shareholder Relations
Royal Bank of Canada
200 Bay Street
South Tower
Toronto, Ontario M5J 2J5
Canada
Tel: 416-955-7806

Financial analysts, portfolio
managers, institutional
investors
For financial information inquiries,
please contact:
Investor Relations
Royal Bank of Canada
155 Wellington Street West
Toronto, Ontario M5V 3K7
Canada
Tel: 416-955-7802
or visit our website at
rbc.com/investorrelations

Direct deposit service
Shareholders in Canada and the
U.S. may have their RBC common
share dividends deposited directly
to their bank account by
electronic funds transfer. To
arrange for this service, please
contact our Transfer Agent and
Registrar, Computershare Trust
Company of Canada.

Eligible dividend designation
For purposes of the Income Tax
Act (Canada) and any
corresponding provincial and
territorial tax legislation, all
dividends (and deemed
dividends) paid by RBC to
Canadian residents on both its
common and preferred shares, are
designated as “eligible
dividends”, unless stated
otherwise.

Common share repurchases
We are engaged in a Normal
Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) which
allows us to repurchase for
cancellation, up to 30 million
common shares during the period
spanning March 14, 2017 to
March 10, 2018. We determine
the amount and timing of the
purchases under the NCIB,
subject to prior consultation with
the Office of the Superintendent
of Financial Institutions Canada
(OSFI).

A copy of our Notice of Intention
to file a NCIB may be obtained,
without charge, by contacting our
Corporate Secretary at our Toronto
mailing address.

2018 Quarterly earnings release
dates
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter

February 23
May 24
August 23
November 28

2018 Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of Common
Shareholders will be held on
Friday, April 6, 2018, at 9:30 a.m.
(Eastern Time), at the Metro
Toronto Convention Centre,
255 Front Street West, Toronto,
Ontario, Canada

Dividend dates for 2018
Subject to approval by the Board of Directors

Common and preferred

shares series W, AA, AC, AD, AE, AF,
AG, AJ, AK, AL, AZ, BB, BD, BF, BH, BI,
BJ, BK and BM

Preferred shares series C-2
(US$)

Record
dates
January 25
April 25
July 26
October 25
January 26
April 27
July 27
October 26

Payment
dates
February 23
May 24
August 24
November 23
February 7
May 7
August 7
November 7

Governance
Summaries of the significant ways in which corporate governance
practices followed by RBC differ from corporate governance practices
required to be followed by U.S. domestic companies under the NYSE
listing standards are available on our website at rbc.com/governance.

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 to websites are
inactive textual references and are for your information only.

Trademarks used in this report include the LION & GLOBE Symbol, ROYAL BANK OF CANADA, RBC, RBC AMPLIFY, RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, RBC CAPITAL TRUST, RBC FUTURE LAUNCH, RBC
GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT, RBC INSURANCE, RBC REWARDS, RBC TruCS, RBC WEALTH MANAGEMENT, DIGITALLY ENABLED RELATIONSHIP BANK, MYADVISOR, NOMI FIND & SAVE
and NOMI INSIGHTS which are trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada used by Royal Bank of Canada and/or by its subsidiaries under license. VISA is a registered trademark of Visa
International Service Association. All other trademarks mentioned in this report which are not the property of Royal Bank of Canada, are owned by their respective holders.

Shareholder information

Royal Bank of Canada: Annual Report 2017

209

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