Insurers that cover people — paying out on death, or helping with medical bills when you're sick or injured.
Contains
News movingLife & Health Insurance
United StatesJapan
Life & Health Insurance▲
Prismic Life to Reinsure $5B of Prudential Japanese Whole Life Reserves
Prismic Life Holding Company announced an agreement with Prudential Financial under which Prismic will reinsure about $5 billion of reserves backing USD-denominated Japanese whole life insurance policies originated by Prudential's Japanese affiliates. Prudential's obligations to these policyholders will remain unchanged following the reinsurance arrangement, and Prudential will continue to administer the contracts. The transaction expands Prismic's growing reinsurance platform and builds on the existing relationship between Prismic and Prudential, including in-force and new business flow transactions now covering more than $22 billion of USD-denominated liabilities.
PRU · Capital · Positive Prudential reinsures ~$5B of Japanese whole life reserves, offloading liabilities while retaining policyholder obligations and administration.
Prismic Life Holding Company · Capital · Positive Prismic expands its reinsurance platform by taking on ~$5B of Prudential's USD-denominated Japanese whole life reserves.
Prismic Life Reinsures $5 Billion of Prudential Japanese Whole Life Reserves
Prismic Life Holding Company announced an agreement with Prudential Financial to reinsure approximately $5 billion of reserves backing USD-denominated Japanese whole life insurance policies originated by Prudential's Japanese affiliates. Prudential's obligations to policyholders remain unchanged and the company will continue to administer the contracts. The deal expands the existing relationship between the two firms, whose in-force and new business flow transactions now cover more than $22 billion of USD-denominated liabilities. Prismic chief executive Nandini Mongia called the transaction another important milestone in the company's growth journey, while Prudential chairman and chief executive Andy Sullivan said it reflects continued focus on disciplined capital allocation. The agreement follows Prismic's recently announced transaction with Daiichi Life, and with the closing of this deal Prismic manages approximately $25 billion of assets to support assumed liabilities. PGIM, Agam Capital Management, Willkie Farr & Gallagher and Appleby advised Prismic, while Debevoise & Plimpton served as legal counsel to Prudential.
PRU · Capital · Positive Prudential reinsures ~$5B of Japanese whole life reserves, part of disciplined capital allocation and expanding its relationship with Prismic.
Prismic Life Holding Company · Capital · Positive Prismic assumes ~$5B of reserves, growing its assumed liabilities and assets under management to ~$25B.
BLA launches 2 new annuity products, paying a first lump sum of 30% at age 60
Bangkok Life Assurance Public Company Limited, or BLA, has launched two new annuity products, BLA Pension 888 and BLA Pension & Care 888. Mr. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer, said this is the first time an annuity offers a first lump sum of 30% of the sum assured at age 60, the highest rate allowed under the Revenue Department's new criteria. After that, policyholders will receive annuity payments of 8% of the sum assured each year from age 61 to 88, and can use premiums for tax deductions of up to 300,000 baht per year. For BLA Pension & Care 888, coverage is extended to 8 critical illnesses; if diagnosed with one of these 8 critical illnesses, policyholders will receive an additional annual payment of 8% of the sum assured every year until age 88. The launch cites data from the National Statistical Office together with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, indicating that Thais have an average life expectancy of about 78 years, and reflects the concept of Active Aging as defined by the World Health Organization. The company aims to deliver a good quality of life in four areas: physical fitness, financial readiness, mental balance, and good relationships.
BLA.BK · Technology · Positive BLA launched two new annuity products (BLA Pension 888 and BLA Pension & Care 888) with a novel 30% lump sum at 60 and 8% annual payouts, a new product development.
Manulife Launches First-of-Its-Kind CoverMe Travel Insurance Plugin in ChatGPT
Manulife Financial Corporation launched a first-of-its-kind CoverMe travel insurance plugin in ChatGPT in late September 2026, allowing eligible Canadian travellers to answer trip questions and receive personalized quotes in English or French. The debut marks Manulife's first global ChatGPT plugin presence, part of the insurer's push to use AI tools to simplify travel protection decisions for consumers. The company also recently completed a long term care reinsurance deal with Munich American Reassurance Company, transferring biometric risk on a C$3.2 billion block of reserves, a move that directly addresses earnings volatility and capital strain tied to legacy U.S. businesses. Manulife's narrative projects CA$61.5 billion in revenue and CA$8.5 billion in earnings by 2029, with a CA$65.20 fair value estimate implying 6% upside to its current price. Four members of the Simply Wall St Community see Manulife's fair value between C$65.20 and C$126.85.
MFC · Technology · Positive Manulife launched a first-of-its-kind CoverMe travel insurance plugin in ChatGPT, an AI product development.
MFC · Capital · Positive Manulife completed a long-term care reinsurance deal with Munich American Re, transferring biometric risk on a C$3.2 billion reserve block to reduce earnings volatility and capital strain.
Sun Life U.S. Launches Disability with Health Navigator
Sun Life U.S. introduced Disability with Health Navigator in late September 2026, integrating personalized care navigation into disability coverage so employees can access specialized opinions, providers, and employer-specific benefits while facing major health conditions or seeking ongoing support. The launch extends Health Navigator's reach across disability, standalone offerings and medical stop-loss coverage, underscoring Sun Life's focus on year-round health support within employer benefit ecosystems. The company also recently appointed Darko Mihelic as Senior Vice President, Head of Investor Relations. Sun Life Financial's narrative projects CA$48.5 billion in revenue and CA$4.7 billion in earnings by 2029, with a fair value estimate of CA$112.93, in line with its current price. The most bearish analysts were modeling revenue of about CA$48.6 billion and earnings near CA$4.7 billion by 2029.
SLF · Technology · Positive Sun Life U.S. launched Disability with Health Navigator, integrating personalized care navigation into its disability coverage.
Dai-ichi Life Group Reports Possible Leak of Personal Data of About 120,000 Employees
Dai-ichi Life Group announced on the 2nd that its employee human resources system suffered unauthorized access, and the personal information of approximately 120,000 employees, including former employees, may have been leaked. About 70,000 of those affected are former employees, whose names, addresses, phone numbers and other data may have been compromised. The company detected the unauthorized access on September 24 and temporarily shut down the system. It is investigating the cause in cooperation with outside experts, and says no misuse of personal information or secondary harm has been confirmed at this point. The company commented, "We deeply apologize for the great concern and inconvenience this has caused."
8750.JP · Regulation · Negative Unauthorized access to its employee HR system may have leaked personal data of about 120,000 employees, prompting investigation and potential legal/regulatory fallout.
Dai-ichi Life Group says personal data of about 120,000 employees may have leaked
Dai-ichi Life Group announced on the 2nd that its employee human resources system suffered unauthorized access, and the personal information of about 120,000 employees, including former employees, may have leaked. Of these, about 70,000 are former employees, whose names, addresses, phone numbers and other data may have been exposed. The company detected the unauthorized access on September 24 and temporarily shut down the system. The company is investigating the cause in cooperation with outside experts, and says no misuse of personal information or secondary harm has been confirmed at this point. The company commented, "We deeply apologize for causing enormous worry and inconvenience."
8750.JP · Regulation · Negative Employee HR system suffered unauthorized access, potentially leaking personal data of about 120,000 employees, prompting investigation and apology.
Bangkok Life Assurance launches two new annuity products with a 30% first payout at age 60
Bangkok Life Assurance has launched two new annuity products, BLA Pension 888 and BLA Pension and Care 888, marking the first time an annuity offers a first lump-sum payment of 30% of the sum assured at age 60, the highest rate allowed under the Revenue Department's new criteria. After that, policyholders receive an annuity of 8% of the sum assured each year from age 61 to 88, and premiums can be used for tax deductions of up to 300,000 baht per year. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bangkok Life Assurance Public Company Limited, said Thais now live to an average age of about 78, and today's post-retirement years fall under what the World Health Organization defines as active aging, so financial planning must cover 20 to 30 years of life after stopping work. The BLA Pension and Care 888 plan also adds coverage for eight critical illnesses: if diagnosed with one of the eight critical illnesses, the policyholder receives an additional annual payment of 8% of the sum assured every year through age 88.
BLA.BK · Technology · Positive Bangkok Life Assurance launched two new annuity products (BLA Pension 888 and BLA Pension and Care 888) with a 30% first payout at 60 and 8% annual payouts, expanding its product lineup.
Bangkok Life Assurance launches two new annuity products with a first payout of 30% and coverage to age 88
Bangkok Life Assurance Public Company Limited, or BLA, has launched two annuity life insurance products, "BLA Pension 888" and "BLA Pension & Care 888," paying a first annuity installment of 30% of the sum assured upon reaching age 60. From ages 61 to 88, policyholders will then receive an annuity of 8% of the sum assured every year. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer of BLA, said the premiums can be used for tax deductions of up to 300,000 baht per year under the criteria set by the Revenue Department. For "BLA Pension & Care 888," coverage is extended to eight critical illnesses. If a policyholder is diagnosed with one of these eight critical illnesses, they will receive an additional annual payout of 8% of the sum assured, continuing every year until age 88. Chone also said that retirement planning patterns among Thais are changing. Thais currently have an average life expectancy of about 78 years and tend to live longer, meaning financial planning must support a post-retirement life that could last as long as 20 to 30 years.
BLA.BK · Technology · Positive BLA launched two new annuity products, BLA Pension 888 and BLA Pension & Care 888, with first payout of 30% at age 60 and 8% annual payouts to age 88.
Manulife Closes Long-Term Care Reinsurance Deal with Munich Re
Manulife Financial Corporation has closed its previously announced transaction to reinsure biometric risk on a block of long-term care policies with $3.2 billion of reserves to Munich American Reassurance Company, a subsidiary of Munich Re Group known as Munich Re Life US. The reinsurance has an effective date of July 1, 2026. The $3.2 billion figure is an IFRS reserve amount at an 80% quota share, reflecting the IFRS 17 current estimate of the present value of future cash flows plus risk adjustment plus contractual service margin. All figures are based on a June 30, 2026 position and are expressed in Canadian dollars at an exchange rate of US$1.00 to C$1.41875. Manulife, headquartered in Toronto, operates as Manulife in Canada and Asia and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, and trades as MFC on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges and under 945 in Hong Kong.
MFC · Capital · Positive Manulife closed a $3.2B long-term care reinsurance deal with Munich Re, offloading biometric risk and reducing reserve exposure.
MUV2.XETRA · Capital · Neutral Munich Re's subsidiary Munich Re Life US assumes $3.2B of LTC biometric risk via the reinsurance transaction.
Manulife Closes Long-Term Care Reinsurance Deal with Munich Re
Manulife Financial Corporation has closed its previously announced transaction to reinsure biometric risk on a block of long-term care policies with $3.2 billion of reserves to Munich American Reassurance Company, known as Munich Re Life US, a subsidiary of Munich Re Group. The reinsurance carries an effective date of July 1, 2026. The $3.2 billion figure is an IFRS reserve amount at an 80% quota share, reflecting the IFRS 17 current estimate of the present value of future cash flows plus risk adjustment and contractual service margin. All figures are based on a June 30, 2026 position and are expressed in Canadian dollars at an exchange rate of US$1.00 to C$1.41875. Manulife first announced the transaction on August 5, 2026.
MFC · Capital · Positive Manulife closed a $3.2B long-term care reinsurance deal, offloading biometric risk and reserves to Munich Re.
MUV2.XETRA · Capital · Neutral Munich Re's subsidiary assumes $3.2B of LTC biometric risk via the reinsurance transaction, a capital/risk event of unclear net benefit.
Manulife Closes Long-Term Care Reinsurance Deal with Munich Re
Manulife Financial Corporation has closed its previously announced transaction to reinsure biometric risk on a block of long-term care policies with $3.2 billion of reserves to Munich American Reassurance Company, a subsidiary of Munich Re Group known as Munich Re Life US. The reinsurance carries an effective date of July 1, 2026, and the reserve figure is an IFRS measure of C$3.2 billion at an 80% quota share, reflecting the IFRS 17 current estimate of the present value of future cash flows plus risk adjustment and contractual service margin. All figures are based on a June 30, 2026 position and are expressed in Canadian dollars at an exchange rate of US$1.00 to C$1.41875. Manulife, headquartered in Toronto, operates as Manulife across Canada and Asia and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, and trades as MFC on the Toronto, New York and Philippine stock exchanges and under 945 in Hong Kong. Munich Re Life US is a US reinsurer and a subsidiary of Munich Re Group.
MFC · Capital · Positive Manulife closed a reinsurance deal ceding $3.2B of long-term care reserves to Munich Re, reducing its risk exposure.
MUV2.XETRA · Capital · Positive Munich Re's subsidiary Munich Re Life US takes on $3.2B of long-term care biometric risk via the reinsurance transaction.
TLI launches savings insurance "Money Fit Wealthy" with cash back of up to 520% and tax deduction eligibility
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, has launched a savings insurance product, "Money Fit Wealthy." Mr. Chan Hao Chong, Assistant Managing Director and Chief Proposition Officer, said it is an option for year-end financial planning and tax management. The product comes in two plans. "Money Fit Wealthy 10/3" requires premium payments for only 3 years, provides 10 years of coverage, pays annual cash back during the contract of up to 6% of the sum assured, with total benefits over the contract of up to 354% of the sum assured. "Money Fit Wealthy 15/5(1) (participating dividend plan)" requires premium payments for 5 years, provides 15 years of coverage, and pays minimum cash back over the contract of 520% of the sum assured, with the opportunity to receive dividends from years 2 to 14 and at contract maturity. Both plans are eligible for a tax deduction of up to 100,000 baht per year under the criteria set by the Revenue Department. The 15/5(1) plan also provides death benefit coverage of up to 500% of the sum assured, and interested parties can apply without a medical examination or health questions.
TLI.BK · Demand · Positive TLI launched a new savings insurance product 'Money Fit Wealthy' with cash back up to 520% and tax deduction eligibility, expanding its product offering to attract customers.
Thai Life Insurance launches 'Money Fit Wealthy' tax-deductible savings insurance
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, has launched a new savings insurance product under the name 'Money Fit Wealthy' to capture the year-end tax-deduction market. It offers two plans. 'Money Fit Wealthy 10/3' is for those seeking short-term savings, with premiums paid over just 3 years and 10 years of coverage, annual cash returns during the contract of up to 6% of the sum assured, and total benefits over the contract of up to 354% of the sum assured, along with tax-deduction rights of up to 100,000 baht per year under Revenue Department criteria. 'Money Fit Wealthy 15/5(1) (participating dividend plan)' requires premiums paid over 5 years with 15 years of coverage, annual cash returns during the contract of up to 6% of the sum assured, the opportunity to receive dividends on each policy anniversary from years 2 to 14 and at contract maturity, with minimum cash returns over the contract of 520% of the sum assured, along with tax-deduction rights of up to 100,000 baht and death-benefit coverage of up to 500% of the sum assured. Chan Hao Cheong, Senior Assistant Managing Director and Chief Proposition Officer of TLI, said the product helps customers plan and allocate their money in line with their goals at each stage of life, and interested customers can apply without a medical check-up or health questions.
TLI.BK · Demand · Positive TLI launched the new 'Money Fit Wealthy' tax-deductible savings insurance product to capture the year-end tax-deduction market, a new product offering for customers.
Thai Life Insurance Launches Money Fit Wealthy Savings Insurance in Two Plans with Short Premium Payment Terms of 3 and 5 Years
Thai Life Insurance has launched two Money Fit Wealthy savings insurance plans, namely Money Fit Wealthy 10/3 and Money Fit Wealthy 15/5(1), both with dividend participation, to accommodate different financial goals and planning horizons. Mr. Chan Hao Chong, Assistant General Manager and Chief Proposition Officer of Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, stated that life insurance is an option that provides both protection and the right to use life insurance premiums for tax deductions under the criteria set by the Revenue Department. For Money Fit Wealthy 10/3, premiums are paid for 3 years with 10 years of coverage, and policyholders receive annual cash returns during the contract of up to 6% of the sum assured, with total benefits over the contract of up to 354% of the sum assured, along with the right to tax deductions of up to 100,000 baht per year. As for Money Fit Wealthy 15/5(1), premiums are paid for 5 years with 15 years of coverage, with annual cash returns during the contract of up to 6% of the sum assured and minimum total cash returns over the contract of 520% of the sum assured. It also offers the opportunity to receive dividends on each policy anniversary from years 2 to 14 and at contract maturity, along with the right to tax deductions of up to 100,000 baht and death benefit coverage of up to 500% of the sum assured. Those interested can apply without a medical examination and without answering health questions through Thai Life Insurance agents nationwide, or call 1124 for more information.
TLI.BK · Demand · Positive Thai Life Insurance launched two new Money Fit Wealthy savings insurance plans, expanding its product lineup to attract customers with different financial goals.
Thai Life Insurance Launches Money Fit Wealthy to Capture Year-End Tax Deduction Market
Thai Life Insurance has launched a group savings insurance product, Money Fit Wealthy, aiming to capture the year-end tax deduction market. Mr. Chan Hao Chong, Assistant Managing Director and Chief Proposition Officer of Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, said that the year-end period is when working-age people focus on financial planning alongside tax management. The product offers two insurance plans: Money Fit Wealthy 10/3, for those seeking a short-term savings plan, with premiums paid for only 3 years and coverage for 10 years, receiving annual cash returns during the contract of up to 6% of the sum assured, with total benefits over the contract reaching up to 354% of the sum assured; and Money Fit Wealthy 15/5(1) (participating dividend plan), for those seeking longer-term financial planning, with premiums paid for 5 years and coverage for 15 years, with the opportunity to receive dividends from years 2 to 14 and at contract maturity, with minimum cash returns over the contract of 520% of the sum assured. Both plans are eligible for tax deductions of up to 100,000 baht per year under the criteria set by the Revenue Department, and the 15/5(1) plan also provides death coverage of up to 500% of the sum assured. Those interested can apply without a medical check or health questions by contacting Thai Life Insurance agents nationwide or calling 1124.
TLI.BK · Demand · Positive Thai Life Insurance launched the Money Fit Wealthy savings insurance product targeting year-end tax-deduction buyers, a new product offering for customers.
Sun Life Launches Disability with Health Navigator for Employer Plans
Sun Life U.S. has launched Disability with Health Navigator, a new offering that pairs the company's disability insurance with its personalized care navigation service to help employees facing serious health conditions find appropriate care. Health Navigator connects members with specialized second opinions, specialty providers, centers of excellence and alternative sites of care, and is available year-round to every employee enrolled in the disability product, whether or not they have filed a claim. Joi Tillman, president of Group Benefits at Sun Life U.S., said combining disability insurance with Health Navigator can help employees find appropriate care and give employers another way to support better health outcomes. Jen Collier, president of Health and Risk Solutions at Sun Life U.S., said pairing the two creates a holistic approach to maintaining health or returning to productivity after a major health event. Health Navigator is also available as a standalone service and through Sun Life's medical stop-loss coverage, which protects employers who self-fund their health plans from the risk of high-dollar claims; the service provides navigation and advisory support but does not provide medical care. Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits, helping approximately 48 million Americans access care and coverage, and Sun Life had total assets under management of C$1.70 trillion as of June 30, 2026.
SLF · Technology · Positive Sun Life U.S. launched Disability with Health Navigator, a new product pairing disability insurance with personalized care navigation.
Thai Life Insurance introduces flood relief measures for 32 provinces with 60-day premium grace period
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, has announced urgent measures to assist policyholders affected by flooding in 32 provinces declared disaster zones, according to the disaster situation report from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation under the Ministry of Interior as of September 30, 2026. The main measure extends the premium payment grace period by an additional 60 days from the original grace period deadline, for policyholders whose premiums are due between September 20, 2026 and December 31, 2026, with coverage reinstated once outstanding premiums are paid in full. For ordinary installment policies where cash surrender value was automatically applied to pay premiums during the same period, if policyholders make their premium payment within 6 months of the due date, the company will waive premium interest. In addition, fees for issuing life insurance policies and policyholder identification cards that are damaged or lost will be waived for those who contact the company by February 28, 2027. Claims can be filed through the Thai Life Insurance application, the fax claim service via partner hospitals, or by contacting branches and agents. Information on policies, claims, contract renewals, and lost policy reissuance is available at the Thai Life Insurance Care Center at 1124.
TLI.BK · Regulation · Neutral Thai Life Insurance extends premium grace periods and waives fees/interest for flood-affected policyholders, a relief measure with unclear net financial impact.
Thai Life Insurance extends premium grace period by 60 days to aid flood-hit customers in 32 provinces
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, has announced urgent measures to assist policyholders in 32 provinces affected by flooding, after continuous rain and floods caused damage in many areas. The company is extending the premium payment grace period by an additional 60 days from the original grace period deadline for policyholders whose premiums fall due between September 20, 2026 and December 31, 2026, with coverage resuming once outstanding premiums are paid in full. For ordinary installment policies where cash surrender value was automatically applied to pay premiums during the same period, if policyholders make payment within 6 months from the due date, the company will waive premium interest. The company is also waiving fees for issuing life insurance policies and policyholder identification cards that are damaged or lost, for those who contact the company by February 28, 2027. Policyholders can file claims through the Thai Life Insurance application, via fax claims through partner hospitals, or by contacting branches and agents. For more information, contact the Thai Life Insurance Care Center at 1124.
TLI.BK · Regulation · Positive Thai Life Insurance extends premium grace periods, waives interest and fees for flood-hit policyholders, a regulatory/relief measure that supports customers and its franchise.
TLI Extends Premium Payment Deadline by 60 Days, Waives Interest to Help Flood-Affected Customers in 32 Provinces
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, has announced urgent measures to ease the hardship of customers affected by continuous heavy rain and flooding in 32 provinces declared disaster areas. The main measures include extending the premium payment grace period by an additional 60 days from the original grace period due date, covering customers whose premiums are due between September 20 and December 31, 2026. Policies will immediately regain coverage once customers have paid their outstanding premiums. For ordinary installment policies, if cash surrender value is automatically applied to pay premiums during the same period, TLI will waive premium interest if the policyholder contacts the company to pay the premium within 6 months from the due date. In addition, TLI will waive fees for issuing replacement policies and policyholder identification cards in cases of damage or loss for customers who contact the company by February 28, 2027. On claims, customers can carry out transactions through the Thai Life Insurance application, use the fax claim service through partner hospitals, or contact branches and agents under the specified conditions. They can also inquire about policy information, claims, contract renewals, or new policy issuance at the TLI Care Center by calling 1124.
TLI.BK · Regulation · Positive TLI extends premium grace period 60 days and waives interest/fees for flood-affected customers, a customer-relief policy measure.
Thai Life Insurance extends premium payment period by 60 days to help flood-affected customers in 32 provinces
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, or TLI, has announced urgent measures to assist policyholders affected by the flood situation, extending the grace period for premium payment by an additional 60 days from the end of the original grace period. For policyholders whose premiums are due between September 20, 2026 and December 31, 2026, the measure covers policyholders in 32 flood-affected provinces according to the disaster situation report of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Ministry of Interior, as of September 30, 2026. For ordinary installment policies where cash surrender value is automatically used to pay premiums, if policyholders make payment within 6 months from the due date, the company will waive premium interest. In addition, the company will waive fees for issuing life insurance policies and policyholder identification cards that are damaged or lost for those who contact the company by February 28, 2027. Policyholders can also file claims through the Thai Life Insurance application, via fax claims at partner hospitals, or by contacting branches or agents under the conditions set by the company. For more information, contact the Thai Life Insurance Care Center at 1124.
TLI.BK · Regulation · Neutral TLI extends premium grace period 60 days and waives fees/interest for flood-affected policyholders, a customer-relief measure with unclear net financial impact.
Thai Life Insurance Extends Premium Payment Period by 60 Days to Help Flood-Affected Customers in 32 Provinces
Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited has announced urgent measures to assist policyholders affected by flooding, extending the grace period for premium payment by an additional 60 days from the end of the original grace period. The measure applies to policyholders whose premiums fall due between September 20, 2026 and December 31, 2026, with coverage resuming once outstanding premiums are paid in full. It covers policyholders in flood-hit areas across 32 declared provinces, according to the disaster situation report of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Ministry of Interior, as of September 30, 2026. For ordinary installment policies where cash surrender value is automatically applied to pay premiums during the same period, if the policyholder makes payment within 6 months of the due date, the company will waive premium interest. The company will also waive fees for issuing life insurance policies and policyholder identification cards that are damaged or lost, for those who contact the company by February 28, 2027. Policyholders can file claims through the Thai Life Insurance application, via fax claims at partner hospitals, or by contacting branches or agents. For more information, contact the Thai Life Insurance Care Center at 1124.
TLI.BK · Regulation · Neutral Thai Life Insurance extends premium grace period by 60 days and waives interest/fees for flood-affected policyholders, a regulatory/relief measure with mixed financial impact.
Sun Life Appoints Darko Mihelic as Head of Investor Relations
Sun Life Financial Inc. announced the appointment of Darko Mihelic as Senior Vice-President, Head of Investor Relations, effective October 22, 2026. Mihelic joins from RBC Capital Markets, where he was Managing Director, Equity Research, covering Canada's banking and insurance sectors, and previously held equity research roles at Cormark Securities and CIBC Capital Markets. He will report to Tim Deacon, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer, and will lead Sun Life's engagement strategy and relationships with institutional investors, analysts and other key external stakeholders. Mihelic succeeds Natalie Brady, who was appointed Senior Vice-President, Head of Capital Management and Corporate Development at Sun Life earlier this year. Sun Life, which trades on the Toronto, New York and Philippine stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF, had total assets under management of $1.70 trillion as of June 30, 2026.
Manulife Canada Partners with Sword to Launch AI-Enabled Physiotherapy Program
Manulife Canada announced a partnership with Sword, a global AI health company, to offer AI-enabled physiotherapy to eligible Group Benefits members. The first phase of the program gives eligible members on disability access to licensed Canadian physiotherapists supported by a Health Canada-approved motion-tracking tablet, enabling personalized treatment plans, real-time progress tracking, educational resources, and ongoing communication with care teams for acute or chronic Musculoskeletal conditions such as neck, back and joint pain. In 2027, Manulife and Sword will advance to the next phase of the partnership, expanding the program to all Group Benefits members with Extended Health Care coverage and increasing access to physiotherapy support across Canada. Doug Bryce, Head of Health at Manulife Canada, said the partnership makes it easier for members to access physiotherapy faster and more seamlessly, while André Eiras, SVP of International at Sword, said the program brings high-quality care directly to members facing geographic barriers and mobility limitations. Manulife Financial Corporation, headquartered in Toronto, serves over 37 million customers across 25 markets globally.
MFC · Demand · Positive Manulife partners with Sword to offer AI-enabled physiotherapy to its Group Benefits members, expanding its health service offering to customers.
Sword Health · Demand · Positive Sword's AI physiotherapy platform is being adopted by Manulife Canada for its Group Benefits members, with expansion planned in 2027.
Manulife Launches First-of-its-Kind CoverMe Travel Insurance Plugin in ChatGPT
Manulife announced the launch of a new CoverMe plugin in ChatGPT, making it the first of its kind in Canada and Manulife's first plugin in ChatGPT globally. The plugin lets eligible Canadian travellers answer a series of questions about their trip and receive a personalized travel insurance quote, then complete their application and purchase through CoverMe.com; travellers needing more tailored coverage are also directed to CoverMe.com. The initial launch supports both English and French customer experiences. Pamela Wong, Head of Affinity at Manulife, said bringing CoverMe Travel to ChatGPT meets travellers where they already research and plan trips, while Jamie Campbell, Head of AI Canada, called it Manulife's first plugin in ChatGPT globally. Jodie Wallis, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, said agentic commerce is quickly becoming a customer preference and that the enterprise-wide AI and data foundations behind the launch mean what Manulife learns compounds across its markets. The plugin was developed in alignment with Manulife's Responsible AI Principles, and Manulife was recognized as the number one life insurance company in North America and Europe for AI maturity in the Evident AI Insurance Index for two consecutive years.
Bangkok Life Assurance Elevates Sales Force to Life Care Partner, Repeat Customer Purchases Surge 75%
Bangkok Life Assurance has announced the success of its initiative to elevate its sales force into Life Care Partners under the concept of four dimensions of a good life: physical fitness, financial readiness, mental balance, and strong relationships, in order to serve an aging society. Mr. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bangkok Life Assurance Public Company Limited, stated that the company has shifted its role from a guardian of finances and claims payments to a leader that helps build a better quality of life for Thai society, through systematic personnel development programs. It began with the Caring Agent course, which more than 65% of agents have completed, before advancing to the Life Care Partner course, which focuses on knowledge of longevity and care for quality of life across all four dimensions. The result is a new generation of agents who have completed the Life Care Partner course achieving a repeat purchase rate from existing customers as high as 75%, or nearly double, and during the period from April to July 2026, Life Care Partners saw new policies grow by 34% compared with the same period the previous year.
BLA.BK · Demand · Positive Life Care Partner initiative drove 75% repeat purchases and 34% new policy growth, reflecting stronger end-customer demand for its insurance products.
Bangkok Life Assurance Launches BLA Saving 168 and Saving & Care 168
Bangkok Life Assurance has launched two new savings insurance products, BLA Saving 168 and BLA Saving & Care 168, to serve a long-lived society, building on the Care category products launched earlier this year, BLA Long Life Care and Gen First Savings & Flexi Care 12/6, which have been well received. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer, said the company is committed to developing products under its vision of being the number one life insurance company in care. The BLA Saving 168 policy requires eight years of premium payments with 16 years of coverage, insuring from birth to age 83, paying back 8% of the sum assured each year on policy anniversaries in years one through fifteen, and on maturity paying a lump sum of a further 808%, for total benefits over the contract of 928% of the sum assured. The BLA Saving & Care 168 policy requires eight years of premium payments with 16 years of coverage, insuring from birth to age 70, offering total benefits over the contract of 928% of the sum assured, along with coverage for death or terminal illness of up to 900% of the sum assured, and coverage for eight critical illnesses in the elderly, with an annual compensation payment of 12% of the sum assured; combined with the 8% annual payback, policyholders receive a total return of 20% of the sum assured each year until the contract ends. Premiums for both life insurance plans can be used for personal income tax deductions under conditions set by the Revenue Department.
BLA.BK · Demand · Positive Launches two new savings insurance products (BLA Saving 168 and Saving & Care 168) to serve a long-lived society, expanding its product lineup.
Bangkok Life Assurance Launches BLA Saving 168 and Saving & Care 168 to Serve an Ageing Society
Bangkok Life Assurance, or BLA, has launched two new savings insurance products, BLA Saving 168 and BLA Saving & Care 168. Both require premium payments over 8 years, provide 16 years of coverage, and offer total living benefits throughout the policy of 928% of the sum assured. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer, said the development of these products is part of the Products+ direction, which focuses on the Care category of insurance, linking financial planning with health protection to address the trend of an ageing society. BLA Saving 168 accepts applicants from birth to age 83. Policyholders receive an annual payout of 8% of the sum assured from the 1st to the 15th policy anniversary, and upon surviving to the maturity of the policy they receive a lump sum of a further 808% of the sum assured. BLA Saving & Care 168 accepts applicants from birth to age 70, with coverage for death or terminal illness of up to 900% of the sum assured, plus added coverage for 8 critical illnesses in the elderly. If the conditions are met, policyholders receive an annual compensation payment of 12% of the sum assured, which combined with the annual payout of 8% totals 20% per year until the end of the policy. The life insurance premiums for both products can be used to claim personal income tax deductions under the criteria of the Revenue Department. Previously, the company launched two products in the Care category, BLA Long Life Care and GainFirst Savings & Flexi Care 12/6, developed jointly with Bangkok Bank.
Slide Insurance Expands Coastal Property Coverage in South Carolina
Slide Insurance Holdings has rolled out expanded property insurance products for higher-value homes in South Carolina's coastal markets, targeting coverage gaps for upscale properties in rapidly growing shoreline communities that often struggle to secure full protection. The expansion covers South Carolina homeowners across HO3, HO5, and HO6 policies, with particular focus on higher-value coastal properties where traditional carriers have limited capacity or tighter underwriting criteria for larger insured values. Rapid population growth in areas like Horry County, which has grown more than 20% since 2020, points to a larger pool of insurable homes that could support premium volume if Slide wins share. The company, a US property and casualty insurer with a market cap of $2.8b, is competing against much larger carriers that often pull back from complex coastal exposure. The key test for investors will be whether management breaks out or comments on South Carolina contribution in upcoming quarterly updates, especially gross written premium levels and policy counts tied to the new HO5 product for higher-value homes.
SLDE · Demand · Positive Slide rolled out expanded coastal property insurance products in South Carolina, targeting a larger pool of insurable higher-value homes to grow premium volume.
Summary of announcements by Shanghai and Shenzhen listed companies on the evening of September 24: Sanan Optoelectronics' actual controller Lin Xiucheng detained; Hengtong Optoelectronics plans private placement to raise no more than 6.636 billion yuan
On the evening of September 24, multiple listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges issued major announcements. Sanan Optoelectronics announced that it had received notice from the family of its actual controller Lin Xiucheng that Lin had been criminally detained by public security authorities on suspicion of embezzlement of his position and misappropriation of funds. Lin has not held any position in the company since July 10, 2017, and the company said the matter is unrelated to the company and will not have a material impact on production and operations. Hengtong Optoelectronics plans to issue shares to specific investors to raise no more than 6.636 billion yuan, for projects including research and production of next-generation optical fiber, construction of high-end optical new materials in Inner Mongolia, and research and development of advanced CPO packaging. Guanghuan Xinwang plans to make an additional investment of no more than 1.265 billion yuan in the Helinger intelligent computing center project, bringing total project investment to approximately 2.5 billion yuan and raising IT load capacity from 60 to 100 megawatts to 90 to 120 megawatts. China Life Insurance plans to subscribe for capital contributions of no more than 4.5 billion yuan in a partnership with total subscriptions of no more than 6 billion yuan, focusing on high-quality unlisted equity in the artificial intelligence and semiconductor sectors. Shandong Gold Mining has adjusted its 2026 gold production plan from no less than 49 tonnes to between 36 and 38 tonnes. The company's mined gold output in 2025 was 48.89 tonnes, and net profit attributable to the parent is expected to decline year on year in 2026. In addition, Zhongji Innolight completed a buyback of 5.6531 million shares for 4.997 billion yuan, Jifeng Auto Parts' controlling subsidiary received a nomination for a passenger car seat assembly project with an estimated total life-cycle value of 9.2 billion yuan, and EVE Energy plans to transfer a 45 percent stake in Hubei Enjie New Materials for 1.15 billion yuan.
600487.CG · Capital · Positive Hengtong Optoelectronics plans a private placement to raise up to 6.636 billion yuan for optical fiber, optical materials, and CPO packaging projects.
600547.CG · Supply · Negative Shandong Gold Mining cut its 2026 gold production plan to 36-38 tonnes from no less than 49 tonnes, with net profit expected to decline year on year.
600703.CG · Regulation · Negative Sanan Optoelectronics' actual controller Lin Xiucheng was criminally detained on suspicion of embezzlement and misappropriation of funds.
601628.CG · Capital · Positive China Life Insurance plans to subscribe up to 4.5 billion yuan in a partnership focused on high-quality unlisted AI and semiconductor equity.
Oscar Health Upgraded to Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buy on Surging Estimates
Oscar Health, Inc. has been upgraded to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), a rating reserved for the top 5% of the more than 4,000 stocks covered by the Zacks system. The upgrade reflects a sharp upward trend in earnings estimates, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company climbing 290.1% over the past three months. Oscar Health is expected to earn $1.83 per share for the fiscal year ending December 2026, which represents no year-over-year change. The Zacks Rank is determined solely by a company's changing earnings picture, and Zacks Rank #1 stocks have generated an average annual return of +25% since 1988. The upgrade implies that the stock could move higher in the near term as institutional investors adjust valuations to the improved earnings outlook.
Slide Insurance Expands Homeowners Coverage Across South Carolina
Slide Insurance Holdings, Inc. announced an expanded suite of property insurance products available statewide in South Carolina, with a focus on bringing more choice and admitted capacity to the coast. The expanded offerings, offered through Slide Specialty Insurance Company, include a new HO5 product designed for higher-value homes, plus new HO3 homeowners and HO6 condo products, all three featuring expanded coverage options, additional discounts, and highly competitive rates. The company said South Carolina's rapidly growing coastal communities need more home insurance options, particularly for larger and higher-value homes, noting that areas like Horry County, home to the Myrtle Beach area, have grown by more than 20% since 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau population estimates. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bruce Lucas said coastal property insurance is where Slide has a distinct advantage and that the company is deepening its commitment to South Carolina at a time when the coastal market is growing. Slide has served South Carolina homeowners since 2022, and the expansion advances its strategy of disciplined growth and geographic diversification in property insurance markets where its underwriting and catastrophe risk management capabilities provide a competitive advantage.
SLDE · Demand · Positive Slide expands its homeowners insurance products statewide in South Carolina, adding new HO5/HO3/HO6 offerings to capture growing coastal demand.
Slide Specialty Insurance Company · Demand · Positive Slide Specialty Insurance Company is the entity through which the expanded South Carolina homeowners products are offered.
Bangkok Life Assurance launches "BLA Saving 168" and "BLA Saving and Care 168"
Bangkok Life Assurance is pressing ahead with new products in 2026, focusing on the Care insurance segment, launching two new savings insurance plans: "BLA Saving 168" and "BLA Saving and Care 168," options for those who want to plan their finances securely while taking care of their health in a single policy. This follows the earlier launches of "BLA Long Life Care" and "Gain First Savings and Flexi Care 12/6," which are part of the Care insurance segment, two plans developed since the start of the year that have received a good response. Chone Sophonpanich, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Bangkok Life Assurance Public Company Limited, said that product development focuses on the Products+ dimension, enabling customers to plan for a good quality of life over the long term, in line with the trend of Thailand moving toward an aging society. "BLA Saving 168" requires premiums for only 8 years and provides coverage for 16 years, with insurance available from birth up to age 83. The insured will receive a payout of 8% of the sum assured each year on policy anniversaries 1 through 15, and upon surviving to the maturity of the contract will receive a lump sum of a further 808% of the sum assured, for total living benefits throughout the contract of 928% of the sum assured. Meanwhile, "BLA Saving and Care 168" requires premiums for only 8 years and provides coverage for 16 years, with insurance available from birth up to age 70. It offers total benefits throughout the contract of 928% of the sum assured, along with coverage for death or terminal illness, claimable as a lump sum of up to 900% of the sum assured, and coverage for 8 critical illnesses in the elderly, the same as the BLA Long Life Care plan, with an annual compensation payment of 12% of the sum assured. When combined with the annual payout of 8%, the total annual return comes to 20% of the sum assured until the contract matures. The premiums for both life insurance plans can be used to claim personal income tax deductions under the conditions set by the Revenue Department.
BLA.BK · Technology · Positive Bangkok Life Assurance launches two new savings insurance products (BLA Saving 168 and BLA Saving and Care 168), expanding its Care insurance product line.
BLA launches two new savings insurance plans: BLA Saving 168 and Saving & Care 168
Bangkok Life Assurance Public Company Limited, or BLA, has launched two new savings insurance plans: BLA Saving 168 and BLA Saving & Care 168. Mr. Chone Sophonpanich, President and Chief Executive Officer, said the plans follow the Products+ direction, which aims to develop insurance products that help customers plan for long-term quality of life, in line with Thailand's trend toward an aging society. For BLA Saving 168, coverage is available from ages 0 to 83, with premiums paid over 8 years and protection lasting 16 years. Policyholders receive an annual payout of 8% of the sum assured in years 1 through 15, plus a lump sum of 808% upon maturity, for total living benefits of 928%. They may also request an advance lump-sum benefit of up to 800% in the event of terminal illness. As for BLA Saving & Care 168, coverage is available from ages 0 to 70, with premiums paid over 8 years and protection lasting 16 years, offering total benefits of 928% over the life of the policy. It adds coverage for death or terminal illness with a lump sum of up to 900%, along with special coverage for 8 critical illnesses in older adults, providing an additional annual payout of 12%. Combined with the regular annual payout of 8%, this brings total annual payouts to as much as 20%. Premiums for both life insurance plans are eligible for tax deductions under conditions set by the Revenue Department. Earlier this year, BLA developed Care-type insurance plans, namely BLA Long Life Care and Gen First Savings & Flexi Care 12/6, which have received an excellent response.
Sixth Street Revives Brighthouse Bid as Aquarian Deal Delayed to Dec. 6
Sixth Street is considering a renewed bid to buy Brighthouse Financial, sending shares up 4% as the life insurer's pending deal with Aquarian languishes under regulatory review. Talcott Financial Group, an insurer backed by Sixth Street, sent a letter to Brighthouse's board last month reaffirming its wish to purchase the insurance and annuity provider if the current deal blows up, according to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the matter. Reuters reported last October that Sixth Street was in talks to buy Brighthouse for about $55 a share. Aquarian's planned acquisition of Brighthouse has now been delayed to Dec. 6 after a Sept. 6 deadline to complete the deal expired, and under the terms of that deal Brighthouse holders will receive $70.00 in cash per share. Delaware's insurance regulator recently questioned Aquarian founder Rudy Sahay in a closed-door meeting about the firm's sources of capital backing its purchase and how it will utilize the funds, and Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro said the department is using its expertise along with carefully selected outside specialists to evaluate the proposed transaction. Aquarian said it remains committed to acquiring Brighthouse and believes it is the best partner to the company, while representatives for Brighthouse, the Delaware Department of Insurance, Sixth Street, and Talcott declined to comment to Bloomberg.
BHF · Capital · Positive Sixth Street/Talcott reaffirmed interest in buying Brighthouse if the Aquarian deal collapses, reviving a takeover bid for the insurer.
Aquarian Capital · Regulation · Negative Aquarian's acquisition of Brighthouse is delayed to Dec. 6 as Delaware's insurance regulator scrutinizes its capital sources.
Sixth Street Partners · Capital · Positive Sixth Street is considering a renewed bid for Brighthouse via its Talcott-backed letter to the board.
Talcott Financial Group · Capital · Positive Talcott, backed by Sixth Street, sent a letter reaffirming its wish to buy Brighthouse if the current deal fails.
Sun Life to Redeem $500 Million Series 2021-1 Debentures on November 18
Sun Life Financial Inc. announced its intention to redeem all of the outstanding $500 million principal amount of its Series 2021-1 Subordinated Unsecured 2.46% Fixed/Floating Debentures. The redemption will take place on November 18, 2026, at a price per Debenture equal to the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. The debentures are redeemable at Sun Life's option on or after November 18, 2026, and the redemption will be funded from existing cash and liquid assets. Notice will be delivered to holders in accordance with the trust indenture governing the debentures, and interest will cease to accrue from and after the redemption date. Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto, New York and Philippine stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.
Manulife Adds Eight Segregated Funds, Names Sarah Chapman to Global Marketing Role
Manulife Financial announced an expansion of its segregated fund lineup and a senior leadership appointment tied to its wealth and asset management business. The insurer added eight new segregated funds and widened access to 11 existing options spanning Canadian, U.S. and global equity, income and ETF based mandates, giving advisors more ways to match guarantees and estate planning features with different risk and return profiles. Sarah Chapman is stepping up to Global Chief Marketing & Customer Experience Officer, a move the company ties to its digital transformation and fee based wealth growth push. Manulife Financial is a CA$103.0b insurance group with operations across Canada, the United States, Asia and other markets. The clearest early test will be how much new business and net flows Manulife reports into segregated funds and related wealth products over the next few reporting periods, particularly in Canada.
MFC · Demand · Positive Manulife added eight new segregated funds and widened access to 11 existing options, expanding its wealth product lineup to attract new business and net flows.
Aflac Net Earnings Jump 37.7% to $825 Million as Adjusted Earnings Fall 7.7%
Aflac reported second-quarter net earnings of $825 million, up 37.7%, even as adjusted earnings fell 7.7% to $883 million. The net gain was helped by investment losses that shrank to $153 million from $421 million a year earlier, while the adjusted decline reflected a yen averaging 159.45 to the dollar, 9.3% weaker than a year earlier, which cost adjusted earnings $0.05 a share. Excluding currency in the first half, adjusted earnings per share rose 4.1% to $3.57, and Japan's pretax adjusted margin widened to 34.3% from 32.0% as claims took a smaller bite out of premiums. US net earned premiums rose 2.3% to $1.5 billion and sales climbed 2.6% to $349 million, but US pretax adjusted earnings fell 4.6% to $370 million and its margin narrowed to 20.9% from 22.5%. Aflac returned $1.3 billion to shareholders in the quarter, $983 million through buybacks, and declared a $0.61 third-quarter dividend payable September 1 to holders of record on August 19, 2026.
AFL · Capital · Neutral Net earnings jumped 37.7% to $825M on smaller investment losses, but adjusted earnings fell 7.7% to $883M on yen weakness and US margin narrowed to 20.9% from 22.5%.
AFL · Monetary · Positive A yen averaging 159.45 to the dollar, 9.3% weaker year over year, cut adjusted earnings by $0.05 a share, making FX a distinct driver.
Oscar Health Targets Doubling EPS by 2027, Unveils Lucy AI Marketplace
Oscar Health used its Investor Day to unveil the Lucy Healthcare Marketplace, an AI-driven platform for carriers, brokers, and consumers, and said it aims to double earnings per share by 2027. Management described the EPS target as a core pillar of the company's next phase. CEO statements at the event argued that traditional employer-sponsored health insurance is ending, and Oscar Health intends to focus on individual coverage. The company operates as a US-based healthcare technology firm that pairs insurance products with its own digital infrastructure. The clearest test of whether the update lifts the bull case will be Oscar Health's reported medical loss ratio and operating margin through the 2026 guidance window.
Prudential Financial Seen Gaining From Higher Rates as Fed Lifts Target Range
Prudential Financial's net investment income stands to benefit from higher interest rates after the Federal Reserve raised the federal funds target range by 25 basis points to 3.75-4% on Sept. 16, 2026, citing still-elevated inflation. Because Prudential Financial holds a large general-account investment portfolio, higher rates can lift investment income as cash flows and maturities are reinvested at higher yields, a dynamic especially relevant to its Retirement and other spread businesses. In second-quarter 2026, the general-account fixed-maturity portfolio generated a 4.67% investment yield, up from 4.39% a year earlier, while fixed-maturity investment income rose to $3.79 billion from $3.41 billion. Higher rates could also make fixed annuities more attractive to customers seeking guaranteed yield and let Prudential Financial price new products using higher prevailing investment yields, though the benefit is gradual because much of the portfolio is invested for the long term. On the negative side, higher Treasury yields generally reduce the market value of existing fixed-income securities, and Prudential Financial notes that rising rates can create earnings and capital volatility, although its liability-management and hedging programs are designed to mitigate that exposure. Separately, Selective Insurance Group continues to benefit from elevated investment income supported by higher yields and growth in invested assets, while net investment income acts as a second earnings engine for Travelers after underwriting profit. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Prudential Financial's third-quarter and fourth-quarter 2026 EPS has moved up 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively, over the past 30 days, and the same for full-year 2026 and 2027 EPS has moved up 2.3% and 0.9%.
United States
Japan
