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Sun Life Financial (TSE:SLF)
:SLF

Sun Life Financial (SLF) AI Stock Analysis

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Sun Life Financial

(NYSE:SLF)

Rating:75Outperform
Price Target:
C$101.00
â–²(13.17%Upside)
Sun Life Financial's strong corporate events and technical analysis drive the stock's positive outlook, balanced by prudent financial performance. The robust governance and strategic initiatives in capital management enhance the company's market position, while positive technical indicators support short-term bullish momentum. Cash flow challenges and a fair valuation keep the score moderated.
Positive Factors
Dividends
A larger-than-expected dividend increase highlights the company's strong financial performance.
Earnings
The target price for Sun Life Financial has been increased to $95, reflecting improving earnings quality and visibility.
Sales Performance
Better sales performance, especially in Asia and the U.S. Dental segment, contributed to a good quality beat in earnings.
Negative Factors

Sun Life Financial (SLF) vs. iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC)

Sun Life Financial Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionSun Life Financial Inc. (SLF) is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of wealth management, insurance, and financial planning solutions. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Sun Life operates in numerous markets worldwide, including North America, Asia, and the United Kingdom. The company offers individual and group life insurance, health insurance, investment products, pension plans, and retirement planning services, catering to both individuals and corporate clients.
How the Company Makes MoneySun Life Financial generates revenue through several key streams. The primary sources include premiums from life and health insurance policies, fees from wealth and asset management services, and investment income from managing assets and portfolios. The company's insurance segment earns money through the sale of individual and group insurance products, where clients pay regular premiums for coverage. In the wealth and asset management sector, Sun Life collects fees based on the assets under management (AUM) and performance of the investment products they offer. Additionally, investment income is earned from the company's own investment portfolio, which includes bonds, equities, and real estate. Strategic partnerships, especially in Asia, and a focus on digital transformation and innovation, further support Sun Life's growth and profitability.

Sun Life Financial Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:May 08, 2025
(Q4-2024)
|
% Change Since: 7.96%|
Next Earnings Date:Aug 07, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call highlighted strong capital generation, record fundraising at SLC, and significant growth in Asia, offset by challenges in U.S. stop-loss claims, negative net flows at MFS, and impairments in Vietnam. The company demonstrates resilience and strategic growth, but faces notable challenges in specific segments.
Q4-2024 Updates
Positive Updates
Strong Capital Position
Sun Life ended the quarter with a strong LICAT ratio of 152% and robust Holdco cash of $1.4 billion, indicating solid financial health and capacity for share buybacks.
Record Capital Raising at SLC Management
SLC Management achieved record capital raising of $10 billion in Q4, bringing the full year total to $24 billion, with net inflows over $14 billion.
Asia Growth Momentum
Sun Life's Asia operations saw strong growth, with underlying net income up 17% year-over-year to more than $700 million. Total Asia CSM grew by 30%.
Canada and U.S. Group Benefits Revenue Growth
Group Benefits revenue in Canada was up 11% year-over-year, and U.S. Group Benefits revenue grew 6% year-over-year, demonstrating strong core health business performance.
Digital Initiatives and Employee Engagement
Sun Life's digital initiatives, such as virtual care services in Canada and the Advisor Buddy tool in the Philippines, demonstrate commitment to innovation. Employee engagement scores averaged 88%, above industry norms.
Negative Updates
U.S. Stop-Loss Morbidity Experience
The U.S. stop-loss morbidity claims experience was unfavorable due to increased severity, impacting underlying earnings. The full-year stop-loss loss ratio was 74%, above the 73% pricing target.
Negative Net Flows at MFS
Despite strong distribution execution, MFS experienced negative net flows, reflecting continued industry-wide outflows.
Vietnam Bancassurance Impairment
An impairment charge related to bancassurance agreements in Vietnam was recognized, due to market challenges and updated outlooks.
Lower U.S. Results
U.S. underlying net income was down 39% year-over-year, primarily driven by unfavorable morbidity experience in medical stop-loss.
Company Guidance
During the Sun Life Financial Q4 2024 earnings call, the company provided several key metrics and insights. Underlying net income for the fourth quarter was $965 million, a 2% decline year-over-year, with earnings per share flat at $1.68. The full-year underlying net income increased by 3% to $3.9 billion, with total assets under management reaching $1.54 trillion. The LICAT ratio at Sun Life Financial was reported at a strong 152%. In asset management, SLC Management achieved record capital raising of $10 billion in the quarter, contributing to a full-year total of $24 billion. MFS maintained strong long-term fund performance, with 95% of fund assets ranked in the top half of their respective Morningstar categories based on 10-year performance. Despite challenges in the U.S. due to increased claims severity in the stop-loss business, Sun Life reported positive momentum in its Canadian and U.S. group businesses. Wealth sales and asset management gross flows increased by 33%, driven by distribution execution at MFS and SLC. Sun Life also highlighted its commitment to digital innovation and employee engagement, with an employee engagement index score of 88%, maintaining a strong position in the financial services industry.

Sun Life Financial Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Sun Life Financial demonstrates strong revenue growth and stable net income, but faces challenges in cash flow management with declining operating cash flow and an increasing debt-to-equity ratio. Strong asset base supports financial stability, yet cash flow management is a concern.
Income Statement
78
Positive
Sun Life Financial has demonstrated consistent revenue growth over the years, with a significant increase from $30.85 billion in 2023 to $36.80 billion in 2024. The net profit margin is stable, with net income remaining robust at approximately $3.17 billion. However, the absence of EBIT and EBITDA figures for 2024 limits the analysis of profitability efficiency.
Balance Sheet
72
Positive
The company's balance sheet reflects a solid equity position with a debt-to-equity ratio that remains manageable, although it increased slightly to 0.58 in 2024. Equity ratio stands at 7.03%, indicating a relatively low proportion of equity financing compared to total assets. Despite this, Sun Life Financial maintains a strong asset base, which supports its financial stability.
Cash Flow
65
Positive
The cash flow analysis shows a decline in operating cash flow from $5.61 billion in 2023 to $2.53 billion in 2024. The free cash flow decreased similarly, reflecting potential challenges in cash generation. The operating cash flow to net income ratio decreased, indicating less cash being generated from operations relative to net income.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue46.35B36.80B30.85B23.21B35.69B43.34B
Gross Profit46.35B36.80B32.66B23.21B35.69B43.34B
EBITDA3.65B5.00B5.08B4.79B6.93B4.07B
Net Income3.23B3.17B3.17B3.02B4.37B2.78B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets372.96B370.72B333.24B330.91B345.37B323.01B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments26.21B27.72B27.49B11.22B12.28B13.53B
Total Debt6.38B15.02B13.28B13.39B10.21B6.89B
Total Liabilities346.92B344.59B309.04B301.53B317.30B297.15B
Stockholders Equity25.96B26.05B23.58B27.45B26.31B24.47B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow6.90B2.39B5.44B8.00B-1.94B7.09B
Operating Cash Flow7.03B2.53B5.61B4.31B-1.86B7.25B
Investing Cash Flow-6.19B-9.46B-559.00M-2.86B-803.00M-886.00M
Financing Cash Flow-4.51B-3.27B-3.09B-71.00M-260.00M-2.31B

Sun Life Financial Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price89.25
Price Trends
50DMA
85.76
Positive
100DMA
82.42
Positive
200DMA
81.31
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.89
Positive
RSI
69.55
Neutral
STOCH
81.76
Negative
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For TSE:SLF, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 89.25 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 88.66, above the 50-day MA of 85.76, and above the 200-day MA of 81.31, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.89 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 69.55 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 81.76 is Negative, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for TSE:SLF.

Sun Life Financial Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (62)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
TSIAG
81
Outperform
C$13.53B15.3612.54%3.34%-7.31%28.65%
TSMFC
79
Outperform
$75.07B16.4810.17%5.52%5.24%13.68%
TSIFC
76
Outperform
C$55.70B25.2012.95%1.71%4.73%44.14%
TSSLF
75
Outperform
C$51.08B16.4913.18%5.42%0.94%3.50%
TSPOW
74
Outperform
C$34.18B12.8011.92%6.22%7.63%8.84%
TSGWO
73
Outperform
C$48.07B12.5714.65%6.53%17.48%25.54%
62
Neutral
AU$9.98B8.0610.79%5.20%31.01%38.31%
* Financial Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
TSE:SLF
Sun Life Financial
90.35
26.10
40.62%
TSE:MFC
Manulife Financial
43.83
9.12
26.27%
TSE:IAG
iA Financial Corporation Inc
147.38
63.74
76.21%
TSE:GWO
Great-West Lifeco
51.80
13.86
36.53%
TSE:IFC
Intact Financial Corporation
312.34
86.25
38.15%
TSE:POW
Power Corp of Canada
54.04
16.79
45.07%

Sun Life Financial Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Sun Life Announces Preferred Shares Conversion Results
Neutral
Jun 20, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. announced the conversion results of its Class A Non-cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 8R and Class A Non-cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares Series 9QR. Following the conversion, Sun Life will have 8,880,847 Series 8R Shares and 2,319,153 Series 9QR Shares outstanding. The shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and may be redeemed by Sun Life under certain conditions. This conversion and redemption option provides flexibility in managing its capital structure, potentially impacting its financial strategy and shareholder value.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:SLF) stock is a Buy with a C$88.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Sun Life Financial stock, see the TSE:SLF Stock Forecast page.

Dividends
Sun Life Announces Dividend Rates for Preferred Shares Series 8R and 9QR
Neutral
May 30, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. announced the dividend rates for its Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 8R and Class A Non-Cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares Series 9QR. The Series 8R Shares will have a fixed dividend rate of 4.230% per annum for the next five years, while the Series 9QR Shares will have a floating rate starting at 4.054% per annum for the period ending September 30, 2025. This announcement impacts shareholders who need to decide on conversion options by June 16, 2025, and highlights Sun Life’s ongoing commitment to providing returns to its investors.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:SLF) stock is a Buy with a C$88.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Sun Life Financial stock, see the TSE:SLF Stock Forecast page.

Product-Related AnnouncementsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Sun Life Announces Conversion Privilege for Preferred Shares Series 8R and 9QR
Neutral
May 15, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. announced that it will not redeem its outstanding Class A Non-Cumulative Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 8R and Class A Non-Cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares Series 9QR on June 30, 2025. Shareholders have the option to convert these shares on a one-for-one basis, subject to certain conditions. This decision allows flexibility for shareholders and reflects Sun Life’s strategic management of its financial offerings, potentially impacting its market positioning and stakeholder interests.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:SLF) stock is a Buy with a C$88.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Sun Life Financial stock, see the TSE:SLF Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder Meetings
Sun Life Financial Elects New Board of Directors
Positive
May 9, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. announced the election of 12 directors at its annual meeting of common shareholders. The nominees, listed in the management information circular, received overwhelming support, with most securing over 99% of votes in favor. This election reinforces Sun Life’s governance structure as it continues to strengthen its position in the financial services industry.

Stock BuybackBusiness Operations and Strategy
Sun Life Financial to Renew Share Repurchase Program
Positive
May 8, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. has announced its intention to renew its normal course issuer bid (NCIB), subject to regulatory approvals. The new 2025 NCIB will allow the company to repurchase up to 10 million additional common shares, providing flexibility in capital management and returning value to shareholders. This move reflects Sun Life’s strategic approach to managing its capital and enhancing shareholder value.

DividendsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Sun Life Financial Increases Dividends for Q2 2025
Positive
May 8, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. announced an increase in its common share dividend to $0.88 per share, payable on June 30, 2025, marking a 4 cent rise from the previous quarter. The company also declared dividends on its Class A Non-Cumulative Preferred Shares, with various series receiving specific amounts. These dividends are part of Sun Life’s broader strategy to provide consistent returns to its shareholders and reinforce its strong market position.

Stock BuybackDividendsBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Sun Life Financial Reports Robust Q1 2025 Results with Increased Income and Dividend
Positive
May 8, 2025

Sun Life Financial Inc. reported a strong first quarter in 2025, with an underlying net income of $1,045 million, marking a 19% increase from the previous year. The reported net income rose by 13% to $928 million, and assets under management increased by 6% to $1,551 billion. The company also announced a dividend increase and plans for continued share buybacks, highlighting its robust financial position and strategic advancements in digital tools and capital raising.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Jun 07, 2025