Sun Life Faces Delay in Sale of Annuity Business

The company’s stock is off on the uncertainty this has created.

| More on:
The Motley Fool

Initially, the deal Sun Life Financial (TSX:SLF) struck in December to sell its U.S. annuity portfolio and some life insurance products for $1.35 billion to Delaware Life Holdings, a Guggenheim Partners-owned company, was scheduled to be completed by Q2 of 2013.

While the proposed deal has been approved by some regulators, including the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) is continuing its review process, making it unlikely the transaction will be completed as originally planned, Sun Life announced today.

The unexpected delay involving the NYDFS comes as it reviews private investor groups as owners of annuity business, as is the case with Delaware Life Holding’s Guggenheim Partners. Though Sun Life expects the additional NYDFS review will cause delays, both parties to the deal are working with regulators in an effort to “close the transaction as soon as possible,” the company said.

Foolish Takeaway

Sun Life’s variable annuity business has been a pain for the company because of the declining interest rate environment in which we’ve been locked.  With that environment potentially beginning to crack, one wonders if secretly Sun Life wouldn’t be all that disappointed if this deal were to fall through.

Regardless of whether the deal goes through, Sun Life is well positioned to outperform in a rising rate environment.  To learn about 5 more Canadian companies that investors can expect to produce superior long-term returns just click here and we’ll send you our special FREE report “5 Companies to Replace Your Canadian Index Fund”.

The Motley Fool’s purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool Canada’s free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead.

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in Foolish investing.

The original version of this post, authored by Fool.com contributor Tim Brugger, originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Tim Brugger has no position in any stocks mentioned.  The Motley Fool has no position in any stocks mentioned at this time

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

More on Investing

Concept of multiple streams of income
Top TSX Stocks

The Best Stocks to Invest $1,000 in Right Now

Here are some of the best stocks that every investor should own today to generate massive income and strong growth…

Read more »

The TFSA is a powerful savings vehicle for Canadians who are saving for retirement.
Dividend Stocks

Trump’s Tariffs Could Hurt Your TFSA – But These 2 Stocks Will Keep it Safe

Worried about tariffs coming down? Then consider these two stocks to keep your portfolio safe.

Read more »

concept of real estate evaluation
Dividend Stocks

3 Top Real Estate Sector Stocks for Canadian Investors in 2025 

The Canadian real estate sector could see modest growth in 2025, but its long-term secular demand remains intact.

Read more »

Dividend Stocks

Buy These 3 Canadian Stocks Before Tariffs Change the Game

These three dividend stocks offer security, growth -- you name it. No matter what tariffs come our way.

Read more »

Senior uses a laptop computer
Retirement

Top TSX Retiree-Friendly Stocks to Own in 2025

Amidst the volatility around Trump tariffs, these three retiree-friendly TSX stocks can provide stable income and resilient growth.

Read more »

data analyze research
Dividend Stocks

This 7.6% Dividend Stock Is a Must-Buy as Trump’s Tariffs Hit Canada

If there's one way to add some consistency to your portfolio, it's an investment in a passive-income powerhouse like this…

Read more »

protect, safe, trust
Dividend Stocks

Trump’s Tariffs Could Cause a Recession: This 1 Canadian Stock Can Protect Your Portfolio

If you're looking for security, consider the essentials during this period of volatility in the markets.

Read more »

TFSA (Tax free savings account) acronym on wooden cubes on the background of stacks of coins
Stocks for Beginners

The Best Canadian Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever in a TFSA

Are you wondering what types of investments to hold in a TFSA? Take a look at these types of companies…

Read more »