The Toronto-based life insurer reported earnings per share of $1.72 for the quarter that ended June 30, above the $1.58 per share that analysts predicted, according to LSEG data. Its underlying net income—profits directly related to its core operations—increased nine per cent from a year earlier, to $1 billion, while overall net income fell two per cent to $646 million. (The Logic, Reuters)

Talking point: Strong growth in Canada and Asia helped boost Sun Life’s quarterly earnings, while business in the U.S. dropped slightly. The insurer’s emphasis on Asia follows Canadian rival Manulife’s strategy, which is also focused on capitalizing on the region’s growing middle class and aging population. Sun Life has struck several deals in the market recently, including leading a US$34.9-million funding round in Hong Kong-based virtual insurer Bowtie. The company has also agreed to provide life insurance to Dah Sing Bank’s 570,000 retail banking customers.