The Group provides current tax expense according to the tax laws of each jurisdiction in which it operates. Deferred
income taxes are recorded for temporary differences, which are based on the difference between financial statement
carrying amounts and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted or substantively enacted tax rates
applicable in the respective tax jurisdiction. Deferred tax assets on taxable losses carried forward are recognized to
the extent it is probable that they can be utilized against future taxable profits in the respective jurisdictions.
Taxes payable by either the holding company or its subsidiaries on expected distributions to the holding company of
the profits of subsidiaries are not recognized as deferred income taxes unless a distribution of those profits is intended
in the foreseeable future.
Taxes paid by certain of the Group’s life insurance businesses are based on the investment result less allowable expenses.
To the extent these taxes exceed the amount that would have been payable in relation to the shareholders’ share
of taxable profits, it is normal practice for certain of the Group’s businesses to recover this portion from policyholders.
While the relevant company has the contractual right to charge policyholders for the taxes attributable to their share
of the investment result less expenses, the obligation to pay the tax authority rests with the company and therefore, the
full amount of tax including the portion attributable to policyholders is accounted for as income tax. Income tax
expense therefore includes an element attributable to policyholders. In addition, deferred tax on unrealized gains related
to certain investment contracts with DPF is included as income tax expense recognized in OCI and an accrual for
future policy fees to recover the tax charge is included in policy fee revenue.