Overview
Manulife Financial Corp., the largest insurer in North America, is the holding company for the Manufacturers Life Insurance Co. and John Hancock Financial Services Inc. The Toronto-based insurer provides individual life insurance, group life and health insurance, long-term care insurance, pension products, annuities and mutual funds.
Manulife does business in the U.S. under the name of John Hancock, which it acquired in 2004. Hancock, named for one of the country's founding fathers, is one of the largest life insurers in the U.S. The company has deep roots in Boston. While it no longer occupies the landmark John Hancock Tower, it's still one of the biggest sponsors of the Boston Marathon.
The company tends to be conservative and acquisitions have been a part of its culture. More are expected, possibly in the U.S., Asia and in wealth management and 401(k) offerings.