According to LIMRA, John Hancock increased sales in 2007 to $846 million in total annualized premium, a 14.9 percent increase over 2006, nearly doubling the industry's growth rate of 7.6 percent. In addition, the company boosted its industry-leading market share to more than seven percent.

"We are extremely pleased with John Hancock's 2007 results. What is particularly noteworthy is the strength of our sales across our entire product portfolio," said Steve Finch, President, John Hancock Life Insurance. "As an industry leader in product innovation, we have revamped the complete portfolio over the past two years. In 2007 alone, we launched 10 new products. The strength of sales across the portfolio clearly demonstrates that this effort, as well as our service enhancements and underwriting expertise, are meeting the needs of our producers and clients."

John Hancock finished first in the industry in variable life (including variable universal life) sales, which rose to approximately $234 million, up nearly 30 percent, according to LIMRA. Industry-wide sales increased 6.6 percent.

"We put a strong emphasis on Variable Universal Life in 2007, believing that our revamped products are well designed to meet client needs through all kinds of market environments," Mr. Finch said. "We are confident that even with the market volatility we have seen over the past few months, Variable Universal Life will remain an attractive and appropriate product for producers and clients."

Universal life sales increased 7.5% to $542 million, according to LIMRA. It was the only John Hancock product line that did not increase by more than 20 percent in 2007.

Whole and term life sales, bolstered by new products introduced early in the year, increased 125 percent and 24 percent respectively.

"Reaching the top of the industry in 2006 was a tremendous achievement, but maintaining our position took even more effort. We ended the year with the strongest quarter in the company's history and we are entering 2008 with tremendous momentum," Mr. Finch said. "We remain committed to further strengthening our product portfolio, our service capabilities and our underwriting expertise to provide even greater value for our clients and producers."

"As always, we fully recognize that our customers and their advisors have many options for meeting their financial objectives. We appreciate that they have chosen to place their trust and confidence in John Hancock and stand behind our promises with superior financial strength." -- John Hancock Financial