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1. Market Commentary April 2026
   
   
   
   
   Key Takeaways
   
   • Markets started 2026 constructively, with positive returns in both stock and bond markets in the first two months of the year. However, the war on Iran by the U.S. and Israel drove significant changes to markets in March. The biggest driver was the spike in oil prices. Oil prices increased over 70% during the quarter to over US$100 per barrel as 20% of global oil production became trapped in the Middle East when Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz.
   • Canadian equities returned 3.9% in the first quarter, outperforming U.S. equities which lost -4.3%. The Canadian market benefitted from its 40% exposure to strong performing Energy, Materials and Utilities sectors, which each gained over 10% in Q1. Conversely, the U.S. market has much less exposure to those strong performing sectors and therefore fell as geopolitical tensions weighed on performance of most other sectors.
   • Canadian bonds posted modest gains as early-quarter strength was largely offset by March weakness. Rising commodity prices reignited inflation fears and prompted speculation for central bank interest rate hikes. Credit spreads widened as concerns regarding defaults and liquidity in the private credit market intensified.
   • The Bank of Canada and the U.S. Federal Reserve held policy rates unchanged during the first quarter. Both central banks maintained a wait-and-see approach amid slowing labour markets, persistent inflation risks, and heightened global uncertainty.
   
   
   Economic and Market Update

   Economic Summary: The U.S. economy continued to grow at a steady pace in the first quarter. Inflation remained above the Federal Reserve’s target. The labour market showed signs of cooling as hiring slowed, but the unemployment rate remained stable. However, higher energy prices and risks to global supply chains added near term inflation pressures and weighed on the global outlook. The Federal Reserve held its policy interest rate unchanged during the quarter, maintaining the target range at 3.50% to 3.75%. Chair Powell highlighted ongoing uncertainty and reiterated that the Federal Reserve is well positioned to adjust policy as economic conditions evolve.
   
   In Canada, economic growth remained subdued in the first quarter as excess supply persisted, and the labour market softened. Inflation stayed close to the 2.0% target, though rising global energy prices increased short term inflation risks. Trade uncertainty continued to weigh on confidence and business activity. The Bank of Canada held its policy interest rate steady at 2.25% throughout the quarter. The Governing Council noted it stands ready to respond if the economic outlook shifts materially.

   Bond Markets: The Canada Aggregate Bond Index returned 0.23% in the first quarter. A strong start to the year in January and February (+2.25%) was mostly offset by a weak March (-1.97%), as higher oil prices from the war in Iran led to higher interest rates on Canadian bonds (bond prices fall as interest rates go up). The increase in interest rates was most predominant in shorter term bonds, with higher oil prices driving inflation fears. These inflation fears reframed the market’s interest rate cut expectations for 2026: a 40% chance of an interest cut by the Bank of Canada has now shifted to a 70% chance of not just one, but two 25 basis point increases to the Bank of Canada overnight rate in 2026. In  addition, the war in Iran has resulted in a higher risk premium for corporate bonds: credit spreads (i.e. the extra yield on corporate bonds versus government bonds to compensate for their extra risk) moved higher in March after reaching record low levels in January and February. These higher credit spreads resulted in corporate bonds modestly underperforming the overall index, albeit still with positive returns. Despite the modest risk off tone, investors remain buyers of corporate bonds as evidenced by investors’ enthusiasm to support the primary issuance market. Corporate bond supply continues to set new records, with an impressive $50 billion in new issuance in the quarter, a record start to the year and 23% higher than the same period in 2025.
   
   Stock Markets: The first quarter of 2026 marked a period of heightened investor caution with geopolitical tensions rising. Equity markets remained under pressure in March, as dip buyers remained cautious. Early market volatility was driven by several geopolitical developments, including Japan’s snap election, events in Venezuela, and U.S. interest in Greenland. Private credit markets also came under pressure as liquidity tightened and default risks increased, particularly in semi-liquid lending structures. The war on Iran raised concerns around demand destruction and inflation, pushing oil prices above US$100 per barrel for the first time since 2022. Gold continued to rise strongly early in the quarter. However, it later recorded its sharpest decline in years, driven by central bank selling. Despite this pullback, gold finished the quarter up 8% and continues to be viewed as a key safe-haven asset.
   
   U.S. Equities: U.S. equities entered the first quarter with strong momentum, supported by robust earnings growth from technology companies. While earnings results confirmed this strength, investor sentiment weakened, particularly toward Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) companies. Rapid progress in AI agents developed by firms such as Anthropic and Google highlighted how quickly generative AI could automate core SaaS functions. As a result, software stocks sold off sharply in February, triggering a broader rotation away from largecap growth. Furthermore, tighter financial conditions and rising geopolitical tensions reduced risk tolerance and drove sharp sector rotation. The Energy sector led market performance, while Technology lagged and Financials underperformed due to stress in credit markets.
   
   Canadian Equities: The Canadian stock market was supported by its high exposure to commodities. That structural tilt helped Canadian equities outperform U.S. equities as macro narratives shifted toward inflation concerns and supply risks. Performance during the quarter was marked by a sharp whipsaw between gold and oil, reflecting shifting investor sentiment. Investors sold gold aggressively and scrambled to source U.S. dollars as financial conditions tightened. Conversely, oil prices rose sharply on Middle East supply disruptions, lifting Energy stocks to become the strongest-performing sector of the quarter, up 29%.
   
   Bottom line:  The first quarter showed how quickly geopolitical shocks can reshape sectors’ performance. Canada outperformed U.S. growth markets due to its higher exposure to commodities, as energy prices rose and inflation concerns returned. The sharp move in gold and oil prices highlighted the market’s sensitivity to macro developments. The war against Iran forced investors to reprice both inflation expectations and Federal Reserve policy expectations. Looking ahead, geopolitical stability, energy prices, and central bank policy are likely to remain key drivers of market performance and sector leadership.
   
   
   Downloadable Copy
    

   Mark Warywoda, CFA VP, Public Investments	Ian Whiteside, CFA, MBA AVP, Public Investments	Johanna Shaw, CFA Director, Public Investments	Jin Li Director, Equity Investments
   Wanyi Chen, CFA, FRM Sr. Quantitative Analyst	Andrew Vermeer, CFA Senior Analyst, Credit	Elizabeth Ayodele  Analyst, Credit	Edward Ng Cheng Hin Analyst, Credit	Kate (Huyen) Vinh Analyst, Equity	Francie Chen Analyst, Rates

   
   ADVISOR USE ONLY
   Except for statements of historical fact, all statements in this document are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements represent the portfolio manager’s current best judgment as to what may occur in the future. However, forward-looking statements are subject to many risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, and are based on the portfolio manager’s present opinions and views. For this reason, the actual outcome of the events or results predicted may be materially different from what is expressed. Furthermore, the portfolio manager’s views, opinions, or assumptions may subsequently change based on previously unknown information, or for other reasons. Equitable assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained in this document. The reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors carefully and to not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Investments may increase or decrease in value and are invested at the risk of the investor. Investment values change frequently, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Professional advice should be sought before an investor embarks on any investment strategy.
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3. Equitable Life Group Benefits COVID-19 Update

   The test of a great partner is one who stands tall when you and your clients need to rely on them most. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we thought you might find it helpful to have a summary of where we are during this crisis.

   You can download this PDF version to refer to when meeting with your clients.

   We are here with you and for you

   We’ve taken several steps to support you, your clients and their plan members during this crisis, including:

   • Providing premium refunds for insured, non-refund Health and Dental benefits;
   • Waiving the waiting period for short-term disability claimants who tested positive for COVID-19;
   • Extending out-of-country travel coverage for plan members who were unable to return to Canada;
   • Providing increased flexibility for premium payments; and
   • Keeping you and your clients informed with timely Q&As and announcements, webinars, and insights into the impact of COVID-19 on benefits plans.

   As well, to commemorate our 100^th Anniversary this year, we donated $4.5 million to purchase and install a new MRI for Grand River Hospital. And we donated $50,000 – $10,000 each – to five charities in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec. For more information about our celebrations, check out our website at www.equitable100.ca.

   We have adjusted our business to become digital

   Our business is near 100% digital, so the vast majority of our employees are now working remotely from home and are fully functional.  Since the pandemic began, our IT and operations teams have digitally enhanced more than 20 different processes and services to make it easier for us to integrate with our distribution partners in this new reality.

   We pride ourselves on our customer service

   In 2019, our dedication to customer service was recognized with outstanding survey results.

   • In a 2019 survey of customers from 15 life insurance companies,¹ Equitable Life ranked #1 on the Net Promoter Score, a measure used across industries to gauge the loyalty of a firm's customer relationships; and
   • A survey of Group consultants, brokers and third-party administrators ² ranked Equitable Life in the top two insurers across all categories.

   For 2020, we continue to deliver service at the same level with no disruptions during this crisis. Our Customer Care Centre remains open to support plan members and can be reached at 1.800.265.4556. And our Client Relationship Specialists are available for Plan Administrator questions and support.

   We are financially strong and stable

   We remain financially strong and continue to focus on meeting the needs of Canadians. At the end of the first quarter, our Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test (LICAT) ratio is at 152.5%, well above our goal and the regulatory requirement.

   As the global situation continues to evolve, rest assured that Equitable Life is unwavering in our commitments to you and the communities we serve. We are here with you and for you. Please contact your Group Account Executive or myFlex Sales Manager if you have questions or need assistance.

    

    

   ¹  LIMRA CxP Customer Experience Benchmarking Program, Life Insurance In-Force Experience 2019

   ² NMG Consulting’s Canadian Group Benefits Survey 2019

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5. Making it easier to do business with Equitable We wanted to share some exciting updates with you that focus on enhancing your experience with Equitable^®. Improving your journey with us is a top priority, and we continually seek ways to make doing business simpler and more convenient.
   
   The following are our latest enhancements designed specifically to benefit you.
   
   New annual premium payment options for Life and Critical Illness plans
   ● Great news! We recently introduced new additional payment methods for clients making their first and subsequent annual insurance premium payments.
   ● And - we're thrilled to introduce a new lower annual premium requirement of $2,500 for clients who wish to pay their annual premiums by Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD)!
   ● Learn more about these changes here.
   
   Improved forms for requesting in-force illustrations
   ● We understand the importance of efficient workflows, and that's why we have recently updated and improved the following forms to make requesting inforce illustrations even easier:
   ● Term, CI & Whole Life Illustration and Quote for inforce policies
   ● Universal Life Illustration and Quote for inforce policies
   
   For these and other Equitable forms, navigate to EquiNet^® -> Individual Insurance -> Forms.
    
   We trust that these improvements will be met with enthusiasm! And this is just the beginning – stay tuned for more enhancements in the new year!
   
   Questions? Please reach out to your local wholesaler or our customer service team.
   
    

   ^® or ^TM denote trademarks of The Equitable Life Insurance Company of Canada

6. Equitable Life and Cloud DX

   We have partnered with Cloud DX to provide remote monitoring for all our EquiLiving® Critical Illness Insurance eligible claimants.*

    A Canadian first. Equitable Life’s Critical Illness eligible claimants, will now be supported beyond diagnosis and through treatment and recovery. Equitable Life is proud to announce that it has partnered with Canadian digital health innovator, Cloud DX, to provide a Virtual Monitoring Care service as part of its Critical Illness packages. We are pleased to offer this service on all new and existing EquiLiving coverages. 
   
   View our press release announcing Cloud DX and Equitable Life’s partnership, and watch our video featuring Donna Carbell, Senior Vice President, Individual Insurance.

   • Frequently asked questions
   *Cloud DX is a non-contractual benefit and may be withdrawn or changed by Equitable Life® at any time. To be eligible for the Cloud DX offering, a claimant must be age 12 or older and have received payment on or after February 12, 2022 for a covered critical condition benefit under an individual critical illness insurance policy issued by Equitable Life. An early detection benefit payment does not qualify.   Equitable Life pays for 6 months of Cloud DX subscription fees.  If the claimant wishes to continue the Cloud DX service after 6 months, they will be responsible for the cost.
7. Competitive GIA rates and more!
   With many bond funds declining in value over the past year, clients are looking for fixed income alternatives to reduce portfolio risk while providing a principal guarantee and an attractive interest rate.  
   
   Equitable Life® Guaranteed Interest Account (GIA) investment options are ideal for clients who want to create an emergency fund or save for a special purchase. And we’ve recently increased interest rates to make our GIA options even more competitive! 
    
   A few reasons to consider Equitable Life for your GIA business:
   • The GIA advantage – a life insurance contract can provide many estate planning benefits.
   • Industry-leading compensation – we currently pay 40bps of commission per year of term.¹ Many competitors only offer 20 – 25bps per year of term.²
   • Cashable option³ – allows clients to access their money in case of unexpected circumstances. Not many competitors offer this feature.²
   • Advisor rate discretion – advisors can forego up to 40bps of commission for an equal increase in interest rate, making our great rates even better.
   • Step Up Your Wealth Sales program – 100% of GIA net deposits⁴ are used to calculate the 0.75% bonus commission earned on net deposits for 2022.
   • Win-Win – our GIAs allow you to give the client a better interest rate while still earning a good commission.
    
   
    
   For more information, please contact your Equitable Life Regional Investment Sales Manager.
    
    
    
   ¹ Equitable Life commission rates as at May 19, 2022.
   ² Competitive information as at November 20, 2021; Equitable Life does not guarantee the accuracy of competitive information.
   ³ Withdrawals made prior to the maturity date will be subject to a market value adjustment and may be subject to tax.
   ⁴ All eligible deposits, sales, and redemptions occurring between January 1 and December 31, 2022, will be used to calculate an advisor’s 2022 net deposits.
    
   ® denotes a registered trademark of The Equitable Life Insurance Company of Canada.
    
    
8. Competitive GIA rates and more!
   With many bond funds declining in value over the past year, clients are looking for fixed income alternatives to reduce portfolio risk while providing a principal guarantee and an attractive interest rate.  
   
   Equitable Life® Guaranteed Interest Account (GIA) investment options are ideal for clients who want to create an emergency fund or save for a special purchase. And we’ve recently increased interest rates to make our GIA options even more competitive! 
    
   A few reasons to consider Equitable Life for your GIA business:
   • The GIA advantage – a life insurance contract can provide many estate planning benefits.
   • Industry-leading compensation – we currently pay 40bps of commission per year of term.¹ Many competitors only offer 20 – 25bps per year of term.²
   • Cashable option³ – allows clients to access their money in case of unexpected circumstances. Not many competitors offer this feature.²
   • Advisor rate discretion – advisors can forego up to 40bps of commission for an equal increase in interest rate, making our great rates even better.
   • Win-Win – our GIAs allow you to give the client a better interest rate while still earning a good commission.
    
   
    
   For more information, please contact your Equitable Life Regional Investment Sales Manager.
    
     
   ¹ Equitable Life commission rates as at May 19, 2022.
   ² Competitive information as at November 20, 2021; Equitable Life does not guarantee the accuracy of competitive information.
   ³ Withdrawals made prior to the maturity date will be subject to a market value adjustment and may be subject to tax.
    
   ® denotes a registered trademark of The Equitable Life Insurance Company of Canada.
    
    
9. Tax impacts of the Canadian Dental Care Plan for your clients

   Tax impacts of the Canadian Dental Care Plan for your clients*

   
   Earlier this year, the government shared its progress on the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). 
   
   The CDCP will be available to Canadians with an annual family income of less than $90,000 who do not have dental benefits. Co-pays will be waived for eligible Canadians with a family income of less than $70,000. 
   
   Canadians who have access to private dental coverage are not eligible for the CDCP. This means that your clients must now report on T4s/T4As if dental coverage** was available on December 31 of the reporting tax year for:
   • Employees,
   • Employees’ spouses and/or dependents,
   • Former employees, and
   • Spouses of deceased employees.
   **Potential dental coverage includes Health Care Spending Accounts.
   
   This new tax reporting requirement is mandatory starting with the 2023 tax year. Employee tax slips will include new boxes for employers to complete:
   • Box 45 (T4): Employer Offered Dental Benefits. This new box will be mandatory.
   • Box 015 (T4A): Payer Offered Dental Benefits. This new box will be mandatory if plan sponsors report in Box 016, Pension or Superannuation. The box will otherwise be optional.
   Your clients should complete the boxes using the code system below. They should choose the appropriate code based on whether Dental coverage was available to the plan member – not whether the plan member has chosen to participate in the coverage.  For example, if a plan member has waived coverage or has chosen not to participate in the plan, they would still have access to coverage.
   • Code 1: The plan member has no access to dental care insurance or coverage of dental services of any kind.
   • Code 2: Only the plan member has access to any dental care insurance, or coverage of dental services of any kind.
   • Code 3: The plan member, their spouse and their dependents have access to any dental care insurance, or coverage of dental services of any kind. 
   • Code 4: Only the plan member and their spouse have access to any dental care insurance, or coverage of dental services of any kind. 
   • Code 5: Only the plan member and their dependents have access to any dental care insurance, or coverage of dental services of any kind. 
   Your clients can find further information about completing tax slips for employees on the Canada Revenue Agency’s website:
   • T4
   • T4A

   Reports for dependents

   We have a report available for plan members who have enrolled their dependents in benefits coverage. Your clients can contact their local service team representative to receive a copy of the report. We are working to make it available on our Advisor and PA websites.
    

   Questions

   For guidance on your tax slips and reporting obligations, please encourage your clients to contact their accountant, payroll provider or tax advisor.
    

   Supporting plan members affected by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict*

   
   Traumatic events continue to unfold in the Middle East. Enduring ongoing news of conflict and suffering could challenge many Canadians. During this difficult time, Equitable encourages affected clients and plan members to access the mental health support they need. 

   
   Support available to all Equitable plan members

   Large-scale traumatic news events can cause people to experience intense reactions. This puts a lot of strain on their mental health. Having coping mechanisms to deal with the current crisis can be a huge help. Any Equitable Life plan member who needs mental health support can visit Homeweb.ca/equitable to access online resources or contact Homewood at 1.888.707.2115.  
    

   Support available to plan members with the Homewood Health EFAP

   For your clients that have purchased Homewood Health’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), remind them that their plan members also have access to confidential counselling services. The EFAP provides plan members with 24/7 access to confidential counselling through a national network of mental health professionals. Whether it’s face-to-face, by phone, email, chat or video, plan members and their dependent family members will receive appropriate, timely support for the issue they’re dealing with. 
     

   Questions? 

   If you need more information, contact your Group Account Executive or myFlex account executive.
   
   *Indicates content that will be shared with your clients. 
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