AFLAC WARNS OF LOWER SALES IN JAPAN THIS YEAR

A strong performance in Japan in 2011 by supplemental health insurer Aflac means that there could be a small contraction this year, the company warned yesterday. There was a push to sign up customers in bank branches last year, and CEO Dan Amos has observed that "the stronger the numbers are, the harder it makes next year". Aflac's numbers in 2011 also benefited from a strengthening of the yen, boosting the top line income for Aflac, which is measured in dollars.