Governance
Building trust through governance and accountability
We operate ethically, honestly, and transparently to safeguard the interests of our policyowners and clients.
Read the full reportContinuing a legacy of putting policyowners first
Our nearly 170-year history of delivering exceptional results has earned the trust of our policyowners and clients. This trust is fundamental to everything we do today and to our future.
The Northwestern Mutual difference
97% of our clients stay with us year over year
The percentage of our policyowners who stay with us year over year.2
35 Thirty-five consecutive years earning the highest financial strength ratings awarded to any U.S. life insurer by all four major credit rating agencies: A.M. Best, Fitch, Moody's, and S&P
Consecutive years earning the highest financial strength ratings awarded to any U.S. life insurer by all four major credit rating agencies: A.M. Best, Fitch, Moody's, and S&P3
$9.2B in dividends expected to be paid in 2026
in dividends expected to be paid in 20264
Explore Sustainability and Impact Report
Operating in accordance with our mutual values
As a mutual company, we're organized and operated for the benefit of our policyowners. We administer our policies fairly and consistently, fostering strong policy persistency—a key indicator that we remain the financial security provider of choice for over 5.2 million Americans.
Setting high standards for how we do business
Acting with integrity is the foundation of our business, enabling us to maintain and grow the trust of those we serve, including policyowners and clients. Find out more about Northwestern Mutual's corporate governance.
Guidelines for Business Conduct
Everyone, from trustees to managers to employees, is expected to follow our Guidelines for Business Conduct across a range of ethical issues. A separate, interactive guide covers field responsibilities.
Supplier Code of Conduct
Our suppliers must uphold principles, culture, and values that align with our dedication to ethical, responsible, and sustainable business practices.
Ethics Resource Center
Available to employees, vendors, contractors, and advisors, our Ethics Resource Center offers a confidential hotline to raise concerns and report possible misconduct, with the option of anonymity.
Anti-Money Laundering Program
All appropriate personnel, whether employees or advisors, receive annual training to assist them in identifying red flags and escalating suspicious transactions and activity for further review and potential reporting.
Leading with integrity from the top
Accountability starts with our Board of Trustees, who lead by example from the top. Our Board is responsible for oversight of the management of the business and affairs of the company.
Protecting your privacy and securing data
Safeguarding our policyowners' and clients' information is at the heart of what we do. We take a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to information protection, fostering trust that is essential for us to deliver on our commitment to provide financial security to as many people as possible.