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Financial instruments - additional disclosures (Details 14) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2020 | Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of fair value of investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [line items] |  |
Equity securities | $ 1,111 | $ 1,158
Fair value of other financial assets sold | 206 | 33
Listed equity securities [member] |  |
Disclosure of fair value of investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [line items] |  |
Equity securities | 862 | 843
Non-listed equity securities [member] |  |
Disclosure of fair value of investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [line items] |  |
Equity securities | 249 | 315
Alcon |  |
Disclosure of fair value of investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [line items] |  |
Equity securities | 71 | 382
Fair value of other financial assets sold | 331 | 976
Alcon | Total fair value adjustments |  |
Disclosure of fair value of investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [line items] |  |
Gain (loss) on sale of other financial assets | 13 | 62
Others | Total fair value adjustments |  |
Disclosure of fair value of investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [line items] |  |
Gain (loss) on sale of other financial assets | $ 137 | $ 33

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