Standard Life: Royal London watches and waits

clock

Standard Life's decision to put forward the option of demutualisation to its policyholders is being closely watched by Royal London, although the latter maintains the view its competitor's problems are company specific.

Royal London, which becomes the biggest mutual if Standard Life does demutualise, remains committed to the principles of mutuality and has the financial strength to take advantage of a forecast growing market, says head of communications Alasdair Buchanan. That view was first put forward in January, when the FSA publicised its involvement in helping Standard Life develop a realistic balance sheet. ”We said then [in January] that the issues were company specific and our position remains the same,” he says. ”There is no reason for radical plans in our business plan.” Still, Buchan...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Professional Adviser's flagship conference PA360 returns for 2026

Professional Adviser's flagship conference PA360 returns for 2026

PA360: Actionable insights – Smarter Outcomes open for adviser registrations

Professional Adviser
clock 05 December 2025 • 1 min read
Feel Good Friday: One Four Nine Wealth hosts charity blood drive

Feel Good Friday: One Four Nine Wealth hosts charity blood drive

In support of the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service

Professional Adviser
clock 05 December 2025 • 1 min read
Nici Audhlam-Gardiner: Wider basic advice adoption could shrink advice gap

Nici Audhlam-Gardiner: Wider basic advice adoption could shrink advice gap

'There is no need to reinvent the wheel here'

Nici Audhlam-Gardiner
clock 04 December 2025 • 4 min read