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 that 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. The view was first put forward in January, when the FSA publicly acknowledged it was helping Standard Life sort out its 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 change to our business plan.” Still, Buch...

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

Phillip Wickenden: The political map has been redrawn

Phillip Wickenden: The political map has been redrawn

'The market is not pricing personalities. It is pricing discipline'

Phillip Wickenden
clock 11 May 2026 • 6 min read
Why the end of paper shareholdings matters now

Why the end of paper shareholdings matters now

‘There is still time before the 2027 deadline’

Ben Rogers
clock 11 May 2026 • 4 min read
How advisers can support clients through market volatility

How advisers can support clients through market volatility

‘Losses simply hurt more than gains feel good’

Sophia Panayi
clock 08 May 2026 • 3 min read