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

WIFA 2026 headline sponsor video: LV= COO Anita Fernqvist talks female representation in advice

WIFA 2026 headline sponsor video: LV= COO Anita Fernqvist talks female representation in advice

'Different perspectives around the table bring breadth of thinking'

Professional Adviser
clock 03 November 2026 • 1 min read
FCA responds to Treasury Committee concerns over potential Budget leak

FCA responds to Treasury Committee concerns over potential Budget leak

Nikhil Rathi responds

Isabel Baxter
clock 03 November 2026 • 3 min read
Young adults lacking mental capacity will gain access to Child Trust Funds

Young adults lacking mental capacity will gain access to Child Trust Funds

Government proposals to benefit up to 126,000 young adults

Sophia Panayi
clock 03 November 2026 • 3 min read