STANDARD LIFE

Financial firms report growing sales of fixed-term annuities that provide guaranteed income for a set period and a lump sum at the end, offering retirees flexibility before committing to lifetime annuities or drawdown. Standard Life says customer interest has increased this year and gives an example where a 62-year-old with a £100,000 pot could get about £13,800 a year for five years plus a £50,000 terminal lump sum. Providers cite higher annuity rates, recent tax changes to pension inheritance treatment and the desire for income certainty as drivers of demand. Surveys from Legal & General show widespread confusion about annuities despite rising uptake. » More on theguardian.com

Standard Life reported a 6% rise in operating cash flow to £745m and a 25% increase in adjusted operating profit to £563m in the first half of 2026, reaffirming its target of £1.1bn in operating profit for the year. The firm is advancing the takeover of Aegon UK and a new PRT partnership, reports growing gross inflows and assets under management of over £268bn. The leverage ratio fell to around 30% and management expects £500m of excess cash flow for 2026; the interim dividend was raised to 28.05p. Investor reaction was moderately negative: the stock fell 2.04% to $0.96. Remaining risks include retail client outflows, competitive pressure in the PRT business and regulatory uncertainty. » More on de.investing.com

If £10,000 had been invested in Standard Life three years ago at a price of £5.36, the portfolio would today hold 1,864.28 shares with a value of £15,799.78, representing an increase of 58.00%. The current price on 02.07.2026 was £8.48 and the market capitalization is £8.36 billion. Stock splits and dividends are not included in the calculation. » More on finanzen.net