Standard Life considers market flotation

LIFE ASSURER Standard Life said yesterday that it was considering a stock market listing, which will trigger windfall bonuses for the insurers’ millions of policyholders, including 40,000 in Ireland.

The society, in discussions with Britain’s Financial Service Authority (FSA) watchdog over its balance sheet, said it launched a strategic review of options for changing its structure, including demutualising.

If Standard Life decide to pursue a flotation it will mean bonuses for members, who could reap up to 5,000 each.