Standard Life Irish sales rise 38%

SALES at Standard Life’s Irish operations rose by 38% in constant currency to €666m as the British insurer forecasts a tough year. It said its results in Ireland reflected the popularity of its new products, self investment options inspired by the UK SIPP platform, and improved standing among financial advisers.

Yesterday it posted a 12% rise in 2007 worldwide life and pensions sales, slightly ahead of analyst forecasts.