Aegon vs Standard Life: Overview
Aegon and Standard Life are both major UK pension platforms offering wide fund ranges and tiered pricing. They are often compared by investors seeking comprehensive pension platforms. Aegon offers tiered percentage fees, while Standard Life charges a flat 0.35% through their Active Money product.
Fees Comparison
| Feature | Aegon | Standard Life |
|---|---|---|
| Platform/Management Fee | 0.40% reducing with scale | 0.35% flat rate |
| Fund Range | Over 2,000 funds plus SIPP share dealing | Over 300 funds |
Aegon: Strengths
- Wider fund range
- SIPP with share dealing
- Fees reduce for large pots
- Global brand
Standard Life: Strengths
- Lower flat-rate charge
- Good retirement planning tools
- Part of Phoenix Group
- Strong heritage
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Aegon if you want the widest possible fund range, share dealing capability, and have a larger pot that benefits from tiered pricing. Choose Standard Life if you prefer a lower flat-rate charge and value retirement planning tools.
Key takeaway: Both Aegon and Standard Life are reputable pension providers. The best choice depends on your individual priorities, whether that is lower fees, wider investment choice, simpler management, or better service. Consider your pot size, investment style, and how hands-on you want to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
For pots under £250,000, Standard Life's flat 0.35% is cheaper than Aegon's 0.40%. For larger pots, Aegon's tiered pricing becomes more competitive. On £500,000, Aegon's blended rate drops below Standard Life's flat rate.
Aegon offers over 2,000 funds compared to Standard Life's 300+. Aegon also offers share dealing through their SIPP, which Standard Life does not.
Standard Life is generally considered to have better retirement planning and modelling tools. Aegon's platform offers more investment analysis features for active fund selection.
Both are well-established. Aegon is a global company. Standard Life is part of Phoenix Group, the UK's largest retirement business. Both are FCA-regulated with client assets held separately.
Aegon offers more flexible drawdown with wider investment options including shares. Standard Life's drawdown is strong on planning tools. For investment flexibility in drawdown, Aegon has the edge.
Yes, you can transfer in either direction. The receiving provider manages the process. Transfers typically take 4 to 8 weeks.