Standard Life PLC (LSE:SL.) could see a significant uplift to earnings if it acquires Aegon’s UK arm, according to JPMorgan, which assessed potential buyers for the business under review.
Dutch insurance giant Aegon announced in December that it was reviewing its UK business, including a possible sale.
JPMorgan estimates a disposal could fetch between £1.5 billion and £1.7 billion, above its own valuation of £1.3 billion.
Analysts at the US bank said a deal could deliver double-digit earnings per share growth for Standard Life, even if it is largely funded with new shares.
The acquisition would also be expected to strengthen its position in retail and workplace pensions.
While an 'underweight' rating was retained on Standard Life, the JPM analysts said such a transaction could help "address its weak balance sheet".
Lloyds Banking Group PLC (LSE:LLOY) is also seen as a potential buyer, with the analysts saying the lender could "comfortably" fund a deal from its own resources and would benefit from "attractive" earnings growth and revenue synergies.