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Aviva, L&G and Zurich receive STAR Gold for transfer performance

Andrew Marker said: “STAR accreditations recognise real, measurable progress in transfer efficiency - not just intent.”

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Aviva, L&G and Zurich receive STAR Gold for transfer performance
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Aviva, Legal & General (L&G) and Zurich have each secured their first STAR Gold accreditation for transfer performance across pensions, savings and investments. 

STAR announced the 2026 results after reviewing 59 submissions from platforms, providers, asset managers and administrators across four product areas. 

Vanguard, T. Rowe Price, Aegon, Rathbones, Janus Henderson Investors and J O Hambro Capital Management were once again recognised, having achieved five consecutive Golds since the programme began.

The STAR accreditation rating is now visible to advisers through Defaqto’s Engage platform, making it easier for advisers to compare service quality and transfer performance when choosing providers.

Andrew Marker (pictured), head of offer change and governance at Vanguard and STAR chair, said: “It’s hugely encouraging to see a broad mix of organisations putting themselves forward this year. 

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“Many supply full management information for independent assessment, and we congratulate them on their submissions and continued commitment. 

“STAR accreditations recognise real, measurable progress in transfer efficiency – not just intent.”

Marker added: “They reflect how seriously each organisation is taking transparency and accountability under consumer duty.”

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Charlotte Hughes, advice proposition lead at Quilter, said: “Advisers conducting due diligence on pension and investment providers pay close attention to transfer performance. 

“When providers are STAR accredited, it’s a trust signal that they can rely on when reassuring clients during what is often a stressful time.”

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Aviva recorded its best ever performance across all service lines, including a first Gold for personal pensions, after two years of work on data collection and process improvement. 

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Lorna Whalley, director of Aviva Advised Platform, said: “I am delighted that the improvements in Aviva’s transfer experience for advisers have been recognised, by the award of our first Gold accreditation under STAR. 

“It’s a reflection of dedicated work across the team, to strengthen our transfer processes, improve MI transparency and ultimately deliver a better experience for advisers’ clients.”

Rob Yuille, assistant director, head of long-term savings policy at the ABI, said: “We congratulate all the organisations that have achieved STAR accreditation for pension and investment transfers this year. 

“Their commitment to transparency, speed and consistency in transfer processes is a clear demonstration of how our industry is working to deliver better outcomes for consumers. 

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“We were delighted to help set up STAR, which plays a vital role in setting recognised, industry-wide standards that build trust across long-term savings and investments.”

Yuille added: “All market players depend on each other for efficient transfers, and that’s why we encourage all firms to take part, showing their commitment to fairer, faster and more reliable transfer experiences.”

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