The company has told customers today it has prepared to set up new regulated companies in England to which it could transfer to.

This could include pensions, investments and other long-term savings held by UK clients.

Despite being “very proud” of its Scottish heritage the firm said protecting its interests were first and foremost.

David Nish, Standard Life chief executive, said this morning: “We will take whatever action is required to protect our customers’ interests and maintain our competitiveness in the markets in which we operate.

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“In view of the uncertainty around Scotland’s constitutional future, we have put in place precautionary measures which would help enable us to provide customers with continuity.

“This includes planning for new regulated companies in England to which we could transfer parts of our business if there was a need to do so.”

This transfer would ensure all transactions with customers outside of Scotland continue to be in Sterling - money paid in and money paid out – the company said, while also meaning all customers outside of Scotland continue to be part of the UK tax regime.

Standard Life will continue to be listed on the London Stock Exchange. There will be no change to the way in which share dividends are paid to shareholders.

If the no campaign wins and greater devolution is granted, the company said it will assess the possible impact of this alternative scenario.