Standard Life SL HSBC Islamic Global Equity Index Pension Fund

The longest-running Shariah option on a mainstream UK pension platform: launched 17 May 2005, this Standard Life pension fund (fund code JB) invests primarily in the HSBC Islamic Global Equity Index Fund, giving members of Standard Life workplace and individual pension products a one-fund halal choice with GBP 742.9 million in Standard Life fund assets (31 March 2026). The fund carries a volatility rating of 6 on Standard Life's 0-7 scale, reflecting its 100% global equity exposure tracking the S&P Global 1200 Shariah Select universe per the current factsheet objective wording, with the fund excluding banned weapons and companies deriving over 5% of revenue from alcohol, tobacco, pork, conventional financial services and similar activities. Charges depend on the member's Standard Life product and scheme terms.

The SL fund is the incumbency play: for twenty years it has been the answer for Standard Life scheme members asking for a halal option, and inertia plus employer pricing keep it relevant. Against 2026's alternatives it shows its age - no sukuk sleeve, no glidepath, no member-facing Shariah reporting beyond a factsheet link - and Aviva's three-fund lifestyle strategy makes the single-fund format look dated. But the practical calculus for an existing SL member is unchanged: switching funds inside your scheme is free and instant, while transferring out costs time and sometimes employer contributions. Use it if you are already there; do not move schemes for it.