Update: Prudential shares rise 5% as it announces M&G separation

Creating two separately-listed companies

Prudential has announced plans to separate M&G Prudential from the international insurance business to create two separately-listed companies, leading shares to jump 5% in early trading.

The two businesses will have their own distinct investment prospects, the firm said today, with M&G Prudential lined up to be "an independent, capital-efficient UK & Europe savings and investment provider" and Prudential aiming to be a "a leading international insurance group focused on high-growth opportunities in Asia, the US and Africa". Both companies will be headquartered and listed on the London Stock Exchange. When the merger completes - which is currently on an unknown date and is subject to shareholder and regulatory approval - shareholders will have holdings in both Prudenti...