0703 GMT - Aegon's recent strategic actions outweigh possible near-term headwinds from its U.S. relocation, Citi analyst Alejandra Chavez says. The U.S. bank says it therefore remains constructive in the medium term for the Dutch insurer and asset manager. The U.K. divestment and faster capital returns are seen as positive strategic actions, the analyst notes. "We believe a two-phase transformation, involving the divestment of its EU and U.K. stakes followed by a potential U.S. merger, is already underway," Citi says. The move toward becoming a U.S.-focused insurer is a compelling case for long-term investors, the analyst adds, while the current stock price is still a strong starting point. Aegon shares have climbed 24% year to date.