HSBC Investor Relations Material

Founded in 1865, HSBC, originally known as The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, is an important player in the global banking and financial services industry. Based in London, HSBC has grown to establish a strong foothold across different continents, providing a wide variety of services like retail banking, corporate banking, investment banking, and wealth management.

The journey of HSBC traces back to the mid-19th century when Thomas Sutherland founded the bank in the former British territories of Hong Kong and Shanghai. The vision was to facilitate the growing trade between Europe, India, and China. Over the decades, HSBC has expanded its footprint across the globe through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Today it operates in over 64 countries and territories all over the world, serving more than 40 million customers. This global reach is not something unique in the modern banking world, and competitors like Barclays and Citi also have a massive international presence.

HSBC provides an array of comprehensive financial services to a wide customer base that ranges from individual consumers to multinational corporations. Its four major business components include retail banking and wealth management, commercial banking, global banking and markets, and global private and investment banking. The bank's products and services encompass current and savings accounts, mortgages, insurance, credit/debit cards, and loans, as well as foreign exchange, treasury services, and investment management. It has positioned itself as a bridge between the East and the West, emphasizing its role as a global trade facilitator, and the bank continues to have a strategic focus on Asia.

In the wake of digital transformation, HSBC has also been proactive in adapting to technological advancements. The bank has shown a willingness to embrace technology to enhance customer experience, optimize operational efficiency, and mitigate risks. With the rise of FinTech competitors, the bank has invested heavily in digital banking platforms, data analytics, AI, cybersecurity, and blockchain technologies. HSBC's adoption of mobile banking has also been significant, reflecting its aim to serve the digital-savvy customer base effectively.