Standard Chartered Investor Relations Material

Standard Chartered PLC, often simply referred to as Standard Chartered, is a multinational banking and financial services company that has built a reputation as a bridge between the East and the West. Established in 1969 through a merger of two banks — The Standard Bank of British South Africa and the Chartered Bank of India, Australia, and China — Standard Chartered has grown to become a prominent figure in the world of international banking. It offers a wide range of products and services in both retail and corporate banking, and operates in more than 70 countries, with a significant presence in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

With its predecessor banks founded in the mid-19th century, Standard Chartered carries with it a rich lineage and historical traditions. The Chartered Bank of India, Australia, and China were established by Royal Charter from Queen Victoria in 1853, while The Standard Bank of British South Africa was founded by a group of businessmen led by John Paterson in 1862. Although the company's headquarters is located in London, the company does not offer retail banking in the UK and most of the company’s profit is generated outside of the British Isles. Some of their main competitors include other international banks such as HSBC, Barclays, and NatWest.

Standard Chartered, like many large banks, has a diversified business model, serving both individual customers and businesses across a variety of sectors. From basic savings accounts, loans, and credit cards for individuals to trade financing, treasury operations, and investment banking for corporations and governments, the bank's portfolio and vast experience enable it to navigate through the complexities of the global financial markets. As such, Standard Chartered holds a strong position in supporting global economic activities, particularly between Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

As customer preferences continue to shift towards digital banking, Standard Chartered has been proactive in embracing technology to provide a seamless banking experience. The bank has invested in developing robust online and mobile banking platforms, offering an array of digital services like instant payments, real-time tracking, and personalized insights. Standard Chartered has also been exploring the potential of blockchain technology for trade finance and digital currencies in recent years.