Hong Kong – The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) has launched its latest #OpenToArt initiative in conjunction with the M+ Special Exhibition, “Guo Pei: Fashioning Imagination,” aiming to transform Hong Kong into a vibrant hub for art, couture, and fashion.

Since 2022, HSBC Hong Kong has been the inaugural lead partner of M+, dedicated to bringing the world’s most exquisite artworks to the city. As the lead sponsor of M+’s Special Exhibition, “Guo Pei: Fashioning Imagination,” HSBC is embarking on a two-month innovative marketing campaign, playing a crucial role in showcasing the rich legacy of couture craftsmanship.

The Special Exhibition showcases over 40 stunning haute couture pieces designed by Guo Pei, the only Chinese designer to have presented ten couture collections at Paris Haute Couture Week for five consecutive years. By sponsoring this exhibition, HSBC invites visitors to explore Guo Pei’s captivating world and gain insights into her extraordinary design journey.

To promote the event, HSBC implemented a comprehensive marketing strategy that seamlessly integrated online and offline tactics, sparking an art frenzy across Hong Kong. In collaboration with the PR agency MSL Hong Kong, HSBC is enhancing the exhibition’s visibility through a wide range of innovative marketing approaches.

HSBC has collaborated with four prominent fashion icons—Kathy Chow, Grace Chan, Mayao Ma, and Heidi Lee—to create an engaging Instagram Reels teaser in anticipation of the exhibition. The video features these talents strutting down a red carpet that transforms the city into a vibrant runway connecting the HSBC Main Building to M+. This visually striking representation highlights HSBC’s commitment to unlocking opportunities for diverse individuals and reinforces its dedication to the #OpenToArt initiative, breaking both physical and artistic boundaries to inspire the community to embrace art.

Additionally, HSBC also strategically installed a tram shelter advertisement in Central, effectively reaching diverse audiences to celebrate Guo Pei’s artistry. These eye-catching ads are designed to captivate passersby, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm within the local community. 

By creating a buzz around the upcoming exhibition, HSBC seeks to inspire individuals and foster a deeper appreciation for art and culture in Hong Kong. This initiative not only engages a wide audience but also enhances awareness of the vibrant artistic landscape in the city.

Cheuk Shum, managing director and head of marketing for wealth and personal banking at HSBC Hong Kong, said, “We are excited to promote M+ Special Exhibition, ‘Guo Pei: Fashioning Imagination’ across online and offline platforms, linking Hong Kong with the global art scene through innovative marketing ideas. The red carpet concept adapted in the Instagram reels is an invitation for everyone to engage with art, reflecting our vision of turning Hong Kong into a dynamic stage for fashion and creativity. Through strategic collaborations with influencers, we strive to connect people of all backgrounds and ages to diverse art forms, broadening awareness of art events to a wider audience in Hong Kong.”

HSBC will continue to support and sponsor M+ exhibitions and community activities, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing the artistic landscape. Through the #OpenToArt initiative, HSBC aims to foster art and culture, bridging local and global boundaries to connect artists and artworks with the vibrant city of Hong Kong.

Singapore – Validus, a digital SME lending platform, has announced the establishment of a debt facility of up to US$50 million from HSBC with the aim of financially supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia.

Digital SME financing platform Batumbu, Validus’ Indonesian subsidiary, will be deploying the debt facility.

According to Indonesia’s Ministry for Economic Affairs, MSMEs contribute 61% of the country’s gross domestic product, encompassing 97% of the country’s total workforce. However, MSMEs in the country struggle to secure financial resources due to banks’ stringent requirements, as reported by the World Bank.

As an additional and accessible financing option, the debt facility aims to help MSMEs overcome financial challenges while boosting their contribution to Indonesia’s economic development.

“This long-term partnership with HSBC builds on our ongoing efforts to bridge the financing gap for MSMEs in Indonesia. We will continue to pioneer innovations and drive advancements in the lending space. By leveraging Batumbu’s unique position as the largest and only profitable digital SME financing platform in the country, we are committed to unlocking new opportunities for businesses, driving economic growth, and enhancing financial inclusion. We are honoured to work with HSBC on this pivotal initiative, which will enable Validus to make a larger impact on the Indonesian economy,” Nikhilesh Goel, co-founder and group CEO of Validus, said.

Harish Venkatesan, head of corporate and business banking at HSBC Singapore, said “As one of the leading MSME digital financing players in the ASEAN region, we are pleased to support Validus in playing an instrumental role in promoting financial inclusion to underserved small businesses in this region. MSMEs play a key role contributing to the long-term economic success in the ASEAN region and beyond. We look forward to supporting Validus in their mission to drive regional growth through the HSBC ASEAN growth fund.”

While based in Singapore, Validus has expanded its presence in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand.

Hong Kong – Taking a distinctive approach, HSBC has partnered with dentsu GBA to launch its latest customer-centric campaign, showcasing the company’s unwavering commitment to meeting the unique needs of customers from all walks of life.

Titled ‘The HSBC Way’, the campaign highlights the essence of the bank’s dedication to its customers and the community by delivering a superior customer experience. It also expresses gratitude to employees for their invaluable contributions and the challenges they overcome.

Embodying its philosophy, “Giving our best, nothing less. This is The HSBC Way (滙豐道)”, the initiative adopts a holistic, human-centric approach. It features a series of 15-second in-the-moment videos that bring real stories to life, showcasing HSBC’s thoughtful and accessible services, made possible by the tireless efforts of their dedicated professionals.

From customising mobile banking for senior customers to enhancing fraud prevention and providing seamless international support, the campaign films highlight HSBC’s dedication to its customer-first philosophy. They demonstrate how the bank tailors its services to meet diverse needs and address real-life challenges.

Cheuk Shum, managing director and head of marketing for wealth and personal  banking at HSBC Hong Kong, said, “At HSBC, our customers have always been at the heart of everything we do. As a leading brand in the banking industry achieving a  positive NPS (Net Promotor Score), we understand that it’s the collective effort from  everyone in HSBC, from frontline to the back office. Through ‘The HSBC Way’ campaign,  we celebrate this spirit by showcasing the genuine passion of everyone involved in the  business in going above and beyond, walking the extra mile every single day to ensure  our customers receive the best possible banking experience and support. We give our  best to our customers, nothing less. “

Meanwhile, Jeffry Gamble, chief creative officer for GBA and Hong Kong at dentsu, shared, “‘The HSBC Way’ is more than just a creative endeavour to make noise; it’s a powerful storytelling approach that captures the true essence of HSBC’s customer-centric ethos. Our approach emphasises the customers’ genuine interactions with HSBC and how that can make a difference in their lives without them even realising it.” 

The campaign will be rolled out across a diverse multimedia landscape, including extensive television broadcasting, broad digital platforms, widespread social media channels, and extensive outdoor advertising.

Singapore – Southeast Asian online used car platform Carro has tapped into HSBC’s recently launched US$1 billion ASEAN Growth Fund, being the first of the bank’s clients to do so.

Going into detail, Carro signed a US$75m multi-currency loan to fund the growth of its fintech arm, Genie Financial Services.

This signifies Carro’s efforts to strengthen its presence within the fintech space, with its Genie Financial Services also receiving funding from DRB-HICOM to unlock valuable cross-selling opportunities for DRB-HICOM within Carro’s used car platform myTukar’s dealer network, comprising over 2,600 dealers nationwide.

Talking about the initiative, Aaron Tan, co-founder and CEO of Carro, said, “HSBC has been a very supportive partner and one of very few banks who recognise the need to support regional start-ups like us to achieve sustainable profitable growth.”

“Our fintech business, leveraging proprietary data-driven lending, has been growing prudently with a loan book exceeding US$500 million and NPL below 0.5%. Securing this landmark financing from HSBC is a huge validation of our digital ecosystem-led business model. This enables us to serve the underserved consumer segment even better,” he added.

Meanwhile, Amanda Murphy, head of commercial banking, South and Southeast Asia, HSBC, commented, “HSBC has a proud history and strong heritage in ASEAN of supporting entrepreneurs and scaling up businesses. We are delighted to arrange a multi-currency loan facility for Carro, through our unique US$1 billion ASEAN Growth Fund, as they grow their operations.”

Hong Kong HSBC has partnered with MSL to launch its newest brand campaign, “Make Your Next Move. Make Your Mark.” Under the campaign, HSBC will orchestrate the latest advertising endeavour, which will act as a rallying call for Hong Kong residents. 

Involving locals in every facet of the campaign, it serves as a visual representation of the city’s continued progress and the achievements of people from various backgrounds making their mark on the globe.

Several parts of the movie’s scenes were even filmed by Hong Kong residents, while others drew inspiration from actual HSBC clients. The Hong Kong film director Jack Ng selected and further directed these moments. The film deftly combines HSBC’s history and worldwide reach with the diversity, tenacity, and resolve of Hong Kong.

More than 70 distinct sounds from Hong Kong are featured on the original soundtrack, which also includes narration from the locals. Every frame pulsates with the authenticity and dynamism of Hong Kong’s diverse society, from the “ding ding” of trams to the colourful MTR announcements and the rhythmic beats of lion dancers. 

As part of the campaign, HSBC ventures into the world of film for more than two months, starting in March, on an atypical and creative marketing journey. A gala premiere held at K11 Art House to commemorate the launch was held in addition to several online and offline marketing initiatives. The campaign displays its tagline through newspaper wraps, editorial alliances, TV commercials, and tunnel billboards. 

Enhancing its involvement, HSBC reached out to Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) across a range of industries on social media, including travel, sports, entertainment, art, culture, film, and more. With each post featuring a cinematic clapperboard image and a personal reflection on the user’s goals and aspirations, they invited the public to submit their #NextMove on Instagram.

Speaking about the campaign, Luanne Lim, chief executive officer, Hong Kong, HSBC, commented, “HSBC and the local film industry in Hong Kong have grown alongside its people. Our latest advertising campaign involves a collaboration with a talented director to capture the essence and vibrancy of Hong Kong, while also emphasising our bank’s vision and global reach. As a steadfast supporter of the Hong Kong economy, HSBC is proud to sponsor the upcoming Hong Kong Film Awards, which celebrate Hong Kong’s creative industries and highlights its allure as a global city.”

Meanwhile, Alexis Chiu, group managing director of Saatchi & Saatchi and MSL expressed, ” We are thrilled to collaborate with HSBC and Jack to bring this extraordinary campaign film to fruition. A true local product, directed and shot in the heart of Hong Kong, capturing the unique sounds and visuals of our city. This film truly reflects the energy, diversity, and cultural richness that define Hong Kong. It has been an incredible journey to celebrate the spirit of this dynamic city and create a cinematic experience that resonates with audiences worldwide.” 

Hong Kong – Financial services company HSBC has unveiled that it will host an exclusive ‘League of One’ party with South Korean League of Legends (LoL) team T1 and esports legend Faker to promote esports in Hong Kong. 

With millennials being one of their key customer segments in Hong Kong, HSBC’s collaboration with T1 aims to support and inspire the millennial generation to pursue their dreams with esports. The partnership will also promote the innovative financial services of HSBC One. 

In this partnership, HSBC One and T1 will launch a series of exclusive experiences and promotional activities, with the highlight and finale event being the HSBC One x T1 ‘League of One’ party in September. 

Going beyond traditional advertising promotions, HSBC One will set up a series of esports activities and promotional events for customers, such as the opportunity to visit T1’s headquarters in Seoul and experience personal gameplay coaching from a personal trainer. There will also be limited-edition HSBC One x T1 collaboration merchandise and a large-scale OOH campaign in March. 

Lucky T1 fans will have the opportunity to meet the current roster of T1, led by esports legend Faker. By simply creating an account with HSBC One and entering a lucky draw, fans can win exclusive free tickets to meet the LoL world champions in person. 

HSBC’s partnership with T1 follows its previous efforts to support international esports events to ignite a citywide esports craze. HSBC’s partnership with T1 aims to inspire the next generation of players in Hong Kong through T1’s success story of dedication and resilience to finally raise the coveted summoner’s cup in LoL. 

Brian Hui, managing director and head of customer propositions and marketing, wealth, and personal banking at HSBC Hong Kong, said, “Esports has emerged as a rapidly growing sector in recent years, and it also provides a unique springboard for millennials to pursue their dreams and ambitions. HSBC One is thrilled to announce our collaboration with T1 and Faker and celebrate the ability and resilience to go beyond the convention.”

“HSBC One customers will have the exclusive opportunity to meet T1 and Faker in person and gain insights from their success stories. This collaboration exemplifies how the bank combines its accessible and innovative services with beyond banking experiences for its customers,” he added.

Singapore – HSBC, alongside its partnership with advertising agency Wunderman Thompson Singapore, has recently unveiled its latest marketing initiative, showcasing the exciting possibilities of wealth creation through the strategic technology use and global wealth expertise.

For this campaign, the company aims to simplify the complexities of investments, encouraging individuals to proactively plan for a comfortable retirement. 

Said initiative also exemplified HSBC’s prowess in easing the challenges of investing by providing personalised wealth solutions, achieved through a blend of advanced technologies and financial expertise.

Notably, the campaign features acclaimed Hong Kong actress Louise Wong, serving as an exemplary figure for empowered clients who can confidently manage their wealth to shape the future they desire with their loved ones.

The integrated marketing campaign is scheduled to run across various platforms, including cinema, out-of-home billboards, digital, print, social channels, and even in-flight screens. Its overarching goal is to inspire people to initiate the journey of wealth creation for their future.

Singapore – Atome Financial has announced that it has renewed and expanded its partnership with HSBC Singapore to include the Philippine market to its US$100m debt facility. At the moment, Atome has disbursed more than US$4b in loans.

Atome Financial and HSBC Singapore entered into this partnership back in August 2022. It also had a previous US$500m financing facility partnership with Standard Chartered, which ended after 10 years in October 2021.

Andy Tan, head of funding at Atome Financial, said, “We’re excited to have the renewed support of HSBC, especially as it now includes the Philippines, a key strategic market for us in providing unbanked and underbanked consumers with easier, simpler, and more affordable access to digital-first consumer financing products.”

Meanwhile, Harish S Venkatesan, managing director and head of international subsidiary banking at HSBC Singapore, commented, “It pleases us to see innovative companies like Atome Financial lead the charge in driving Southeast Asia’s new economy growth. We are glad to play a role in supporting their ambition and remain committed to tap on HSBC’s global network, strong regional presence as well as suite of banking capabilities to support their expansion in the region.”

Hong Kong – Financial services company HSBC has launched an augmented reality (AR) campaign alongside Wunderman Thompson Hong Kong to empower Hongkongers to move towards their goals this new year and open up a world of opportunity.

The campaign depicts a virtual wishing tree that carries the wishes of seven million Hongkongers. The wish-making tradition was gamified together with a lucky draw to incentivise city-wide participation. This is all supported by a full suite of product offers including payment, account opening, and investments, amongst others.

Hongkongers can participate by pointing their phone towards the HSBC Main Building, selecting the seed that befits their wish and tossing it towards the building to add their ‘blossom’ to the ‘HSBC Wishing Tree for 7,000,000.’ 

Participants are then prompted to register for the Lucky Draw with a total prize pool of $1,230,000 RewardCash.

“Each seed of the Wishing Tree for 7,000,000 is a visual representation of the wishes that people make, which then blossoms into an auspicious flower to symbolise how their dreams would come true with the support of HSBC. The words of blessings were creatively crafted to be witty and culturally relevant to engage with local audience in an entertaining and resonating way,” HSBC explained in a press statement.

HSBC also recently launched a campaign alongside MSL Hong Kong, which turned Hong Kong into an ‘open canvas’, coinciding with the launch of HSBC’s Metaverse Gallery, targeted at giving local emerging artists more exposure.

Hong Kong Aimed at transforming and modernising people’s access to art and the way they experience various forms of art and culture, financial services HSBC has launched its year-long ‘Open to Art’ initiative in Hong Kong.

The initiative will be done via turning Hong Kong into an ‘open canvas’, plus the launch of HSBC’s Metaverse Gallery, which is targeted at giving local emerging artists more exposure.

Kicking off the campaign, HSBC has transformed a 3D digital billboard in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier into an immersive art experience. The art piece was done in collaboration with MSL Hong Kong and new media creator Henry Chu.

Meanwhile, the Metaverse Gallery is a new platform where local artists can showcase their work and transform traditional art into immersive digital experiences. Local artists showcasing their work include Flyingpig, Wong Ping, and Yeung Hok Tak.

“Stemming from our HSBC brand promise of ‘Open up a world of opportunity’, this will also serve as a long-term platform where HSBC aims to open up the community to more things, like Open to Sports, Open to Tech, and beyond,” said Brian Hui, head of customer propositions and marketing at HSBC.

Alexis Chiu, group managing director at MSL Hong Kong, also explained that the initiative was done to show the company’s support for the city’s local art scene and to make contemporary visual culture more accessible.

“This installation is part of the bigger picture of transforming the city into a canvas for people to access and appreciate art in a new way,” he added.

HSBC has also previously launched its duo real-world and metaverse music show experience titled ‘DuoVerse’, which featured two Hong Kong artists Tyson Yoshi and Serrini.