Hong Kong

HSBC appoints Samir Assaf Chief Executive Global Banking and Markets

The bank’s global banking expanded with Robin Phillips and Kevin Adeson Co-Heads while Jose-Luis Guerrero and Spencer Lake will be Global Markets co-heads.

HSBC appoints Samir Assaf Chief Executive Global Banking and Markets

The bank’s global banking expanded with Robin Phillips and Kevin Adeson Co-Heads while Jose-Luis Guerrero and Spencer Lake will be Global Markets co-heads.

BNP Paribas appoints Eric Raynaud Asia-Pacific Head

Raynaud 12 year experience includes contribution to the integration process of Fortis Banque SA/NV and BNP Paribas.

Representatives from 22 countries visited GRGBanking

33 Consul-generals and counselors visited GRG Banking industrial park on the morning of December 9, 2010 to see the product demonstrations.

GRG wins US$34.6m contract

A 54% increase in the confirmed total revenue came in from BOC in 2010. This came from the signed contract between BOC and GRG Banking Equipment.

Hang Seng lead-arranges US$50mln loan facility

The US$50 million equivalent multi-currency transferable term loan facility included the first-ever renminbi syndicated loan facility in Hong Kong.

Bank of America’s Asia revenue up 30%

The US bank regains its focus to revitalize its Asian presence by advising on mergers and acquisitions in the region.

Rabobank appoints Anand Batepati Multi Asset Structuring Head

The lender capitalizes on Batepati’s extensive experience in equities, FX, rates, derivatives and commodities for its structured finance business.

HSBC expands branch network in Hong Kong

HSBC will allocate increased resources to grow the number of branches and enhance the capabilities of its existing locations. By expanding its branch network in Hong Kong, HSBC will further commit itself to local customers by providing deeper coverage and a broader range of services. “Branches continue to play a pivotal role in personal financial services and are critical to our strategy in Hong Kong,” said Mark McCombe, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC, Hong Kong at the grand opening ceremony of HSBC Premier Centre at Elements in Tsimshatsui.   Francesca McDonagh, Head of Personal Financial Services, Hong Kong, said, “To better serve our evolving customer base, HSBC will increase the number of branches, enhance selected branches and optimise branch facilities across Hong Kong. Moreover, in view of the business opportunities brought by the broad potential customer base from mainland China and Taiwan, we will strive to provide services and solutions to cater to their banking and investment requirements.”

Dah Sing Financial targets raising HK$2.2bln via rights issue

The company and its banking unit to use proceeds to strengthen their core capital and sustain business growth.

HSBC’s new device further enhances internet banking security

HSBC’s new security device carries an innovative transaction-signing function that provides enhanced protection for existing online services. It was launched specifically for Hong Kong customers.

Sarasin appoints Michael Coglin Chief Investment Officer Asia

Harvard-educated Coglin has 20 years of experience in providing exceptional private banking services to clients.

Bank of China to strike deal with 4 Taiwan banks

MOUs to likely pave way for future direct yuan settlements between BOC and Taiwanese lenders.

HSBC China Dragon Fund gets approval for repurchase mandate renewal

Chinese equity fund aims to point out hidden opportunities in fast-growing economy with daily trading convenience.

Plan for a satisfying career in banking & finance

While job numbers, salaries and the general economic outlook are now healthy, there are many candidates who come to us feeling that they need a change for the better. This could be the result of many factors, from job responsibilities, the relationship with their manager, the relationship with colleagues, or the relationship with clients or customers.  For those in this situation, my advice would be to revisit your career plan. If you are not satisfied in your job or if your current role is holding you back from achieving your career aspirations then perhaps it’s time you made a change. Job numbers in the banking and finance industry are strong and career-advancing opportunities are available. This means you can look for an organisation offering the management style or culture in which you can flourish, with the responsibilities, opportunities and people that will help you become satisfied at work. Career planning is essential to achieving success in your chosen career. Whether you are aiming to be a bookkeeper in a small business or the finance director of a multi-national corporation, you must know in which direction you are headed and what is required of you to achieve your goal. Planning is a basic, yet key principle used by successful business people. Plans are formulated on a regular basis to control direction, make the best use of resources and measure progress or results. Think of your career plan along the lines of a business plan. The key issues to cover are: •    What are my long-term career objectives? •    What will I want to get out of my job in the next five years or so? •    Do I need to study? If so, what for? •    What are my individual priorities? These priorities and objectives may change over time and of course you need to check up from time to time to make sure you are on track. So, to formulate your career plan, firstly you must set your long-term goals or objectives. For example -"In ten years time I want to be the financial controller of a large commercial organisation". To arrive at this objective, you must consider personal and professional aspirations. Aim high with whatever you set out to achieve, both personally and professionally, but be realistic as goals that are obviously unachievable can be demotivating. Don't be afraid to set long-term goals. They can be altered or amended as your aspirations or values change. Indeed, it is quite likely this will be the case. Once your long-term goals are in place, it is important to establish the steps you will need to take to reach those longer-term objectives. Again, these steps may need alteration where appropriate, but will be based on such considerations as academic qualifications, professional membership, technical experience and personal development. With firm goals in place, you must obtain the right attitude. Enthusiasm is the catalyst to success. It makes your personal and professional experiences more enjoyable and satisfying. One final note: Career planning or goal setting will only achieve its purpose if you adhere to the principals of measuring your progress and following the path you have planned. This means it is important to write down your goals. The process of putting pen to paper allows you to keep clear focus, check your achievements and make the necessary alterations when required. Imagine you are planning an overseas trip and the amount of time and energy you would devote to it. Your career will probably span the next thirty years of your life so start planning now.

HSBC’s Finance Director eyed as chairman candidate

Lender’s independent directors on a search for its chairman’s replacement as Green will join British government.

HSBC launches online US Stock Trading Services

Service available online, over the phone and via iPhone with flat $18 per transaction brokerage fee.

Hong Kong RTGS incorporates real-time features to SwiftNet

Move enhances lenders' interoperability by using uniform standard to process domestic and international payment.