HSBC Holdings PLC

This is our first report on HSBC Holdings PLC, one of the biggest banks and financial service providers in the world. HSBC has reported a robust performance in the first quarter, reflecting profits across all major geographies and efficient operation in all three of its global businesses, while maintaining stringent cost discipline. Excluding the gain on SVB U.K. and the partial reversal of impairment regarding the potential sale of its French retail bank, HSBC managed an annualized return on tangible equity of 19.3%, attesting to the effectiveness of its strategic approach. Its potential for growth is demonstrated by the influx of new invested assets, amounting to $22 billion in the first quarter and a cumulative $93 billion over the past year. Notably, Hong Kong, Mainland China, the Middle East, and the U.K. have shown strong economic resilience and recovery. The recent acquisition of SVB U.K. marks a strategic investment in growth, enabling HSBC to extend its reach to the entrepreneurs shaping the technology and life sciences sectors. We initiate coverage on the stock of HSBC Holdings PLC with a ‘Hold’ rating.