Social Responsibility

For HSBC, corporate social responsibility means managing our business responsibly and sensitively for long-term success. Our goal is not, and never has been, profit at any cost because we know that tomorrow's success depends on the trust we build today.

• We look to address the expectations of our customers, shareholders, employees and other stakeholders.
• Being one of the world’s biggest banks means the decisions we make can have a big impact. We aim to lend and invest responsibly, avoiding projects where the potential for social and environmental damage outweighs the economic benefits.
• We believe that it is our duty to share responsibility for the environment with governments and citizens for minimizing the damaging effects of human activity - pollution of land, water and air and the depletion of resources.
• The world is a rich and diverse place. The better our people reflect this diversity, the better we can anticipate and meet our customers’ needs.
• Involving our employees in the community brings many benefits. Our employees gain in understanding, confidence and self-esteem. Being recognised in the community also helps HSBC to attract great people.
• Education is crucial to the development and prosperity of every country. By investing in education, we seek to build the confidence and abilities of young people on whom, as customers or employees, our business and future success will depend.

Our Principles and Values

The HSBC Group is committed to five core business principles:

• outstanding customer service;
• effective and efficient operations;
• strong capital and liquidity;
• prudent lending policy;
• strict expense discipline.

Our business principles are supported by loyal and committed employees who make lasting customer relationships and international teamwork easier to achieve.

HSBC also operates according to certain key business values:

• the highest personal standards of integrity at all levels;
• commitment to truth and fair dealing;
• hands-on management at all levels;
• commitment to quality and competence;
• a minimum of bureaucracy;
• fast decisions and implementation;
• putting the team’s interests ahead of the individual's;
• the appropriate delegation of authority with accountability;
• fair and objective employer;
• a diverse team underpinned by a meritocratic approach to recruitment/selection/promotion;
• a commitment to complying with the spirit and letter of all laws and regulations wherever we conduct our business;
• the exercise of corporate social responsibility through detailed assessments of lending proposals and investments;
• the promotion of good environmental practice and sustainable development;
• commitment to the welfare and development of each local community.

HSBC's reputation is founded on adherence to these principles and values. All actions taken by a member of the HSBC Group or staff member on behalf of a Group company should conform with the principles and values.