About this collection
HSBC has been connecting Americans to global opportunities since 1865. US interests were represented on The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation’s first board of directors by Albert Heard of the trading firm Augustine Heard & Co. We opened an office in San Francisco in 1875. Five years later, we became the first bank outside North America to operate in New York City.
The New York office focused on supporting clients who traded with Asia. Our growing international network remained a key competitive advantage during the twentieth century as commercial links between the US and Asia strengthened. We also deepened our footprint in the US through acquisition – most notably via the purchase of Marine Midland in the 1980s.
HSBC USA has streamlined in recent times to become simpler and stronger. Our New York City office, and the broader US business, is focused on growth and continues to serve the international needs of our clients. Explore our deep roots in the city through this selection of images and artefacts.
