About this collection
We opened for business in Shanghai on 3 April 1865, from premises located on the waterfront (‘bund’). Business flourished over the next few decades and a new building was commissioned in 1919 to keep pace with growth. Alexander Stephen, Shanghai Manager, wanted an office that reflected HSBC’s fine standing in the city. The brief to architects Palmer and Turner was simple: ‘Spare no expense, and dominate the bund!’. The building was officially opened on 23 June 1923. Delve into its construction through this selection of records.
