HSBC UK has issued an 'additional checks' warning after a customer was denied the ability to open a secondary bank account entirely online. The customer reached out to HSBC via social media, expressing frustration: 'You're making it very difficult as I already have a product so can't do it online?'
HSBC Responds to Customer Complaint
HSBC apologised and explained that to open a secondary account, additional checks are required. The bank urged the customer to contact the customer services team on 03457 404 404, which is open Monday to Sunday from 8am to 8pm. The customer questioned why a phone call was necessary, asking: 'I get the extra checks but why call? Can't it all be done online like all other banks?'
Bank Insists on Agent Involvement
HSBC apologised again but stated that this process 'would need to be completed with an agent.' The bank also invited the customer to send a direct message regarding the issue. HSBC has branches in Birmingham and across the UK.
Broader Economic Context
This comes as a survey by HSBC reveals that 95% of UK senior leaders and investors believe volatility is now a permanent feature of the global economy. The survey, conducted ahead of HSBC's annual Global Investment Summit, polled 3,000 international businesses and institutional investors across 10 markets, including the UK.
Two-thirds (66%) of UK respondents strongly agreed that resilience and transparency will become more important business drivers over the next two to three years. Additionally, 93% said that despite volatility, the current environment presents significant opportunities for international growth.
Stuart Tait, Head of Commercial Banking at HSBC UK, commented: 'These findings show the transformation that has occurred in the global economy. UK businesses have been stress-tested repeatedly and are adept to change. Despite the volatility they see significant opportunities, with AI adoption a key driver of growth.' He added: 'The UK is a key market for future economic relationships and it's important we continue to focus on supporting UK businesses as they invest in technology, skills and innovation.'
