HSBC celebrates its 150th anniversary in the Philippines

In light of this incredible milestone, HSBC’s 150 committee kicked off a series of celebrations to reminisce on the bank’s heritage, spotlight the individuals who made its success possible and renew its commitment as a nation-building partner, including a flagship thought- leadership summit held at Makati Shangri-La, recognition dinners and various community events. It also recently honoured its alumni with “Evergrow”, an aptly titled evening that marked a return to its first office in Binondo. These movements are indicative of their presence and influence throughout every corner of the country, felt not just in words but in actions.

HSBC was the only bank that joined the Philippine delegation’s state visit to India earlier this year. Uppal avers, “This resulted in significant milestones in strengthening the country’s partnership with US$5.8 billion of potential investments with one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.” Aside from this, HSBC frequently partners with the Philippine Economic and Development Authority and the Board of Investments on international roadshows to attract foreign direct investment.

See more: Rich Rarities: Hilot—HSBC and the Filipino art of care and balance

Its continued presence is not a stroke of luck, but a conscious effort to maintain the highest degree of integrity and excellence. Its core values guide it: we get it done, we succeed together, we value difference, and we take responsibility. “Living our values helps protect HSBC’s long-term successes and responsibilities to depositors, customers, shareholders, regulators and the communities we serve,” Uppal explains. “We expect all colleagues to reflect these standards and uphold the highest professional and ethical conduct. While what we do is important, how we do that is equally, if not more so.”

HSBC’s presence is not limited to the Philippines; its origins lie in Hong Kong, while it maintains operations in 57 countries and territories worldwide. This international experience translates into a shared, collective strength in all its branches. “What truly sustains that reputation”, Uppal remarks, “is our people.”

“Their grit, growth, resilience and ability to live out the company’s values in moments big and small. Our people shape the bank’s culture while helping our teams and clients succeed. We truly offer our staff a world of opportunity by providing enriching global careers for those who are keen to go down that path.”

“My interest in banking was triggered at an early age,” Uppal recalls. “I visited a bank and was fascinated to see how cash transactions were undertaken. [More so] in later years when I learnt how cash was effectively oiling economic growth.”

“Clearly, that was a different era”, he laughs, “as most money now moves through mobile banking apps!”

These early observations ignited Uppal’s interest in economics. Still, it was only when he realised the larger role that banking played in economic development that he saw the importance of seeing the bigger picture: macroeconomics. In the Nineties, just as his career was beginning in earnest, he met a friend from HSBC while on holiday. This encounter gave him more profound insight into the institution, and he was drawn to what it stood for.

“I was encouraged to apply,” Uppal remarks. “I was advised that there would be a good cultural fit—and how true was that!” Thirty-two years later, he has held various roles across Hong Kong, India, Mauritius and the United Kingdom. His current stint here in the country was not his first, having also been posted here in the late Nineties. 

With a career spanning three decades, Uppal is endowed with a robust global perspective and a deep understanding of how HSBC’s network opens a world of opportunities for its customers. “Our positioning in the Philippines, since 1875, is to be the ‘bridge to the world,’ and I believe that my international experience enables me to deliver effectively.” Still, he continues to underscore the importance of each individual. “As banking is a people’s business, we develop and invest in our people,” he affirms. “We make sure that our employees are best equipped in terms of skills and experience, to effectively service our clients in whatever support they would need for their business and personal [growth].”

HSBC has seen the country’s direst straits and most incredible triumphs, from the din of wars to hopeful revolutions. But the digital era presents its own set of hurdles. “Given the sheer speed of change, the greatest challenge for the bank is to continuously remain relevant in terms of how we serve and support our customers as well as the products and services we provide,” Uppal muses.

“Our purpose remains consistent with when we opened in 1875: to connect our customer with opportunities in the Philippines and internationally. We aim to be the most trusted and respected financial partner and help our clients navigate a complex world.”

Though the bank looks inward, it continues to march forward at a steady pace, proud of its role in shaping the Philippines and its individuals. One hundred and fifty years have granted it invaluable wisdom and experience to recall and learn from. The weight on its shoulders is not a burden to bear, but a profound responsibility to uplift people and communities.

“We know that when the Philippines prospers”, Uppal declares, “so will we.”

NOW READ

Tatler Most Influential 2025: meet the Philippines’ leading changemakers

Path to Fortune: Celebrating 150 years of HSBC in the Philippines

Okada Manila: the grand standard in hospitality