HSBC to double HK AI team to 300 in 3 years

HSBC plans to double its team of artificial intelligence (AI) specialists in Hong Kong to 300 over the next two to three years, positioning the city ahead of its AI centre workforce in Singapore.

Speaking at a media briefing following an industry event last Thursday, David Liao Yi-chien, co-CEO for Asia and the Middle East, emphasised that as HSBC’s home market, Hong Kong serves as the bank's primary hub for digital finance innovation, customer service enhancement, and regional technology adoption.

To solidify this commitment, HSBC will launch the Hong Kong AI Institute next year. Citing group CEO Georges Elhedery, Liao noted that the global research facility - expected to begin operations in early 2027 - will focus on practical AI applications, post-quantum cryptography, and blockchain technology.

Liao’s remarks mark the lender’s first public statements since announcing plans in late July to establish a global AI centre of excellence in Singapore with 100 specialists.

Addressing reports that the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) questioned the Singapore decision, Liao clarified that Hong Kong remains HSBC’s central decision-making hub for the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, supported by four members of the bank’s 13-member group operating committee based locally.

HSBC’s existing 150-strong AI team in Hong Kong has already deployed tools to assist account managers with client engagement and optimise case handling at customer service centres. While HSBC maintains AI units across mainland China, London, the UK, and the Middle East, Liao stressed that the leadership overseeing regional AI deployment is firmly rooted in Hong Kong.

Highlighting Hong Kong’s broader economic outlook, Liao cited the city’s five-year development plan—which anchors AI as a major growth pillar—as a source of substantial opportunity. He also pointed to HSBC’s US$14 billion buyout of shares in subsidiary Hang Seng Bank in January as a key milestone reflecting the bank’s deep, ongoing investment in the local market. Liao added that the group continues to maintain positive and constructive communication with financial regulators.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to HSBC for more information. 

The expansion aligns with HSBC's broader group-level focus on artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, the bank appointed David Rice as its first chief AI officer. The newly created role provides enterprise-wide leadership to scale AI adoption, equip staff with generative AI tools, and deliver personalised experiences for customers.

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