HSBC’s policy on social networking and mobile startups
June 9, 2008 //
I suppose it should come as no surprise, that some people have either been a little confused about what I was saying in my original vblog, or they assumed it was me who had a problem opening up a business account and that it wasn’t HSBC’s policy.
The fact is, I’ve been told by HSBC staff, that they are not permitted to open business accounts for companies that have anything to do with social networking or mobile. I’ve posted this second vblog in the hope that it clarifies what I was trying to say previously.
Download the video to your iTunes (6:43 MB; 04:05 minutes)
I’d like to emphasis in writing that I’m having the conversation in the hope that, however small, some change takes place. HSBC clearly supports startups in these fields through its sponsorship of numerous initiatives and projects. So, either it’s company policy or serious uptraining is required.
marco goldschmied says 
jamesq says 
Sharon Crossley says 
Grant Bannister says 
Paul,
points very well made and although I am from a completely different sector entirely I understand fully the confusion. It seems a slight conflict of interests to be honest and maybe the decision makers need to sit down and talk with each other. If they had refused to sponsor anything ’social networking’ related consistently, I’m sure then it would be common knowledge , But this confuses even me.
well done, fair point & bulaidh bós
peter
June 9th, 2008
To be fair, given my personal experience with HSBC business accounts I a) am not surprised and b) wouldn’t go near them again.
There is an argument that by not accepting your application they’re actually doing you a favour
June 11th, 2008