News Release

HSBC Appoints Bruce Hammersley to Managing Director of Retail Services Business Development

1 March 2006

PROSPECT HEIGHTS, Ill., March 1, 2006 – HSBC North America Holdings Inc. announced the appointment of Bruce Hammersley to managing director, business development for retail services. He will lead the retail services team to acquire new merchant partnerships.

Hammersley began his career with the company in 1990 as manager, acquisitions and systems, for the former Household International’s mortgage services operation. His subsequent leadership roles in the consumer lending business included partnerships and acquisitions and sales and service. He has also served as chief financial officer for Household’s Canada business.

"Bruce’s extensive background developing products and merchant relationships will complement the strategic path of retail services," said Joe Hoff, CEO of HSBC retail services. "His talent and experience with global initiatives will help drive our business growth during a very exciting time."

Hammersley, a certified public accountant, received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Miami University of Ohio and a master’s degree in finance, marketing and management strategy from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

About HSBC Retail Services

HSBC Retail Services is a leading issuer of private label (merchant branded) credit cards in the United States. This business provides flexible, customized credit card solutions for many of the world’s premier retailers and manufacturers and has more than 60 active merchant relationships. For more information, visit www.hsbcretailservices.com.

 

About HSBC – North America

HSBC - North America comprises all of HSBC's U.S. and Canadian businesses, including the former Household International businesses. The company’s businesses serve nearly 60 million customers in five key areas: personal financial services, consumer finance, commercial banking, private banking and corporate investment banking and markets. Financial products and services are offered under the HSBC, HFC and Beneficial brands. For more information, visit www.hsbcusa.com.

Media Contacts

• Diane Soucy Bergan
• Diane.Soucy.Bergan@us.hsbc.com
• HSBC North America
• 847.564.6761