HSBC, Standard Chartered expected to sustain strong returns amid cost pressures

HSBC: HSBC Holdings is a leading international bank with deep roots in Asia and a prominent wealth management franchise. The bank stands to benefit from sustained higher interest rates and Asian wealth fee income in its earnings outlook. Recent reports note its efforts to enhance efficiency through AI adoption while navigating tighter capital-flow rules from China. Standard Chartered: Standard Chartered Plc focuses on emerging markets across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, with strength in wealth solutions and cross-border corporate banking. It is positioned to sustain returns from higher rates and Asian wealth fees according to current analyst views. Its leadership continues to highlight China as a core long-term growth driver amid evolving regulatory conditions. China Market View: Standard Chartered's group chair has described China as remaining one of the world's key global growth engines, supporting opportunities in areas like wealth management and cross-border trade. Efficiency Initiatives: Both banks are pursuing greater operational efficiency through AI and targeted measures such as benefit adjustments to address cost pressures. Wealth Business Momentum: Wealth momentum at both HSBC and Standard Chartered has remained positive even after China implemented measures targeting certain cross-border trading activities.