Interest Rate Cut by HSBC Redefines Borrowing Costs in Hong Kong

HSBC Cuts Prime Lending Rate

In a strategic move impacting the local economy, HSBC, Hong Kong's largest commercial bank, has announced a 25 basis points cut to its prime lending rate, reducing it to 5.375 percent effective from Monday. This interest rate cut is designed to ease borrowing costs for both consumers and businesses.

Changes to Savings Deposits

In addition to the prime rate adjustment, HSBC also lowers its savings rate to 0.375 percent on deposits exceeding HK$5,000 (approximately US$640), while keeping zero interest on smaller deposits.

Market Response

• Bank of China (Hong Kong) quickly mirrored this move, cutting its prime rate to 5.375 percent.
• Other lenders in the region are likely to follow suit, further adjusting borrowing costs.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority's recent adjustment, lowering its base rate to 5 percent from 5.25 percent, has paved the way for this interest rate cut. Luanne Lim, CEO of HSBC Hong Kong, emphasizes the significance of external economic conditions influencing this decision.

Impact on Mortgage Borrowers

This interest rate cut is expected to alleviate the financial burden on mortgage borrowers, decreasing their monthly payments by about HK$709 for an average loan of HK$5 million.

Domestic Economic Growth

Notably, Hong Kong's GDP growth rate has moderated to 1.8 percent in the last quarter from 3.2 percent in the previous quarter, reinforcing the necessity for such measures.