After the Big Move
A year after moving from Vietnam to the Philippines, HSBC’s talks about how the bank continues to evolve by feeling the pulse of the local market
t was a thrilling transition from Vietnam to the Philippines,” says Kris Werner, head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management for HSBC Philippines, of his big move that brought him to our shores. “Both are key ASEAN markets for HSBC, and very exciting places for developing a strong retail banking franchise.”
For Werner, the Philippines is one of the most dynamic economies in the Southeast Asian region. This is due to favourable demographics—a youthful population and rising affluence—that have fueled the demand for retail banking, savings, and other services including insurance and asset management.
Increased affluence has led to the more widespread use of credit cards by many Filipinos, especially when they dine, shop, and travel.
“Filipinos are now more receptive to exclusive offers, discounts, and easy-payment options offered by credit cards,” Werner says, explaining the appeal. “Thus, we at HSBC are continuously working to ensure these specific needs are addressed by our cards.”
It is this dedication to giving clients the best possible experience that drives Werner and his people to constantly improve their products and services, while bringing in fresh innovations. HSBC comes up with the best offers that can be given to its cardholders. It also ensures that every market segment it targets gets precisely what it needs from attractive rewards to frequent flyer miles. HSBC also partnered with the Rustan’s Group to deliver a more diverse selection of retail areas for its growing clientele.
But this is just the tip of the iceberg for HSBC Philippines. “What is becoming clearer is that banking needs are changing globally and HSBC continues to study and review new trends in customer spending habits and at the heart of evolution HSBC Philippines’ Kris Werner is all about constantly improving the bank’s services to suit their clients’ changing needs behaviour,” he says. “We then change along with the community.
“In our 142 years in the Philippines, HSBC remains committed and focused on satisfying customer needs and building a strong sustainable business in the country so that we can help people fulfil their hopes and dreams and realise their ambitions.”
It isn’t just the excellent corporate climate that puts a smile on Werner’s face with regard to his current sojourn in the Philippines. An active runner, he unwinds by taking a run through the many parks and natural attractions he has encountered since he arrived.
He admits that his current port of call is a warm and friendly one. As he puts it, “Both the Philippines and Vietnam are exciting places with very friendly, vibrant people who live life to the fullest and who are extremely accepting of outsiders.”