Into the Future

HSBC has been championing traditional art for more than a century. Maggie Ng, HSBC's Head of Wealth and Personal Banking, reveals how the bank is now also supporting artists working in the digital world 

Over the past year, HSBC has emerged as one of Hong Kong's most dedicated supporters of the arts-and in particular the artistic media of the future. Formalised under the Open to Art initiative, the bank's commitment to culture has taken several forms: becoming the lead partner of M+; staging Metavision, an exhibition of NFT art at K11 Musea; turning its Main Building into an outdoor NFT gallery; sending exclusive NFTs to selected clients; commissioning its own digital artworks; and launching its own gallery in the metaverse.

According to Maggie Ng, HSBC's Head of Wealth and Personal Banking, it's the natural continuation of a long history.

"HSBC goes back a long way with the arts," she says. "Look at our iconic Main Building, created by Sir Norman Foster, and the designs of our banknotes. HSBC and the arts really go hand in hand, but not many people know that."

The growing popularity of art in Hong Kong, she adds, puts an organisation with HSBC's deep reach in the city in an influential position. "We can play a role in uplifting Hong Kong's awareness of the arts. It has been a challenging time for many people in recent years. Everyone needs an outlet, and art and culture can give them that outlet.

"I think art appeals to a whole spectrum of customers. Our staff and customers in general all have an elevated appreciation for art. We want to provide them with a platform to access different artists and collections."