I just wanted to rant about some of the annoying aspects of HSBC - now I want to point out that I still think HSBC is one of the most superior banks in the UK, but I have absolutely had it with the self-titled global bank not having a goddamn 24 hour call centre with access to be bank data when even small banks abroad can do this!
- does not operate 24 hour call centres despite maintaining said call centres in time zones on the other side of the world, any emergency 24 hour numbers can only access my data during banking hours!
- you are strongly pushed to use a HSBC branch to receive any exceptional/emergency funds from your own account, even if this requires you to make a lengthy journey to a branch, then they even charge a hefty fee for the process - other smaller banks will use the VISA or MASTERCARD emergency cash service for a TINY fee or even FREE!
- inability to access bank account information at branches overseas despite the relative simplicity of establishing some sort of centralised network - at least make it easier if a person in the UK is still required to perform some sort of security checks as a legal requirement!
- branches aren't found in every country, fine - but HSBC doesn't even partner with local branches to provide services which would otherwise be provided by HSBC.
- why on earth do I need to provide physical secure keys and sms verification for online banking (eventhough telephone banking is fine)? I would rather be given the option to provide a few more passwords or random questions, as with telephone banking, than be forced to carry around a secure key or make sure that I am able to have access to my mobile phone wherever I am.
- Non-Sterling transaction fees when using card abroad! Really? Remember that HSBC still profit from the currency conversions just like any money lender!
I think most of the above, apart from maybe partner branches, are fairly easy to perform for HSBC. Considering their interest rates and moderate fees, customer service should be their strongest point.