Citigroup believes that HSBC Holdings seems to be in a more advantageous position.
According to the Zhongtong Finance APP, Citigroup has issued a research report stating that it gives a "shareholding" rating to HSBC Holdings (00005), while Standard Chartered Group (02888) has a "neutral/hold" rating. The company has a unique position in Hong Kong, providing banking services to 5.4 million out of 7.4 million people in Hong Kong, ranking first in almost all products. This makes the company's profits in Hong Kong much higher than its peers, accounting for more than half of HSBC's profits in the Asia-Pacific region.
The bank stated that it has conducted in-depth analysis of the profitability of HSBC Holdings and Standard Chartered Group in Asia, and believes that HSBC seems to be in a more advantageous position. It is more centralized in its business in Asia, has a superior business portfolio, and is more efficient. Even if the central bank reduces interest rates, it should continue to support its profitability. Standard Chartered has taken many wise strategic steps, but it is still difficult to see how it can match the returns of HSBC Holdings and to see moderate downside risks to its target.