HSBC Bank USA N.A. closing some branches

Dear Valued Customer,

As you may be aware HSBC has been undergoing a review of the markets in which we operate globally to reposition our businesses around our vision to become the leading international bank. Consistent with HSBC's global strategy, HSBC Bank USA N.A. has been conducting an analysis of its retail branch network to align the size and locations of our U.S. branches with those markets with strong international connectivity.

I am writing to you today to let you know that HSBC Bank USA N.A. has reached an agreement to sell all retail branches in Upstate New York along with 4 branches in Westchester County and 2 branches in Putnam County New York, and 6 branches in Connecticut to First Niagara Bank, N.A. (First Niagara) subject to regulatory approval. Please click here for a list of impacted branches.

Please visit First Niagara's website (www.fnfg.com) to learn more about them.

In addition, and also subject to regulatory approval, we will be consolidating approximately 13 branches in Connecticut and New Jersey into nearby branches.

If you maintain accounts at an impacted branch, please note that, as of today, no action is required on your part. The retail branches which are impacted in this transaction will continue to operate as normal and offer full customer services during transition. Our people will continue to be dedicated to providing you with a superior customer experience and, on completion of the sale, you will be provided a seamless transfer of your current banking relationship. Customers who maintain accounts at branches which will consolidate in Connecticut and New Jersey will be smoothly transitioned into a nearby HSBC branch.

We have been proud to serve Upstate New York community for many years, and look forward to continuing our engagement with the region through our ongoing businesses in the area. In particular, we will continue to provide a full suite of international commercial banking offerings, including trade and cash management products and services through our four centers in the region. We will also continue to have employees in the Buffalo-area who will support operational and technology work for North America, as well as other global HSBC businesses.

We understand that you may have questions about this announcement, and we have provided responses to some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

Thank you again for banking with HSBC, we look forward to being in regular contact during this transition and will work to ensure that this change causes you as little disruption as possible.

Sincerely,

Kevin Martin
Senior Executive Vice President
Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management
HSBC Bank USA N.A.

Translation:

Dear Customer,

We're closing some branches in New York and some more in Connecticut and New Jersey. Here's a list of locations:
[list]

This will not affect any of your other business with us.

For more information: www.us.hsbc.com

Thanks!
HSBC

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