Offshore Banking Alternatives

I'm looking to open an offshore account (I'm British, resident in HK for the foreseeable future).

HSBC Offshore seem to offer a pretty comprehensive package - but which other banks should I check with to compare products?

I probably have enough to put in to create an HSBC Premier account...but definitely not the large sums required for private banking.

Are my choices limited to HSBC and Citibank?

It depends what you want it for. As an integrated package (multi-currency savings, cheque books in several currencies, foreign currency mortgages, UK stock trading, investment funds), HSBC Jersey is pretty good. And it's easy (and free, for Premier) to transfer money online HSBC HK - HSBC Jersey and vv.



If you just want to save, any of the offshore banks are fine. The Isle of Man offers the best depositor protection, from memory, but as the protection was only 18,000 quid last time I checked, it's not an enormous amount for most expats, anyway.



If you want specialised services (setting up international holding companies and trusts), you would probably choose a private bank. But it doesn't sound as if you're in that market.



If you want a (partial) list of UK offshore banks, see

http://www.find.co.uk/banking/offshore_banking_page_2/

Check Lloyds TSB as well

Many thanks - appreciate the help!