FOREIGN
TRADE ACTIVITIES OF HSBC
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The choice of a trade and supply chain provider is vital in a world where both speed and attention to detail are crucial and where we need a partner who can seamlessly combine local service excellence with global reach. At HSBC, they make it their business to know our business, intimately and thoroughly. With over 130 years of experience supporting importers globally, HSBC is well positioned to fulfill the client's requirements of foreign trade. A full range of import services handled by experienced staff is available, ensuring that the client's import documents are processed without delay. The report titled “FOREIGN TRADE ACTIVITIES OF HSBC, DHAKA MAIN OFFICE� is prepared with a view to provide
recommendation and the remedial majors for the improvement of Import L/C services by HSBC. The broad objective of the study is to apprize the HSBC with special references to Trade Services activities. The specific focuses of the study are trade volume analysis, identify the annual growth rate, the reasons behind the growth and exploring the opportunities and competitive advantages that can be exploited by HSBC. Both primary and secondary sources of data have been used to gather the necessary information for the analyses of the study. The primary information is collected by interviewing Trade & Supply Chain Manager, assistant managers and officers of HSBC. Primary data were mostly derived from the discussion with the manager. In the findings and analysis part an elaborated description has given on the assigned department i.e. Trade Services. A literature review is given to remind the items of the related field of study. Then a description of the procedures for opening a LC is stated with a Rich Picture of Current LC System. Besides, the charges applicable for LC opening and other services are stated. The documents required to open a LC is also mentioned. In the Trade volume analysis part, it is observed that the import LC volume has increased by the two years in accordance with the export LC volume. The total import volume in the year 2006 was just BDT 59.79 billion, whereas in 2008 it has increased by BDT 92.31 billion. Over the course of 2 periods the import LC volume grew from $59.79 to $92.31, its compound annual growth rate, or its overall return, is 24.25%.This outstanding outcome is certainly backed by some reasons. The reasons are outlined thoroughly followed by some recommendations and finally a conclusion is drawn to complete the overall study.
CHAPTER: 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1. Preface: Banks are the pillars of modern economic activities in any country. Developed and organized baking system is a prerequisite of every kinds of economy. The private sector banking has to perform as center of all the economic activities of the country. Marketing of bank services rendered by the bankers that extend economic activities by attracting more customers through quality and quick services, earn goodwill, discover the customers need and then satisfy them. The bank is one of essential service oriented industries and deal with the - mobilizing deposit services, deploying credit services, offering financial services & extending agency services.
The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) is one of the largest banking groups in the world which have vast network all around the world. HSBC also made a significant impact in our banking sector. Because it posses a lot of diversified, modern, technology oriented and most customer friendly product. It can be said that HSBC is the pioneer in modern technology based banking service in Bangladesh. Being one of the most renowned in the banking industry, HSBC believes in creating a good image in the minds of its customer by providing high quality services, through its global network. HSBC’s more than 1, 80,000 employees representing in 81 countries and territories makes it possible for the group to deliver its standardized service to its customers all over. HSBC providing a lot of facilities and fast service in trade sector around the world through its large network and 136 year’s experience. HSBC also won various awards like Best Trade Finance Bank and Best Trade Documentation Bank in recent years for its responsible contribution in the trade service sector around the world. Through its global expertise and local knowledge HSBC gaining market shares in Bangladesh faster. Though HSBC facing significant competition from its multinational peers. It is necessary for HSBC to find out the room to explore themselves eliminating all its drawbacks and weak points. Because HSBC raising their target in every year to gain the highest market share in trade sector of Bangladesh beating their multinational peers.
1.3. Objectives of the Study: Internship topic mainly focuses on the FOREIGN TRADE ACTIVITIES OF HSBC, DHAKA MAIN OFFICE. The major objective of this study is to learn practical knowledge and experience on foreign exchange dealings, i.e. on trade procedure. •
To know the foreign exchange operation in a world class commercial bank.
•
To know the methods of trading
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To understand the documentation procedure of a foreign bank
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To get some knowledge about correspondent banking.
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To know about Letters of Credit.
1.4. Scopes of the Study:
HSBC introduced gradually development in banking system particularly, commercial banks and private banks. Main emphasis of the report is “FOREIGN TRADE ACTIVITIES OF HSBC, DHAKA MAIN OFFICE� not micro but corporate banking concept on global focus. This study covers the methods of trading, financial & commercial documents, amendments & withdrawals, letters of Credit.
1.5 Methodology: This report has been prepared on the basis of experience gather during the period of internship. Both primary and secondary sources were used to collect data. For preparing this report also have the information from various personnel and website of the HSBC group have presented my experience and findings by using different figures and table in the analysis part.
Population: The study will be conducted on the customer satisfaction level of trade and supply chain department of HSBC, main office, Dhaka. Therefore for the purpose of the study total customer of HSBC, Dhaka main office would be the constraints of the population of the study.
Sample of the study: 40 customers here considered as sample of the study. We assume that these 40 customers will represent the total customers of trade and supply chain department of HSBC, main office, Dhaka.
Sample unit: Each customer of trade and supply chain department of HSBC, Main office, Dhaka. is a sample unit of the study.
Procedure of collection information: •
Primary sources:
i.
Interviewing customers with structured questionnaires.
ii.
Conversation with the officers of the Trade and Supply Department of HSBC, Dhaka Main office.
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Secondary sources:
i.
Related reports
ii.
Articles
iii.
Books
Data analysis and reporting: Data have been analyzed through proper quantitative and qualitative techniques. have made the questionnaires for the survey and reported time to time to the concerned authority.
1.6 Limitations of the Study: The author has tried to present the paper with a very cautious approach. To prepare the report I had to gather different relevant, books, brochures, journals of the concerned banks. To prepare this paper I had to face the following constraints: •
It is hard to do the office job and prepare the report at the same time. used to work in the office from 8.45 AM to 7:30PM. Therefore, it was very tough to arrange the time for report writing.
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Bank officials are very strict regarding their flow of information to the external environment. If sufficient data could have been availed, then the study would have been more informative and useful.
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The study was done only for the HSBC, Dhaka main branch. But in some cases they are more dependent on Dhaka branch. As a result of this the implication of the findings of the report will be applicable only within Dhaka
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The study was solely completed by the writer. So there is a chance of misinterpretation of the facts related to the report.
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Information was not available for conducting full-fledged research as the writer was not allowed to study upon the sensitive data regarding the bank
CHAPTER: 2 ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW In Bangladesh, the HSBC Group's history dates back to 1996 when The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited opened its first branch. Today, the HSBC Group offers a comprehensive range of financial services in Bangladesh including corporate banking, commercial banking, consumer banking, global payments and cash management, trade services, treasury, and custody and clearing. The HSBC Asia Pacific group represents HSBC in Bangladesh. HSBC opened its first branch in Dhaka in 17th December 1996. The Bank was awarded ISO9002 accreditation for its personal and business banking services, which cover trade services, securities and safe custody, corporate banking, Hexagon and all personal banking. This ISO9002 designation is the first of its kind for a bank in Bangladesh. The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Bangladesh Ltd. primarily limited its operations to help garments industry and to commercial banking. Latter, it extended its operations to pharmaceuticals, jute and consumer products. Other services include cash management, treasury, securities, and custodial service. Realizing the huge potential and growth in personal banking industry in Bangladesh, HSBC extended its operation to the personal banking sector in Bangladesh and within a very short span of time it was able to build up a huge client base. Extending its operation further, HSBC opened a branch at Chittagong, two branch offices at Dhaka (Gulshan and Motijheel) and an offshore banking unit on November’1998. Another branch has been opened at Dhanmondi on 1st of March 2003. Eyeing the demand of pious people of the country HSBC recently opened
Amanh Branch at Dhaka which offers only Islamic banking services. At present HSBC have 8 branches in the country. HSBC Bangladesh is under the strict supervision of HSBC Asia Pacific Group, Hong Kong. The Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Bangladesh manages the whole banking operation of HSBC in Bangladesh. Under the CEO there are heads of departments who manage specific banking functions e.g. Personal banking, corporate banking, etc. Currently HSBC Bangladesh is providing a wide range of services both to individual and corporate level customers. In 2000 the bank launched a wide array of personal banking products designed for all kinds of (middle and higher middle income) individual customers. Some such products were personal loans, car loans, etc. In the year 2003 the bank launched three of its personal banking products – Tax loan, Personal secured loan & Automated Tele Banking (ATB) service. These products are designed to meet the diverse customer needs more completely. HSBC Bangladesh has acquired licensing to provide off-shore banking services to qualified Export Processing Zone clients. Off-shore banking clients, in applicable zones in Bangladesh, may conduct banking transactions and avail credit facilities in foreign currency subject to applicable rules and regulations. Being one of the largest offshore banking facility providers in the Export Processing zones, HSBC has the experience and capabilities to assist and fulfill the banking needs of the investors. With recent establishment of Business Development office at Adamzi EPZ the bank has now presence in 5 EPZs of Bangladesh.
2.1
HSBC Bangladesh at a glance:
Name of the Organization
: The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd.
Year of Establishment
: 1996
Head Office
: Anchor Tower, 1/1-B Sonargaon Road Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
Nature of the Organization
: Multinational Company
Shareholders
: HSBC group shareholders
Products
: Savings & deposit services Loan products
Corporate and Institutional services Trade services Number of Branches
: 8 (In three metropolitan cities- Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet.)
Number of Employees
: 842 (approx.)
Technology
: Offers full online banking from branch to branch.
Service Coverage & Customers
: Serves individual and corporate customers.
2.2 HSBC BANGLADESH (MISSION, VISION AND GOALS) MISSION To generate greater return than the average return of the peer group financial institution and increase shareholder value significantly.
VISION To satisfy customers with high quality services that reflects the global image as the top financial brand.
GOALS To provide innovative and justified products supported by the quality of delivary and excellent customer services, to train motivate and empower employees to work in a socially responsible manner. By combining regional strengths and with group network the aim is to the leading bank in the industry. The key target is to achieve sustained earnings growth and to enhance share holder value on a continuous basis.
2.3 Management of HSBC Bangladesh HSBC, Bangladesh is one such company that has to overcome a lot of hurdles to reach the position it now holds. It is recognized for strong brand image, supreme professionalism and efficient banking services. The management has been contributing immensely to make the bank hugely successful in the competitive banking sectors in Bangladesh. At present, Mr. Sanjay Prakash is the CEO; Mr. Mahbub-ur-Rahman is the Head of Corporate Banking; Mr. Arjun R Fernando is the COO, Mr. Mustafa Alim Aolad is the CFO, Mr. Shafquat Hossain is
the Head of Personal Financial Services, Mr. Syed Akhtar Hossain is the Head of Human Resource and Mr. Mustafizur R Khan is the Head of Marketing at HSBC Bangladesh. They are the core management team members of HSBC Bangladesh. The Managerial Team Members of HSBC Bangladesh
2.4 Organizational Structure of HSBC, Bangladesh: HSBC follows a 4-layer management philosophy in Bangladesh. An organizational hierarchy is shown bellow:
Managers ↓ Executives ↓ Officers ↓ Table
1:
Organizational Hierarchy Chart of HSBC, Bangladesh The organizational structure of HSBC Bangladesh is designed according to the various service and functional departments. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) heads the chief executive committee, which decides on all the strategic aspect of HSBC. The CEO is the person who supervises the heads of all the departments and also is the ultimate authority of HSBC Bangladesh and responsible for all kinds of activities of HSBC Bangladesh and all its consequences. He admires all the functional departments and communicates with the department heads for smooth functioning of the organization. The HSBC Chief Executive Committee is formed with the heads of all departments along with the CEO. The structure of this top-most authority is shown in the following The Chief Executive Officer Officer
Manager, Manager, Human Personal Resources Financial Service
Manager, Internal Control
Chief Operating Officer
Head of Corporate Banking
Head of Treasury
Figure 1: Executive committee of HSBC, Bangladesh HSBC Bangladesh carries out all traditional functions, which a commercial Bank performs such as Mobilization of deposit, disbursement of loan, investment of funds, financing export & import business, trade & commerce and so on. Besides it also offers some specialized services to its customers. Products and services offered by HSBC can be categorized according to the customers they serve. Thus two major groups can be seen, they are individual customers or consumers and corporate customers or organizations Each and every employee of HSBC takes pride of being an employee at HSBC and his or her pride comes from the freedom of direct communication with the top management. The management of HSBC is supportive in the sense that the top management deliberately supports the suggestions, values, ideas, innovation and hard work of the employees and officer. Again high amount of employee participation is encountered in the management process. There are also systems for awards, incentives, and status for innovative ideas and hard works.
2.5 Structure of TSC department:
Figure 2: Structure of TSC department
2.6 Industry Competitive Analysis Strategic Group Map of Banking Industry Generally in terms of profit per employee, foreign commercial banks rank top followed by private commercial banks. Profit per employee positions of nationalized commercial banks are not up to the mark. And profit per employee positions of specialized banks is very alarming. Infrastructure development and modern facilities for local banks especially for nationalized banks are required. Local banks are relatively inefficient compared to foreign banks in respect of use of technology-qualified manpower and also modern facilities. Geographical location is also important. Remote branches of different banks should be relocated. They should get modern facilities. Innovative banking should be preferred. Scheduled banks credit program are of high cost, anti rural biased and bank staffs are unwilling to serve in the rural areas. As such a new system may be introduced to meet the credit needs of small and marginal farmers, distressed women, landless labors etc. The customer/client often prefers qualitative services of the bank at the lowest price of the products. Banks should be careful to recognize the empowerment of the client, and they should be cautiously determined price of the product. Both borrowers and depositors of the bank should deal with friendly and secret terms. The bank management should study the needs of customers and improve the quality of services to that extent. Continuous research on customer demand should be analyzed. Agrani, Janata, Sonali and Rupali are the four nationalized commercial banks of Bangladesh. If strategic group map were done then these nationalized commercial banks would fall in a place with highest geographical coverage, however with low image or brand name, mainly due to bureaucracy in the organization and poor customer services. On the contrary if foreign banks such as SCB, HSBC, Citi NA are plotted then these banks will fall under a position where the brand name or image of the bank is high but geographical coverage is between low to medium. The reason behind their high image is their customized and high quality customer services. Banks like Dhaka, Jamuna and Premier would fall in a position where both image and geographical coverage are low.
Figure 3: Strategic Group Map of Banking Industry Among the local private banks BRAC, DBBL and IFIC would fall in a position where image is a little higher than medium due to their good quality and vast range of services however the geographical coverage is medium. EBL, The City Bank, Prime Bank and Bank Asia would fall in a position where image is medium and geographical coverage is below medium. Lastly IBBL has quite a high image due to its Sharia banking (known as Mudaraba) with quite a high geographical coverage.
Major Competitions in the market: From its inception HSBC has been positioned itself in the corporate banking segment. Though recently it focuses on the SME and other institutional segments, still corporate clients are the major part of its accounts. In this context, there are tow major competitors exist in Bangladesh, Standard Chartered Bank and City Bank NA. Both are multinational companies equipped with modern banking technologies, efficient and prompt banking services and immense financial strength. Among the three competitors SCB is the market leader with its large coverage and wide range of operations and banking services. It captures 33 percent share of the market, HSBC and City Bank NA capture 26 and 14 percent of share respectively. But the local banks are also becoming good competitors aggregately for HSBC specially Eastern Bank, Brae Bank, Prime Bank etc. by adopting advanced technology and introducing cost effective services which able them to capture some corporate entities. The market share of private commercial banks (PCBs) increased by 3.7 percentage points while that of the foreign commercial banks (FCBs) dropped by 3.6 percentage points in 2007, the central bank annual report said. So that's an alarming bell for not only HSBC but also other two foreign banks.
CHAPTER: 3 INTERNSHIP POSITION AND DUTIES 3.1 INTERNSHIP POSITION The choice of a trade and supply chain provider is vital in a world where both speed and attention to detail are crucial and where we need a partner who can seamlessly combine local service excellence with global reach. At HSBC, they make it their business to know our business, intimately and thoroughly. As one of the largest trade and supply chain organizations in the world, HSBC has local trade experts available to support us wherever we do our business. They can help to control
operations and assist to streamline the trade processes with advanced technology. HSBC aims to ensure that import and export transactions are managed effortlessly and effectively, providing business with the best possible opportunities to grow.
HSBC has the reputation
as leaders in international trade. Time and again, HSBC has been singled out for recognition by prestigious industry titles. HSBC has played a key role in international trade since 1865, when Hongkong Bank, the founding member of the HSBC Group, was established to finance and facilitate the growing trade between China, Europe and the USA. With extensive experience in international trade, HSBC is ideally placed to support the longterm growth of business. HSBC combines local service excellence with global reach, supplemented by advanced technology. HSBC has an extensive network of over 10,000 offices in 82 countries and territories. Thus, wherever in the world may be, there are teams of specialists to rely on and to help to achieve business objective. Headquartered in London, HSBC is considered as one of the largest banking and financial services organization in the world. In Bangladesh it has made its place as the fastest growing bank. Being able to work in this world-renowned organization I find myself lucky. I got the opportunity to work in one of the most vital department of HSBC- TRADE AND SUPPLY CHAIN (TSC).
3.2 Responsibilities The import trade process in HSBC is a prolonged process. It involves intense file Work. The import trade department of HSBC Dhaka Main office consists of many Officials, including department Head. As an intern assisted each of them in their work. Being an intern had limited authority regarding financing and other delicate activities. But my responsibilities are given bellow •
Lodgment of L/Cs
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Issuing L/Cs
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Reporting to Bangladesh Bank
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Issuing and sending PSI (Pre-Shipment Investigation) letter
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Filing huge number of L/C related documents etc were my routine work
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Most of my knowledge was gathered through observing activities of officers
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Face to face conversation with the bank officers, appointment with the top officials of the Bank
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Interviewing L/C customers at HSBC Dhaka Main office
CHAPTER 4: FOREIGN TRADE ACTIVITIES OF HSBC, DHAKA MAIN OFFICE: HSBC FOREIGN TRADE HSBC is the leading provider of trade finance and related services to importers and exporters in Asia. Trade is considered a core business of the group. HSBC facilitate trade through its trade and supply chain department which was formerly known as HSBC Trade Services. Along with providing financing mechanisms to exporters and importers the concentration is now not only financing the trade but also providing supply chain solutions through unique financing products and services. The group’s presence in 81 countries of the world gives a good opportunity to control both ends of a trade transaction and keep the business within the Group. The various awards it has won from the leading publications of the world acknowledge HSBC’s excellence in trade.
The trade and supply chain department is functionally divided into three subdivision who work together to provide the complete export import solution. These are- Export, Import and Business development units. The export and import division provides the financial support and products for international trade solution. The export and import divisions mainly process all the work behind granting financial support to the customer. The business development unit is responsible for maintain customer relationship and development of the business portfolio. The business development unit is a subsidiary of the Commercial Banking Division of the bank. Trade and supply chain continuously work with commercial banking division and the credit administration for providing the customers the complete export import solution. Credit Administration department basically deals with all the documentation, processing, administration and disbursement of the import-export services provided to corporate clients. This department manages all the trade tools and facilities provided by HSBC Corporate Banking. Some important aspects of this department are LC advising, documentation, OD facilities, guarantees, etc. For convenient service to the customers Trade and supply chain has to keep continuous communication with the treasury so that all the dealings go smoothly.
4.1 HSBC IMPORT SERVICES To provide support to the importers of the country HSBC has a portfolio of instruments available to the importers. These products are geared in a way so that they are convenient and the importers don’t have to worry about financing their merchandise anymore. For import solutions HSBC offers the following products•
Documentary credits
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Import Collections
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Import Finance
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Shipping Guarantee
4.1.1 DOCUMENTORY CREDITS For the importer HSBC offers Documentary letter of credit. HSBC issues the DCs for the importers. The convenience of the customer is increased as the bank mutinously scrutinizes
all the documents and only after that disburse payments. The importer can make payments only after all the merchandise is received and in the right manner and perfect condition. HSBC also offers deferred payment credit – which allows the nomination of a bank to or the issuing bank to effect payment against stipulated documents at a maturity date as specified or determinable from wording of the credit. So by using this facility the importers can receive the goods sell them to acquire funds and later make payments to the bank. So import is much more convenient with use of deferred payment DC.
Operations of Documentary Letter of Credit: The following five major steps are involved in operation of a documentary letter of credit: •
Issuing.
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Advising
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Amendment (if necessary)
•
Presentation and
•
Settlement.
Issuing a Letter of Credit: Before issuing and L/C, the buyer and seller located in different countries, concludes a ‘sales contract’ providing for payment by documentary credit. As per requirements of the seller, the buyer then instructs the bank-the issuing bank – to issue a credit in favor of seller (beneficiary). Instruction/Application for issuing a credit should be made by the buyer (importer) in the issuing bank’s standard form. The credit application, which contains the full details of the proposed credit, also serves as an agreement between the bank and the buyer. After being convinced about the ‘necessary conditions’ contained in the application form and ‘sufficient conditions’ to be fulfilled by the buyer for opening a credit, the opening bank then proceeds for opening the credit to be addressed to the beneficiary.
Advising a Letter of Credit: Advising through a bank is a proof an apparent authenticity of the credit to the seller. The process of advising a credit consists of forwarding the original credit to ht beneficiary to whom it is addressed. Before forwarding, the advising bank has to very the signatures(s) of the offer(s) of the opening bank and ensure that the terms and conditions of the credit are not
in violation of the existing exchange control regulation and other regulations relating to export. In such act of advising bank does not undertake any liability.
Amendment of Credit: Parties involved in an L/C, particularly the seller and the buyer connote always satisfy the terms and conditions in full expected due to some obvious and genuine reasons. In such a situation the credit should be amended. In case of irrevocable credit, it can neither be amended nor cancelled without the agreement of the issuing bank, the confirming bank (bank) and the beneficiary.
Presentation of Documents: The seller being satisfied with the terms and conditions of the credit proceeds to dispatch the required goods to the buyer and after that, has to present the documents evidencing dispatching of goods to the negotiating bank on or before the stipulated expiry date of the credit. After receiving all the documents the negotiating bank then checks the documents against the credit. If the documents are found in order, the bank will pay, accept or negotiate to the issuing bank. The issuing bank also checks the documents and it they are found as per credit requirements.
Settlement: Settlement means fulfilling the commitment of issuing bank in regard to effecting payment subject to satisfying the credit terms fully. This settlement may be done under three separate arrangements as stipulated in the credit. These are: •
Settlement by Payment: Here the seller presents the documents to the paying bank and the bank then scrutinizes the documents. If satisfied, the paying bank makes payment to the beneficiary and in case this bank is other than the issuing bank, then sends the documents to the issuing bank. If the issuing bank is satisfied with the requirements, the paying bank from the issuing bank obtains payment.
•
Settlement by Acceptance: Under this arrangement, the seller submits the documents evidencing the shipment to the accepting bank accompanied by the draft drawn on the bank (where credit is available) at the specified tenor. After being satisfied with the documents, the bank accepts the documents and the draft and if is is a bank other than the issuing bank, then sends the documents to the
issuing bank stating that is has accepted the draft and at maturity the reimbursement will obtained in the pre-agreed manner. •
Settlement by Negotiation: This settlement procedure starts with the submission of documents by the seller to the negotiating bank accompanied by a draft drawn on the buyer or any other drawer, at sight or at a tenor, as specified in the credit. After scrutinizing that the documents meet the credit requirements, the bank may negotiate the draft. This bank, if other than the issuing bank, then sends the document the draft to the issuing bank. As usual, reimbursement will be obtained in the pre-agreed manner.
4.1.2 IMPORT COLLECTION HSBC import collection offer a simple and low cost alternative to settlement of import transactions by documentary credit. With documentary collections the importer does not make payment until the documents of title are received through the banking system. This retains control of the goods until payment is received. HSBC offers both DP and DA bills for its valued customers
DOCUMENTS AGAINST PAYMENT: Documents against payment bills are payable when presented to the importer, to whom the documents are released when payment is made. This arrangement ensures that the exporter retains control of the goods until payment is received.
DOCUMENTS AGAINST ACCEPTANCE: The document against acceptance allows the documents to be released to the importer against their acceptance of a term bill. The importer’s acceptance, written on the face of the bill, signifies acceptance of the terms and agreement to settle the bill on its maturity date. However, it does not represent a guarantee to the exporter that the bill will be paid.
4.1.3: IMPORT FINANCING Along with providing various tools for settlement of international trade payments HSBC also provides import financing. HSBC offers import loans and trust receipt for the importer to make payments for import bills.
USUANCE DOCUMENTARY CREDITS Usuance documentary credits (DCs) provide importers with working capital in that they are payable after a fixed period of time- either after shipment or after documents are received. While the issuing bank is not financing the imports directly, it is a guarantee of payment to the exporter, who can then approach its bank for post-shipment export finance. This is an attractive way for exporters to extend finance to buyers.
LOANS AGAINST IMPORTS This is a form of import finance for collection and DCs where the import loan is secured by a trust receipt, in which the importer assigns the goods to its bank.
CLEAN IMPORT LOANS A clean import loan is not secured by the goods in question. However, other security will, most likely, be required to establish such facilities.
FACILITY STRUCTER Customer’s import finance facilities are carefully constructed around customer’s trading cycle and the business customer do by HSBC’s Corporate Relationship Manager, allowing customer to enjoy lower interest rates while ensuring that finance will be available to cover shipments.
FLEXIBLE FINANCING HSBC provides the importer with the flexibility to take a period of extend credit that is undisclosed to the seller whilst optimizing payment terms. We understand that seasonal peaks, long transit times and lengthy credit terms all place additional demands on the importer.
4.1.4 SHIPPING GURANTEE For greater convenience and ease of business HSBC offers shipping guarantee for the importers. Often the scenario can occur when the shipment may arrive before the shipment documents. In this scenario HSBC comes to the rescue with its shipping guaranty which enables the importer to take control of the merchandise from the shipping company without the bills of
lading. The bank provides guarantee for the importer so that the importer can smoothly run the business process without waiting for the documents to arrive.
RAPID ISSUANCE Shipping guarantees are only valuable if they are provided in time and fast. HSBC offers fast issuance of such guaranty in many cases as soon as the application is made and the importer is able to make his move with the merchandise.
FINANCIAL STRENGTH The global presence and the unprecedented financial strength of HSBC have made it the biggest financial brand in the world. So shipping guaranty buy HSBC is accepted by all the major shipping line across the world. So the customer doesn’t have to worry about the acceptability of the guarantee. The customer is assured of getting the merchandise always in time.
4.2 HSBC EXPORT SERVICES HSBC is geared for providing the best export financing solution for its customers. Not only the bank can facilitate collection it can help the customers by faster preparing and processing the documents and by also providing working capital loans. HSBC‘s export services include•
Documentary Credit Advising
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Pre-shipment Finance
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Post-shipment Finance
4.2.1 DOCUMENTARY CREDIT ADVISING For the exporters of the nation HSBC offers fast and reliable DC advising service. The documentary credits are advised fast so the customer don’t have to wait long to get the export process going. The bank offers competitive charge for these services and fast performance is guaranteed. For the convenience of the exporters’ HSBC offers Electronic DC advising. By using electronic DC advising the customer can receive all the documents – Export Documentary credits, amendments and export transaction via email. The benefit is providing without any extra cost. This helps the customers with better logistics management, quicker freight
booking and collection of other necessary documents required under the DC. This also results in enhanced accuracy in preparation of other documents as the DC and amendments are available in electronic form. The DC can be easily sent to the shippers and other parties faster. This ensures that the DC will always reach the proper destination in time. By signing for the DC safe custody devices the customer is able to reduce the expenses for collecting the DC from counters.
4.2.2 PRE SHIPMENT If after checking the documents are found in order HSBC can negotiate and pay the exporter discounted value of the invoice. The funds can be provided at the same day of receipt of documents if they are not found discrepant. If documents are found to be discrepant, it may be possible to negotiate under reserve. This depends on a number of factors and is available to the discretion of the respective corporate relationship manager handling the dealings with that specific customer. In such cases a letter of indemnity is required by the bank. Alternatives to the above include cabling the DC issuing bank for authorization to negotiate despite the listed discrepancies and sending the documents to the issuing bank for approval and payment.
4.2.3 PRO SHIPMENT FINANCING To assist the Customer cash-flow when manufacturing or packing goods, HSBC can arrange pre-shipment finance facilities for you. Pre-shipment finance provided by HSBC is generally termed ‘loans against exports’. Loans must be supported by original irrevocable documentary credits (Dcs). Advances may also be made against confirmed orders by specified reputable buyers of international standing. The types of pre-shipment finance offered include packing credits, manufacturing advances and red clause credits.
PACKING CREDITS Packing credits provide an exporter with finance after goods have been manufactured but before they are shipped. This smoothes the exporter’s cash flow while the goods are being packed and waiting for shipment. The advance is repaid when the goods are shipped, if the documents were negotiated with the exporter’s bank. Acquiring a Packing credit is easy from HSBC for the exporter as all he has to do is to go to any branch of HSBC and make an appointment with any of the corporate relationship managers.
MANUFACTURING ADVANCES
Manufacturing advances are provided to exporters to meet manufacturing costs, such as the purchase of raw materials.
RED CLAUSE CREDIT A red clause credit is a DC which contains a clause from the issuing bank authorizing the advising bank to grant an advance to the exporter before documents are presented. Facilities are not required for this type of pre-shipment finance, as the advising bank is relying on the issuing for reimbursement rather than the customer.
4.3
Methods of trading:
Four common methods of conducting international trade are•
Open account
•
Advance payment
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Documentary collections
•
Letters of credit
4.3.1 Open account: In open account trading, the exporter ships the goods and awaits payment. When the goods have been received, the importer pays for the consignment. In the HSBC, Chittagong Branch, T/T is practiced as open account trading. If the seller and buyer have been trading successfully for a long time, then open account trading is appropriate.
4.3.2 Advance payment: The name suggests that, it is the system where the importer pays first, and then the exporter dispatches the goods. Advance payment is often used when the buyer is not known to the seller.
4.3.3 Documentary collections: In that trading method, the seller dispatches the goods to the buyers by sea or any other transports. The goods are loaded onto a ship at seller’s port. The ship sails to importers port. The carrier (shipping company) gives the exporter a bill of lading. This serves as a receipt for the goods, and is also a document of title. The buyer must have this document of title (B/L) in order to claim the goods at their destination. After the goods are dispatched, the seller sends to its bank: •
A request for payment (a B/E)
•
The Bill of Lading (receipt & document of title)
•
All the other documents relating to the transaction.
Other documents typically include- invoice, insurance certificate, packing list, etc. These are all sent to the exporter’s bank along with the request for payment and instructions to the bank. The bank sends the Bill of Exchange (request for payment) and all the documents to the importer’s bank. The importer’s bank presents the Bill of Exchange to the importer. Bills of Exchange can be drawn payable upon presentation (Sight bill); or if the exporter wishes to extend credit to the importer, the bill may be payable at a later date (Usance bill / Term bill). In this case, the exporter wants the buyer to pay for the goods immediately. Once the buyer has paid for the goods, the overseas bank releases the documents (including the B/L). So, the importer now has the Bill of Lading and so has control over the goods. So, they can claim the goods. The overseas bank will only release the document of title (in this case a bill of lading) only when the importer has paid for the consignment (or has agreed to pay by accepting a term bill). So, in a documentary collection, the exporter instructs the overseas bank to –obtain payment from the importer (or for a term bill, an agreement to pay),then release the documents. In this way the exporter retains constructive control over the goods.
4.3.4 Letters of Credit: The Letters of credit is a payment undertaking given by a bank on behalf of an importer. Obviously, banks don’t issue letters of credit unless they are sure of their customers’ creditworthiness. The importer’s bank sends the letter of credit to the exporter’s bank. The goods are dispatched and the carrier gives the exporter a B/L. The ship departs for importers port. The exporter puts together the documents specified by the letter of credit. These will include the bill of lading. The exporter’s bank checks the documents against the terms of the letter of the credit & pays the exporter. The documents are sent to the importer’s bank. The importer’s bank checks the documents against the terms of the letters of credit. Provided documents are presented in accordance with the terms of the letters of credit, the seller is not dependent on the buyer to make payment. Usually the seller’s own bank is authorized to make payment.
Reasons for using letters of credit Where there is customer risk, a L/C provides security for the seller, because a bank has given a prior undertaking to pay.
Some parts of the world are politically or economically unstable. Exporting to such places carries a degree of risk; for such transactions, a letter of credit is recommended. For protection against sovereign risk, a L/C must be confirmed, (usually by the exporter’s bank). The confirming bank undertakes to pay if the issuing bank will not. Some governments insist that a L/C is used to pay for imported goods.
The L/C offers the advantages are Cash flow benefit- the importer only pays on presentation of the documents. The documents provide proof of shipment. Could ask for an inspection certificate from an independent organization; this would satisfy concerns about quality.
Different types of L/C: Letter of credit is an important instrument in the business world. Usually the different types of L/C procedure are seen in the HSBC, Chittagong Branch: •
Irrevocable credit (on the basis of revocability) : The irrevocable credit is a commonly used type of documentary credit. The credit, which can’t be revoked, varied or changed/amended without the consent of all parties-seller, Issuing bank and Confirming bank (incase of confirmed L/C). As per article 9(a) of UCPDC 500, an irrevocable credit constitutes a definite undertaking of the issuing bank, provided that the stipulated documents are presented to the nominated bank or to the issuing bank and that the terms and conditions or the credit are complied with. Irrevocable credit gives the seller great assurance of payments but he remains dependent on an undertaking of a foreign bank.
•
Back-to-back credit (on the basis of special documentary credit): One credit backs another. It may so happen that the beneficiary of an L/C is unable to supply the goods direct as specified in the credit as a result of which he needs to purchase the same and make payment to another supplier by opening a second letter of credit. In this case, the second credit called a ‘Back to Back Credit’. It is opened in conformity to the terms and conditions as stipulated in mother credit except the price of the goods, shipment period and validity of L/C. in Back to Back Credit the negotiated price is quoted. The shipment period and validity of Back to Back Credit are given earlier than the original validity as stipulated in the mother L/C which helps
the seller of the first credit to substitute his drafts, commercial invoices and other documents, if any, with that drawn by the seller of Back to Back Credit. •
Sight Payment L/C (on the basis of payment criteria): This type of L/C is based upon payment on presentation of documents. When the L/C bears a clause of payment at sight then the L/C is called at sight. It is settle by sight bill – a bill which is payable on demand or at sight or on presentation and when no time for payment is specified in it. Sight bill is also called D/P, i.e. Document against Payment.
•
Usuance Payment L/C (on the basis of payment criteria): When the payment of L/C is to be made after a specified period of time of shipment then the L/C is called Usance L/C. a clause of payment, e.g. payment at 120 days sight, must be included on L/C. it is also term as D/A bill, i.e. Document against acceptance.
Parties to a Letter of Credit: There are a number of parties involved in an L/C and the rights and obligations of different involved parties also differ from each. The involved parties can be named below: •
Importer/Buyer: is the person who requests/instructs the opening bank to
open an
L/C. He is also called Opener or applicant of the credit. •
Opening/Issuing Bank: is the bank which opens/issues an L/C on behalf of the importer. It is also called the importer’s/buyer’s bank.
• •
Exporter/Seller/Beneficiary: is the party in whose favor the L/C is established. Advising/Notifying Bank: is the bank through which the L/C is advised to the exporter. It is a bank situated in the exporting country and it may be a branch of the opening bank or a correspondent bank. It may also assume the role of confirming and/or negotiation bank. It may also assume the role of confirming and/or negotiation bank depending upon the conditions of the credit.
•
Confirming Bank: is a bank, which adds its confirmation to the credit, and it is done at the request of the issuing bank. The confirming bank may or may not be the advising bank.
•
Negotiating Bank: is the bank, which negotiates the bill and pays the amount to the beneficiary. It has to carefully scrutinize the documentary credit before negotiation in order to see wheatear the documents apparently are in order or not. The advising bank and the negotiating bank may or may not be one and the same. Sometimes it can also be the confirming bank.
•
Paying/Reimbursing Bank: is the bank or whom the bill will be drawn (as per conditions of the credit). It is nominated in the credit to make payments against stipulated documents complying with the terms of the credit. It may be or may not be the issuing bank.
Opening of Letter of Credit: Opening of letter of credit means, as the request of the Applicant (importer) issuance of an L/C in favor of the Beneficiary (exporter) by a bank. The bank, which open or issue L/C is called L/C opening bank or Issuing Bank. •
Required Information:
Issuing Bank required following information: • •
Full particulars of the bank account of having same bank. Name of business (proprietorship, partnership or limited company, in case of limited company the name of directors and balance sheet of last three years are required).
•
Historical background of the individual of institution.
•
Amount of limit required.
•
Modes of payment.
•
Statement of assets and liabilities.
•
Balance of fund in bank account.
•
Trade License and import registration number with renewal date.
•
Proforma Invoice/Indent.
•
TIN, VAT.
•
Insurance cover note.
•
Sales agreement. o Documents/Papers Supplied by Bank:
Bank supply the following documents/papers: •
Letter of credit /documentary credit application form.
•
Letter of credit authorization form.
•
Continuation of documentary credit application.
•
Undertaking for waiver of non-delivery clauses in the insurance cover note.
•
Undertaking for waiver of non-delivery clause in the insurance cover note.
•
Undertaking for war.
•
Import form
•
Charge documents paper
•
Promissory note.
•
Letter of arrangement.
•
Letter of disbursement of loan.
•
Letter of revival.
•
Letter of continuity.
•
General letter TR.
•
Letter of guarantee.
•
Letter of supplementary agreement. o Application Checking:
Before opening and L/C Issuing Bank must check the followings:
•
L/C Application properly stamped, signature verified and margin approved and properly retained.
• •
Indent/Proforma invoice signed by the importer and Indenter/supplier. Ensure that the relevant particulars of L/C application correspond with those stipulated in Indent/Proforma Invoices.
•
Validity of LCA entitlement of goods amount etc. conforms to the L/C application.
•
Conversion and rate of exchange correctly applied.
•
Charges like commission, postage, telex, swift charge etc.
With the above essentials bank does the followings: •
Landed cost analysis.
•
Present market position of the goods to be imported.
•
Credit Information Bureau report from Bangladesh Bank.
•
Send credit proposal to head office.
•
Collect credit report about beneficiary. o Contents of a Letter of Credit:
A Letter of Credit generally contains the followings: •
Date of Issue.
•
Letter of Credit No.
•
Amount (generally in USD)
•
Name of Issuing Bank.
•
Name of Advising Bank.
•
Name and Address of Application.
•
Name and Address of Beneficiary.
•
Last Date of Shipment
•
Date of Expire.
•
Name of the port of Shipment.
•
Destination.
•
Country of Origin.
•
Description of Merchandise.
•
Terms and Conditions.
•
Additional Terms and Conditions.
•
Reimbursement o Copies Required of a Letter of Credit:
•
Letter of Credit is an important document to all related party and authority. So issuing bank required generating sever copies of a foreign L/C and five copies of a local L/C. these are the followings:
•
Copy for advising Bank.
•
Copy for Beneficiary.
•
Copy for Applicant.
•
Copy for Head Office.
•
Copy for PSI (Pre-Shipment Inspection Company)
•
Copy for CCI&E (Chief Controller of Import & Export).
•
Copy for own record. o Advising Letter of Credit:
Advising through a bank is a proof of apparent authenticity of the credit to the seller. The process of advising a credit consists of forwarding the original credit to the beneficiary to whom it is addressed. Before forwarding the advising bank has to verify the signature of the officer of the opening bank and ensure that the terms and conditions of the credit are to in violation of the existing exchange control regulations and other regulations relating to export. In such act of a advising bank does not undertake any liability. o Amendments to Letter of Credit:
After issuance and advising a Letter of Credit, it may be felt necessary to delete, add or after some of the clauses of the Credit. All these modifications are communicated to the Beneficiary thorough the same Advising Bank of the Credit. Such modifications to a Credit are termed as amendment to a letter of credit. L/C amendments are to be communicated by telex SWIFT or mail. If there is more than one amendment to a credit, all the amendment must bear the consecutive serial number so that the missing of any amendment can be identified by the advising bank or by the beneficiary. o Amendments Procedure: The Issuing Bank has to obtain written application from the applicant of the credit duly signed and verified by the bank. In case of increase of value, application for amendment is to be supported by revised Indent/Proforma Invoice evidencing consent of the beneficiary. Proper recording and filing of amendment is to be maintained. Amendment charges (if on account of applicant) will be recovered a necessary voucher is to be passed.
The followings clauses of L/C are generally amended: •
Increases/decreases value of L/C increases/decreases of quantity of goods.
•
Extension of shipment/negotiation period
•
Mode of shipment.
•
Inspection clause.
•
Name and address of the supplier.
•
Name of the reimbursing bank.
•
Name of the shipping line, etc.
Accounting Procedure at the Time of L/C Opening: As soon as L/C is opened, bank accepts a liability on behalf of the importer to make payment against the credit, provided that the shipment is made within the period and that the stipulated documents are presented and other terms and conditions as per L/C are complied with. Naturally, bank has to pass and entry in L/C liability ledger and also in the General Ledger to show its actual liability accepted on L/C a liability voucher is passed as under:
Contingent liability voucher Customer’s Liability on L/C .......... Dr. Bank’s Liability on L/C...................Cr. Margin and Bank Charges: Margin, commission, postages and cable charges are recovered from the party by passing entries as under: Applicant A/C......................... Dr. Margin ...................................................................Cr. Commission ...........................................................Cr. Vat..........................................................................Cr. Telex.......................................................................Cr. FCC........................................................................Cr. Stamp in hand.........................................................Cr. Other fees & commission ......................................Cr.
Lodgment of Documents: On receipt of the shipping documents from the negotiating bank, L/C opening should carefully examine these to ensure that they conform to the terms of the credit. If there be any difference in the documents, the bank should immediately advise the importer to seek his acceptance of the documents despite the discrepancy. If the importer refuses to accept the documents, the bank should advise the negotiating bank by cable or telex or SWIFT with tin seven banking days following the day of receipt of the documents according to UCPDC Article 13(b) for instruction with regard to disposal of the goods and the documents. If no reply is received regarding disposal of dishonored documents, the same should be returned to the concerned bank with the instruction to reverse the entry if the issuing bank is debited with the value of the goods. If the documents are found in order the these are acceptable to the importer, the bank lodges the bill in PAD (Payment Against Documents) or BLC (Bills Under Letter of Credit) by converting the foreign currency representing the bill amount and foreign correspondents charges into Taka and asks the importer to retire the bill by sending a cost memo indicating the amounts payable by him under different heads.
Accounting Procedure at the time of lodgment:
Whether the documents are paid or dishonored, the opening bank will reverse the liability entries in their books as under:
Contingent liability reversal voucher (contra voucher) Bank’s liability on L/C....................... Dr. Customer’s liability L/C......................Cr.
Vouchers on lodgment of documents 1. For BLC creation Bills under Letter of Credit (BLC) account in the name of party....... Dr. Head Office general account................................................................Cr. 2. For Margin adjustment. Margin Account.............................Dr. Party’s BLC Account....................Cr. 3. For Interest on BLC. Party’s BlC Account ...............Dr. Interest on BlC Account..........Cr.
CHAPTER: 5 ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS 5.1 ANALYSIS Trade & Supply Chain Department is the strong most department of HSBC Bangladesh earning a major portion of HSBC’s income. The volume of transaction is increasing significantly year by year which exposes the growth itself of the department. Here under a comparison of its increased volume of transaction is given in respect of year 2006,2007,2008 and 2009 which reveals that in all respect the volume of transaction has increased positively which ultimately has impacted on it’s growth. The transaction count has been measured in terms of LC’s opened, CIL recording, CIL repayment, number of EDF loans made and through other respects which signifies the positive growth percentage of this department from the previous year.
In this portion of the report I will show the LC related charges of HSBC, the comparision of export and import of HSBC for the year of 2006,2007,2008,2009 and commodity wise LC opened during the period of 2009 which wil be shown with the help of some table and graphical representation.
5.1.1 LC RELATED CHARGES Letter of credit (L/C) opening commission L/C at sight/usance
0.25% of the L/C amount
Back to back L/C
0.35% of the L/C amount
Revolving L/C
0.25% of the L/C amount
Local L/C
0.20% of the L/C amount
L/C cable/telex/SWIFT charges
Tk. 1500-Tk. 3000
Letter of credit amendment commission
Same as L/C opening commission
Increase of L/C amount/extension of L/C validity Other amendment Cable/telex/SWIFT charges Shipping guarantee/air waybill release Unredeemed guarantee
Tk. 600
Miscellaneous Postage charges
Tk. 150-3000
(varied according to destination and weight)
Free
Release documents free of payment Return of documents
Free
Stationary charges
Tk. 150 Table 2:L/C related charges
5.1.2 IMPORT AND EXPORT L/C VOLUME IN BDT L/C volume for the year of 2006 YEAR 2006
IN
MONTH
BILLION Impor E t
BDT
x p o r
January
4.04
t 4 . 6
February
5
9 3 . 8
March
5.44
8 4 .
April
4.23
7 4 . 2
May
5.09
8 5 . 4
June
4.01
4 5 . 5
July
4.5
3 6 .
August
5.29
2 6 . 0
September
4.5
5 4 .
October
5.22
8 4 .
November
6.9
8 5 . 3
December
5.57
3 5 . 1
TOTAL
59.79
3 6 0 . 8 3
Figure 4: L/C volume for the year of 2006
Table 3: L/C volume for the year of 2006 From the above table and graph it can be described that during the period of 2006 the export section of TSC department doing better then the import section. The LC volume of export section was 60.83 billon which was greater then the import section because its LC volume was 59.79 billon.
YEAR 2007 MONTH January February March April May June July August Septembe
IN BDT BILLION Import Export 5.12 4.17 4.95 5.54 6.38 5.85 6.17 6.44 5.27 6.26 5.75 6.55 5.63 6.44 6.42 6.6 6.38 6.36
r October November December TOTAL
6.46 6.8 5.05 70.47
6.68 6.51 9.59 76.99
o L/C volume for the year of 2007
Figure 5: L/C volume for the year of 2007
Table 4: L/C volume for the year of 2007
From the above table and graph it can be described that during the period of 2007 the export section of TSC department doing better then the import section. The LC volume of export section was 76.99 billon which was greater then the import section because its LC volume was 70.47 billon.
L/C volume for the year of 2008
YEAR 2008
IN
MONTH January February March April May June July August September October November December TOTAL
BILLION Import 7.19 5.95 7.57 8.34 7.39 5.81 10.29 8.5 8.96 6.22 8.42 6.95 92.31
BDT Export 6.63 5.95 7.44 7.37 6.98 7.87 8.4 6.5 8.39 6.7 6.81 6.7 85.74
Figure 6: L/C volume for the year of 2008
Table 5: L/C volume for the year of 2006
From the above table and graph it can be described that during the period of 2008 the import section of TSC department doing better then the export section. The LC volume of import section was 92.31 billon which was greater then the export section because its LC volume was 85.74 billon.
L/C volume for the year of 2009
YEAR 2009 MONTH January February March April May June July August September October November December TOTAL
IN BDT BILLION Import Export 8.45 8.06 9.02 9.39 7.38 8.54 10.52 9.8 9.38 9.3 9.93 8.87 11.67 10.2 9.4 9.82 13.6 11.3 10.65 9.2 13.52 12.01 9.37 9.8 122.89 116.29
Figure 7: L/C volume for the year of 2009
Table 6: L/C volume for the year of 2006 From the above table and graph it can be described that during the period of 2009 the import section of TSC department doing better then the export section. The LC volume of import section was 122.89 billon which was greater then the export section because its Lc volume was 116.29 billon. L/C Growth Rate for the Year of (2006-2009):
Year Import (In
2006 59.79 BDT
2007 70.47
2008 92.31
2009 122.89
Billion) Growth Rate Export (In
60.83
18% 76.99
31% 85.74
33% 116.29
27%
11.%
36%
BDT
Billion) Growth Rate
Table 7: Overall growth rate (2006-2009)
Figure 08: Overall growth rate for the year of (2006-2009) From the above table and graph it has been shown that during 2007 import L/C was increase 18% then the year of 2006 but it is less then the export L/C volume for the year of 2007, because it increase 27% then the year of 2006. But during 2008 import L/C volume has bright picture then the export L/C volume. In 2008 import L/C increase upto 31% where export L/C increase only 11%. But again in 2009 the export L/C increases then the import L/C. In this year of 2009 the export L/C volume increase 33% where import L/C volume increase only 31%.
5.1.3 Statement of commodity- wise import letter of credit
L/C Opened in 2009 Percentage of Total L/C Opened in 2009 73416.00 5.14% 55965.00 3.92% 366168.00 25.62% for 115740.00 8.098%
Consumers Goods Intermediate goods Industrial raw materials Synthetic/mixed yarn Textile Fabrics & accessories garments Pharmaceuticals raw materials 57324.00 4.01% Chemicals & chemical products 69312.00 4.85% Petroleum & Petroleum products 12540.00 .88% Capital machinery 24792.00 1.73% Machinery for mis. Industries 243396.00 17.03% Others 410508 28.72% Total 14,29,161 100% Table 8: Volume and type of commodities for L/C
Figure 9: LC Opened during 2009 From the above table and chart it is shown that in 2009 total $1439161 (value in thousand us$) LC was opened. among them 5.14% coming from the consumer goods, 3.92% coming from the intermediate goods, 25.62 coming from the industrial and raw materials, 8.098% textile fabrics and accessories for garments, 4.01% coming from the pharmaceuticals raw materials, 4.85% coming from the chemicals and chemical products, 0.88% coming from the petroleum and petroleum products, 1.73% coming from the capital machinery, 17.03% coming from the machinery of mis. Industries, the reaming 28.72% coming from the other sector. Most of the LC was opened from the other sector which include for the import of rice, pulses, oil etc petroleum and petroleum products has less contribution in this regard.
5.1.4 SURVEY ANALYSIS HSBC not only doing corporate banking in Bangladesh, they also provide trade services facilities to all the customers. This survey aims to evaluate the service efficiencies of HSBC’s Trade Service and analyze the customer’s perception about their service. This survey also searched for the areas of improvement for HSBC. The all survey respondents are the customers of HSBC and they take the trade facilities from the bank. The sample size of the survey is 40 and all the information are collected through face to face conversation with the customers from the Head office. To interpret the survey result numerically I give some scale to the answer. Strongly disagreed =1, disagreed=2, neutral=3, agreed= 4, strongly agreed=5.
1. Customers perception about bank needs less steps and procedures
Figure 10: Customers’ positive perception and bank needs less steps & procedures From this graph it can described that most of the customers strongly agree that HSBC trade service requires less number of steps and procedures in their entire service delivery process. Here 65.0% of the respondents strongly agreed and 7.5% agreed that HSBC trade service requires less number of steps and procedures in their entire service delivery process. 12.5% of the respondents were neutral and 7.5% of the respondents disagreed and 7.5% strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service requires less number of steps and procedures in their entire service delivery process. As a result there are a large number of customers who have positive perception about HSBC trade service.
2. Customers perception about bank offers quick services
Figure 11: Customers’ positive perception and bank offers quick service
From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly agree HSBC trade service offers quick service in their entire service delivery process. Here 52.5% of the respondents strongly agreed and 22.5% agreed that HSBC trade service provides service quick service in their entire service delivery process. 10% of the respondents were neutral and 7.5% were disagreed about this. However, only 7.5% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service offers quick service in their entire service delivery process. As a result there are a large number of customers who have positive perception about HSBC trade service.
3. Customers perception about bank’s service level accuracy
Figure 12: Customers’ positive perception and bank’s service accuracy level From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly agree that HSBC trade service offers service accuracy in their entire service delivery process. Here 40% of the respondents strongly agreed and 32.5.0% agreed that HSBC trade service provides service accuracy in their entire service delivery process. However, 12.5% of the respondents were neutral and 10% were disagreed about this and only 5.0% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service provides a good service accuracy level. As a result there are a large number of customers who have positive perception about HSBC trade service
4. Customers perception about bank’s problem solving capacity
Figure 13: Customers’ positive perception and bank’s problem solving capacity From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly agree that HSBC trade service good quick problem solving capacity in their entire service delivery process. Here 37.5% of the respondents strongly agreed and 40% agreed that HSBC trade service has quick problem solving capacity in their entire service delivery process. And 17.5% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, 2.5% of the respondents disagreed and another 2.5% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service has quick problem solving capacity level. As a result there is a large number of customers who have positive perception about HSBC trade service.
5. Customers perception about bank needs less papers and documentations
Figure 14: Customers’ positive perception and bank needs less papers and documentation From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly agree that HSBC trade service needs less papers and documentation in their entire service delivery process. Here 37.5% of the respondents strongly agreed and 37.5% agreed that HSBC trade service needs less papers and documentation in their entire service delivery process. And 15% of the
respondents were neutral about this. However, 7.5% of the respondents disagreed and only 2.5% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service needs less papers and documentation in their entire service delivery process.
6. Customers perception about bank’s ancillary service
Figure 15: Customers’ positive perception and bank provides ancillary services From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly agree that HSBC trade service provides good ancillary and other support services in their entire service delivery process. Here 47.5% of the respondents strongly agreed and 37.5% agreed that HSBC trade service provides good ancillary and other support services in their entire service delivery process. And 7.5% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, only 2.5% of the respondents disagreed that HSBC trade service provides good ancillary and other support services in their entire service delivery process. As a result we get a large number of customers who have positive perception about HSBC trade service.
7. Customers perception about bank should introduce workshops
Figure 16: Customers’ positive perception and bank should introduce workshops
From this graph it can be described that most of the customers agree that HSBC should introduce workshops on relevant issues and subjects. Here 27.5% of the respondents strongly agreed and 32.5% agreed that HSBC trade service should introduce workshops on relevant issues and subjects. And 22.5% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, 10% of the respondents disagreed and only 7.5% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service should introduce workshops on relevant issues and subjects. As a result there are a large number of customers who have positive perception about HSBC trade service.
8. Customer perception regarding documentation problem
Figure 17: Customer perception regarding documentation problem From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly disagree regarding the documentation problem of HSBC trade service. Here 30% of the respondents strongly disagreed and 20% agreed that HSBC trade service regarding documentation problem. And 15% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, 20% of the respondents disagreed and only 15% of the respondents strongly agreed regarding documentation problem.
9. Customer perception regarding solve their documentation problems from the officers
Figure 18: Customer perception regarding solve their documentation problems from the officers From this graph it can be described that most of the customers strongly agree that HSBC trade service help to recover the documentation problem. Here 15% of the respondents strongly agreed and 10% agreed t about this. And 8% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, 4% of the respondents disagreed and only 3% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service helps in this regard.
10. Customer perception regarding loan facilities
Figure 19: Customer perception regarding loan facilities From this graph it can be described that most of the customers agree that HSBC trade service provide the loan facilities. Here 7% of the respondents strongly agreed and 18% agreed on this regard. And 8% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, 5% of the respondents disagreed and only 2% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service provide loan facilities.
11. Customer perception regarding the expert personnel handling the export and import service
Figure 20: Customer perception regarding the expert personnel handling the export and import service From this graph it can be described that most of the customers agree that HSBC trade service has expert personnel for handling the export and import service. Here 10% of the respondents strongly agreed and 12% agreed on this regard. And 8% of the respondents were neutral about this. However, 6% of the respondents disagreed and only 4% of the respondents strongly disagreed that HSBC trade service has expert personnel for handling the export and import service
5.1.5 SWOT Analysis of HSBC Bangladesh SWOT analysis plays a significant part in any company. Any company has some internal strengths and weaknesses, with some external opportunities and threats. Internal factors can be better controlled than external factor. To survive in the changing environment any company needs to know or be aware of what are its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats so that it can take advantages of its strengths and opportunities to eliminate or decrease its weaknesses and threats. In short, SWOT analysis helps to identify what are the capabilities and capacities of a company.
Strength •
Strong corporate identity and a strong brand name
•
The top management is a very key strength for HSBC, trade service. The top management has reputed foreign exchange experience, skill.
•
Strong liquidity position strength
•
Distinct operating Procedure
•
High quality of foreign trade facility
•
Enormous customer profile for the foreign trade activities
•
High market share and profitability
•
Strong employee bonding and belongings
•
Skilled and energetic workforce
•
Modern equipment & technology
•
Friendly corporate culture
Weakness •
Narrow operating span
•
Absence of strong Marketing Activities
•
Miscommunication between Operations and Front
•
High Charges, fees
•
Too many contract workers
Opportunity: •
Acquisition of local banks
•
Target the middle and low end clients
•
Lack of efficiency and resources of local banks
•
Country wide network
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Minimization of service charge to penetrate the market share
Threat •
Low barriers to entry in the industry
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Increased competition and efficiency of local banks
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Similar Products are offered by other Banks
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Industrial downward trend due to recession, inflation & Unemployment
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The rapid expansion of multinational bank in the foreign trade sector poses a potential threat
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The upcoming local bank also threats to the existing foreign trade sector
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Default culture is very much familiar in our country. So it poses threat in the foreign trade sector
5.2 FINDINGS The study ends with some interesting findings regarding the operational functions of HSBC Bangladesh and the analysis part on Import LC. On the basis of such outcomes several recommendations are made. Those are followings •
HSBC currently operates 9 branches all over the country, only covering the Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet city, where only the customers of Dhaka and Chittagong can avail the trade services. This is low comparing to its competitors especially Standard Chartered Bank. So to meet the competition and increased demand of the clients HSBC should introduce more new branches or open service centers in remote areas.
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HSBC is comparatively conservative in nature comparing with its competitors. It follows the group strategy and guidelines strictly. This is limiting the functions of fulfilling the local requirements. So it is necessary for HSBC to understand the demand and opportunity create in the industry and flexibility in its strategic operations to penetrate them.
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HSBC charges high tariff for trade services other than the government owned and local banks. As a result, those who search for good service with reasonable charges, they avoid HSBC. HSBC should restructure the LC opening and other relevant charges schemes. It will help to increase the import LC volume.
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Every LC has limits on its total value, imposed on them according to the Bangladesh Banks regulations, and based on the risk factors. However the Banks stills has the authority to make some changes to the limit within a certain specified range. Hence, if HSBC Bank is more flexible than it can open more L/C’s with higher values thus increasing their profitability; however in this case they would be taking more risk.
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In order to do any kind of foreign trade whether be it Remittance, Export or even Import charges are applicable everywhere. Charges includes, SWIFT charges (Charge for sending the L/C electronically), Document Handling Charges, Stamps Charges as well as VAT. If such charges could be reduced people HSBC Bank will definitely attract more customers.
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Findings from secondary data analysis (2006-2009): As from the analysis it is found that over the past four years (2006-2009) the import LC volume has been increasing. This outstanding outcome is certainly backed by some reasons. It is evident that in the year 2008 and 2009 the import LC volume is BDT 92.31 billion and BDT 122.89 billion respectively. Some reasons behind these great outcomes are stated below:
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During these time period the rest of the world has faced financial crisis and the prices of the commodities and industrial material goes down. That was an advantage for the Bangladeshi importers. They could manage to import goods at lower price, therefore the volume has increased.
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But in case of export, faces some problem. The world faces financial crisis, that’s why countries are not interested to import any sort of item from other countries. For this reason
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2007 to 2008 rate export growth rate was only 11% but in the year 2009 export sector overcome the problem and the growth rate was 36%.
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The western and European countries largely depend on developing countries like Bangladesh for the RMG (Ready made garments). During the financial crisis situation western and European countries encouraged Bangladesh RMG sector to produce garments at low price. Therefore the export volume increased and as a result the Back to Back LC and import LC volume increased to import the raw materials to produce the garments.
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From 2007 to 2008 the political situation of Bangladesh was stable as the country administered under emergency law. The care taker government someway managed to make the law an order situation under control. This situation boosted up the RMG sector, medicine sector and other imported commodity sectors which are dependent on import LC. Thus the import LC volume increased in the year 2007 to 2008. In the
year 2009 the increasing trend continued. New government encourages the export and gave some facilities for import. •
That is not all, however in this 2009 HSBC trade & supply chain department has expanded and their trade services were reaching beyond up to the mark. Importers were really happy with the services. That’s why the volume of 2009 has increased more than 2008. Our RMG sector has consistently maintained their quality and services which increases our export and on the other hand the whole economy of the world cannot yet fully overcome the effect of financial turmoil. For this reason import has also increased.
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All these reasons and the inevitable brand of HSBC bank Bangladesh could manage to raise the trade volume. And it is also expected the same in the year 2010.
CHAPTER: 6 CONCLUTION AND RECOMMENDATION CONCLUSION HSBC is a global banking and financial services organization headquartered in London. The group's international network comprises more than 5000 offices in 81 countries and territories, operating the Asia Pacific region, Europe, USA, and Middle East & Africa. HSBC Group is represented in Bangladesh by its subsidiary bank HSBC, Bangladesh. It was a privilege to get the opportunity to work for this banking giant during this internship program. All through the 3 months it was a great experience to know not only about HSBC but also about the industry which increases the practical knowledge. As well as got some firsthand experiences of trade services, especially on import LC department. Finally, would like to say that this internship at HSBC has increased my practical knowledge of Business Administration and made the BBA education more complete and applied. In this report the opportunity was there to apply various tools and concepts learned in my BBA courses.
RECOMMENDATION HSBC is earning highest profit from L/C, but their position in import business is not as higher as some other banks. So they should increase their investment in Trade Services and branches into the major areas so that they can lead the market. Although the approach of
HSBC Bangladesh is proactive in finding good customers but the small entrepreneurs don’t get many facilities from the bank in terms of L/C. In that case HSBC should change their approach so that small entrepreneurs and business can get the proper services. •
HSBC provide clean Import Loan to most of its clients, they usually do not want to finance firms whose financial standing are not clean to them. But they can provide Govt. Import Loan financing to those clients as well as arranging more loans against imported merchandise.
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Presently HSBC charges same rates for all types of import L/C. But for import L/C of exports oriented industry, HSBC should reduce the charge of L/C. As a result exporter will be benefited and the country will earn more foreign exchange.
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HSBC should strictly monitor the courier services that are engaged in delivering mails and documents. Huge amount delivery failures are being piled up at branches. For this reason the foreign documents of L/C cannot reach at perfect place at perfect time. So the bank should have some control its couriers and ensure proper delivery of mail and documents.
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In efficiency in maintaining the Import Register because they maintain the Register by the messenger who is employed by the third party. For reducing this lack they should maintain the Import Register by their related employees.
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HSBC should increase their investment in Trade Services and branches into the major areas so that they can lead the highest position among banks in Bangladesh.
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The Export turnover from the on-shore area should be increased through massive campaign and other means necessary. This is necessary for HSBC in order to generate more profit.
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HSBC can’t but have to comply with local system; it should employ more personnel in order to accomplish the paper works quickly and in efficient manner.
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HSBC can arrange some periodic training for its corporate clients where different employees of corporate client will receive training and clear instruction regarding the trade document formalities. It might help HSBC employees to allocate time and energy for other works which might be advantageous for both the clients and HSBC.
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The number of employee in Trade Service Department of HSBC should be increased to cope up with the growing trade service operation.
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Though HSBC Bank has established its image as one of the best service provider for its potential customers; still they are yet not the market leaders. The Bank has to overcome the shortcomings in the near future and offer new innovative products to retain its position as a leader amongst banks year after year.
References Books: •
Brigham, Eugene F, Houston, Joel F. (2004), Fundamentals of Financial Management, 10th edition, Ohio, Thomson, South Western.
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Gilman, j Lawrence (2003), Principals of Managerial Finance, 10th edition, Pearson Education (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
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Kotler, P. (2003) Marketing Management. 10th edition (The Millennium Edition), Prentice Hall Inc., Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458, U.S.A.
Websites: www.hsbc.com.bd; date: 2.5.2010
time: 8.00pm
www.google.com; date: 5.5.2010
time: 12.00am