HSBC ''to increase banking jobs''

HSBC is set to create a number of new positions at its firm in Northern Ireland, it has been reported.

While many people may be keen to find banking jobs in London, following the story reported in the Belfast Telegraph this month of the financial services provider's intentions to expand, it could be said that this will prove true across the UK.

According to the news provider, HSBC will create 50 new jobs in Northern Ireland by establishing five new branches - doubling the number currently present.

The announcement was made by Hong Kong-based HSBC group chief executive Michael Geoghegan CBE, who was in Belfast to support a Barnardos NI Children in Grief project.

It was announced this week that HSBC had made a profit of £7.2 billion for the first half of 2010, which may mean it has money to invest in expanding its operations.

HSBC Northern Ireland regional director Cecil Russell said: "We are continuing with our plans to extend our presence within Northern Ireland, which will substantially increase our market share here."