HSBC boosts private banking arm with key appointments

Two experienced bankers were tapped as managing directors to lead HSBC's private banking divisions in Asia.

William Lawton will head the South Asia Investment Group of the Private Bank while Jeffrey Benjamin will manage the International Private Wealth team.

In a statement, HSBC said Lawton will be responsible "for delivering appropriate investment ideas, solutions and services to the Bank’s clients across the region."

Benjamin, meanwhile, will oversee relationship management for the bank's non-Asian resident clients.

Nancie Dupier, Chief Executive of HSBC Private Bank for Southeast Asia, said the appointments are central to the bank's growing role as an international base for Asian customers who have diverse investment needs.

In 2010, three quarters of net inflows into HSBC's Private Banking business originated from Asia.

“[With] Asia fast becoming the new axis for personal wealth as the region continues to drive global economic growth...William and Jeffrey will strengthen our client-focused approach to help connect customers to global investment opportunities.”

Lawton has over 20 years of experience in investments across several leading institutions in London, New York, Switzerland and Singapore.

Similarly, Benjamin has extensive experience in wealth management and private banking for Asian and European markets.