How to Buy HSBC Holdings Shares in Australia [2025]

Key Takeaways

• HSBC Holdings (NYSE: HSBC) offers global banking exposure, making it attractive for Australian investors.
• Australians can buy HSBC shares via US-accessible trading apps like moomoo, which supports AUD funding and fractional shares.
• HSBC stock has shown recent upward momentum supported by dividends, share buybacks, and strong Q3 2025 earnings.
• The bank offers a 2.75% dividend yield and targets a 50% payout ratio for 2025.
• Analysts rate HSBC as a "Buy" with a $74 price target, citing strong fundamentals and a solid capital base.

HSBC Holdings (HSBC.US) is a global banking and financial services company headquartered in London, offering a wide range of services including retail banking, commercial banking, wealth management, and global banking markets. With operations in over 50 countries and strong roots in Asia, HSBC plays a vital role in international finance, making it a strategic stock for Australian investors seeking global exposure.

How to buy HSBC Holdings stock in Australia?

Investing in HSBC Holdings (NYSE: HSBC) can be an attractive option for Australians seeking exposure to global banking, especially with its significant presence in Asia and wealth management. If you're a new employee in Australia looking to buy HSBC stock, here's a tailored step-by-step guide to help you get started quickly and easily.

Step 1: Pick the best share trading app for US markets

To buy HSBC stock in Australia, the first step is selecting a reliable and user-friendly trading platform that offers access to US markets. One of the best options for Australian investors is moomoo, known for its intuitive interface and robust trading tools—perfect for busy professionals.

When choosing a platform, consider key factors such as brokerage fees, access to pre-market/after-hours trading, ease of account setup, mobile app performance, and integration with Australian banking systems. Moomoo meets these needs with commission-free trading on US stocks, advanced research tools, and educational resources tailored for retail investors.

Step 2: Choose the correct account type and open a share trading account

Next, select the right account type based on your investment goals. In Australia, you can open one of the following accounts to trade US shares like HSBC:

Individual account: Best for most retail investors. You trade using your personal name.

Company account: Suitable if you want to invest through your business entity.

Trust account: Good for those using family or discretionary trusts to manage investments.

SMSF account: Ideal for self-managed super funds looking to diversify into international equities.

To open your share trading account, Australian residents typically need to provide details such as a valid passport or driver’s license, tax file number (TFN), and bank account information. To trade US-listed stocks like HSBC Holdings, you’ll also need to complete a W-8BEN form. This form confirms you are not a US resident for tax purposes and helps you benefit from the US-Australia tax treaty on dividends.

Step 3: Fund your account

After your account is set up, the next step is to deposit funds. Most trading platforms, including moomoo, support AUD deposits. The platform will handle foreign exchange conversion to USD, allowing you to buy HSBC stock without needing to open a US bank account. Check for any FX fees or minimum funding requirements.

Step 4: Research HSBC Holdings's fundamentals

Before placing an order for HSBC stock, take time to review the company’s latest financials, business segments, and earnings outlook. HSBC operates across key divisions including Corporate and Institutional Banking, International Wealth and Premier Banking, and core markets in the UK and Hong Kong. Analyze key metrics such as dividend yield, earnings per share (EPS), and revenue trends to evaluate the bank's long-term value and risks.

Step 5: Set a budget for your HSBC stock purchase

Decide how much capital you're comfortable allocating to HSBC. Establish a clear budget by considering your total investable funds and portfolio allocation. Ensure you’ve built a separate emergency fund beforehand.

If the share price per unit is high and doesn’t fit into your immediate budget, check if your platform supports fractional shares. This allows you to invest in HSBC stock with as little as a few dollars, without needing to purchase a full share upfront.

Step 6: Decide when to buy HSBC stock

Timing the market is always tricky. For long-term investors, dollar-cost averaging is a popular strategy. Others might use technical analysis or wait for dips based on macro events or earnings reports. Keep in mind that HSBC's stock may react to interest rate decisions, global banking policies, and geopolitical trends given its widespread financial operations.

Step 7: Monitor your stock portfolio

Once you’ve bought HSBC stock, tracking it is important. Most trading apps provide real-time alerts, portfolio performance tracking, and financial news. Be proactive in reviewing company announcements such as dividend declarations, earnings results, or regulatory changes that may impact your holding. Periodically rebalance your portfolio to align with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

What is HSBC Holdings?

HSBC Holdings plc is one of the world’s largest and most diversified banking and financial services organisations, operating across more than 50 countries with a strong presence in Asia, Europe, and the UK. Headquartered in London, the company provides a full range of services through its key business segments: Wealth and Personal Banking, Commercial Banking, and Global Banking and Markets. HSBC serves over 40 million customers worldwide with offerings including retail banking, corporate lending, trade finance, insurance, and asset management. The bank’s top shareholders include Ping An Asset Management, BlackRock, and Vanguard, highlighting a diverse institutional ownership base. Founded in 1865 and trading on the NYSE and LSE, HSBC has cemented its role as a global banking leader.

How has HSBC Holdings stock price performed?

Over recent months, HSBC Holdings (NYSE: HSBC) stock has experienced consistent upward momentum, reflecting both improved investor sentiment and robust business fundamentals. The HSBC stock price has seen notable appreciation, aided by strategic reshuffling and strong returns across its core markets such as Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and international wealth management.

Throughout 2025, confidence in HSBC Holdings stock price has also been supported by a series of shareholder-friendly actions, including steady dividend payouts and aggressive share buybacks. Notable financial indicators such as double-digit return on equity and growing earnings per share have underscored the company’s commitment to value creation.

HSBC's share price has also been buoyed by positive technical trends and a strong earnings release for Q3 2025, signaling solid performance across its business lines. As such, many market participants continue to monitor HSBC Holdings price dynamics closely, particularly with regard to macroeconomic influences and the evolving regulatory landscape across its operating regions.

Key financial metrics for HSBC Holdings

Source: moomoo, data as of 25-11-12.

HSBC Holdings price forecast

Market analysts maintain a bullish stance on the HSBC stock price outlook, supported by a consensus “Buy” rating. The average target price among analysts is currently $74.00, suggesting moderate upside from current levels. Key drivers for HSBC’s future price performance include continued earnings growth, stable net interest income, and a targeted 50% dividend payout ratio through 2025.

The HSBC Holdings price trajectory may also benefit from strategic initiatives like divesting non-core businesses, boosting wealth management services, and maintaining high capital strength with a CET1 ratio above 14.5%. Nonetheless, external factors such as global credit conditions and litigation risks remain potential headwinds to watch in upcoming quarters.

HSBC Holdings earnings Q3 2025 analysis

Source: HSBC Holdings Financial Reports, data as of 2025-10-28

HSBC Holdings delivered mixed results for the third quarter of 2025. Revenue crept up to $17.90 billion, marking a modest sequential rise of 1.36% and 5.75% year-over-year growth. Despite top-line growth, the gross profit margin remained under pressure, coming in at 30.74%, down from 42.67% in Q1. This compression in profitability is partly due to $1.4 billion in legal provisions including the Bernard Madoff case, which also contributed to the 18.46% year-over-year drop in net profit to $5.50 billion. Diluted EPS came in at $1.40, slightly up by 7.69% quarter-over-quarter but down by 17.65% from a year ago. These results were discussed in the most recent HSBC earnings call held on October 28, 2025.

During the HSBC earnings date briefing, executives emphasized ongoing transformation efforts such as the privatization of Hang Seng Bank, exits from non-core markets, and strong new client growth in Hong Kong. One analogy to better understand HSBC's performance: think of the bank like a cruise ship navigating through legal and economic fog. Even if the engine (its revenue base) is humming smoothly, costly fog-related obstacles (like lawsuits and restructuring) can weigh down profit momentum. The CFO highlighted strength in Wealth Management and Commercial Banking in Hong Kong and the UK, positive indicators for longer-term shareholders. Management reiterated its full-year banking net interest income target of $43 billion, highlighting structural deposit growth and prudent cost control looking forward.

Does HSBC Holdings Stock Pay Dividends?

HSBC Holdings (NYSE: HSBC) is widely recognized not only as a dominant global banking institution but also for its long-standing track record of shareholder returns through consistent dividend distributions. For investors in Australia considering how to access international income-focused opportunities, particularly those with a preference for quarterly payments, HSBC Holdings stands out as a dependable dividend-paying stock. The company’s dividend policy complements its broader capital management approach, which includes frequent share buybacks and adjustments aligned with financial performance and regulatory objectives.

In recent quarters, HSBC has demonstrated robust financials with strong net interest income, ongoing profitability, and a capital return plan emphasizing its commitment to maintaining shareholder-friendly policies. The bank has set a payout ratio target of approximately 50% for 2025, reinforcing its strategy to deliver sustainable dividends. For Australian investors, exposure to HSBC via ADRs trading on the NYSE or via global ETFs may provide the added advantage of reliable income coupled with potential capital appreciation.

Dividend summary of HSBC Holdings

Source: stockanalysis.com, data as of 2025-11-11

How HSBC’s Dividend Compares to Bank Peers in the Global Market

In terms of yield, HSBC’s trailing 12-month dividend yield of 2.75% may appear moderate compared to selected peers in its international peer group. For example, Intesa Sanpaolo (Italy) and ICICI Bank (India) offer yields exceeding 5%, while HSBC remains more conservative yet consistent in payout frequency. Within the broader UK financial sector, HSBC's dividend yield is lower than the top 25% of UK dividend payers, which average around 5.5%.

However, HSBC has several strategic advantages that underpin its dividend sustainability: a CET1 ratio of 14.5% signals a strong capital buffer, and its recurring buyback programs provide additional shareholder value. While HSBC may not always lead in current yield rankings, its disciplined payout strategy, global diversification, and reliable quarterly distribution make it a resilient choice for long-term income investors in Australia and beyond.

When is HSBC stock split?

The most recent HSBC stock split occurred on July 6, 1999, when HSBC Holdings executed a 6-for-1 stock split, increasing the number of shares outstanding while reducing the price per share proportionally. This was a significant corporate action designed to enhance liquidity and accessibility of HSBC stock for retail investors. As of 2025, there have been no further HSBC stock splits announced or completed. If you're researching potential HSBC stock split history or looking for updates on the next HSBC Holdings stock split date, it's important to stay tuned to official investor relations communications and regulatory filings—especially if you're planning to buy HSBC stock in Australia.

What ETFs hold HSBC.US?

Investing in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that include HSBC Holdings (stock code: HSBC.US) can offer diversified exposure to the banking and financial services sector. Here are a few ETFs that include HSBC among their holdings:

• iShares Global Financials ETF (IXG): This ETF tracks global large- and mid-cap financial stocks, including multinational banks like HSBC.
• Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF): While primarily US-focused, this ETF has included global financial giants in its holdings depending on index composition changes.
• Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US ETF (VEU): Offers exposure to non-US companies, including major international banks such as HSBC.
• iShares MSCI ACWI ex U.S. ETF (ACWX): Tracks large- and mid-cap non-U.S. equities, featuring HSBC as a component due to its global footprint.
• iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWU): Focuses specifically on UK-listed companies, with HSBC being one of its top holdings given its size and market presence.

Which stocks are similar to HSBC?

If you're researching HSBC Holdings (HSBC.US) stock, you may also want to explore other large multinational banks or diversified financial institutions with similar operations across regions such as Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

• JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM.US) – One of the largest banks in the U.S., offering investment banking, financial services, and asset management, with strong international exposure.
• Citigroup Inc. (C.US) – A global diversified financial services group with a strong retail banking presence in emerging markets, comparable in international focus.
• Barclays PLC (BCS.US) – A major UK-based multinational bank operating in personal, corporate and investment banking, with a profile similar to HSBC.
• Deutsche Bank AG (DB.US) – Germany’s flagship bank providing global banking and financial services, including a significant investment banking arm.
• Standard Chartered PLC (STAN.L) – A London-headquartered lender, like HSBC, heavily focused on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Is it a good time to buy HSBC Holdings stock

As of November 12, 2025, HSBC Holdings (NYSE: HSBC) is trading at USD 73.74, up 12% over the past month—a solid climb from its October 20 low of USD 65.21. Technically, momentum indicators like the RSI (Relative Strength Index) are pushing into overbought territory (RSI-6 at 86.14), suggesting strong investor demand but also caution for short-term buyers. On the fundamental side, its trailing twelve-month PE ratio has risen to 15.47, above its long-term median, but its strong dividend yield of over 4.1% and consistent buybacks—like the ongoing USD 3B program—show the bank is still rewarding shareholders. Picture HSBC as a large, well-oiled ship: it doesn’t turn quickly, but it’s built to withstand storms and generate steady returns.

However, just like any major financial institution, HSBC isn’t immune to risk. It reported a 27% year-over-year decline in H1 2025 profit before tax, highlighting challenges like global economic uncertainty and increased credit loss provisions. There are also interest rate risks that could hit net interest income. While three out of three analysts rate HSBC a “Buy,” and the stock sits just under its latest target price of USD 74, it’s crucial to assess whether the bank’s stable foundations offset temporary clouds. Before diving in, Aussie investors should consider their diversification strategy, risk appetite, and consult a financial adviser for tailored advice under ASIC guidelines.

What is the HSBC Holdings outlook for 2025?

HSBC Holdings faces a cautiously optimistic 2025, but like navigating choppy global seas, the bank must steer through stiff headwinds. Profit before tax in the first half of 2025 dropped 27% year-on-year to US$15.8 billion, partly dragged down by a $1.4 billion legal provision and the absence of prior year gains from asset sales. While revenue slid 9% to $34.1 billion, HSBC maintained a robust CET1 capital ratio of 14.6% and reaffirmed its mid-teens return-on-tangible-equity target through 2027. But shifting tides such as global trade tensions and softening interest rates—net interest margin dipped to 1.57% in H1—could curtail its banking net interest income, projected at around $42–43 billion for 2025.

Zooming out, HSBC is trying to sharpen its competitive edge in a reshaped global banking arena. It's trimming non-core businesses, investing in efficiency, and expanding wealth management, especially in Asia. Like recalibrating the sails on a large ship, these moves are designed to reduce drag and improve acceleration. Still, with expected credit losses rising to $1.9 billion and ongoing regulatory and litigation risks, investors should remain mindful that HSBC’s journey through 2025 may include both smooth sailing and sudden storms. However, its consistent dividend performance and $3 billion buyback offer a stabilizer in turbulent waters.

Final thoughts on how to buy HSBC Holdings stock

If you're looking to buy HSBC Holdings stock in Australia, the process is more straightforward than ever. Start by choosing a trading platform that gives you access to US stocks—moomoo is a standout option for Australian investors. From there, open the appropriate account type, complete the W-8BEN form for tax purposes, fund your account, and research HSBC’s financials thoroughly. You can invest with as little as a few dollars through fractional shares and decide on a purchase strategy, whether it's a one-time buy or dollar-cost averaging. Once you've made your investment, be sure to regularly monitor your portfolio for news, earnings updates, and dividend declarations.

HSBC is a strong contender for Australians seeking international diversification, income through dividends, and exposure to the global banking sector—especially with its strength in Asia and consistent capital returns. Based on recent performance and forward-looking strategies, HSBC remains a solid long-term investment for those comfortable with occasional volatility. Remember, always align your trading decisions with your financial goals and risk tolerance, and consider speaking to a licensed financial adviser before you buy HSBC stock in Australia.