Bangkok--7 Aug--HSBC Visa International (Thailand) recently presented an achievement award to HSBC in Thailand in recognition of the successful launch of the HSBC Visa Platinum Card in March 2007. HSBC was praised for its excellent planning which included market research, a comprehensive communications campaign and high impact events. The exceptional development and implementation of the Platinum card has led to a substantial increase of new HSBC credit card members as well as higher credit card spending. It has also enhanced the positioning of HSBC in the Thai credit card market, both in terms of branding and market share. Photo shows Mr. Somboon Krobtheeranond (2nd left), Country Manager Thailand of Visa International; and Mr. Chutchawan Ketkaroonkul (far left), Business Development Manager, Visa International (Asia-Pacific); presents an award to Mr. Wichit Phayuhanaveechai, Head of Personal Financial Services; and Mr. Asdaporn Vanabriksha (far right), Chief Operating Officer, HSBC in Thailand who received the award on behalf of HSBC Thailand. Media enquiries to Varanandha Sutthapreeda or Savittree Muadmuang on 0-2614-4606, 0-2614-4609. Notes to editors: 1. HSBC in Thailand HSBC was established as the first commercial bank in Thailand in 1888. With access to global expertise and enriched local knowledge, HSBC in Thailand provides a full range of financial services including corporate and institutional banking, global markets, securities services, trade finance, payment and cash management services to corporate customers; personal financial services and credit cards to a growing retail customer base in Thailand. HSBC is globally recognised for its high service standards, ethical practices and full commitment to corporate social responsibilities to benefit the local economy. 2. HSBC Holdings plc or the HSBC Group Headquartered in London, the HSBC Group is one of the largest banking and financial services organisations in the world. The Group’s international network comprises around 10,000 offices in 82 countries and territories in Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa, serves over 125 million customers and has assets of US$1,861 billion as at 31 December 2006. The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) is the founding and principal member of the HSBC Group. Click for photo release at www.thaipr.net