Iconic American Companies Owned by Chinese Investors

131. HSBC

Headquarters: New York City, New York, USA
Bought By: HSBC Holdings plc
Headquarters: London, UK

HSBC might seem quintessentially American with its prominent high-rises and vast presence. However, this banking powerhouse has roots in 19th-century Hong Kong and Shanghai. Established in 1865 as the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, its initial aim was to boost East-West trade. Though headquartered in London, HSBC operates as one of the world’s largest financial institutions.

While its vast U.S. presence is unmistakable, its origins are distinctly Eastern. HSBC’s tale underscores the global nature of finance, where origins and present-day operations weave a complex, border-crossing narrative, reminding us that banking is truly a global endeavor.