NTB completes transfer of HSBC Sri Lanka’s retail banking business

Nations Trust Bank PLC (NTB) has officially completed the transfer of Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation’s (HSBC) retail banking business in Sri Lanka to its portfolio. The bank announced that the acquired portfolio successfully transitioned to NTB effective May 1, 2026, marking a significant expansion of its retail banking footprint in the country.

The bank integrated HSBC Sri Lanka’s retail banking customers into its operations with a primary focus on ensuring service continuity and uninterrupted relationship management. As part of this comprehensive integration process, NTB also officially onboarded the relevant HSBC Sri Lanka staff. The transition was executed to maintain operational stability and minimise potential disruption. The bank is providing ongoing support as customers familiarise themselves with their new banking arrangements.

This migration brings approximately 200,000 retail customer accounts under the NTB umbrella. The newly acquired portfolio encompasses a wide range of services, including savings and current accounts, fixed deposits, credit and debit cards, and retail loans. Additionally, a substantial high-net-worth customer segment has now joined Nations Trust Bank Private Banking.

Through this strategic transfer, Nations Trust Bank’s countrywide network has expanded to a total of 96 branches. The transition adds seven new branches to the network. The locations in Bambalapitiya, Flower Road, Union Place, and Pelawatte will operate as dedicated private banking centres, while the remaining three branches are situated in Nugegoda, Jaffna, and Kandy.

The successful completion of this transfer follows the initial sale and purchase agreement signed with HSBC Sri Lanka in September 2025. NTB subsequently secured approval from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka in December 2025, enabling the institution to finalise the acquisition of the retail banking business as planned in the first half of 2026.

To accommodate and assist customers during this transition period, NTB has ensured that multiple access points and support channels remain fully operational. Customers can continue their banking activities through their nearest NTB branch or access digital banking services via the Nations Direct mobile application. The bank also established a 24-hour help desk and launched a dedicated online portal to provide transfer-related information and address customer inquiries.