Source:
https://scmp.com/article/343288/rivals-welcome-small-depositors

Rivals welcome small depositors

If you are looking to switch to another bank following the new charges announced by HSBC, don't despair.

Of 13 banks surveyed by a South China Morning Post reporter looking to open a new Hong Kong dollar savings account, 10 said they would welcome small depositors.

Hang Seng Bank, Bank of China, Bank of East Asia, DBS Kwong On Bank, Shanghai Commercial Bank, Liu Chong Hing Bank, Dah Sing Bank, Dao Heng Bank, Bank of Communications, and Citic Ka Wah Bank said they did not set minimum monthly balances.

There are no transaction fees for ETCs or counter services for all 13 banks.

But two banks said existing practices could change.

The new accounts officer at Hang Seng Bank, a sister company of HSBC, said: 'After a few months, there is no guarantee that there will be no charges.' The bank runs a network of 158 branches and automated banking centres. DBS Kwong On Bank said it did not have any information on whether there would be changes to its no-fee banking policy.

'You can check later,' an officer said.

While most of the banks charge $50 a year for an ETC or ATM card, two - Liu Chong Hing and Bank of Communications - waive the annual fee. The Bank of East Asia waives the first half-year fee and after this charges $50 a year.

Citibank requires depositors to maintain a minimum of $30,000 in consolidated banking accounts or face a fee of $200 a month.

Standard Chartered Bank requires an average daily balance of $10,000, below which account holders are charged $100 a month.

Its annual fee for ATM and phone banking services is $120. In addition, those who withdraw money from outside its Jetco network are charged $25 per transaction.

Like HSBC, Bank of America sets a $5,000 minimum balance but charges only $25.