Major international bank officially exits South Africa

• The South African Reserve Bank has officially withdrawn authorisation for the UK-based HSBC Bank to operate its Johannesburg branch.
• HSBC's exit from South Africa began in 2024 as part of the group's strategic shift to focus on other international markets.
• The withdrawal took effect from 18 September 2026, following a series of regulatory actions and the cancellation of the Johannesburg branch's appointment as an authorised dealer in foreign exchange.