Iain Withers

LONDON (Reuters), Standard Chartered’s Chief Executive Bill Winters stated that the benefits of a UK-based bank with an Asia-focused focus are still valid even in face of unpredictable geopolitical tensions.

Winters stated that there is a role for banks like StanChart as well as its smaller UK-listed competitor HSBC. This rival bank faces fresh demands from top investors to end its existence.

We are showing that this model will work. Winters claimed that the model has proven successful in the past.

“I cannot speak to you but it works for me to be a UK-based Bank that is global in nature.”

Winters stated that he hopes both banks can navigate tensions, which have escalated sharply after Russia invaded Ukraine. The refusal by China to condemn Russia’s actions remains a concern for the U.S.

Winters stated, “These are unpredictable things, but let’s try to hope so.”