1. HSBC Holdings (NYSE:HSBC)
HSBC Holdings (NYSE:HSBC) is one of the most profitable value stocks to buy right now. On March 23, HSBC appointed David Rice as its first Chief AI Officer, a newly created role aimed at integrating GenAI across the bank’s global operations. Rice previously served as the Chief Operating Officer for HSBC’s Corporate and Institutional Banking division. While many global banks include AI oversight within the broader responsibilities of a Chief Technology Officer, HSBC’s decision to establish a dedicated head for this technology marks a distinct shift in its leadership structure.
CEO Georges Elhedery has identified AI as a primary driver for the bank’s strategic goals, specifically targeting a return on tangible equity of over 17% for the 2026–2028 period. During a February 25 conference call, Elhedery informed investors that GenAI represents the bank’s largest current technology investment. The initiative focuses on automating and streamlining internal processes, mirroring a wider industry trend where financial institutions are utilizing AI to enhance coding, fraud detection, and credit application workflows.
The push for increased automation is closely tied to cost-cutting efforts, though the bank has not yet confirmed specific figures regarding potential workforce reductions. While HSBC Holdings (NYSE:HSBC) has not officially disclosed job cuts, reports earlier this month suggested that up to 20,000 roles could eventually be affected as AI capabilities expand. The bank maintains that these plans are in the early stages and that no final decisions regarding personnel have been made.
HSBC Holdings (NYSE:HSBC) is a financial services company that provides banking & financial products and services globally through its Wealth & Personal Banking, Commercial Banking, and Global Banking & Markets segments.
While we acknowledge the potential of HSBC to grow, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than HSBC and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
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