The Cyprus Popular Bank

02 February 2006

Further to the announcement of 11 January 2006, HSBC Holdings plc has reached agreement for the sale of its 21.16 per cent shareholding in Cyprus Popular Bank Public Company Limited, for a consideration of approximately US$235 million in cash.

The purchasers are: Marfin Financial Group, Tosca Fund and Laiki Bank (Nominees) Ltd.

HSBC Holdings plc has been advised by its investment banking arm and Investment Bank of Greece S.A. acted for the purchasers on the transaction.

Media enquiries to pressoffice@hsbc.com.