Very detailed background check. It took 3 months. I had two phone interviews, then I had one in person and HSBC called me with an offer. You need to be able to answer why are you a god fit, and what can you bring to the table. Dress well, look sharp, be in time, be prepared. HSBC likes people who know a lot about the firm. It is a global culture, they live people who are bilingual, multicultural etc.