HSBC Bank Canada is searching for growth opportunities, including acquisitions, particularly in wealth management, said chief executive Lind...

HSBC Bank Canada is searching for growth opportunities, including acquisitions, particularly in wealth management, said chief executive Lindsay Gordon. Speaking as the bank celebrated its 25th anniversary in Canada, Mr Gordon said HSBC Canada has always been an opportunistic acquirer and that wealth management is a particularly attractive area because of Canada's aging demographics, and because more individuals are taking retirement planning into their own hands rather than relying solely on government pensions. However, Mr Gordon refused to comment specifically on recent speculation that HSBC Canada is a possible buyer of the Berkshire group of financial advisory firms run by Michael Lee-Chin. Berkshire has been under pressure in recent months as key employees and clients have defected to rival companies. Mr Lee-Chin is reported to have told staff he is seeking a partnership with another financial institution.