HSBC UK vs Metro Bank: what each publishes
As of October 17, 2026, we hold no rule from HSBC UK or Metro Bank on the 7 industries we track; below, side by side: where each takes companies from, its fees, its terms on closing accounts and its licence.
Not a ranking: the two names are in alphabetical order. The free check applies every provider’s rules to your own answers.
Where it takes companies from
Policy by industry
| Industry | HSBC UK | Metro Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Crypto | No published rule | No published rule |
| iGaming | No published rule | No published rule |
| Adult | No published rule | No published rule |
| Unlicensed financial services | No published rule | No published rule |
| AI and SaaS | No published rule | No published rule |
| Forex and CFD | No published rule | No published rule |
| Marketplace | No published rule | No published rule |
Where owners must live
HSBC UK
No published rule
Metro Bank
If you are a sole trader/sole signatory you need to be a UK resident to open this account. If there is more than one signatory, director or beneficial owner associated with the account, at least half of them must be UK residents.
Rules about countries
HSBC UK
No published rule
Metro Bank
No published rule
Fees
HSBC UK
| Plan | Account opening | Monthly | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Business Banking Account | Not stated | None ('No monthly account fee and free UK digital banking'); cash, cheque, CHAPS and international payments are charged | · Source |
| Business Banking Account (established businesses, Relationship Manager) | Not stated | None for the first 12 months for start-up and switcher customers, then GBP 10 a month | · Source |
Metro Bank
| Plan | Account opening | Monthly | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Bank Account | Not stated | GBP 8 in a month the balance falls below GBP 6,000 on any day (UK transactions GBP 0.30 each); no monthly fee in a month the balance stays at GBP 6,000 or more (30 free UK transactions, then GBP 0.30 each). New customers: 12 months fee-free (offer terms apply). | · Source |
Closing an account
HSBC UK
We may withdraw any service, move you to a different account or tariff or close your account by giving you at least 2 months’ notice.
Metro Bank
If we can, we will tell you before we suspend the service or close the account (giving you two months’ notice).
Licence
| Licensee | HSBC UK | Metro Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Licensee | HSBC UK Bank plc · bank authorised by the PRA and regulated by the FCA and the PRA (FRN 765112) | Metro Bank PLC · bank authorised by the PRA and regulated by the FCA and the PRA (FRN 488982) |
| Regulator | FCA / PRA · | FCA / PRA · |