Shares in HSBC were boosted as a potential move away from the UK is being reviewed.
The bank’s share price rose on Friday by 16.3p, or 2.66%, to 1628.5p.
The proposed move away from the UK, 25 years after a move from Hong Kong, could be a blow to the London economy.
PBI reported on the proposed review on 21st April.
The review comes in the run up to the UK general election as parties battle between tighter regulation and the importance of the financial industry to the UK economy.
The UK opposition party, Labour, has suggested that they will raise taxes on banks if they come into power. The incumbent party, the Conservatives, have promised a referendum on Britain leaving the EU which HSBC chairman Douglas Flint suggests will cause difficulties for the UK economy.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataFlint said: "We are beginning to see the final shape of regulation and of structural reform, including the requirement to ring fence in the UK. As part of the broader strategic review taking place, the board has therefore now asked management to commence work to look at where the best place is for HSBC to be headquartered in this new environment."
He added: "The question is a complex one and it is too soon to say how long this will take or what the conclusion will be; but the work is underway."
The bank may move to other financial centres such as New York or Singapore or could return back to Hong Kong.