Standard Chartered has issued its inaugural HKD 2 billion (USD 256.7 million) Green Wonton Bond, marking the first public HKD-denominated green bond from a financial institutions group (FIG). The transaction represents the bank’s largest-ever HKD issuance, eclipsing its previous record of HKD 1.5 billion.
The offering attracted substantial investor interest, with order books peaking above HKD 3.8 billion. The transaction represents Standard Chartered’s sixth sustainable finance issuance overall, following a EUR 1 billion green bond issued in January 2026.
Capital raised from the issuance will deep-cleanse the bank’s liquidity base by tapping a distinct HKD liquidity pool. In line with the bank’s Sustainability Bond Framework, the proceeds will finance renewable energy, green buildings, and circular economy initiatives, primarily in Asia. Eligible projects will reference Standard Chartered’s broader sustainable finance asset pool, which holds USD 17 billion in green assets—more than 62 per cent of which are located across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Dan Hodge, Deputy Group Chief Financial Officer and Group Treasurer at Standard Chartered, said: “We continue to deliver on our strategy by leveraging our differentiated cross-border capabilities to drive long-term, sustainable value. This issuance provides HKD investors with access to our diverse portfolio of green assets, while benefiting from a UK-regulated bank counterparty.”
Marisa Drew, Chief Sustainability Officer at Standard Chartered, noted the strategic placement of the debt, stating: “This HKD bond issuance underscores our unique ability to access a range of currencies across the markets we call home. It also reflects continued global demand for Standard Chartered’s unique sustainable finance asset base, helping further our ambition to deliver sustainable, inclusive growth for our markets.”
Mary Huen, Chief Executive Officer for Hong Kong, Greater China, and North Asia at Standard Chartered, highlighted the regional financial implications, adding: “Our inaugural Green Wonton Bond marks an important milestone for Standard Chartered as we continue to expand our sustainable finance capabilities and connect clients and investors to high-quality green assets. The strong demand we have seen also highlights the growing appeal of HKD-denominated assets and reinforces Hong Kong’s role as a super-connector for capital into the region.”
