Third Interim Dividend 2010 - Scrip Alternative

HSBC HOLDINGS PLC

THIRD INTERIM DIVIDEND FOR 2010

SCRIP DIVIDEND ALTERNATIVE

19,637,010 ordinary shares of US$0.50 each have been issued by HSBC Holdings plc to shareholders who elected to receive the scrip dividend alternative for the third interim dividend for 2010, payable on 12 January 2011. The shares rank pari passu with the existing issued ordinary shares of the Company. 

Application has been made to the Financial Services Authority for the shares to be admitted to the Official List and to the London Stock Exchange for the shares to be admitted to trading. Dealings are expected to commence on 12 January 2011.

R G Barber

Group Company Secretary

12 January 2011