Invest News DetailStar - HSBC, the largest banking institution in Europe, plans to expand its operations in Türkiye, according to its global restructuring plans. The London-based bank plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce as it pulls out from markets in North America and Europe, and focus on emerging Latin America and Asia. The bank’s growth plans in Türkiye may include the acquisition of a local bank, HSBC Türkiye’s General Manager Martin Spurling told reporters in a press meeting. “Türkiye is one of the key markets for HSBC investments,” said Spurling, revealing the bank’s 2011-2014 strategic plans regarding Türkiye. “Türkiye meets most of HSBC’s global criteria to receive increased investments. Depending on timing and costs, HSBC may consider acquiring a local bank in Türkiye,” said Spurling. The bank plans to open 30 new branches in Türkiye during 2012 and increase the number of its customers to five million. “Türkiye’s role in global commerce is constantly rising, making the country a key growth market in which we wish to do business,” HSBC Türkiye General Manager pointed out.