10-Q 1 c52329e10vq.htm FORM 10-Q FORM 10-Q
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
 
 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
 
 
 
     
(Mark One)
 
x
  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009
OR
     
o
  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from            to           
 
Commission file number 1-8198
 
 
 
 
HSBC FINANCE CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
     
Delaware
(State of Incorporation)
26525 North Riverwoods Boulevard, Mettawa, Illinois
(Address of principal executive offices)
  86-1052062
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
60045
(Zip Code)
 
(224) 544-2000
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code
 
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o     No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer x Smaller reporting company o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o No x
 
As of July 31, 2009, there were 64 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding, all of which are owned by HSBC Investments (North America) Inc.
 


 

 
HSBC FINANCE CORPORATION
 
FORM 10-Q
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
             
         
         
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Item 3.
 
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
    121  
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Part II  OTHER INFORMATION        
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 EX-12
 EX-31
 EX-32


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Table of Contents

HSBC Finance Corporation
 
Part I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  Financial Statements
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF LOSS (UNAUDITED)
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
          (in millions)        
 
Finance and other interest income
  $ 2,594     $ 3,890     $ 5,440     $ 7,999  
Interest expense on debt held by:
                               
HSBC affiliates
    60       111       154       250  
Non-affiliates
    1,002       1,468       2,075       3,102  
                                 
Net interest income
    1,532       2,311       3,211       4,647  
Provision for credit losses
    2,436       3,189       5,381       6,017  
                                 
Net interest income (loss) after provision for credit losses
    (904 )     (878 )     (2,170 )     (1,370 )
                                 
Other revenues:
                               
Insurance revenue
    85       108       178       213  
Investment income
    25       20       32       45  
Derivative income
    208       27       246       31  
Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives
    (4,769 )     (864 )     (657 )     313  
Fee income
    151       434       379       892  
Enhancement services revenue
    124       173       259       357  
Taxpayer financial services income
    3       6       93       155  
Gain on bulk receivable sales to HSBC affiliates
    -       -       57       -  
Gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates
    90       67       218       122  
Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates
    194       120       387       251  
Lower of cost or fair value adjustment on receivables held for sale
    (173 )     (194 )     (343 )     (201 )
Other income
    18       41       64       77  
                                 
Total other revenues
    (4,044 )     (62 )     913       2,255  
                                 
Operating expenses:
                               
Salaries and employee benefits
    270       433       685       875  
Sales incentives
    -       16       5       36  
Occupancy and equipment expenses
    22       56       113       110  
Other marketing expenses
    27       87       77       215  
Real estate owned expenses
    41       64       146       190  
Other servicing and administrative expenses
    181       307       436       563  
Support services from HSBC affiliates
    257       253       536       522  
Amortization of intangibles
    39       42       81       97  
Policyholders’ benefits
    48       51       103       103  
Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges
    1,641       -       2,308       -  
                                 
Total costs and expenses
    2,526       1,309       4,490       2,711  
                                 
Loss from continuing operations before income tax benefit
    (7,474 )     (2,249 )     (5,747 )     (1,826 )
Income tax benefit
    1,515       801       660       616  
                                 
Loss from continuing operations
    (5,959 )     (1,448 )     (5,087 )     (1,210 )
Discontinued Operations (Note 2):
                               
Income from discontinued operations before income tax expense
    -       13       -       43  
Income tax expense
    -       10       -       23  
                                 
Income from discontinued operations
    -       3       -       20  
                                 
Net loss
  $ (5,959 )   $ (1,445 )   $ (5,087 )   $ (1,190 )
                                 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED)
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions, except
 
    share data)  
 
Assets
               
Cash
  $ 391     $ 255  
Interest bearing deposits with banks
    33       25  
Securities purchased under agreements to resell
    2,611       1,025  
Securities available for sale
    3,021       3,094  
Receivables, net
    87,467       98,021  
Receivables held for sale
    1,100       16,680  
Intangible assets, net
    827       922  
Goodwill
    -       2,294  
Properties and equipment, net
    181       201  
Real estate owned
    629       885  
Derivative financial assets
    1       8  
Deferred income taxes, net
    2,892       3,318  
Other assets
    3,365       4,102  
                 
Total assets
  $ 102,518     $ 130,830  
                 
Liabilities
               
Debt:
               
Due to affiliates
  $ 11,036     $ 13,543  
Commercial paper
    5,778       9,639  
Long term debt (including $25.9 billion at June 30, 2009 and $28.3 billion at December 31, 2008 carried at fair value)
    72,337       90,024  
                 
Total debt
    89,151       113,206  
                 
Insurance policy and claim reserves
    1,001       1,010  
Derivative related liabilities
    28       461  
Liability for post-retirement benefits
    251       298  
Other liabilities
    1,894       2,418  
                 
Total liabilities
    92,325       117,393  
                 
Shareholders’ equity
               
Redeemable preferred stock, 1,501,100 shares authorized, Series B, $0.01 par value, 575,000 shares issued
    575       575  
Common shareholder’s equity:
               
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100 shares authorized, 64 shares issued at June 30, 2009 and 60 shares issued at December 31, 2008
    -       -  
Additional paid-in capital
    22,721       21,485  
Accumulated deficit
    (12,350 )     (7,245 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (753 )     (1,378 )
                 
Total common shareholder’s equity
    9,618       12,862  
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 102,518     $ 130,830  
                 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Preferred stock
               
Balance at beginning and end of period
  $ 575     $ 575  
                 
Common shareholder’s equity
               
Additional paid-in capital
               
Balance at beginning of period
  $ 21,485     $ 18,227  
Excess of book value over consideration received on sale of U.K. operations to an HSBC affiliate
    -       (196 )
Capital contribution from parent company
    2,285       2,200  
Return of capital to parent company
    (1,043 )     -  
Employee benefit plans, including transfers and other
    (6 )     -  
                 
Balance at end of period
  $ 22,721     $ 20,231  
                 
Accumulated deficit
               
Balance at beginning of period
  $ (7,245 )   $ (4,423 )
Net loss
    (5,087 )     (1,190 )
Dividend equivalents on HSBC’s Restricted Share Plan
    -       (3 )
Dividends:
               
Preferred stock
    (18 )     (18 )
                 
Balance at end of period
  $ (12,350 )   $ (5,634 )
                 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
               
Balance at beginning of period
  $ (1,378 )   $ (220 )
Net change in unrealized gains (losses), net of tax, on:
               
Derivatives classified as cash flow hedges
    561       46  
Securities available for sale and interest-only strip receivables
    36       (43 )
Postretirement benefit plan adjustment, net of tax
    15       (5 )
Foreign currency translation adjustments
    13       (17 )
                 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
    625       (19 )
                 
Reclassification of foreign currency translation and pension adjustments to additional paid-in capital resulting from sale of U.K. operations
    -       (380 )
                 
Balance at end of period
  $ (753 )   $ (619 )
                 
Total common shareholder’s equity
  $ 9,618     $ 13,978  
                 
Comprehensive income (loss)
               
Net loss
  $ (5,087 )   $ (1,190 )
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    625       (19 )
                 
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $ (4,462 )   $ (1,209 )
                 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Cash flows from operating activities
               
Net loss
  $ (5,087 )   $ (1,190 )
Loss from discontinued operations
    -       (20 )
                 
Loss from continuing operations
    (5,087 )     (1,210 )
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Provision for credit losses
    5,381       6,017  
Gain on bulk sale of receivables to HSBC Bank USA, National Association (“HSBC Bank USA”)
    (57 )     -  
Gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates
    (218 )     (122 )
Goodwill and other intangible impairment
    2,308       -  
Loss on sale of real estate owned, including lower of cost or market adjustments
    99       138  
Insurance policy and claim reserves
    (5 )     (24 )
Depreciation and amortization
    103       128  
Mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives
    928       (271 )
Gain on sale of Visa Class B shares
    -       (11 )
Net change in other assets
    907       (66 )
Net change in other liabilities
    (577 )     (788 )
Originations of loans held for sale
    (18,365 )     (11,971 )
Sales and collections on loans held for sale
    18,713       12,100  
Foreign exchange and FAS 133 movements on long term debt and net change in non-FVO related derivative assets and liabilities
    (1,100 )     1,375  
Other-than-temporary impairment on securities
    20       15  
Lower of cost or fair value on receivables held for sale
    343       201  
Other, net
    195       254  
                 
Cash provided by operating activities – continuing operations
    3,588       5,765  
Cash provided by operating activities – discontinued operations
    -       337  
                 
Net cash provided by operating activities
    3,588       6,102  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities
               
Securities:
               
Purchased
    (227 )     (425 )
Matured
    250       415  
Sold
    10       145  
Net change in short-term securities available for sale
    81       (379 )
Net change in securities purchased under agreements to resell
    (1,586 )     (1,003 )
Net change in interest bearing deposits with banks
    (8 )     261  
Cash from sale of Visa Class B shares
    -       11  
Proceeds from sale of affiliate preferred stock shares to HSBC Plc
    242       -  
Receivables:
               
Net (originations) collections
    4,774       2,811  
Purchases and related premiums
    (21 )     (24 )
Proceeds from sales of real estate owned
    819       722  
Cash received on sales of real estate secured receivables held in portfolio to a third party
    -       134  
Net cash received in sale of U.K. Operations to an affiliate
    -       259  
Cash received from bulk sales of receivables to HSBC Bank USA
    8,821       -  
Purchases of properties and equipment
    (24 )     (60 )
                 
Cash provided by investing activities – continuing operations
    13,131       2,867  
Cash provided by investing activities – discontinued operations
    -       2  
                 
Net cash provided by investing activities
    13,131       2,869  
                 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) (Continued)
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Cash flows from financing activities
               
Debt:
               
Net change in short-term debt
    (3,861 )     133  
Net change in due to affiliates
    (2,232 )     29  
Long term debt issued
    1,600       2,293  
Long term debt retired
    (13,017 )     (13,629 )
Insurance:
               
Policyholders’ benefits paid
    (48 )     (48 )
Cash received from policyholders
    26       28  
Capital contribution from parent
    2,010       2,200  
Return of capital to parent
    (1,043 )     -  
Preferred shareholders’ dividends
    (18 )     (18 )
                 
Cash used in financing activities – continuing operations
    (16,583 )     (9,012 )
Cash used in financing activities – discontinued operations
    -       (255 )
                 
Net cash used in financing activities
    (16,583 )     (9,267 )
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    -       17  
                 
Net change in cash
    136       (279 )
Cash at beginning of period(1)
    255       783  
                 
Cash at end of period(1)
  $ 391     $ 504  
                 
Supplemental Noncash Investing and Capital Activities
               
Fair value of properties added to real estate owned
  $ 662     $ 1,244  
                 
Transfer of receivables to held for sale
  $ 516     $ 9,875  
                 
Transfer of receivables to held for investment
  $ 804     $ -  
                 
Assumption of indebtedness by HSBC Bank USA related to the bulk receivable sale
  $ (6,077 )   $ -  
                 
Redemption of the junior subordinated notes underlying the mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of the Household Capital Trust VIII for common stock
  $ 275     $ -  
                 
 
 
(1)  Cash includes $171 million and $43 million for discontinued operations at January 1, 2008 and June 30, 2008.
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
                 
Note       Page
 
 
 
1
    Organization and Basis of Presentation     8  
 
2
    Discontinued Operations     9  
 
3
    Receivable Portfolio Sales to HSBC Bank USA and Adoption of FFIEC Policies     10  
 
4
    Strategic Initiatives     11  
 
5
    Securities     16  
 
6
    Receivables     20  
 
7
    Credit Loss Reserves     23  
 
8
    Receivables Held for Sale     23  
 
9
    Intangible Assets     25  
 
10
    Goodwill     25  
 
11
    Derivative Financial Instruments     26  
 
12
    Fair Value Option     31  
 
13
    Income Taxes     33  
 
14
    Pension and Other Post-retirement Benefits     36  
 
15
    Related Party Transactions     37  
 
16
    Business Segments     42  
 
17
    Fair Value Measurements     46  
 
18
    Contingent Liabilities     53  
 
19
    New Accounting Pronouncements     53  
 
1.  Organization and Basis of Presentation
 
HSBC Finance Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of HSBC North America Holdings Inc. (“HSBC North America”), which is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of HSBC Holdings plc (“HSBC”). The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements of HSBC Finance Corporation and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal and recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods have been made. HSBC Finance Corporation and its subsidiaries may also be referred to in this Form 10-Q as “we,” “us” or “our.” These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 (the “2008 Form 10-K”). Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current period presentation. Subsequent events have been evaluated through August 3, 2009, the date this Form 10-Q was issued and filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the basis that we will continue as a going concern. Such assertion contemplates the significant losses recognized in recent years and the challenges we anticipate with respect to a sustainable return to profitability under prevailing and forecasted economic conditions. HSBC continues to be fully committed and has the capacity to continue to provide the necessary capital and liquidity to fund continuing operations.
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Interim results should not be considered indicative of results in future periods.
 
During the first quarter of 2009, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities — an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133,” and FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments.” In addition, we early adopted FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments,” as well as FSP FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly,” effective January 1, 2009. See Note 19, “New Accounting Pronouncements,” for further details and related impact.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
2.  Discontinued Operations
 
United Kingdom In May 2008, we sold all of the common stock of Household International Europe, the holding company for our United Kingdom operations (“U.K. Operations”) to HSBC Overseas Holdings (UK) Limited (“HOHU”), a subsidiary of HSBC. The sales price was GBP 181 million (equivalent to approximately $359 million). At the time of the sale, the assets of the U.K. Operations consisted primarily of net receivables of $4.6 billion and the liabilities consisted primarily of amounts due to HSBC affiliates of $3.6 billion. As a result of this transaction, HOHU assumed the liabilities of our U.K. Operations outstanding at the time of the sale. Because the sale was between affiliates under common control, the book value of the investment in our U.K. Operations in excess of the consideration received at the time of sale which totaled $576 million was recorded as a decrease to common shareholder’s equity. Of this amount, $196 million was reflected as a decrease to additional paid in capital and $380 million was reflected as a decrease to other comprehensive income (loss), primarily related to foreign currency translation adjustments. There was no tax benefit recorded as a result of this transaction. Our U.K. Operations were previously reported in the International Segment.
 
The following summarizes the operating results of our U.K. Operations for the periods presented:
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008(1)     2009     2008(1)  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Net interest income and other revenues
  $ -     $ 58     $ -     $ 152  
Insurance revenue
    -       11       -       37  
Provision for credit losses
    -       (43 )     -       (94 )
Operating expenses
    -       (36 )     -       (110 )
                                 
Loss before income tax (expense) benefit
    -       (10 )     -       (15 )
Income tax (expense) benefit
    -       (1 )     -       -  
                                 
Loss from discontinued operations
  $ -     $ (11 )   $ -     $ (15 )
                                 
 
 
(1) Amounts shown for 2008 represent totals from the beginning of the period through the date of the sale.
 
Canada On November 30, 2008, we sold the common stock of HSBC Financial Corporation Limited, the holding company for our Canadian business (“Canadian Operations”) to HSBC Bank Canada. The sales price was approximately $279 million (based on the exchange rate on the date of sale). At the time of the sale, the assets of the Canadian Operations consisted primarily of net receivables of $3.1 billion, available-for-sale securities of $98 million and goodwill of $65 million. Liabilities at the time of the sale consisted primarily of long term debt of $3.1 billion. As a result of this transaction, HSBC Bank Canada assumed the liabilities of our Canadian Operations outstanding at the time of the sale. However, we continue to guarantee the long-term and medium-term notes issued by our Canadian business prior to the sale. As of June 30, 2009, the outstanding balance of the guaranteed notes was $2.1 billion and the latest scheduled maturity of the notes is May 2012. Because the sale was between affiliates under common control, the book value of the investment in our Canadian Operations in excess of the consideration received at the time of sale which totaled $40 million was recorded as a decrease to common shareholder’s equity. Of this amount, $46 million was reflected as a decrease to additional paid in capital and $6 million was reflected as an increase to other comprehensive income (loss), primarily related to foreign currency translation adjustments. There was no tax benefit recorded as a result of this transaction. Our Canadian Operations were previously reported in the International Segment.


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The following summarizes the operating results of our Canadian Operations for the periods presented:
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Net interest income and other revenues
  $ -     $ 133     $ -     $ 274  
Provision for credit losses
    -       (57 )     -       (106 )
Operating expenses
    -       (53 )     -       (110 )
                                 
Income before income tax (expense) benefit
    -       23       -       58  
Income tax (expense) benefit
    -       (9 )     -       (23 )
                                 
Income from discontinued operations
  $ -     $ 14     $ -     $ 35  
                                 
 
3.  Receivable Portfolio Sales to HSBC Bank USA and Adoption of FFIEC Policies
 
General Motors and AFL-CIO Union Plus Credit Card Receivable Portfolios In January 2009 upon receipt of regulatory approval, we sold our General Motors MasterCard receivable portfolio (“GM Portfolio”) and our AFL-CIO Union Plus MasterCard/Visa receivable portfolio (“UP Portfolio”) with an aggregate outstanding principal balance of $6.3 billion and $6.1 billion, respectively, to HSBC Bank USA. At December 31, 2008, the GM and UP Portfolios were included in receivables held for sale with a lower of cost or fair value of $6.2 billion and $5.9 billion, respectively. The aggregate sales price for the GM and UP Portfolios was $12.2 billion which included the transfer of approximately $6.1 billion of indebtedness, resulting in net cash proceeds of $6.1 billion. As a result, in the first quarter of 2009 we recorded a gain of $130 million ($84 million after-tax) on the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios. This gain was partially offset by a loss of $(80) million ($(51) million after-tax) recorded on the termination of cash flow hedges associated with the $6.1 billion of indebtedness transferred to HSBC Bank USA as part of these transactions. The sales price was determined based on independent valuation opinions. We retained the customer account relationships and the right to originate new customer account relationships for both the GM and UP Portfolios. By agreement, we will sell additional volume for new and existing accounts on a daily basis to HSBC Bank USA at fair market value and we will continue to service the receivables sold to HSBC Bank USA for a fee.
 
Auto Finance Receivable Portfolio In January 2009 upon receipt of regulatory approval, we also sold certain auto finance receivables with an aggregate outstanding principal balance of $3.0 billion to HSBC Bank USA for an aggregate sales price of $2.8 billion. As a result, in the first quarter of 2009 we recorded a gain of $7 million ($4 million after-tax) on the sale of these auto finance receivables. The sales price was based on an independent valuation opinion. We will continue to service these auto finance receivables for HSBC Bank USA for a fee.
 
Upon receipt of regulatory approval for the sale of the auto finance receivables discussed above, we adopted charge-off and account management policies in accordance with the Uniform Retail Credit Classification and Account Management Policy issued by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (“FFIEC Policies”) for our entire auto finance receivable portfolio immediately prior to the sale. Under the revised policy, the principal balance of auto loans in excess of the estimated net realizable value will be charged-off no later than the end of the month in which the auto loan becomes 120 days contractually delinquent. Additionally, auto loans subject to a bankruptcy will be charged-off at the earlier of (i) the end of the month 60 days after notice of filing and 60 days contractually delinquent, or (ii) the end of the month during which the loan becomes 120 days contractually delinquent. The


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adoption of FFIEC charge-off policies for our auto finance portfolio increased our provision for credit losses and reduced our net income in the first quarter of 2009 as summarized below:
 
         
    Total  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Provision for credit losses:
       
Charge-offs to comply with FFIEC policies
  $ (87 )
Release of credit loss reserves
    51  
         
Reduction to income from continuing operations before income tax expense
    (36 )
Tax benefit
    13  
         
Reduction to net income from continuing operations
  $ (23 )
         
 
4.  Strategic Initiatives
 
As discussed in prior filings, we have been engaged in a continuing, comprehensive evaluation of the strategies and opportunities of our operations. In light of the unprecedented developments in the retail credit markets, particularly in the residential mortgage industry, this evaluation has resulted in decisions to lower the risk profile of our operations, to reduce our capital and liquidity requirements by reducing the size of our balance sheet and to rationalize and maximize the efficiency of our operations. As a result, a number of strategic actions have been undertaken since mid-2007 and continued into the first half of 2009 which are summarized below:
 
2009 Actions
 
Facility Closures During the second quarter of 2009, we announced the decision to exit certain lease arrangements and consolidate a variety of locations across the United States to increase our operating efficiencies and reduce operating expenses. As a result, over the next 18 to 24 months, we will exit facilities in Bridgewater, New Jersey; Minnetonka, Minnesota; Wood Dale, Illinois; and Elmhurst, Illinois. Additionally, we have decided to consolidate our operations in Virginia Beach, Virginia into our Chesapeake, Virginia facility. Severance and lease termination costs associated with this decision have not been material to date. During the three months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded a non-cash charge of $3 million related to the impairment of fixed assets. We anticipate additional restructuring costs will be recorded through 2011, however such costs are not expected to be material.
 
Consumer Lending Business In late February 2009, we decided to discontinue new customer account originations for all products by our Consumer Lending business and close substantially all branch offices as soon as all commitments to customers were satisfied. We will continue to service and collect the existing receivable portfolio as it runs off, while continuing our efforts to reach out and assist mortgage customers utilizing appropriate modification and other account management programs, potentially including refinancing a loan with an existing customer in accordance with their financial needs, to maximize collection and home preservation. The following summarizes the restructuring liability relating to our Consumer Lending business recorded through June 30, 2009.
 
                                 
    One-Time
                   
    Termination and
    Lease Termination
             
    Other Employee
    and Associated
             
    Benefits     Costs     Other     Total  
   
          (in millions)              
 
Restructuring liability at December 31, 2008
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  
Restructuring costs recorded during the first quarter of 2009
    87       54       14       155  
Restructuring costs paid during the first quarter of 2009
    -       (4 )     (1 )     (5 )
                                 
Restructuring liability at March 31, 2009
    87       50       13       150  
Restructuring costs recorded during the period
    -       -       -       -  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (53 )     (19 )     (5 )     (77 )
Adjustments to restructure liability during the period
    (13 )     -       -       (13 )
                                 
Restructure liability at June 30, 2009
  $ 21     $ 31     $ 8     $ 60  
                                 


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During the second quarter of 2009, we released $13 million of severance accruals as we have adjusted a variety of previously estimated severance costs.
 
During the first quarter of 2009, we also incurred $3 million primarily relating to the acceleration of stock based compensation expense and non-cash charges of approximately $29 million relating to the impairment of fixed assets and other capitalized costs. We also recorded a curtailment gain of $16 million for other post-retirement benefits related to this decision. As a result, we have expensed a cumulative total of $158 million in restructuring costs. We anticipate additional closure costs will be recorded during 2009, however such remaining costs are not expected to be material. Separately, our information technology services affiliate recorded approximately $16 million of costs relating to one-time termination and employee benefit costs and asset write-downs during the first half of 2009. We currently believe none of these costs will be billed to us by this affiliate.
 
In addition, we were required to perform an interim intangible asset impairment test for our remaining Consumer Lending intangible assets which resulted in an impairment charge of $14 million during the first quarter of 2009 which represented all of the remaining intangibles associated with this business. See Note 9, “Intangible Assets,” for additional information related to the intangible asset impairment.
 
While our Consumer Lending business is currently operating in a run-off mode, we have not reported this business as a discontinued operation because of our continuing involvement in servicing and collecting the receivables.
 
2008 Actions
 
Card and Retail Services Business In the third quarter of 2008 we closed our servicing facilities located in Jacksonville, Florida and White Marsh, Maryland (the “Servicing Facilities”). The servicing activities performed in the Servicing Facilities have been redeployed to other facilities in our Card and Retail Services businesses. The restructure liability relating to the closure of the Servicing Facilities was $4 million at both June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008. No additional restructuring charges are anticipated to be incurred related to the closure of the Servicing Facilities. As a result of this decision, we have expensed a cumulative total of $10 million in restructuring costs through June 30, 2009.
 
Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2008, we decided to further reduce headcount in our Card and Retail Services business and recorded a total of $5 million in restructuring costs. The restructure liability related to this reduction in force, which was $5 million at December 31, 2008, has been fully paid as of June 30, 2009. We do not anticipate additional restructuring costs associated with this reduction in force will be recorded in future periods.
 
Auto Finance Business In March 2008, we decided to reduce the size of our Auto Finance business, which is a part of our Consumer Segment that historically purchased retail installment contracts from active dealer relationships throughout the U.S. as part of its business strategy. At that time, we decided to discontinue our dealer relationships in several select states, primarily in the Northeast, and discontinued certain other product offerings. As a result of these decisions, we recorded $3 million in severance costs during the first quarter of 2008 which were fully paid to employees during the second quarter of 2008.
 
In July 2008, we decided to discontinue new auto loan originations from our dealer and direct-to-consumer channels. We will continue to service and collect the existing auto loan portfolio as it pays down. As a result of this decision, we have expensed a cumulative total of $32 million in restructuring costs through June 30, 2009, which includes a $2 million non-cash charge during 2008 relating to the impairment of fixed assets. We anticipate additional restructuring costs will be recorded during 2009, however such remaining costs are not expected to be material. The restructure liability relating to this decision was $4 million and $10 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. While our Auto Finance business is currently operating in a run-off mode, we have not reported this business as a discontinued operation because of our continuing involvement in servicing and collecting the receivables.
 
Solstice Capital Group, Inc. Operations In December 2008, we decided to cease operations of Solstice Capital Group, Inc. (“Solstice”), a subsidiary of our Consumer Lending business which originated real estate secured receivables for resale. As a result of this decision, we recorded $1 million of one-time termination and other


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employee benefit costs during the fourth quarter of 2008 which was paid to the affected employees during the first quarter of 2009. No additional restructuring charges are anticipated in future periods.
 
The following summarizes the changes in the restructure liability during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 relating to the actions implemented during 2008:
 
                         
    One-Time
    Lease
       
    Termination and
    Termination
       
    Other Employee
    and Associated
       
    Benefits     Costs     Total  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Three months ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Restructure liability at March 31, 2009
  $ 3     $ 9     $ 12  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (2 )     (1 )     (3 )
Adjustments to restructure liability during the period
    (1 )     -       (1 )
                         
Restructure liability at June 30, 2009
  $ 0     $ 8     $ 8  
                         
Three months ended June 30, 2008:
                       
Restructure liability at March 31, 2008
  $ 3     $ -     $ 3  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (3 )     -       (3 )
                         
Restructure liability at June 30, 2008
  $ -     $ -     $ -  
                         
 
                         
    One-Time
    Lease
       
    Termination and
    Termination
       
    Other Employee
    and Associated
       
    Benefits     Costs     Total  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Six months ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Restructure liability at December 31, 2008
  $ 10     $ 10     $ 20  
Restructuring costs recorded during the period
    1       -       1  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (10 )     (2 )     (12 )
Adjustments to restructure liability during the period
    (1 )     -       (1 )
                         
Restructure liability at June 30, 2009
  $ -     $ 8     $ 8  
                         
Six months ended June 30, 2008:
                       
Restructure liability at December 31, 2007
  $ -     $ -     $ -  
Restructuring costs recorded during the period
    3       -       3  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (3 )     -       (3 )
                         
Restructuring liability at June 30, 2008
  $ -     $ -     $ -  
                         
 
2007 Actions
 
Beginning in mid-2007 we undertook a number of actions including the following:
 
  Discontinued correspondent channel acquisitions of our Mortgage Services business;
 
  Ceased operations of Decision One Mortgage Company;
 
  Reduced Consumer Lending branch network to approximately 1,000 branches at December 31, 2007; and
 
  Closed our loan underwriting, processing and collections center in Carmel, Indiana.


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The following summarizes the changes in the restructure liability during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 relating to the actions implemented during 2007:
 
                         
    One-Time
             
    Termination and
    Lease Termination
       
    Other Employee
    and Associated
       
    Benefits     Costs     Total  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Three months ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Restructure liability at March 31, 2009
  $ -     $ 16     $ 16  
Restructuring costs recorded during the second quarter of 2009
    -       -       -  
Restructuring costs paid during the second quarter of 2009
    -       (1 )     (1 )
                         
Restructure liability at June 30, 2009
  $ -     $ 15     $ 15  
                         
Three months ended June 30, 2008:
                       
Restructure liability at March 31, 2008
  $ 8     $ 31     $ 39  
Restructuring costs recorded during the period
    6       6       12  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (1 )     (6 )     (7 )
Adjustments to restructure liability during the period
    (5 )     (1 )     (6 )
                         
Restructure liability at June 30, 2008
  $ 8     $ 30     $ 38  
                         
 
                         
    One-Time
             
    Termination and
    Lease Termination
       
    Other Employee
    and Associated
       
    Benefits     Costs     Total  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Six months ended June 30, 2009:
                       
Restructure liability at December 31, 2008
  $ 1     $ 17     $ 18  
Restructuring costs paid during 2009
    (1 )     (2 )     (3 )
                         
Restructure liability at June 30, 2009
  $ -     $ 15     $ 15  
                         
Six months ended June 30, 2008:
                       
Restructure liability at December 31, 2007
  $ 17     $ 37     $ 54  
Restructuring costs recorded during the period
    6       10       16  
Restructuring costs paid during the period
    (9 )     (16 )     (25 )
Adjustments to restructure liability during the period
    (6 )     (1 )     (7 )
                         
Restructuring liability at June 30, 2008
  $ 8     $ 30     $ 38  
                         


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Summary of Restructuring Activities The following table summarizes the net cash and non-cash expenses recorded for all restructuring activities during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008:
 
                                         
    One-Time
                Fixed Assets
       
    Termination and
    Lease Termination
          and Other
       
    Other Employee
    and Associated
          Non-Cash
       
    Benefits(1)     Costs(2)     Other(3)     Adjustments(4)     Total  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Six months ended June 30, 2009:
                                       
Consumer Lending closure(5)
  $ 74     $ 54     $ 14     $ 16     $ 158  
Facility closures
    2       -       -       3       5  
                                         
    $ 76     $ 54     $ 14     $ 19     $ 163  
                                         
Six months ended June 30, 2008:
                                       
Card and Retail Services
  $ 6     $ 6     $ -     $ -     $ 12  
Auto Finance
    3       -       -       -       3  
Mortgage Services
    (3 )     4       -       11       12  
Consumer Lending
    (1 )     (1 )     -       6       4  
Carmel Facility
    (2 )     -       -       1       (1 )
Canadian Business
    2       (1 )     -       -       1  
                                         
    $ 5     $ 8     $ -     $ 18     $ 31  
                                         
 
 
(1) One-time termination and other employee benefits are included as a component of Salaries and employee benefits in the consolidated statement of loss.
 
(2) Lease termination and associated costs and fixed assets write-downs are included as a component of Occupancy and equipment expenses in the consolidated statement of loss.
 
(3) The other expenses are included as a component of Other servicing and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of loss.
 
(4) Includes $29 million and $18 million of fixed asset write-offs during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, which were recorded as a component of Other servicing and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of loss. The six months ended June 30, 2009 also includes $3 million relating to stock based compensation and other benefits as well as a curtailment gain of $16 million which were recorded as a component of Salaries and employee benefits in the consolidated statement of loss.
 
(5) Excludes intangible asset impairment charges of $14 million recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2009.


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5.  Securities
 
Securities consisted of the following available-for-sale investments:
 
                                 
          Gross
    Gross
       
    Amortized
    Unrealized
    Unrealized
    Fair
 
June 30, 2009   Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
   
    (in millions)  
 
U.S. Treasury
  $ 111     $ 1     $ (1 )   $ 111  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises(1)
    120       4       (1 )     123  
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed
    26       1       -       27  
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
    34       1       -       35  
Asset-backed securities(2)
    135       1       (30 )     106  
U.S. corporate debt securities(3)
    1,697       39       (55 )     1,681  
Foreign debt securities
    295       11       (1 )     305  
Preferred equity securities
    4       1       -       5  
Money market funds
    598       -       -       598  
                                 
Subtotal
    3,020       59       (88 )     2,991  
Accrued investment income
    30       -       -       30  
                                 
Total securities available-for-sale
  $ 3,050     $ 59     $ (88 )   $ 3,021  
                                 
 
                                 
          Gross
    Gross
       
    Amortized
    Unrealized
    Unrealized
    Fair
 
December 31, 2008   Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
   
    (in millions)  
 
U.S. Treasury
  $ 56     $ 1     $ -     $ 57  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises(1)
    149       6       -       155  
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed
    34       -       -       34  
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
    35       -       (1 )     34  
Asset-backed securities(2)
    162       -       (34 )     128  
U.S. corporate debt securities(3)
    1,702       22       (68 )     1,656  
Foreign debt securities
    268       5       (4 )     269  
Preferred equity securities(4)
    64       1       (13 )     52  
Money market funds
    679       -       -       679  
                                 
Subtotal
    3,149       35       (120 )     3,064  
Accrued investment income
    30       -       -       30  
                                 
Total securities available-for-sale
  $ 3,179     $ 35     $ (120 )   $ 3,094  
                                 
 
 
(1) Includes primarily mortgage-backed securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation.
 
(2) At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the majority of our asset-backed securities are residential mortgage-backed securities.
 
(3) At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the majority of our U.S. corporate debt securities represent investments in the financial services, consumer products, healthcare and industrials sectors.
 
(4) At December 31, 2008, substantially all of our preferred equity securities were perpetual preferred equity investments in the utilities and financial services sectors which were sold in the first half of 2009.


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A summary of gross unrealized losses and related fair values as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, classified as to the length of time the losses have existed follows:
 
                                                 
    Less Than One Year     Greater Than One Year  
    Number
    Gross
    Aggregate
    Number
    Gross
    Aggregate
 
    of
    Unrealized
    Fair Value of
    of
    Unrealized
    Fair Value of
 
June 30, 2009   Securities     Losses     Investments     Securities     Losses     Investments  
   
                (dollars are in millions)              
 
U.S. Treasury
    12     $ (1 )   $ 52       -     $ -     $ -  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises
    5       (1 )     10       1       -       -  
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed
    1       -       -       -       -       -  
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
    2       -       5       -       -       -  
Asset-backed securities
    2       (5 )     9       28       (25 )     47  
U.S. corporate debt securities
    47       (5 )     140       164       (50 )     461  
Foreign debt securities
    6       -       19       5       (1 )     15  
 
                                                 
    Less Than One Year     Greater Than One Year  
    Number
    Gross
    Aggregate
    Number
    Gross
    Aggregate
 
    of
    Unrealized
    Fair Value of
    of
    Unrealized
    Fair Value of
 
December 31, 2008   Securities     Losses     Investments     Securities     Losses     Investments  
   
                (dollars are in millions)              
 
U.S. government sponsored enterprises
    3     $ -     $ 6       8     $ -     $ 4  
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed
    -       -       -       1       -       4  
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
    6       (1 )     28       -       -       -  
Asset-backed securities
    30       (10 )     90       15       (24 )     19  
U.S. corporate debt securities
    331       (39 )     755       83       (29 )     255  
Foreign debt securities
    25       (3 )     69       12       (1 )     20  
Preferred equity securities
    26       (6 )     25       18       (7 )     17  
 
Gross unrealized losses decreased during the first half of 2009 primarily due to the impact of lower credit spreads, partially offset by rising interest rates. We have reviewed our securities for which there is an unrealized loss in accordance with our accounting policies for other-than-temporary impairment. Our decision in the first quarter of 2009 to discontinue new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business adversely impacted certain insurance subsidiaries that hold perpetual preferred securities. Therefore, during the first quarter of 2009 we determined it was more-likely-than-not that we would be required to sell the portfolio of perpetual preferred securities prior to recovery of amortized cost and subsequently sold our entire portfolio of perpetual preferred securities during the second quarter of 2009. There were no impairment losses recorded during the three months ended June 30, 2009. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded $20 million of impairment losses related to perpetual preferred securities. The entire unrealized loss was recorded in earnings in accordance with FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2, which is discussed more fully below, as we determined it was more-likely-than-not that we would be required to sell the portfolio of perpetual preferred securities prior to recovery of amortized cost. We do not consider any other securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired because we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the securities and we neither intend to nor expect to be required to sell the securities prior to recovery, even if that equates to holding securities until their individual maturities. However, additional other-than-temporary impairments may occur in future periods if the credit quality of the securities deteriorates.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
On-Going Assessment for Other-Than Temporary Impairment
 
On a quarterly basis, we perform an assessment to determine whether there have been any events or economic circumstances to indicate that a security with an unrealized loss has suffered other-than-temporary impairment, pursuant to FASB Staff Position 115-1 and 124-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments,” (“FSP FAS 115-1”). A debt security is considered impaired if the fair value is less than its amortized cost basis at the reporting date. If impaired, we then assess whether the unrealized loss is other-than-temporary. Prior to our early adoption of FASB Staff Position No. 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments,” (“FSP FAS 115-2”) on January 1, 2009, unrealized losses on all securities that were determined to be temporary were recorded, net of tax, in other comprehensive income and unrealized losses that were determined to be other-than-temporary were recorded entirely to earnings.
 
Under FSP FAS 115-2, an unrealized loss is generally deemed to be other-than-temporary and a credit loss is deemed to exist if the present value of the expected future cash flows is less than the amortized cost basis of the debt security. As a result, the credit loss component of an other-than-temporary impairment write-down for debt securities is recorded in earnings while the remaining portion of the impairment loss is recognized net of tax in other comprehensive income (loss) provided we do not intend to sell the underlying debt security and it is more-likely-than-not that we would not have to sell the debt security prior to recovery.
 
For all our debt securities, as of the reporting date we do not have the intention to sell these securities and believe we will not be required to sell these securities for contractual, regulatory or liquidity reasons.
 
We consider the following factors in determining whether a credit loss exists and the period over which the debt security is expected to recover:
 
  •  The length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than the amortized cost basis;
 
  •  The level of credit enhancement provided by the structure which includes, but is not limited to, credit subordination positions, overcollateralization, protective triggers and financial guarantees provided by monoline wraps;
 
  •  Changes in the near term prospects of the issuer or underlying collateral of a security, such as changes in default rates, loss severities given default and significant changes in prepayment assumptions;
 
  •  The level of excess cash flows generated from the underlying collateral supporting the principal and interest payments of the debt securities; and
 
  •  Any adverse change to the credit conditions of the issuer or the security such as credit downgrades by the rating agencies.
 
At June 30, 2009, approximately 91 percent of our corporate debt securities are rated A- or better. At June 30, 2009, approximately 73 percent of our asset-backed securities, which totaled $106 million, are rated “AAA.” However, without an economic recovery in the near-term, spreads returning to levels that reflect underlying credit characteristics and liquidity continuing to return to the markets, additional other-than-temporary impairments may occur in future periods.
 
Proceeds from the sale and call of available-for-sale investments totaled approximately $59 million and $191 million during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. We realized gross gains of $4 million and $2 million during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. We realized gross losses of $3 million and $1 million during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
Contractual maturities of and yields on investments in debt securities for those with set maturities were as follows:
 
                                         
    At June 30, 2009  
    Due
    After 1
    After 5
             
    Within
    but Within
    but Within
    After
       
    1 Year     5 Years     10 Years     10 Years     Total  
   
          (dollars are in millions)        
 
U.S. Treasury:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ 27     $ 83     $ 1     $ -     $ 111  
Fair value
    27       83       1       -       111  
Yield(1)
    1.96 %     1.69 %     4.95 %     - %     1.78 %
U.S. government sponsored enterprises:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ 2     $ 7     $ 49     $ 62     $ 120  
Fair value
    2       7       51       63       123  
Yield(1)
    2.31 %     5.27 %     4.67 %     4.98 %     4.83 %
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 26     $ 26  
Fair value
    -       -       -       27       27  
Yield(1)
    - %     - %     - %     4.95 %     4.95 %
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ -     $ -     $ 17     $ 17     $ 34  
Fair value
    -       -       17       18       35  
Yield(1)
    - %     - %     4.01 %     3.99 %     4.00 %
Asset-backed securities:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ 1     $ 13     $ 30     $ 91     $ 135  
Fair value
    1       13       31       61       106  
Yield(1)
    7.46 %     5.45 %     4.75 %     3.60 %     4.06 %
U.S. corporate debt securities:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ 115     $ 884     $ 182     $ 516     $ 1,697  
Fair value
    116       902       176       487       1,681  
Yield(1)
    4.04 %     4.97 %     5.16 %     5.52 %     5.09 %
Foreign debt securities:
                                       
Amortized cost
  $ 31     $ 211     $ 28     $ 25     $ 295  
Fair value
    32       219       28       26       305  
Yield(1)
    4.91 %     4.71 %     4.64 %     6.51 %     4.88 %
 
 
(1) Computed by dividing annualized interest by the amortized cost of respective investment securities.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
6.  Receivables
 
Receivables consisted of the following:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured
  $ 67,054     $ 71,666  
Auto finance
    5,390       7,621  
Credit card
    11,938       13,231  
Private label(1)
    -       65  
Personal non-credit card
    13,640       15,568  
Commercial and other
    56       93  
                 
Total receivables
    98,078       108,244  
HSBC acquisition purchase accounting fair value adjustments, net
    (7 )     (26 )
Accrued finance charges
    2,436       2,445  
Credit loss reserve for receivables
    (12,834 )     (12,415 )
Unearned credit insurance premiums and claims reserves
    (206 )     (227 )
                 
Total receivables, net
  $ 87,467     $ 98,021  
                 
 
 
(1) On a continuing basis, private label receivables consist primarily of the liquidating retail sales contracts in our Consumer Lending business with a receivable balance of $28 million as of June 30, 2009. Beginning in the first quarter of 2009, we began reporting this liquidating portfolio prospectively within our personal non-credit card portfolio.
 
Secured financings of $6.6 billion at June 30, 2009 were secured by $9.9 billion of real estate secured, auto finance and credit card receivables. Secured financings of $15.0 billion at December 31, 2008 were secured by $21.4 billion of real estate secured, auto finance, credit card and personal non-credit card receivables.
 
HSBC acquisition purchase accounting fair value adjustments represent adjustments which have been “pushed down” to record our receivables at fair value on March 28, 2003, the date we were acquired by HSBC.
 
Purchased Receivable Portfolios:
 
In November 2006, we acquired $2.5 billion of real estate secured receivables from Champion Mortgage (“Champion”) a division of KeyBank, N.A. These acquired receivables were subject to the requirements of Statement of Position 03-3, “Accounting for Certain Loans or Debt Securities Acquired in a Transfer” (“SOP 03-3”) to the extent there was evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination and for which it was probable, at acquisition, that all contractually required payments would not be collected and that the associated line of credit had been closed. The carrying amount of Champion real estate secured receivables subject to the requirements of SOP 03-3 was $57 million and $62 million at June 30, 2009 and at December 31, 2008, respectively, and is included in the real estate secured receivables in the table above. The outstanding contractual balance of these receivables was $72 million and $76 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Credit loss reserves of $12 million and $6 million as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, were held for the acquired Champion receivables subject to SOP 03-3 due to a decrease in the expected future cash flows since the acquisition.
 
As part of our acquisition of Metris Companies Inc. (“Metris”) on December 1, 2005, we acquired $5.3 billion of credit card receivables which were also subject to the requirements of SOP 03-3. The carrying amount of the credit card receivables acquired from Metris which were subject to SOP 03-3 was $40 million and $52 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and is included in the credit card receivables in the table above. The outstanding contractual balance of these receivables was $53 million and $77 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, no credit loss reserve for the acquired Metris receivables subject to SOP 03-3 was established as there has been no decrease to the expected future cash flows since the acquisition.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
The following summarizes the accretable yield on Metris and Champion receivables at June 30, 2009 and 2008:
 
                                 
    Three Months
    Six Months
 
    Ended June 30,(1)(2)     Ended June 30,(1)(2)  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
          (in millions)        
 
Accretable yield at beginning of period
  $ (29 )   $ (33 )   $ (28 )   $ (36 )
Accretable yield amortized to interest income during the period
    8       9       15       18  
Reclassification from non-accretable difference(3)
    (1 )     (10 )     (9 )     (16 )
                                 
Accretable yield at end of period
  $ (22 )   $ (34 )   $ (22 )   $ (34 )
                                 
 
 
(1) For the Champion portfolio, there were no reclassifications to accretable yield from non-accretable difference during both the three and six months ended June 30, 2009. There was a reclassification to accretable yield from non-accretable difference of $3 million and $4 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
(2) For the Metris portfolio, there was a reclassification to accretable yield from non-accretable difference of $1 million and $9 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. There was a reclassification to accretable yield from non-accretable difference of $7 million and $12 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
(3) Reclassification from non-accretable difference represents an increase to the estimated cash flows to be collected on the underlying portfolio.
 
Troubled Debt Restructurings (“TDR”):
 
The following table presents information about our TDR Loans:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
TDR Loans(1):
               
Real estate secured:
               
Mortgage Services
  $ 2,702     $ 2,662  
Consumer Lending
    1,758       1,674  
                 
Total real estate secured
    4,460       4,336  
Auto finance
    248       191  
Credit card
    243       403  
Personal non-credit card
    727       590  
                 
Total TDR Loans
  $ 5,678     $ 5,520  
                 
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Credit loss reserves for TDR Loans:
               
Real estate secured:
               
Mortgage Services
  $ 412     $ 383  
Consumer Lending
    379       341  
                 
Total real estate secured
    791       724  
Auto finance
    58       45  
Credit card
    57       80  
Personal non-credit card
    175       108  
                 
Total credit loss reserves for TDR Loans(2)
  $ 1,081     $ 957  
                 
 
 
(1) Includes TDR balances reported as receivables held for sale for which there are no credit loss reserves as they are carried at lower of cost or fair value. At June 30, 2009, TDR loans include $14 million and $24 million of credit card and auto finance receivables held for sale, respectively. At December 31, 2008, TDR loans include $138 million of credit card receivables held for sale.
 
(2) Included in credit loss reserves.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
                                 
    Three Months
  Six Months
    Ended June 30,   Ended June 30,
    2009   2008   2009   2009
 
        (in millions)    
 
Average balance of TDR Loans
  $ 5,596     $ 4,137     $ 5,577     $ 3,860  
Interest income recognized on TDR Loans
    92       69       190       124  
 
Concentrations of Credit Risk:
 
We have historically served non-conforming and non-prime consumers. Such customers are individuals who have limited credit histories, modest incomes, high debt-to-income ratios or have experienced credit problems caused by occasional delinquencies, prior charge-offs, bankruptcy or other credit related actions. The majority of our secured receivables and receivables held for sale have high loan-to-value ratios. Our receivables and receivables held for sale portfolios includes the following types of loans:
 
  •  Interest-only loans – A loan which allows a customer to pay the interest-only portion of the monthly payment for a period of time which results in lower payments during the initial loan period. However, subsequent events affecting a customer’s financial position could affect the ability of customers to repay the loan in the future when the principal payments are required.
 
  •  ARM loans – A loan which allows us to adjust pricing on the loan in line with market movements. A customer’s financial situation and the general interest rate environment at the time of the interest rate reset could affect the customer’s ability to repay or refinance the loan after adjustment.
 
  •  Stated income loans – Loans underwritten based upon the loan applicant’s representation of annual income, which is not verified by receipt of supporting documentation.
 
The following table summarizes the balances of interest-only, loans and stated income loans in our receivable portfolios at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in billions)  
 
Interest-only loans
  $ 1.7     $ 2.2  
ARM loans(1)(2)
    11.9       13.4  
Stated income loans
    4.6       5.2  
 
 
(1) At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, $1.6 billion and $3.3 billion of our ARM loan portfolio will experience their first interest rate reset during the remainder of 2009 based on original contractual reset date and the outstanding receivable levels at the end of each period. ARM loans with initial reset dates after 2009 are not significant.
 
(2) We do not have any option ARM loans in our portfolio.
 
At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, interest-only, ARM and stated income loans comprise 27 percent and 29 percent of real estate secured receivables, including receivables held for sale, respectively. We no longer originate or acquire interest-only, ARM or stated-income loans.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
7.  Credit Loss Reserves
 
An analysis of credit loss reserves was as follows:
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Credit loss reserves at beginning of period
  $ 12,972     $ 10,876     $ 12,415     $ 10,413  
Provision for credit losses
    2,436       3,189       5,381       6,017  
Charge-offs
    (2,655 )     (2,854 )     (5,178 )     (5,406 )
Recoveries
    137       200       272       387  
Receivables transferred to held for sale
    (56 )     (640 )     (56 )     (640 )
Release of credit loss reserves related to loan sales
    -       (10 )     -       (10 )
                                 
Credit loss reserves at end of period
  $ 12,834     $ 10,761     $ 12,834     $ 10,761  
                                 
 
8.  Receivables Held for Sale
 
Receivables held for sale, which are carried at the lower of cost or fair value, consisted of the following:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured(1)
  $ 41     $ 323  
Auto finance
    450       2,786  
Credit card
    609       13,571  
                 
Total receivables held for sale, net
  $ 1,100     $ 16,680  
                 
 
 
(1)  Includes the following receivables which were originated with the intent to sell:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured receivables:
               
Consumer Lending
  $ 5     $ 53  
Mortgage Services
    36       45  
                 
Total
  $ 41     $ 98  
                 
 
The following table shows the activity in receivables held for sale during the first half of 2009:
 
         
    Receivables
 
    Held for Sale  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Receivables held for sale – December 31, 2008
  $ 16,680  
Transfers of auto finance receivables into receivables held for sale at the lower of cost or fair value
    450  
Receivable sales
    (14,853 )
Additional lower of cost or fair value adjustment subsequent to transfer to receivables held for sale(1)
    (333 )
Transfer of real estate secured and credit card receivables into receivables held for investment
    (804 )
Net change in receivable balance
    (40 )
         
Receivables held for sale – June 30, 2009
  $ 1,100  
         
 
 
(1)  Includes $3 million with respect to real estate secured loans originated with the intent to sell.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
In January 2009, we sold our GM and UP Portfolios as well as certain auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA. See Note 3, “Receivable Portfolio Sales to HSBC Bank USA and Adoption of FFIEC Policies,” for details of these transactions.
 
In March 2009, we transferred real estate secured receivables previously classified as receivables held for sale to receivables held for investment as we now intend to hold these receivables for the foreseeable future, generally twelve months for real estate secured receivables. These receivables were transferred at their current fair market value of $214 million.
 
In June 2009, we transferred credit card receivables previously classified as receivables held for sale to receivables held for investment as we now intend to hold these receivables for the foreseeable future. These receivables were transferred at their current fair market value of $590 million. The outstanding contractual balance of these receivables at June 30, 2009 was $788 million.
 
In June 2009, we also identified certain auto finance receivables with a fair value of $450 million for which we no longer have the intent to hold for the foreseeable future, generally twelve months for auto finance receivables. Accordingly, these receivables, which were previously held for investment purposes, have been transferred to held for sale during the second quarter of 2009. These receivables are now carried at the lower of cost or fair value which resulted in a lower of cost or fair value adjustment of $38 million during the three months ended June 30, 2009. The following summarizes the components of this adjustment:
 
         
    (in millions)  
   
 
Provision for credit losses(1)
  $ 28  
Other income(2)
    10  
         
Lower of cost or fair value adjustment
  $ 38  
         
 
 
(1)  The portion of the lower of cost or fair value adjustment attributable to credit was recorded as a provision for credit losses. This was determined by giving consideration to the impact of over-the-life credit loss estimates as compared to the existing credit loss reserves prior to our decision to transfer to receivables held for sale.
 
(2)  Reflects the impact on value caused by current marketplace conditions including changes in interest rates and illiquidity.
 
As a result of the adverse economic conditions in the U.S., we have recorded a valuation allowance associated with receivables held for sale subsequent to the initial transfer to receivables held for sale. The valuation allowance related to loans held for sale is presented in the following table:
 
         
    (in millions)  
   
 
Valuation allowance at December 31, 2008
  $ 358  
Increase in allowance for net reductions in market value
    333  
Decreases in valuation allowance for loans sold, charged-off or transferred to held for investment
    (444 )
         
Valuation allowance at June 30, 2009
  $ 247  
         


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
9.  Intangible Assets
 
Intangible assets consisted of the following:
 
                                 
          Cumulative
             
          Impairment
    Accumulated
    Carrying
 
    Gross     Charges     Amortization     Value  
   
          (in millions)        
 
June 30, 2009
                               
Purchased credit card relationships and related programs
  $ 1,736     $ -     $ 924     $ 812  
Consumer loan related relationships
    333       163       170       -  
Technology, customer lists and other contracts
    282       9       258       15  
                                 
Total
  $ 2,351     $ 172     $ 1,352     $ 827  
                                 
December 31, 2008
                               
Purchased credit card relationships and related programs
  $ 1,736     $ -     $ 855     $ 881  
Consumer loan related relationships
    333       158       170       5  
Technology, customer lists and other contracts
    282       -       246       36  
                                 
Total
  $ 2,351     $ 158     $ 1,271     $ 922  
                                 
 
Our purchased credit card relationships are being amortized to their estimated residual value of $162 million as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
Estimated amortization expense associated with our intangible assets for each of the following years is as follows:
 
         
Year Ending December 31,   (in millions)
 
 
2009
  $ 161  
2010
    141  
2011
    138  
2012
    135  
2013
    99  
Thereafter
    72  
 
As a result of the decision to discontinue all new customer account originations for all receivable products in our Consumer Lending business in late February 2009, during the first quarter of 2009 we performed an interim impairment test for our technology, customer list and loan related relationship intangible assets. As a result of these tests, we concluded that the carrying value of the technology, customer list and loan related relationship intangible assets exceeded their fair value and we recorded an impairment charge of $14 million to reduce these assets to their current fair value.
 
10.  Goodwill
 
Changes in estimates of the tax basis in our assets and liabilities or other tax estimates recorded at the date of our acquisition by HSBC or our acquisition of Metris have historically been adjusted against goodwill. As a result of the adoption of new accounting standards involving business combinations in 2009, changes in such estimates are now recorded in earnings.
 
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows:
 
                 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Balance at January 1,
  $ 2,294     $ 2,635  
Goodwill impairment related to Insurance Services business
    (260 )     -  
Goodwill impairment related to Card and Retail Services business
    (2,034 )     -  
Change in estimate of the tax basis of assets and liabilities
    -       (3 )
                 
Balance at June 30,
  $ -     $ 2,632  
                 


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
We performed an interim goodwill impairment test of our Card and Retail Services business during both the first and second quarter of 2009 as a result of the continuing deterioration of the economic conditions in the United States. In the interim goodwill impairment test performed during the first quarter of 2009, a review of cost of capital requirements resulted in the use of a higher discount rate in our discounted cash flow model which, when combined with the changes in fair value of certain reporting unit assets and liabilities, resulted in a partial impairment of the goodwill allocated to our Card and Retail Services reporting unit. As a result, during the first quarter of 2009, we recorded an impairment charge of $393 million relating to this business. For the interim impairment test during the second quarter of 2009, the continued deterioration in economic and credit conditions, including rising unemployment rates, as well as the consideration of various legislative and regulatory actions, resulted in a significant reduction in our estimated future cash flows. When combined with the changes in fair value of certain reporting unit assets and liabilities, these changes have resulted in the impairment of all of the remaining goodwill allocated to our Card and Retail Services reporting unit. As a result, during the second quarter of 2009, we recorded an additional impairment charge of $1,641 million.
 
During the first quarter of 2009 we also performed an interim goodwill impairment test of our Insurance Services business. The discontinuance of Consumer Lending new customer account originations resulted in a substantial decrease in credit insurance policies sold which significantly impacted our cash flow forecasts for the Insurance Services reporting unit. Therefore, during the first quarter of 2009 we recorded an impairment charge of $260 million which represented all of the goodwill allocated to our Insurance Services business.
 
11.  Derivative Financial Instruments
 
Our business activities involve analysis, evaluation, acceptance and management of some degree of risk or combination of risks. Accordingly, we have comprehensive risk management policies to address potential financial risks, which include credit risk, liquidity risk, market risk, and operational risks. Our risk management policy is designed to identify and analyze these risks, to set appropriate limits and controls, and to monitor the risks and limits continually by means of reliable and up-to-date administrative and information systems. Our risk management policies are primarily carried out in accordance with practice and limits set by the HSBC Group Management Board. The HSBC Finance Corporation Asset Liability Committee (“ALCO”) meets regularly to review risks and approve appropriate risk management strategies within the limits established by the HSBC Group Management Board. Additionally, our Audit Committee receives regular reports on our liquidity positions in relation to the established limits. In accordance with the policies and strategies established by ALCO, in the normal course of business, we enter into various transactions involving derivative financial instruments. These derivative financial instruments primarily are used to manage our market risk.
 
Objectives for Holding Derivative Financial Instruments Market risk (which includes interest rate and foreign currency exchange risks) is the possibility that a change in interest rates or foreign exchange rates will cause a financial instrument to decrease in value or become more costly to settle. Historically, customer demand for our loan products shifts between fixed rate and floating rate products, based on market conditions and preferences. These shifts in loan products resulted in different funding strategies and produced different interest rate risk exposures. Additionally, the mix of receivables on our balance sheet and the corresponding market risk is changing as we manage the liquidation of several of our receivable portfolios. We maintain an overall risk management strategy that uses a variety of interest rate and currency derivative financial instruments to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations caused by changes in interest rates and currency exchange rates related to our debt liabilities. We manage our exposure to interest rate risk primarily through the use of interest rate swaps, but also use forwards, futures, options, and other risk management instruments. We manage our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk primarily through the use of currency swaps, options and forwards. We do not use leveraged derivative financial instruments.
 
Interest rate swaps are contractual agreements between two counterparties for the exchange of periodic interest payments generally based on a notional principal amount and agreed-upon fixed or floating rates. The majority of our interest rate swaps are used to manage our exposure to changes in interest rates by converting floating rate debt to fixed rate or by converting fixed rate debt to floating rate. We have also entered into currency swaps to convert both principal and interest payments on debt issued from one currency to the appropriate functional currency.


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Forwards are agreements between two parties, committing one to sell and the other to buy a specific quantity of an instrument on some future date. The parties agree to buy or sell at a specified price in the future, and their profit or loss is determined by the difference between the arranged price and the level of the spot price when the contract is settled. We use foreign exchange rate forward contracts to reduce our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk related to our debt liabilities. Cash requirements for forward contracts include the receipt or payment of cash upon the sale or purchase of the instrument.
 
Purchased options grant the purchaser the right, but not the obligation, to either purchase or sell a financial instrument at a specified price within a specified period. The seller of the option has written a contract which creates an obligation to either sell or purchase the financial instrument at the agreed-upon price if, and when, the purchaser exercises the option. We use caps to limit the risk associated with an increase in rates and floors to limit the risk associated with a decrease in rates.
 
We do not manage credit risk or the changes in fair value due to the changes in credit risk by entering into derivative financial instruments such as credit derivatives or credit default swaps.
 
By utilizing derivative financial instruments, we are exposed to counterparty credit risk. Counterparty credit risk is our primary exposure on our interest rate swap portfolio. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty to a transaction fails to perform according to the terms of the contract. We manage the counterparty credit (or repayment) risk in derivative instruments through established credit approvals, risk control limits, collateral, and ongoing monitoring procedures. Our exposure to credit risk for futures is limited as these contracts are traded on organized exchanges. Each day, changes in futures contract values are settled in cash. In contrast, swap agreements and forward contracts have credit risk relating to the performance of the counterparty. We utilize an affiliate, HSBC Bank USA, as the primary provider of domestic derivative products. We have never suffered a loss due to counterparty failure.
 
At June 30, 2009, substantially all of our existing derivative contracts are with HSBC subsidiaries, making them our primary counterparty in derivative transactions. Most swap agreements require that payments be made to, or received from, the counterparty when the fair value of the agreement reaches a certain level. Generally, third-party swap counterparties provide collateral in the form of cash which is recorded in our balance sheet as derivative related assets or derivative related liabilities. At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, we provided third party swap counterparties with $29 million and $26 million of collateral, respectively. When the fair value of our agreements with affiliate counterparties requires the posting of collateral, it is provided in either the form of cash and recorded on the balance sheet, consistent with third party arrangements, or in the form of securities which are not recorded on our balance sheet. At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the fair value of our agreements with affiliate counterparties required the affiliate to provide collateral of $2.4 billion and $2.9 billion, respectively, all of which was provided in cash. These amounts are offset against the fair value amount recognized for derivative instruments that have been offset under the same master netting arrangement and recorded in our balance sheet as a component of derivative related assets or liabilities. At June 30, 2009, we had derivative contracts with a notional value of approximately $68.7 billion, including $67.3 billion outstanding with HSBC Bank USA. At December 31, 2008, we had derivative contracts with a notional value of approximately $79.7 billion, including $77.9 billion outstanding with HSBC Bank USA. Derivative financial instruments are generally expressed in terms of notional principal or contract amounts which are much larger than the amounts potentially at risk for nonpayment by counterparties.
 
To manage our exposure to changes in interest rates, we enter into interest rate swap agreements and currency swaps which have been designated as fair value or cash flow hedges under derivative accounting principles. We currently utilize the long-haul method to assess effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges. In the tables that follow below, the fair value disclosed does not include swap collateral that we either receive or deposit with our interest rate swap counterparties. Such swap collateral is recorded on our balance sheet at an amount which approximates fair value and is netted on the balance sheet with the fair value amount recognized for derivative instruments.
 
Fair Value Hedges Fair value hedges include interest rate swaps to convert our fixed rate debt to variable rate debt and currency swaps to convert debt issued from one currency into U.S. dollar variable debt. All of our fair value hedges are


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associated with debt. We recorded fair value adjustments for fair value hedges which increased the carrying value of our debt by $98 million and $124 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The following table provides information related to the location of derivative fair values in the consolidated balance sheet for our fair value hedges.
 
                                         
    Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
        Fair Value as of         Fair Value as of  
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
 
    Location   2009     2008     Location   2009     2008  
   
        (in millions)         (in millions)  
 
Interest rate swaps
  Derivative
financial assets
  $ -     $ 19     Derivative
related liabilities
  $ -     $ 18  
Currency swaps
  Derivative
financial assets
    257       238     Derivative
related liabilities
    -       -  
                                         
Total fair value hedges
      $ 257     $ 257         $ -     $ 18  
                                         
 
The following table presents fair value hedging information, including the gain (loss) recorded on the derivative and where that gain (loss) is recorded in the consolidated statement of loss as well as the offsetting gain (loss) on the hedged item that is recognized in current earnings, the net of which represents hedge ineffectiveness.
 
                                                                         
            Amount of Gain
    Amount of Gain
    Amount of Gain
    Amount of Gain
 
        Location of
  (Loss)
    (Loss)
    (Loss)
    (Loss)
 
        Gain (Loss)
  Recognized in
    Recognized in
    Recognized in
    Recognized in
 
        Recognized in
  Income
    Income
    Income
    Income
 
        Income on
  On the Derivative     On Hedged Items     On the Derivative     On Hedged Items  
        Hedged Item
  Three Months Ended June 30,     Six Months Ended June 30,  
    Hedged Item   and Derivative   2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
            (in millions)  
 
Interest rate swaps
  Fixed rate
borrowings
  Derivative
Income
  $ (4 )   $ (45 )   $ 4     $ 46     $ (8 )   $ (23 )   $ 15     $ 22  
Currency swaps
  Fixed rate
borrowings
  Derivative
income
    (9 )     (60 )     1       74       33       (30 )     (32 )     41  
                                                                         
Total
          $ (13 )   $ (105 )   $ 5     $ 120     $ 25     $ (53 )   $ (17 )   $ 63  
                                                                         
 
Cash Flow Hedges Cash flow hedges include interest rate swaps to convert our variable rate debt to fixed rate debt and currency swaps to convert debt issued from one currency into pay fixed debt of the appropriate functional currency. Gains and (losses) on unexpired derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) net of tax and totaled a loss of $(656) million and $(1,193) million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. We expect $(672) million ($(434) million after tax) of currently unrealized net losses will be reclassified to earnings within one year, however, these reclassed unrealized losses will be offset by decreased interest expense associated with the variable cash flows of the hedged items and will result in no significant net economic impact to our earnings. The following table provides information related to the location of derivative fair values in the consolidated balance sheet for our cash flow hedges.
 
                                         
    Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
        Fair Value as of         Fair Value as of  
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
 
    Location   2009     2008     Location   2009     2008  
   
        in millions)         (in millions)  
 
Interest rate swaps
  Derivative
financial assets
  $ (567 )   $ (1,056 )   Derivative
related liabilities
  $ -     $ -  
Currency swaps
  Derivative
financial assets
    978       1,164     Derivative
related liabilities
    -       -  
                                         
Total cash flow hedges
      $ 411     $ 108         $ -     $ -  
                                         


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The following table provides the gain or loss recorded on our cash flow hedging relationships.
 
                                                         
              Gain (Loss)
           
              Reclassed
        Gain (Loss)
 
    Gain (Loss)
        from
    Location of Gain
  Recognized
 
    Recognized in
    Location of Gain
  Accumulated
    (Loss) Recognized
  in
 
    OCI
    (Loss) Reclassified
  OCI into
    in Income on
  Income on
 
    on Derivative
    from Accumulated
  Income
    the Derivative
  Derivative
 
    (Effective
    OCI into Income
  (Effective
    (Ineffective
  (Ineffective
 
    Portion)     (Effective Portion)   Portion)     Portion)   Portion)  
       
    2009     2008         2009     2008         2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)         (in millions)         (in millions)  
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
                                                       
Interest rate swaps
  $ 234     $ 468     Interest expense   $ (4 )   $ (3 )   Derivative
income
  $ 8     $ 3  
Currency swaps
    202       344     Interest expense     (13 )     (22 )   Derivative
income
    24       2  
                                                         
Total
  $ 436     $ 812         $ (17 )   $ (25 )       $ 32     $ 5  
                                                         
Six Months Ended June 30,
                                                       
Interest rate swaps
  $ 372     $ 99     Interest expense   $ (7 )   $ (6 )   Derivative
income
  $ 9     $ 2  
Interest rate swaps
    -       -     Gain on bulk receivable
sale to HSBC affiliates
    (80 )     -           -       -  
Currency swaps
    383       (89 )   Interest expense     (32 )     (53 )   Derivative
income
    62       1  
                                                         
Total
  $ 755     $ 10         $ (119 )   $ (59 )       $ 71     $ 3  
                                                         
 
Non-Qualifying Hedging Activities We may use interest rate caps, exchange traded options, interest rate and currency swaps and foreign exchange forwards which are not designated as hedges under derivative accounting principles. These financial instruments are economic hedges but do not qualify for hedge accounting and are primarily used to minimize our exposure to changes in interest rates and currency exchange rates. The following table provides information related to the location and derivative fair values in the consolidated balance sheet for our non-qualifying hedges:
 
                                         
    Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
        Fair Value as of         Fair Value as of  
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
 
    Location   2009     2008     Location   2009     2008  
   
        (in millions)         (in millions)  
 
Interest rate contracts
  Derivative
financial assets
  $ (68 )   $ (324 )   Derivative related
liabilities
  $ 33     $ -  
Currency contracts
  Derivative
financial assets
    16       44     Derivative related
liabilities
    -       -  
                                         
Total non-qualifying hedges
      $ (52 )   $ (280 )       $ 33     $ -  
                                         


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The following table provides detail of the gain or loss recorded on our non-qualifying hedges:
 
                                     
        Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income On Derivative  
    Location of Gain (Loss)
  Three Months
    Six Months
 
    Recognized in Income
  Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    on Derivative   2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
        (in millions)  
 
Interest rate contracts
  Derivative income   $ 188     $ -     $ 172     $ 11  
Currency contracts
  Derivative income     (4 )     7       (5 )     7  
                                     
Total
      $ 184     $ 7     $ 167     $ 18  
                                     
 
In addition to the non-qualifying hedges described above, we have elected the fair value option for certain issuances of our fixed rate debt and have entered into interest rate and currency swaps related to debt carried at fair value. The interest rate and currency swaps associated with this debt are considered economic hedges and realized gains and losses are reported as “Gain on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives” within other revenues. The derivatives related to fair value option debt are included in the tables below. See Note 12, “Fair Value Option,” for further discussion.
 
                                         
    Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
             
        Fair Value as of         Fair Value as of  
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
    Balance Sheet
  June 30,
    December 31,
 
    Location   2009     2008     Location   2009     2008  
   
        (in millions)         (in millions)  
 
Interest rate swaps
  Derivative
financial assets
  $ 1,097     $ 1,746     Derivative related
liabilities
  $ -     $ -  
Currency swaps
  Derivative
financial assets
    631       574     Derivative related
liabilities
    -       -  
                                         
Total non-qualifying hedges
      $ 1,728     $ 2,320         $ -     $ -  
                                         
 
The following table provides the gain or loss recorded on the derivatives related to fair value option debt due to changes in interest rates:
 
                                     
        Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income On Derivative  
    Location of Gain (Loss)
  Three Months
    Six Months
 
    Recognized in Income
  Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    on Derivative   2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
        (in millions)  
 
Interest rate contracts
  Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives   $ (295 )   $ (730 )   $ (309 )   $ 97  
Currency contracts
  Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives     (59 )     (143 )     95       (67 )
                                     
Total
      $ (354 )   $ (873 )   $ (214 )   $ 30  
                                     


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Notional Value of Derivative Contracts The following table summarizes the notional values of derivative contracts:
 
                 
    June 30, 2009     December 31, 2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
               
Interest rate swaps
  $ 18,673     $ 26,105  
Currency swaps
    16,366       18,648  
                 
      35,039       44,753  
                 
Non-qualifying economic hedges:
               
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
               
Interest rate:
               
Swaps
    6,648       3,610  
Purchased caps
    1,131       1,581  
Foreign exchange:
               
Swaps
    1,227       1,228  
Forwards
    391       2  
                 
      9,397       6,421  
                 
Derivatives associated with debt carried at fair value:
               
Interest rate swaps
    20,919       25,104  
Currency swaps
    3,376       3,379  
                 
      24,295       28,483  
                 
Total
  $ 68,731     $ 79,657  
                 
 
12.  Fair Value Option
 
We elected fair value option (“FVO”) reporting for certain issuances of our fixed rate debt in order to align our accounting treatment with that of HSBC under International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”). To align our U.S. GAAP and IFRSs accounting treatment, we have adopted FVO reporting only for the fixed rate debt issuances which also qualify for FVO reporting under IFRSs.
 
Long term debt at June 30, 2009 of $72.3 billion includes $25.9 billion of fixed rate debt carried at fair value. At June 30, 2009, we have not elected FVO for $20.4 billion of fixed rate debt. Fixed rate debt accounted for under FVO at June 30, 2009 has an aggregate unpaid principal balance of $26.8 billion which includes a foreign currency translation adjustment relating to our foreign denominated FVO debt which increased the debt balance by $405 million. Long term debt at December 31, 2008 of $90.0 billion includes $28.3 billion of fixed rate debt carried at fair value. At December 31, 2008, we have not elected FVO for $23.9 billion of fixed rate debt for the reasons discussed above. Fixed rate debt accounted for under FVO at December 31, 2008 has an aggregate unpaid principal balance of $29.8 billion which included a foreign currency translation adjustment relating to our foreign denominated FVO debt which increased the debt balance by $413 million.


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The components of “Gain on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives” were as follows:
 
                                 
    Three Months
    Six Months
 
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
             
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
          (in millions)        
 
Gains (losses)
                               
Mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value(1):
                               
Interest rate component
  $ 707     $ 978     $ 888     $ (37 )
Credit risk component
    (5,122 )     (969 )     (1,331 )     320  
                                 
Total mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value
    (4,415 )     9       (443 )     283  
Mark-to-market on the related derivatives(1)
    (505 )     (930 )     (485 )     (12 )
Net realized gains (losses) on the related derivatives
    151       57       271       42  
                                 
Total
  $ (4,769 )   $ (864 )   $ (657 )   $ 313  
                                 
 
 
(1)  Mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives excludes market value changes due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Foreign currency translation gains (losses) recorded in derivative income associated with debt designated at fair value was a loss of $(188) million and a gain of $41 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Foreign currency translation gains (losses) was a gain of $8 million and a loss of $(305) million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Offsetting gains (losses) recorded in derivative income associated with the related derivatives was a gain of $188 million and a loss of $(41) million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and a loss of $(8) million and a gain of $305 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
The movement in the fair value reflected in Gain on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives includes the effect of credit spread changes and interest rate changes, including any ineffectiveness in the relationship between the related swaps and our debt. With respect to the credit component, as credit spreads widen accounting gains are booked and the reverse is true if credit spreads narrow. Differences arise between the movement in the fair value of our debt and the fair value of the related swap due to the different credit characteristics and differences in the calculation of fair value for debt and derivatives. The size and direction of the accounting consequences of such changes can be volatile from period to period but do not alter the cash flows intended as part of the documented interest rate management strategy. On a cumulative basis, we have recorded fair value option adjustments which have decreased the value of our debt by $.9 billion and $1.5 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.
 
The changes in the debt interest rate component and the derivative market value during the first half of 2009 reflect a steepening in the U.S. LIBOR curve. Since January 1, 2009, interest rates for instruments with terms of one year or less have remained low while interest rates for instruments with terms of greater than two years have increased. This resulted in gains in the interest rate component of the mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and losses on mark-to-market on the related derivatives in the current quarter and for the six months ended June 30, 2009. In the second quarter of 2008, rising long term U.S. interest rates resulted in a gain in the interest rate component on debt designated at fair value and a decrease in the value of receive fixed/pay variable swaps. By the end of the second quarter 2008, U.S. interest rates were at approximately the same level as at the start of 2008, and the gains recorded during the second quarter of 2008 were offset by the losses recorded during the first quarter of 2008. Changes in the value of the interest rate component of the debt as compared to the related derivatives are also affected by the differences in cash flows and valuation methodologies for the debt and related derivatives. Cash flows on debt are discounted using a single discount rate from the bond yield curve while derivative cash flows are discounted using rates at multiple points along the LIBOR yield curve. The impacts of these differences vary as short-term and long-term interest rates change relative to each other. Furthermore, certain derivatives have been called by the counterparty resulting in certain FVO debt having no related derivatives which increases the net difference between the change in the value of the interest rate component of the debt and the change in the value of the derivatives.


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Our credit spreads, which had widened dramatically in the first quarter of 2009 in response to general market conditions and credit rating downgrades in early March 2009 as a result of the announcement of the discontinuation of all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business and the closure of all branch offices, narrowed significantly during the second quarter of 2009. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, we experienced a net tightening of our credit spreads. Changes in the credit risk component of the debt during the second quarter of 2008 were impacted by a tightening of our credit spreads. The tightening of credit spreads during the second quarter of 2008 was a partial reversal of a widening experienced in the first quarter of 2008 as new issue and secondary bond market credit spreads across all domestic bond market sectors narrowed as well as a general lack of liquidity in the secondary bond market during the period.
 
Net income volatility, whether based on changes in the interest rate or credit risk components of the mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and the related derivatives, impacts the comparability of our reported results between periods. Accordingly, gain on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives for the six months ended June 30, 2009 should not be considered indicative of the results for any future periods.
 
13.  Income Taxes
 
Effective tax rates are analyzed as follows.
 
                                 
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Tax expense (benefit) at the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate
  $ (2,616 )     (35.0 )%   $ (787 )     (35.0 )%
Increase (decrease) in rate resulting from:
                               
Goodwill impairment
    574       7.7       -       -  
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets
    541       7.2       6       .3  
State and local taxes, net of Federal benefit and state valuation allowance
    (24 )     (.3 )     (23 )     (1.0 )
Low income housing and other tax credits
    (9 )     (.1 )     (12 )     (.5 )
Other
    19       .2       15       .6  
                                 
Total income tax expense (benefit)
  $ (1,515 )     (20.3 )%   $ (801 )     (35.6 )%
                                 
 
                                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Tax expense (benefit) at the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate
  $ (2,011 )     (35.0 )%   $ (639 )     (35.0 )%
Increase (decrease) in rate resulting from:
                               
Goodwill impairment
    798       13.9       -       -  
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets
    549       9.6       9       .5  
Receivable portfolio affiliate sales
    (47 )     (.8 )     -       -  
State and local taxes, net of Federal benefit and state valuation allowance
    6       .1       (49 )     (2.7 )
State rate change effect on net deferred taxes
    32       .6       65       3.6  
Low income housing and other tax credits
    (18 )     (.3 )     (25 )     (1.4 )
Other
    31       .4       23       1.3  
                                 
Total income tax expense (benefit)
  $ (660 )     (11.5 )%   $ (616 )     (33.7 )%
                                 
 
The effective tax rate was significantly impacted by the incremental valuation allowance on deferred tax assets recorded in 2009 and the non-tax deductible impairment of goodwill related to our Card and Retail Services business and for the year-to-date period, the non-tax deductible impairment of goodwill related to our Insurance Services business. The percentage impact of reconciling items is larger in the six months ended June 30, 2008 as a


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result of the significantly lower level of pre-tax book loss in that period. The effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was also impacted by a change in estimate in the state tax rate for jurisdictions where we file combined unitary state tax returns with other HSBC affiliates.
 
HSBC North America Consolidated Income Taxes
 
We are included in HSBC North America’s Consolidated Federal income tax return and in various state income tax returns. As such, we have entered into a tax allocation agreement with HSBC North America and its subsidiary entities (“the HNAH Group”) included in the consolidated returns which govern the current amount of taxes to be paid or received by the various entities included in the consolidated return filings. As a result, we have looked at the HNAH Group’s consolidated deferred tax assets and various sources of taxable income, including the impact of HSBC and HNAH Group tax planning strategies, in reaching conclusions on recoverability of deferred tax assets. Where a valuation allowance is determined to be necessary at the HNAH consolidated level, such allowance is allocated to principal subsidiaries within the HNAH Group as described below in a manner that is systematic, rational and consistent with the broad principles of accounting for income taxes.
 
The HNAH Group evaluates deferred tax assets for recoverability using a consistent approach which considers the relative impact of negative and positive evidence, including historical financial performance, projections of future taxable income, future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, tax planning strategies and any available carryback capacity.
 
In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, the HNAH Group estimates future taxable income based on management approved business plans, future capital requirements and ongoing tax planning strategies, including capital support from HSBC necessary as part of such plans and strategies. This process involves significant management judgment about assumptions that are subject to change from period to period.
 
The HNAH Group has continued to consider the impact of the economic environment on the North American businesses and the expected growth of the deferred tax assets. During the second quarter, the current economic environment, and its impact on the HNAH Group’s businesses and strategies, has been incorporated into its revised business forecasts. In addition, HNAH Group’s consideration and evaluation of the various sources of taxable income supporting realization of the deferred tax assets, including tax planning strategies, have been updated.
 
In conjunction with the HNAH Group deferred tax evaluation process, based on our forecasts of future taxable income, which include assumptions about the depth and severity of further home price depreciation and the U.S. recession, including unemployment levels and their related impact on credit losses, we currently anticipate that our results of future operations will generate sufficient taxable income to allow us to realize our deferred tax assets. However, since the recent market conditions have created significant downward pressure and volatility on our near-term pre-tax book income, our analysis of the realizability of the deferred tax assets significantly discounts any future taxable income expected from continuing operations and relies to a greater extent on continued capital support from our parent, HSBC, including tax planning strategies implemented in relation to such support. HSBC has indicated they remain fully committed and have the capacity to provide capital as needed to run operations, maintain sufficient regulatory capital, and fund certain tax planning strategies.
 
Only those tax planning strategies that are both prudent and feasible, and for which management has the ability and intent to implement, are incorporated into our analysis and assessment. The primary and most significant strategy is HSBC’s commitment to reinvest excess HNAH Group capital which would be maintained to reduce debt funding or otherwise invest in assets to ensure that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets, including net operating loss carryforwards, will be utilized.
 
Currently, the HNAH Group’s primary tax planning strategy, in combination with other tax planning strategies, provides support for the realization of net deferred tax assets of approximately $5.9 billion for the HNAH Group. Such determination was based on HSBC’s revised business forecasts and updated assessment in the second quarter of 2009 as to the most efficient and effective deployment of HSBC capital, most importantly including the length of time such capital will need to be maintained in the U.S. for purposes of the tax planning strategy. As it relates to the growth in the


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HNAH consolidated deferred tax asset, during the second quarter HSBC decided to limit the level and duration of excess HNAH Group capital it will reinvest in the US operations in future years as part of the primary tax planning strategy.
 
Therefore, although a significant part of the net deferred tax assets are supported by the aforementioned tax planning strategies, it has been determined that for the residual portion of the net deferred tax assets, it is not more-likely-than-not that the expected benefits to be generated by the various tax planning strategies are sufficient to ensure full realization. As such, a valuation allowance has been recorded by the HNAH Group during the second quarter of 2009 relative to growth in the deferred tax asset in excess of the level discussed above.
 
The aforementioned HNAH Group valuation allowance recorded during the second quarter has been allocated to the principal subsidiaries, including HSBC Finance Corporation. The methodology allocates the valuation allowance to the principal subsidiaries based primarily on the entity’s relative contribution to the growth of the HNAH consolidated deferred tax asset against which the valuation allowance is being recorded.
 
The HNAH Group expects to record significant additional valuation allowances against further growth in the deferred tax assets through the remainder of 2009 and 2010, and perhaps longer.
 
If future results differ from the HNAH Group’s current forecasts or the primary tax planning strategy were to change, a valuation allowance against the remaining net deferred tax assets may need to be established which could have a material adverse effect on HSBC Finance Corporation’s results of operations, financial condition and capital position. The HNAH Group will continue to update its assumptions and forecasts of future taxable income, including relevant tax planning strategies, and assess the need for such incremental valuation allowances.
 
Absent the capital support from HSBC and implementation of the related tax planning strategies, the HNAH Group, including us, would be required to record a valuation allowance against the remaining deferred tax assets.
 
HSBC Finance Corporation Income Taxes
 
We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences related to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, and for tax credits and net operating and other losses. Our net deferred tax assets, including deferred tax liabilities and valuation allowances, totaled $2.9 billion and $3.3 billion as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 respectively.
 
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded additional Federal valuation allowances on deferred tax assets of $549 million. The increase in the valuation allowance relates primarily to net operating loss carryforwards, future tax deductions relating to book and tax basis differences and foreign and other tax credit carryforwards.
 
We expect to contribute substantially to the growth in the HNAH Group deferred tax assets in the near term and, in accordance with the allocation methodology, expect to be allocated and record significant additional valuation allowances in future periods.
 
We are currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service as well as various state and local tax jurisdictions. Although one or more of these audits may be concluded within the next 12 months, it is not possible to reasonably estimate the impact of the results from the audit on our uncertain tax positions at this time.


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14.  Pension and Other Post-retirement Benefits
 
The components of pension expense for the domestic defined benefit pension plan reflected in our consolidated statement of loss are shown in the table below and reflect the portion of the pension expense of the combined HSBC North America pension plan which has been allocated to HSBC Finance Corporation:
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Service cost – benefits earned during the period
  $ 9     $ 15     $ 18     $ 30  
Interest cost
    18       18       35       36  
Expected return on assets
    (12 )     (21 )     (24 )     (42 )
Recognized losses
    8       -       17       -  
                                 
Net periodic benefit cost
  $ 23     $ 12     $ 46     $ 24  
                                 
 
Pension expense increased during 2009 due to the amortization of a portion of the actuarial losses incurred by the plan as a result of the volatile capital markets that occurred in 2008.
 
Components of the net periodic benefit cost for our post-retirement benefits other than pensions are as follows:
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
          (in millions)        
 
Service cost – benefits earned during the period
  $ -     $ 1     $ 1     $ 2  
Interest cost
    3       3       6       7  
Gain on curtailment
    -       (4 )     (16 )     (4 )
Recognized gains
    (1 )     (1 )     (2 )     (2 )
                                 
Net periodic post-retirement benefit cost
  $ 2     $ (1 )   $ (11 )   $ 3  
                                 
 
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded a curtailment gain of $16 million due to a reduction in the number of employees covered by the postretirement benefit plan as a result of the decision to discontinue new customer account originations by our Consumer Lending business and to close the Consumer Lending branch offices.


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15.  Related Party Transactions
 
In the normal course of business, we conduct transactions with HSBC and its subsidiaries. These transactions occur at prevailing market rates and terms and include funding arrangements, derivative execution, purchases and sales of receivables, servicing arrangements, information technology services, item and statement processing services, banking and other miscellaneous services. The following tables present related party balances and the income and (expense) generated by related party transactions for continuing operations:
 
                 
    June 30, 2009     December 31, 2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Assets and (Liabilities):
               
Cash
  $ 367     $ 237  
Securities purchased under agreements to resell
    1,610       1,025  
Derivative related assets (liability), net
    (23 )     (461 )
Affiliate preferred stock received in sale of U.K. credit card business
    -       219  
Other assets
    152       310  
Due to affiliates
    (11,036 )     (13,543 )
Other liabilities
    (179 )     (272 )
 


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    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
          (in millions)        
 
Income/(Expense):
                               
Interest expense paid to HSBC affiliates(1)
  $ (291 )   $ (264 )   $ (588 )   $ (519 )
Interest income from HSBC affiliates
    1       14       4       26  
Net gain on bulk sale of receivables to HSBC Bank USA
    -       -       57       -  
HSBC affiliate income:
                               
Gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates:
                               
Daily sales of domestic private label receivable originations
    7       28       24       63  
Daily sales of credit card receivables
    83       39       192       59  
Sales of real estate secured receivables
    -       -       2       -  
                                 
Total gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates
    90       67       218       122  
                                 
Loss on sale of affiliate preferred stock
    (6 )     -       (6 )     -  
Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates:
                               
HSBC Bank USA, National Association (“HSBC Bank USA”):
                               
Real estate secured servicing revenue
    2       2       3       4  
Private label and card receivable servicing and related fees
    160       107       327       218  
Auto finance receivable servicing and related fees
    16       -       30       1  
Other servicing, processing, origination and support revenues from HSBC Bank USA and other HSBC affiliates
    13       7       22       20  
HSBC Technology and Services (USA) Inc. (“HTSU”)
    3       4       5       8  
                                 
Total servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates
    194       120       387       251  
                                 
Taxpayer financial services loan origination and other fees
    (1 )     (1 )     (11 )     (13 )
Support services from HSBC affiliates:
                               
HTSU
    (205 )     (199 )     (432 )     (411 )
HSBC Global Resourcing (UK) Ltd. 
    (43 )     (43 )     (87 )     (85 )
Other HSBC affiliates
    (9 )     (11 )     (17 )     (26 )
                                 
Total support services from HSBC affiliates
    (257 )     (253 )     (536 )     (522 )
                                 
Stock based compensation expense with HSBC
    (2 )     (10 )     (17 )     (33 )
Insurance commission paid to HSBC Bank Canada
    (5 )     (2 )     (10 )     (4 )
 
 
(1)  Includes interest expense paid to HSBC affiliates for debt held by HSBC affiliates as well as interest paid to HSBC affiliates on risk management positions related to non-affiliate debt.
 
Transactions with HSBC Bank USA:
 
•  In January 2009, we sold our GM and UP Portfolios to HSBC Bank USA with an outstanding principal balance of $12.4 billion at the time of sale and recorded a gain on the bulk sale of these receivables of $130 million. This gain was partially offset by a loss of $80 million recorded on the termination of cash flow hedges associated with the $6.1 billion of indebtedness transferred to HSBC Bank USA as part of these transactions. We retained the customer account relationships and by agreement will sell on a daily basis all new credit card receivable originations for the GM and UP Portfolios to HSBC Bank USA. We sold $4.7 billion and $8.9 billion of new GM and UP receivable originations to HSBC Bank USA during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. We continue to service the sold GM and UP Portfolios and receive servicing and related fee income

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from HSBC Bank USA. At June 30, 2009, we were servicing $11.6 billion of GM and UP credit card receivables for HSBC Bank USA. The servicing and related fee income received from HSBC Bank USA as well as the gains recorded on the daily sales of new GM and UP credit card receivable originations are reflected in the table above.
 
•  In January 2009, we also sold certain auto finance receivables with an outstanding principal balance of $3.0 billion to HSBC Bank USA at the time of sale and recorded a gain on the bulk sale of these receivables of $7 million. We continue to service these auto finance receivables for HSBC Bank USA for a fee which is reflected in the table above. At June 30, 2009, we were servicing $2.5 billion of auto finance receivables for HSBC Bank USA.
 
•  In the second quarter of 2008, our Consumer Lending business launched a new program with HSBC Bank USA to sell real estate secured receivables to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”). Our Consumer Lending business originated the loans in accordance with Freddie Mac’s underwriting criteria. The loans were then sold to HSBC Bank USA, generally within 30 days. HSBC Bank USA repackaged the loans and sold them to Freddie Mac under their existing Freddie Mac program. During the three months ended March 31, 2009, we sold $51 million of real estate secured loans to HSBC Bank USA for a gain on sale of $2 million. This program was discontinued in late February 2009 as a result of our decision to discontinue new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business.
 
•  In July 2004 we purchased the account relationships associated with $970 million of credit card receivables from HSBC Bank USA and in December 2004, we sold HSBC Bank USA our domestic private label receivable portfolio (excluding retail sales contracts at our Consumer Lending business). We continue to service the sold domestic private label and credit card receivables and receive servicing and related fee income from HSBC Bank USA. We retained the customer account relationships and by agreement sell on a daily basis substantially all new private label receivable originations and new originations on these credit card receivables to HSBC Bank USA. The servicing and related fee income received from HSBC Bank USA as well as the gains recorded on the sale of domestic private label and credit card receivables are reflected in the table above. Related to the private label receivables and for the account relationships purchased from HSBC Bank USA, the following table summarizes the receivables we are servicing at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 and the receivables sold during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008:
 
                 
    Private Label
    Credit Card
 
    Receivables     Receivables  
   
    (in billions)  
 
Receivables serviced for HSBC Bank USA:
               
June 30, 2009
  $ 15.7     $ 2.0  
December 31, 2008
    18.0       2.0  
Receivables sold to HSBC Bank USA during the three months ended:
               
June 30, 2009
  $ 3.8     $ 1.1  
June 30, 2008
    5.0       1.3  
Receivables sold to HSBC Bank USA during the six months ended:
               
June 30, 2009
  $ 7.4     $ 2.1  
June 30, 2008
    9.5       2.4  
 
•  As of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, we were servicing $1.9 billion and $2.1 billion, respectively, of real estate secured receivables for HSBC Bank USA. The fee revenue associated with these receivables totaled $2 million and $3 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, is recorded in Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates in the consolidated statement of loss. Fee revenue associated with these receivables totaled $2 million and $4 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
•  HSBC Bank USA services a portfolio of real estate secured receivables for us with an outstanding principal balance of $1.7 billion and $2.0 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Fees paid relating


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to the servicing of this portfolio totaled $3 million and $5 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, and are reported in Support services from HSBC affiliates. Fees paid for servicing this portfolio totaled $3 million and $7 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
•  HSBC Bank USA and HSBC Trust Company (Delaware), N.A. (“HTCD”) are the originating lenders for loans initiated by our Taxpayer Financial Services business for clients of various third party tax preparers. We purchase the loans originated by HSBC Bank USA and HTCD daily for a fee. Origination fees paid for these loans totaled $1 million and $11 million during the three months and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. Origination fees for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 totaled $1 million and $13 million, respectively. These origination fees are included as an offset to taxpayer financial services revenue and are reflected as Taxpayer financial services loan origination and other fees in the above table.
 
•  Under multiple service level agreements, we also provide various services to HSBC Bank USA, including real estate and credit card servicing and processing activities, auto finance loan servicing and other operational and administrative support. Fees received for these services are reported as Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates.
 
•  We have extended revolving lines of credit to subsidiaries of HSBC Bank USA for an aggregate total of $1.0 billion. No balances were outstanding under any of these lines of credit at either June 30, 2009 or December 31, 2008.
 
•  HSBC Bank USA extended a secured $1.5 billion uncommitted credit facility to certain of our subsidiaries in December 2008. This is a 364 day credit facility and there were no balances outstanding at June 30, 2009 or December 31, 2008.
 
•  HSBC Bank USA extended a $1.0 billion committed credit facility to HSBC Bank Nevada (“HOBN”), a subsidiary of HSBC Finance Corporation, in December 2008. This is a 364 day credit facility and there were no balances outstanding at June 30, 2009 or December 31, 2008.
 
Transactions with HSBC Holdings plc:
 
•  During the second quarter of 2009, we sold to HSBC $248 million of affiliate preferred stock which we had received on the sale of our U.K. credit card business. As a result, we recorded a loss on sale of $6 million which is included as a component of other income.
 
•  At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, a commercial paper back-stop credit facility of $2.5 billion from HSBC supported our domestic issuances of commercial paper. No balances were outstanding under this credit facility at June 30, 2009 or December 31, 2008. The annual commitment fee requirement to support availability of this line is included as a component of Interest expense – HSBC affiliates in the consolidated statement of loss.
 
•  In late February 2009, we effectively converted $275 million of mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of the Household Capital Trust VIII which had been issued during 2003 to common stock by redeeming the junior subordinated notes underlying the preferred securities and then issuing common stock to HSBC Investments (North America) Inc. (“HINO”). Interest expense recorded on the underlying junior subordinated notes totaled $3 million and $9 million during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and $5 million in the three months ended June 30, 2008. This interest expense is included in Interest expense – HSBC affiliates in the consolidated statement of loss.
 
•  Employees of HSBC Finance Corporation participate in one or more stock compensation plans sponsored by HSBC. These expenses are recorded in Salary and employee benefits and are reflected in the above table as Stock based compensation expense with HSBC. As of June 30, 2009, our share of future compensation cost related to grants which have not yet fully vested is approximately $54 million. This amount is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.


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Transactions with HTSU:
 
•  We had extended a revolving line of credit to HTSU which was terminated in May 2008 and replaced by a line of credit from another affiliate. Interest income associated with this line of credit was recorded in interest income and reflected as Interest income from HSBC affiliates in the table above.
 
•  Technology and some centralized operational services and beginning in January 2009, human resources, corporate affairs and other shared services in North America are centralized within HTSU. Technology related assets and software purchased subsequent to January 1, 2004 are generally purchased and owned by HTSU. HTSU also provides certain item processing and statement processing activities which are included in Support services from HSBC affiliates. We also receive revenue from HTSU for rent on certain office space, which has been recorded as a reduction of occupancy and equipment expenses, and for certain administrative costs, which has been recorded as a component of servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates. Rental revenue from HTSU recorded as a reduction of occupancy and equipment expense was $14 million and $25 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. Rental revenue from HTSU was $12 million and $24 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
•  During the fourth quarter of 2008, we sold miscellaneous assets to HTSU for a purchase price equal to the book value of these assets of $41 million.
 
Transactions with other HSBC affiliates:
 
•  The notional value of derivative contracts outstanding with HSBC subsidiaries totaled $67.3 billion and $77.9 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. When the fair value of our agreements with affiliate counterparties requires the posting of collateral, it is provided in either the form of cash and recorded on the balance sheet or in the form of securities which are not recorded on our balance sheet. The fair value of our agreements with affiliate counterparties required the affiliate to provide collateral of $2.4 billion and $2.9 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, all of which was received in cash. These amounts are offset against the fair value amount recognized for derivative instruments that have been offset under the same master netting arrangement in accordance with FASB Staff Position No. FIN 39-1, “Amendment of FASB Interpretation No. 39,” (“FSP 39-1”).
 
•  Due to affiliates includes amounts owed to subsidiaries of HSBC as a result of direct debt issuances (other than preferred stock).
 
•  In September 2008, we borrowed $1.0 billion from an existing uncommitted credit facility with HSBC Bank plc (“HBEU”). The borrowing was for 60 days and matured in November 2008. We renewed this borrowing for an additional 95 days. The borrowing matured in February 2009 and we chose not to renew it at that time.
 
•  In October 2008, we borrowed $1.2 billion from an uncommitted money market facility with a subsidiary of HSBC Asia Pacific (“HBAP”). The borrowing was for six months, matured in April 2009 and we chose not to renew it at that time.
 
•  We purchase from HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. (“HSI”) securities under an agreement to resell. Interest income recognized on these securities totaled $1 million and $3 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, and is reflected as Interest income from HSBC affiliates in the table above. Interest income recognized on these securities totaled $5 million and $11 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
•  We use HSBC Global Resourcing (UK) Ltd., an HSBC affiliate located outside of the United States, to provide various support services to our operations including among other areas, customer service, systems, collection and accounting functions. The expenses related to these services of $43 million and $87 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively are included as a component of Support services from HSBC affiliates in the table above. Expenses related to these services totaled $43 million and $85 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.


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•  Support services from HSBC affiliates also includes banking services and other miscellaneous services provided by other subsidiaries of HSBC, including HSBC Bank USA.
 
•  We utilize HSBC Markets (USA) Inc., an affiliated HSBC entity, to lead manage the underwriting of a majority of our debt issuances. There were no fees paid to the affiliate for such services during the three or six months ended June 30, 2009 or 2008. For debt not accounted for under the fair value option, fees paid for such services are amortized over the life of the related debt.
 
•  Domestic employees of HSBC Finance Corporation participate in a defined benefit pension plan and other post-retirement benefit plans sponsored by HSBC North America. See Note 14, “Pension and Other Post-retirement Benefits,” for additional information on this pension plan.
 
•  As previously discussed in Note 2, “Discontinued Operations,” in May 2008 we sold all of the common stock of the holding company of our U.K. Operations to HOHU for GBP 181 million (equivalent to approximately $359 million). The results of operations for our U.K. Operations have been reclassified as Income from discontinued operations for all periods presented.
 
•  As previously discussed in Note 2, “Discontinued Operations,” in November 2008 we sold all of the common stock of the holding company of our Canadian Operations to HSBC Bank Canada for approximately $279 million (based on the exchange rate on the date of sale). While HSBC Bank Canada assumed the liabilities of our Canadian Operations as a result of this transaction, we continue to guarantee the long-term and medium-term notes issued by our Canadian business prior to the sale for a fee. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded $2 million and $3 million, respectively, for providing this guarantee. As of June 30, 2009, the outstanding balance of the guaranteed notes was $2.1 billion and the latest scheduled maturity of the notes is May 2012. The sale agreement with HSBC Bank Canada allows us to continue to distribute various insurance products through the branch network for a fee. Fees paid to HSBC Bank Canada for distributing insurance products through this network during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 were $5 million and $10 million, respectively, and are included in Insurance Commission paid to HSBC Bank Canada. The results of operations for our Canadian Operations have been reclassified as Income from discontinued operations for all periods presented.
 
16.  Business Segments
 
We have two reportable segments: Card and Retail Services and Consumer. Our segments are managed separately and are characterized by different middle-market consumer lending products, origination processes, and locations. Our segment results are reported on a continuing operations basis.
 
Our Card and Retail Services segment includes our MasterCard, Visa, private label and other credit card operations. The Card and Retail Services segment offers these products throughout the United States primarily via strategic affinity and co-branding relationships, merchant relationships and direct mail. Products are also offered and customers serviced through the Internet.
 
Our Consumer segment consists of our run-off Consumer Lending, Mortgage Services and Auto Finance businesses. The Consumer segment provided real estate secured, auto finance and personal non-credit card loans. Loans were offered with both revolving and closed-end terms and with fixed or variable interest rates. Loans were originated through branch locations and direct mail. Products were also offered and customers serviced through the Internet. Prior to the first quarter of 2007, we acquired loans through correspondent channels and prior to September 2007 we also originated loans through mortgage brokers.
 
The All Other caption includes our Insurance, Taxpayer Financial Services and Commercial businesses, each of which falls below the quantitative threshold tests under segment reporting accounting principles, for determining reportable segments, as well as our corporate and treasury activities, which includes the impact of FVO debt. Certain fair value adjustments related to purchase accounting resulting from our acquisition by HSBC and related amortization have been allocated to Corporate, including goodwill arising from our acquisition by HSBC, which is included in the “All Other” caption within our segment disclosure.


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In the first quarter of 2009, we began allocating the majority of the costs of our corporate and treasury activities to our reportable segments. These allocated costs had previously not been considered in determining segment profit (loss) and are now reported as intersegment revenues in the “All Other” caption and operating expenses for our reportable segments. There have been no other changes in our measurement of segment profit (loss) and there have been no changes in the basis of segmentation as compared with the presentation in our 2008 Form 10-K.
 
We report results to our parent, HSBC, in accordance with its reporting basis, IFRSs. Our segment results are presented on an IFRS Management Basis (a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure) as operating results are monitored and reviewed, trends are evaluated and decisions about allocating resources such as employees are made almost exclusively on an IFRS Management Basis. IFRS Management Basis results are IFRSs results which assume that the GM and UP credit card, auto finance, private label and real estate secured receivables transferred to HSBC Bank USA have not been sold and remain on our balance sheet and the revenues and expenses related to these receivables remain on our income statement. IFRS Management Basis also assumes that the purchase accounting fair value adjustments relating to our acquisition by HSBC have been “pushed down” to HSBC Finance Corporation. Operations are monitored and trends are evaluated on an IFRS Management Basis because the receivable sales to HSBC Bank USA were conducted primarily to fund prime customer loans more efficiently through bank deposits and such receivables continue to be managed and serviced by us without regard to ownership. However, we continue to monitor capital adequacy, establish dividend policy and report to regulatory agencies on a U.S. GAAP legal entity basis.
 
Reconciliation of our IFRS Management Basis segment results to the U.S. GAAP consolidated totals are as follows:
 
                                                                         
                            IFRS
                         
                            Management
                         
    Card and
                Adjustments/
    Basis
    Management
          IFRS
    U.S. GAAP
 
    Retail
          All
    Reconciling
    Consolidated
    Basis
    IFRS
    Reclass-
    Consolidated
 
    Services     Consumer     Other     Items     Totals     Adjustments(2)     Adjustments(3)     ifications(4)     Totals  
   
                            (in millions)                    
 
Three months ended June 30, 2009
                                                                       
Net interest income
  $ 1,298     $ 977     $ 235     $ 1     $ 2,511     $ (718 )   $ 34     $ (295 )   $ 1,532  
Other operating income (Total other revenues)
    568       69       (4,612 )     (5 )(1)     (3,980 )     (42 )     (390 )     368       (4,044 )
Loan impairment charges (Provision for credit losses)
    1,208       2,154       -       -       3,362       (720 )     (206 )     -       2,436  
Operating expenses (Total costs and expenses)
    986       262       836 (5)     (5 )     2,079       2       372       73       2,526  
Profit (loss) before tax
    (328 )     (1,370 )     (5,213 )     1       (6,910 )     (42 )     (522 )     -       (7,474 )
Customer loans (Receivables)
    40,981       90,197       1,072       -       132,250       (31,998 )     (565 )     (1,609 )     98,078  
Assets
    39,292       87,713       10,539       (2 )     137,542       (31,414 )     (3,440 )     (170 )     102,518  
Intersegment revenues
    1       33       (29 )     (5 )(1)     -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                         
Three months ended June 30, 2008
                                                                       
Net interest income
  $ 1,263     $ 1,481     $ 80     $ -     $ 2,824     $ (349 )   $ (139 )   $ (25 )   $ 2,311  
Other operating income (Total other revenues)
    773       23       (816 )     (6 )(1)     (26 )     (14 )     (146 )     124       (62 )
Loan impairment charges (Provision for credit losses)
    1,236       2,150       8       -       3,394       (380 )     185       (10 )     3,189  
Operating expenses (Total costs and expenses)
    538       447       188       (8 )     1,165       12       23       109       1,309  
Profit (loss) before tax
    262       (1,093 )     (932 )     2       (1,761 )     5       (493 )     -       (2,249 )
Customer loans (Receivables)
    46,778       109,783       1,864       -       158,425       (20,306 )     (293 )     (11,194 )     126,632  
Assets(5)
    45,209       105,271       21,494       -       171,974       (19,276 )     (7,032 )     (182 )     145,484  
Intersegment revenues
    4       45       (43 )     (6 )(1)     -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                         
 


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                            IFRS
                         
                            Management
                         
    Card and
                Adjustments/
    Basis
    Management
          IFRS
    U.S. GAAP
 
    Retail
          All
    Reconciling
    Consolidated
    Basis
    IFRS
    Reclass-
    Consolidated
 
    Services     Consumer     Other     Items     Totals     Adjustments(2)     Adjustments(3)     ifications(4)     Totals  
   
                            (in millions)                    
 
Six months ended June 30, 2009
                                                                       
Net interest income
  $ 2,638     $ 2,012     $ 491     $ 1     $ 5,142     $ (1,442 )   $ (170 )   $ (319 )   $ 3,211  
Other operating income (Total other revenues)
    1,228       30       (582 )     (12 )(1)     664       61       (355 )     543       913  
Loan impairment charges (Provision for credit losses)
    2,719       4,589       -       -       7,308       (1,559 )     (368 )     -       5,381  
Operating expenses (Total costs and expenses)
    1,474       819       2,513 (5)     (12 )     4,794       5       (533 )     224       4,490  
Profit (loss) before tax
    (327 )     (3,366 )     (2,604 )     1       (6,296 )     173       376       -       (5,747 )
Intersegment revenues
    3       67       (58 )     (12 )(1)     -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                         
Six months ended June 30, 2008
                                                                       
Net interest income
  $ 2,565     $ 3,044     $ (12 )   $ -     $ 5,597     $ (712 )   $ (188 )   $ (50 )   $ 4,647  
Other operating income (Total other revenues)
    1,617       (2 )     493       (12 )(1)     2,096       (51 )     (103 )     313       2,255  
Loan impairment charges (Provision for credit losses)
    2,260       4,308       13       -       6,581       (749 )     200       (15 )     6,017  
Operating expenses (Total costs and expenses)
    1,118       912       344       (15 )     2,359       24       50       278       2,711  
Profit (loss) before tax
    804       (2,178 )     124       3       (1,247 )     (38 )     (541 )     -       (1,826 )
Intersegment revenues
    9       89       (86 )     (12 )(1)     -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                         
 
 
(1) Eliminates intersegment revenues.
 
(2) Management Basis Adjustments represent the GM and UP credit card Portfolios and the auto finance, private label and real estate secured receivables transferred to HSBC Bank USA.
 
(3) IFRS Adjustments consist of the accounting differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRSs which have been described more fully below.
 
(4) Represents differences in balance sheet and income statement presentation between IFRSs and U.S. GAAP.
 
(5) At June 30, 2009, all of our goodwill has been fully written-off.
 
A summary of the significant differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRSs as they impact our results are presented below:
 
Net interest income
 
Effective interest rate – The calculation of effective interest rates under IFRS 39 requires an estimate of “all fees and points paid or recovered between parties to the contract” that are an integral part of the effective interest rate be included. U.S. GAAP generally prohibits recognition of interest income to the extent the net interest in the loan would increase to an amount greater than the amount at which the borrower could settle the obligation. Under U.S. GAAP, prepayment penalties are generally recognized as received. U.S. GAAP also includes interest income on loans held for resale which is included in other revenues for IFRSs.
 
Deferred loan origination costs and fees – Loan origination cost deferrals under IFRSs are more stringent and result in lower costs being deferred than permitted under U.S. GAAP. In addition, all deferred loan origination fees, costs and loan premiums must be recognized based on the expected life of the receivables under IFRSs as part of the effective interest calculation while under U.S. GAAP they may be recognized on either a contractual or expected life basis.
 
Derivative interest expense – Under IFRSs, net interest income includes the interest element for derivatives which correspond to debt designated at fair value. For U.S. GAAP, this is included in Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives which is a component of other revenues. Additionally, under IFRSs, insurance investment income is included in net interest income instead of as a component of other revenues under U.S. GAAP.

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Other operating income (Total other revenues)
 
Present value of long-term insurance business – Under IFRSs, the present value of an in-force (“PVIF”) long-term insurance business is determined by discounting future cash flows expected to emerge from business currently in force using appropriate assumptions in assessing factors such as future mortality, lapse rates and levels of expenses, and a discount rate that reflects the risk premium attributable to the respective long-term insurance business. Movements in the PVIF long-term insurance business are included in other operating income. Under U.S. GAAP, revenue is recognized over the life insurance policy term.
 
During the second quarter of 2009, we refined the income recognition methodology in respect of long-term insurance contracts. This resulted in the recognition of a revenue item on an IFRSs basis of $66 million ($43 million after-tax). Approximately $43 million ($28 million after-tax) would have been recorded prior to January 1, 2009 if the refinement in respect of income recognition had been applied at that date.
 
Policyholder benefits – Other revenues under IFRSs includes policyholder benefits expense which is classified as other expense under U.S. GAAP.
 
Loans held for sale – IFRSs requires loans designated as held for resale at the time of origination to be treated as trading assets and recorded at their fair market value. Under U.S. GAAP, loans designated as held for resale are reflected as loans and recorded at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. Under IFRSs, the income and expenses related to receivables held for sale are reported in other operating income. Under U.S. GAAP, the income and expenses related to receivables held for sale are reported similarly to loans held for investment.
 
For receivables transferred to held for sale subsequent to origination, IFRSs requires these receivables to be reported separately on the balance sheet but does not change the recognition and measurement criteria. Accordingly, for IFRSs purposes such loans continue to be accounted for in accordance with IAS 39 with any gain or loss recorded at the time of sale. U.S. GAAP requires loans that management intends to sell to be transferred to a held for sale category at the lower of cost or fair value. Under U.S. GAAP, the component of the lower of cost or fair value adjustment related to credit risk is recorded in the statement of loss as provision for credit losses while the component related to interest rates and liquidity factors is reported in the statement of loss in other revenues.
 
Securities – Under IFRSs, securities include HSBC shares held for stock plans at fair value. These shares are recorded at fair value through other comprehensive income. If it is determined these shares have become impaired, the fair value loss is recognized in profit and loss and any fair value loss recorded in other comprehensive income is reversed. There is no similar requirement under U.S. GAAP.
 
During the second quarter of 2009, under IFRSs we recorded income for the value of additional shares attributed to HSBC shares held for stock plans as a result of HSBC’s rights offering earlier in 2009. The additional shares are not recorded under U.S. GAAP.
 
Other-than-temporary impairments – As a result of the guidance issued by the SEC in October 2008, under U.S. GAAP we are allowed to evaluate perpetual preferred securities for potential other-than-temporary impairment similar to a debt security provided there has been no evidence of deterioration in the credit of the issuer and record the unrealized losses as a component of other comprehensive income. There are no similar provisions under IFRSs as all perpetual preferred securities are evaluated for other-than-temporary impairment as equity securities.
 
Effective January 1, 2009 under U.S. GAAP, the credit loss component of an other-than-temporary impairment of a debt security is recognized in earnings while the remaining portion of the impairment loss is recognized in other comprehensive income provided a company concludes it neither intends to sell the security nor concludes that it is more-likely-than-not that it will have to sell the security prior to recovery. Under IFRSs, there is no bifurcation of other-than-temporary impairment and the entire decline in value is recognized in earnings.
 
Loan impairment charges (Provision for credit losses)
 
IFRSs requires a discounted cash flow methodology for estimating impairment on pools of homogeneous customer loans which requires the incorporation of the time value of money relating to recovery estimates. Also under IFRSs,


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future recoveries on charged-off loans are accrued for on a discounted basis and a recovery asset is recorded. Subsequent recoveries are recorded to earnings under U.S. GAAP, but are adjusted against the recovery asset under IFRSs. Interest is recorded based on collectibility under IFRSs.
 
As discussed above, under U.S. GAAP the credit risk component of the lower of cost or fair value adjustment related to the transfer of receivables to held for sale is recorded in the statement of loss as provision for credit losses. There is no similar requirement under IFRSs.
 
Operating expenses
 
Goodwill impairment under IFRSs is higher than that under U.S. GAAP due to higher levels of goodwill established under IFRSs as well as differences in how impairment is measured as U.S. GAAP requires a two-step impairment test which requires the fair value of goodwill to be determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. However, operating expenses under IFRSs are lower as policyholder benefits expenses are reported as an offset to other revenues as discussed above. There are other less significant differences between IFRSs and U.S. GAAP relating to pension expense and prior to 2009, changes in tax estimates.
 
Assets
 
Customer loans (Receivables) – On an IFRSs basis loans designated as held for sale at the time of origination and accrued interest are classified in other assets. However, the accounting requirements governing when receivables previously held for investment are transferred to a held for sale category are more stringent under IFRS than under U.S. GAAP. Unearned insurance premiums are reported as a reduction to receivables on a U.S. GAAP basis but are reported as insurance reserves for IFRSs.
 
Other – In addition to the differences discussed above, there are higher derivative related assets under IFRSs compared to U.S. GAAP due to more stringent netting requirements under U.S. GAAP.
 
17.  Fair Value Measurements
 
FAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” provides a framework for measuring fair value and focuses on an exit price in the principal (or alternatively, the most advantageous) market accessible in an orderly transaction between willing market participants. FAS 157 establishes a three-tiered fair value hierarchy with Level 1 representing quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs are inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are disorderly, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability.


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Assets and Liabilities Recorded at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The following table presents information about our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fair value.
 
                                 
    Assets
    Quoted Prices in
             
    (Liabilities)
    Active Markets for
    Significant Other
    Significant
 
    Measured at
    Identical Assets
    Observable Inputs
    Unobservable Inputs
 
    Fair Value     (Level 1)     (Level 2)     (Level 3)  
   
          (in millions)        
 
June 30, 2009:
                               
Derivative related assets(1)
  $ 2,344     $ -     $ 2,344     $ -  
Available for sale securities:
                               
U.S. Treasury
    111       111       -       -  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises
    123       21       100       2  
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed
    27       -       27       -  
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
    35       -       35       -  
Asset-backed securities
    106       -       70       36  
U.S. corporate debt securities
    1,681       -       1,636       45  
Foreign debt securities
    305       16       283       6  
Preferred equity securities
    5       -       -       5  
Money market funds
    598       598       -       -  
Accrued interest
    30       1       28       1  
                                 
Total available-for-sale securities
    3,021       747       2,179       95  
Long term debt carried at fair value
    (25,855 )     -       (25,855 )     -  
Derivative related liabilities
    (33 )     -       (33 )     -  
December 31, 2008:
                               
Derivative related assets(1)
  $ 2,406     $ -     $ 2,406     $ -  
Available for sale securities:
                               
U.S. Treasury
    57       57       -       -  
U.S. government sponsored enterprises
    155       25       130       -  
U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed
    34       -       34       -  
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions
    34       -       34       -  
Asset-backed securities
    128       -       90       38  
U.S. corporate debt securities
    1,656       -       1,572       84  
Foreign debt securities
    269       22       247       -  
Preferred equity securities
    52       -       1       51  
Money market funds
    679       679       -       -  
Accrued interest
    30       -       28       2  
                                 
Total available-for-sale securities
    3,094       783       2,136       175  
Long term debt carried at fair value
    (28,338 )     -       (28,338 )     -  
Derivative related liabilities
    (18 )     -       (18 )     -  
 
 
(1) The fair value disclosed does not include swap collateral which was a net liability of $2.3 billion and $2.9 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and that we either received or deposited with our interest rate swap counterparties. Such swap collateral is recorded on our balance sheet at an amount which “approximates fair value” as discussed in FASB Staff Position No. FIN 39-1, “Amendment of FASB Interpretation No. 39” and is netted on the balance sheet with the fair value amount recognized for derivative instruments.


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The table below reconciles the beginning and ending balances for assets recorded at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
          (in millions)        
 
Beginning balance at beginning of period
  $ 113     $ -     $ 175     $ -  
Transfers in (out) of Level 3, net
    21       59       (34 )     59  
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (net)
    (38 )     -       (34 )     -  
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):
                               
Included in income from continuing operations
    -       -       (8 )     -  
Included in other comprehensive income
    (1 )     (8 )     (3 )     (8 )
Net change in accrued interest
    -       -       (1 )     -  
                                 
Ending balance at end of period
  $ 95     $ 51     $ 95     $ 51  
                                 
 
 
(1) The changes in unrealized losses relate to assets no longer held on our balance sheet at either June 30, 2009 or 2008.
 
Assets recorded at fair value on a recurring basis at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 which have been classified as using Level 3 measurements include certain U.S. corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities and at December 31, 2008, our entire portfolio of perpetual preferred equity securities which was sold during the first half of 2009. Securities are classified as using Level 3 measurements when one or both of the following conditions are met:
 
  •  An asset-backed security is downgraded below a AAA credit rating; or
 
  •  An individual security fails the quarterly pricing comparison test, which is described more fully below, with a variance greater than 5 percent.
 
During the three months ended June 30, 2009, transfers out of Level 3 classifications, net, represents changes in the mix of individual securities that meet one or both of the above conditions. During the three months ended June 30, 2009, we transferred $49 million from Level 2 to Level 3 of individual corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities which met one or both of the conditions described above, which was partially offset by the transfer of $28 million of individual corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities from Level 3 to Level 2 as they no longer met one or both of the conditions described above.


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Assets and Liabilities Recorded at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis The following table presents information about our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of June 30, 2009 and June 30, 2008, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fair value.
 
                                                 
                            Total Gains
    Total Gains
 
                            (Losses) for the
    (Losses) for the
 
    Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements as
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    of June 30, 2009     June 30,
    June 30,
 
    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     2009     2009  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured
  $ -     $ -     $ 36     $ 36     $ 2     $ -  
Auto finance
    -       450       -       450       (38 )     (38 )
Credit cards
    -       -       609       609       (161 )     (328 )
                                                 
Total receivables held for sale at fair value(1)
  $ -     $ 450     $ 645     $ 1,095     $ (197 )   $ (366 )
                                                 
Real estate owned(2)
  $ -     $ 739     $ -     $ 739     $ (52 )   $ (151 )
                                                 
Repossessed vehicles(2)
  $ -     $ 33     $ -     $ 33     $ -(4 )   $ -(4 )
                                                 
Goodwill(3)
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ (1,641 )   $ (2,294 )
                                                 
Intangible assets(3)
  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ (14 )
                                                 
 
                                                 
                            Total Gains
    Total Gains
 
                            (Losses) for the
    (Losses) for the
 
    Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements as
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    of June 30, 2008     June 30,
    June 30,
 
    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total     2008     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured
  $ -     $ 1,214     $ -     $ 1,214     $ (131 )   $ (140 )
Credit cards
    -       1,580       -       1,580       (248 )     (248 )
                                                 
Total receivables held for sale at fair value(1)
  $ -     $ 2,794     $ -     $ 2,794     $ (379 )   $ (388 )
                                                 
Real estate owned(2)
  $ -     $ 1,296     $ -     $ 1,296     $ (98 )   $ (218 )
                                                 
Repossessed vehicles(2)
  $ -     $ 50     $ -     $ 50     $ -(4 )   $ -(4 )
                                                 
 
 
(1) Excludes $5 million and $6,323 million of receivables held for sale at June 30, 2009 and June 30, 2008 for which the fair value exceeds carrying value and therefore not recorded at fair value.
 
(2) The fair value disclosed is unadjusted for transaction costs as required by FAS 157. The amounts recorded in the consolidated balance sheet are recorded net of transaction costs as required by FAS 144.
 
(3) In accordance with the provisions of FAS 142, goodwill with a carrying amount of $260 million allocated to our Insurance Services business and $2,034 million allocated to our Card and Retail Services businesses was written down to its implied fair value of $0 million and $1,641 million, respectively, during the three months ended March 31, 2009. Additionally, technology, customer lists and customer loan related relationship intangible assets totaling $34 million were written down to their implied fair value of $20 million during the three months ended March 31, 2009. No write down of goodwill or intangible assets occurred during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008. During three months ended June 30, 2009, goodwill with a carrying amount of $1,641 million allocated to our Card and Retail Services business was written down to its implied fair value of $0 million.
 
(4) Repossessed vehicles are typically sold within two months of repossession. As a result, fair value adjustments subsequent to repossession are not significant.
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107, “Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” as amended, (“FAS 107”) on a quarterly basis we report the fair value of all financial instruments in our consolidated balance sheet, including those financial instruments carried at cost. The fair value estimates, methods and assumptions set forth below for our financial instruments are made solely to comply with the requirements of FAS 107 and should be read in conjunction with the financial


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statements and notes included in this quarterly report. The following table summarizes the carrying values and estimated fair value of our financial instruments at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
                                 
    June 30, 2009     December 31, 2008  
    Carrying
    Estimated
    Carrying
    Estimated
 
    Value     Fair Value     Value     Fair Value  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Financial assets:
                               
Cash
  $ 391     $ 391     $ 255     $ 255  
Interest bearing deposits with banks
    33       33       25       25  
Securities purchased under agreements to resell
    2,611       2,611       1,025       1,025  
Securities
    3,021       3,021       3,094       3,094  
Consumer receivables:
                               
Mortgage Services:
                               
First lien
    16,834       10,225       18,512       11,527  
Second lien
    2,762       821       3,238       981  
                                 
Total Mortgage Services
    19,596       11,046       21,750       12,508  
Consumer Lending:
                               
First lien
    35,230       23,129       37,986       25,085  
Second lien
    4,426       1,383       4,824       1,570  
                                 
Total Consumer Lending real estate secured receivables
    39,656       24,512       42,810       26,655  
Non-real estate secured receivables
    11,181       5,762       13,187       6,386  
                                 
Total Consumer Lending
    50,837       30,274       55,997       33,041  
Credit card
    9,984       8,522       11,130       9,968  
Auto Finance
    4,783       4,470       6,872       5,900  
                                 
Total consumer receivables
    85,200       54,312       95,749       61,417  
Receivables held for sale
    1,100       1,100       16,680       16,812  
Due from affiliates
    152       152       310       310  
Derivative financial assets
    1       1       8       8  
Financial liabilities:
                               
Commercial paper, bank and other borrowings
    5,778       5,778       9,639       9,639  
Due to affiliates
    11,036       10,490       13,543       12,054  
Long term debt carried at fair value
    25,855       25,855       28,338       28,338  
Long term debt not carried at fair value
    46,482       41,001       61,686       54,147  
Insurance policy and claim reserves
    1,001       1,051       1,010       1,134  
Derivative financial liabilities
    28       28       461       461  
 
Receivable values presented in the table above were determined using the framework for measuring fair value as prescribed by FAS 157, which is based on our best estimate of the amount within a range of value we believe would be received in a sale as of the balance sheet date (i.e. exit price). The unprecedented developments in the mortgage lending industry and the current economic conditions have resulted in a significant reduction in the secondary market demand for assets not guaranteed or eligible for guarantee by the Federal government or a governmental agency. The estimated fair values at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 for our receivables reflect these market conditions. For consumer receivables, potential investors often assume a significantly higher charge-off level than what we, as the servicer of these receivables, believe will ultimately be the case, and the asset value reflects a significant pricing discount resulting from the lack of liquidity available to most buyers of whole loan assets. This


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resulting value may be substantially lower than would otherwise be reported under more normal marketplace conditions.
 
Valuation Techniques The following summarizes the valuation methodology used to determine the estimated fair values for financial instruments reflected in the tables above.
 
Cash: Carrying value approximates fair value due to cash’s liquid nature.
 
Interest bearing deposits with banks: Carrying value approximates fair value due to the asset’s liquid nature.
 
Securities purchased under agreements to resell: The fair value of securities purchased under agreements to resell approximates carrying value due to the short-term maturity of the agreements.
 
Securities: Fair value for our available-for-sale securities is generally determined by a third party valuation source. The pricing services generally source fair value measurements from quoted market prices and if not available, the security is valued based on quotes from similar securities using broker quotes and other information obtained from dealers and market participants. For securities which do not trade in active markets, such as fixed income securities, the pricing services generally utilize various pricing applications, including models, to measure fair value. The pricing applications are based on market convention and use inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. The following summarizes the valuation methodology used for our major security types:
 
•  U.S. Treasury, U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed and Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions – As these securities transact in an active market, the pricing services source fair value measurements from quoted prices for the identical security or quoted prices for similar securities with adjustments as necessary made using observable inputs which are market corroborated.
 
•  U.S. government sponsored enterprises – For certain government sponsored mortgage-backed securities which transact in an active market, the pricing services source fair value measurements from quoted prices for the identical security or quoted prices for similar securities with adjustments as necessary made using observable inputs which are market corroborated. For government sponsored mortgage-backed securities which do not transact in an active market, fair value is determined using discounted cash flow models and inputs related to interest rates, prepayment speeds, loss curves and market discount rates that would be required by investors in the current market given the specific characteristics and inherent credit risk of the underlying collateral.
 
•  Asset-backed securities – Fair value is determined using discounted cash flow models and inputs related to interest rates, prepayment speeds, loss curves and market discount rates that would be required by investors in the current market given the specific characteristics and inherent credit risk of the underlying collateral.
 
•  U.S. corporate and foreign debt securities – For non-callable corporate securities, a credit spread scale is created for each issuer. These spreads are then added to the equivalent maturity U.S. Treasury yield to determine current pricing. Credit spreads are obtained from the new issue market, secondary trading levels and dealer quotes. For securities with early redemption features, an option adjusted spread (“OAS”) model is incorporated to adjust the spreads determined above. Additionally, the pricing services will survey the broker/dealer community to obtain relevant trade data including benchmark quotes and updated spreads.
 
•  Preferred equity securities – In general, for perpetual preferred securities, fair value is calculated using an appropriate spread over a comparable US Treasury security for each issue. These spreads represent the additional yield required to account for risk including credit, refunding and liquidity. The inputs are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.
 
•  Money market funds – Carrying value approximates fair value due to the asset’s liquid nature.
 
We perform validations of the fair values sourced from the independent pricing services at least quarterly. Such validation principally includes sourcing security prices from other independent pricing services or broker quotes. The validation process provides us with information as to whether the volume and level of activity for a security has significantly decreased and assists in identifying transactions that are not orderly. Depending on the results of the


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validation, additional information may be gathered from other market participants to support the fair value measurements. A determination will be made as to whether adjustments to the observable inputs are necessary as a result of investigations and inquiries about the reasonableness of the inputs used and the methodologies employed by the independent pricing services.
 
Receivables: The estimated fair value of our receivables was determined by developing an estimated range of value from a mix of various sources as appropriate for the respective pool of assets. These sources include, inter alia, value estimates from an HSBC affiliate which reflect current estimated rating agency credit tranching levels with the associated benchmark credit spreads, forward looking discounted cash flow models using assumptions we believe are consistent with those which would be used by market participants in valuing such receivables, trading input from market participants which includes observed primary and secondary trades, and general discussions held directly with potential investors.
 
Model inputs relate to interest rates, prepayment speeds, default and loss curves, and market discount rates reflecting management’s estimate of the rate of return that would be required by investors in the current market given the specific characteristics and inherent credit risk of the receivables. Some of these inputs are influenced by home price changes and unemployment rates. To the extent available, such inputs are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation and other means. We perform periodic validations of our valuation methodologies and assumptions based on the results of actual sales of such receivables. In addition, from time to time, we will engage a third party valuation specialist to measure the fair value of a pool of receivables. Portfolio risk management personnel provide further validation through discussions with third party brokers and other market participants. Since an active market for these receivables does not exist, the fair value measurement process uses unobservable significant inputs which are specific to the performance characteristics of the various receivable portfolios.
 
Real estate owned: Fair value is determined based on third party appraisals obtained at the time we take title to the property and, if less than the carrying value of the loan, the carrying value of the loan is adjusted to the fair value. After three months on the market, the carrying value is further reduced, if necessary, to reflect observable local market data, including local area sales data.
 
Repossessed vehicles: Fair value is determined based on current Black Book values, which represent current observable prices in the wholesale auto auction market.
 
Due from affiliates: Carrying value approximates fair value because the interest rates on these receivables adjust with changing market interest rates.
 
Commercial paper and short-term borrowings:  The fair value of these instruments approximates existing carrying value because interest rates on these instruments adjust with changes in market interest rates due to their short-term maturity or repricing characteristics.
 
Due to affiliates: The estimated fair value of our fixed rate and floating rate debt due to affiliates was determined using discounted future expected cash flows at current interest rates and credit spreads offered for similar types of debt instruments.
 
Long term debt: Fair value was primarily determined by a third party valuation source. The pricing services source fair value from quoted market prices and, if not available, expected cash flows are discounted using the appropriate interest rate for the applicable duration of the instrument adjusted for our own credit risk (spread). The credit spreads applied to these instruments were derived from the spreads recognized in the secondary market for similar debt as of the measurement date. Where available, relevant trade data is also considered as part of our validation process.
 
Insurance policy and claim reserves: The fair value of insurance reserves for periodic payment annuities was estimated by discounting future expected cash flows at estimated market interest rates.
 
Derivative related assets and liabilities: Derivative values are defined as the amount we would receive or pay to extinguish the contract using a market participant as of the reporting date. The values are determined by


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management using a pricing system maintained by HSBC Bank USA. In determining these values, HSBC Bank USA uses quoted market prices, when available, principally for exchange-traded options. For non-exchange traded contracts, such as interest rate swaps, fair value is determined using discounted cash flow modeling techniques. Valuation models calculate the present value of expected future cash flows based on models that utilize independently-sourced market parameters, including interest rate yield curves, option volatilities, and currency rates. Valuations may be adjusted in order to ensure that those values represent appropriate estimates of fair value. These adjustments, which are applied consistently over time, are generally required to reflect factors such as market liquidity and counterparty credit risk that can affect prices in arms-length transactions with unrelated third parties. Finally, other transaction specific factors such as the variety of valuation models available, the range of unobservable model inputs and other model assumptions can affect estimates of fair value. Imprecision in estimating these factors can impact the amount of revenue or loss recorded for a particular position.
 
Counterparty credit risk is considered in determining the fair value of a financial asset. FAS 157 specifies that the fair value of a liability should reflect the entity’s non-performance risk and accordingly, the effect of our own credit risk (spread) has been factored into the determination of the fair value of our financial liabilities, including derivative instruments. In estimating the credit risk adjustment to the derivative assets and liabilities, we take into account the impact of netting and/or collateral arrangements that are designed to mitigate counterparty credit risk.
 
18.  Contingent Liabilities
 
Both we and certain of our subsidiaries are parties to various legal proceedings resulting from ordinary business activities relating to our current and/or former operations. Certain of these activities are or purport to be class actions seeking damages in very large amounts. These actions include assertions concerning violations of laws and/or unfair treatment of consumers.
 
We accrue for litigation-related liabilities when it is probable that such a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. While the outcome of litigation is inherently uncertain, we believe, in light of all information known to us at June 30, 2009, that our litigation reserves are adequate at such date. We review litigation reserves at least quarterly, and the reserves may be increased or decreased in the future to reflect further relevant developments. We believe that our defenses to the claims asserted against us in our currently active litigation have merit and any adverse decision should not materially affect our consolidated financial condition. However, losses may be material to our results of operations for any particular future periods depending on our income level for that period.
 
On May 7, 2009, the jury in the class action Jaffe v. Household International Inc., et. al returned a verdict partially in favor of the plaintiffs with respect to Household International and three former officers for certain of the claims arising out of alleged false and misleading statements made in connection with certain activities of Household International, Inc. between July 30, 1999 and October 11, 2002. Despite the verdict at the District Court level, we continue to believe, after consultation with counsel, that neither Household nor its former officers committed any wrongdoing and that we will either prevail on our outstanding motions or that the Seventh Circuit will reverse the trial Court verdict upon appeal. As such, it is not probable a loss has been incurred as of June 30, 2009 and, therefore, no loss accrual resulting from this verdict has been established.
 
19.  New Accounting Pronouncements
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141 (Revised), “Business Combinations” (“FAS 141(R)”). FAS 141(R) requires an acquirer to recognize all assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at fair value as of the date of acquisition. FAS 141(R) also changes the recognition and measurement criteria for certain assets and liabilities including those arising from contingencies, contingent consideration, and bargain purchases. In addition, it requires the expensing of acquisition related structuring and transaction costs. FAS 141(R) is effective for business combinations with an effective date in 2009.


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In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“FAS 160”). FAS 160 amends ARB 51 and requires entities to report noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements and to account for the transactions with noncontrolling interest owners as equity transactions provided the parent retains controlling interests in the subsidiary. FAS 160 requires disclosure of the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest on the face of the consolidated statement of loss. FAS 160 also requires expanded disclosures that identify and distinguish between parent and noncontrolling interests. FAS 160 is effective from fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS 160 did not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
 
In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS No. 140-3, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets and Repurchase Financing Transactions” (“FSP FAS 140-3”). Under FSP FAS 140-3, the initial transfer of a financial asset and a repurchase financing involving the same asset that is entered into contemporaneously with, or in contemplation of the initial transfer, is presumptively linked and are considered part of the same arrangement under FAS 140. The initial transfer and subsequent financing transaction will be considered separate transactions under FAS 140 if certain conditions are met. FSP FAS 140-3 is effective for new transactions entered into in fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The adoption of FSP FAS 140-3 did not have any material impact on our financial position or results of operations.
 
In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities and improves transparency in financial reporting. FAS 161 requires entities to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments; (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FAS 133 and its related interpretations; and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedge items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. It is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 with early adoption encouraged. We adopted FAS 161 effective January 1, 2009. See Note 11, “Derivative Financial Instruments,” in these consolidated financial statements.
 
In May 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 163, “Accounting for Financial Guarantee Insurance Contracts – an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 60” (“FAS 163”). FAS 163 applies to financial guarantee insurance (and reinsurance) contracts issued by enterprises that are included within the scope of paragraph 6 of Statement 60 and that are not accounted for as derivative instruments. It clarifies how Statement 60 applies to financial guarantee insurance contracts, including the recognition and measurement of premium revenue and claim liabilities. This statement requires expanded disclosures about financial guarantee insurance contracts. FAS 163 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and all interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of FAS 163 did not have an impact on our financial position or our results of operations as we do not have any contracts within the scope of FAS 163.
 
In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 132(R)-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Post-retirement Benefit Plan Assets” (“FSP FAS 132(R)-1”). FSP FAS 132(R)-1 applies to an employer that is subject to the disclosure requirements of Statement 132(R). It requires entities to provide disclosures about employer’s defined benefit plans and other post-retirement plans that would help users of the financial statements to understand how investment allocation decisions are made, the major categories of plan assets, the inputs and the valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets, the effect of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) on changes in plan assets for the period and significant concentrations of risk within plan assets. FSP FAS 132(R)-1 is applicable for the first fiscal year ending after December 15, 2009.
 
In April 2009, the FASB amended FASB Statement No. 107, “Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments,” and APB Opinion No. 28, “Interim Financial Reporting,” by issuing FASB Staff Position FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments” (“FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1”). FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 require entities to disclose fair value of financial instruments for all the interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009 with earlier application permitted. We have adopted the disclosure


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requirements of FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 effective January 1, 2009. See Note 17, “Fair Value Measurements,” in these consolidated financial statements.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That are not Orderly,” (“FSP FAS 157-4”) to provide additional guidance for estimating fair value in accordance with FASB Statement No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FSP FAS 157-4 provides additional guidance in determining fair value when the volume and level of activity for the asset and liability have significantly decreased and also on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. It also amends FAS 157 to require enhanced disclosures about the inputs and valuation techniques for measuring fair value along with changes in the valuation methodologies and related inputs and to present further disclosures for debt and equity securities. This FSP is effective for reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009 with earlier adoption permitted. We have adopted this FSP effective January 1, 2009. See Note 17, “Fair Value Measurements,” in these consolidated financial statements for the expanded disclosure.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS 115-2 and 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments,” (“FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2”) to amend the recognition and presentation of other-than-temporary impairments of debt securities. Under this guidance, if we do not have the intention to sell and it is more-likely-than-not we will not be required to sell the debt security, FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2 requires segregating the difference between fair value and amortized cost into credit loss and other losses with only the credit loss recognized in earnings with other losses recorded to other comprehensive income. Where our intent is to sell the debt security or where it is more-likely-than-not that we will be required to sell the debt security, the entire difference between the fair value and the amortized cost basis is recognized in earnings. FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2 also requires disclosure of the reasons for recognizing a portion of impairment in other comprehensive income and the methodology and significant inputs used to calculate the credit loss component. FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2 is effective for all the reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with earlier adoption permitted. We have adopted FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2 effective January 1, 2009. The adoption of FSP FAS 115-2 and 124-2 did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations. See Note 5, “Securities,” in these consolidated financial statements for the expanded disclosure.
 
In May 2009, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 165 (“FAS 165”), “Subsequent Events.” It provides guidance for the recognition and disclosure of subsequent events not addressed in other applicable generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). This Statement is effective for interim or annual financial periods ending after June 15, 2009, and shall be applied prospectively. The adoption of FAS 165 did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 166, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140” (“FAS 166”). This statement amends FAS 140 by removing the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity (“QSPE”). It also modifies the financial-components approach and limits the circumstances in which a transferor derecognizes a portion or component of a financial asset, establishes conditions for reporting a transfer of a portion(s) of financial asset as a sale, defines “participating interest” and removes the special provisions for guaranteed mortgage securitizations and requires them to be treated in the same way as the transfer of other financial assets within the scope of FAS 140. It also requires enhanced disclosures about the transfers of financial assets and the transferor’s continuing involvement with transfers of financial assets accounted for as sales. The statement is effective for all interim and annual periods beginning after November 15, 2009. Earlier application is prohibited. The recognition and measurement provisions of this statement shall be applied to transfers that occur on or after January 1, 2010. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of FAS 166 on our financial position and results of operations.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 167, “Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)” (“FAS 167”). This standard changes the requirement from using quantitative analysis to qualitative analysis when determining if an enterprise has a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity (“VIE”) for the purpose of determining the primary beneficiary. It also changes the timing of assessment to


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determine if an enterprise is the primary beneficiary of a VIE from “when specific events occur” to “ongoing re-assessment”, eliminates the exception related to troubled debt restructuring which is now considered to be an event that requires reconsideration of whether an entity is a VIE, requires enhanced disclosures and nullifies FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8, “Disclosures by Public Entities (Enterprises) about Transfers of Financial Assets and Interests in Variable Interest Entities.” The statement is effective for all interim and annual periods beginning after November 15, 2009. Earlier application is prohibited. On the effective date, certain VIEs which are not consolidated currently may be required to be consolidated. We are currently evaluating the impact of FAS 167 on our financial position and results of operations.
 
In July 2009, the FASB, in an effort to codify all authoritative accounting guidance related to a particular topic in a single place, issued Statement of Financial Account Standards No. 168 (“FAS 168”), “The FASB Accounting Standard Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162.” It replaces the U.S. GAAP hierarchy created by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles,” by establishing only two levels of generally accepted accounting principles: authoritative and nonauthoritative. All authoritative guidance will carry the same level of authority. The statement is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. The adoption of FAS 168 will not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.


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Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, notes and tables included elsewhere in this report and with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 (the “2008 Form 10-K”). MD&A may contain certain statements that may be forward-looking in nature within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, we may make or approve certain statements in future filings with the SEC, in press releases, or oral or written presentations by representatives of HSBC Finance Corporation that are not statements of historical fact and may also constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “would”, “could”, “intend”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “target”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “goal” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but should not be considered as the only means through which these statements may be made. These matters or statements will relate to our future financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, performance or business developments and will involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from that which was expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on our current views and assumptions and speak only as of the date they are made. HSBC Finance Corporation undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent circumstances or events.
 
Executive Overview
 
HSBC Finance Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of HSBC Holdings plc (“HSBC”). HSBC Finance Corporation may also be referred to in MD&A as “we”, “us”, or “our”.
 
Current Environment
 
During the first half of 2009, economic conditions in the U.S. continued to deteriorate as a result of continued declines in the housing market, rising unemployment, tighter credit conditions and reduced economic growth. While the on-going financial market disruptions continued to impact credit spreads and liquidity during the period, we have seen improvement in marketplace liquidity during the second quarter of 2009 and credit spreads have narrowed considerably due to increased market confidence stemming largely from various government actions taken to restore faith in the capital markets. U.S. unemployment rates, which have become a major factor in the deterioration of credit quality in the U.S., increased to 9.5 percent in June 2009, an increase of 100 basis points during the quarter and 230 basis points since December 2008. Unemployment rates in 15 states are greater than the U.S. national average and have unemployment rates above 10 percent. Additionally, personal bankruptcy filings in the U.S. have continued to increase throughout the year. Concerns about the future of the U.S. economy, including the length and depth of the current economic recession, consumer confidence, volatility in energy prices, adverse developments in the credit markets and mixed corporate earnings continue to negatively impact the U.S. economy and the capital markets.
 
During the first half of 2009, mortgage lending industry trends continued to deteriorate, including:
 
  Mortgage loan originations from 2005 to 2008 continue to perform worse than originations from prior periods;
 
  Real estate markets in a large portion of the United States continue to be affected by stagnation or decline in property values;
 
  Increases in the period of time properties remain unsold in most markets;
 
  Increased loss severities on homes that are foreclosed and remarketed due to the increasing inventory of homes for sale and the declining property values in certain markets as discussed above;


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  Low secondary market demand for subprime loans resulting in reduced liquidity for subprime mortgages; and
 
  Continued tightening of lending standards by mortgage lenders which impacts borrowers’ ability to refinance existing mortgage loans.
 
The combination of the above factors, including the previous closure or merger of a number of mortgage lenders, has further reduced the ability of many of our real estate loan customers to make payments on or to refinance their loans. Accessing any equity in their homes is no longer an option as either there is no equity in their homes or if there is, few institutions are willing to finance its withdrawal. It is generally believed that the slowdown in the housing market will continue to impact housing prices into 2010 and possibly beyond.
 
Improvement in unemployment rates and a recovery of the housing market, including stabilization in home prices, continue to remain critical components for a broader U.S. economic recovery. Further weakening in these components as well as in consumer confidence may result in additional deterioration in consumer payment patterns and increased delinquencies and charge-off rates in loan portfolios across the industry, including our own.
 
The U.S. Federal government and banking regulators continued their efforts to stabilize the U.S. economy during the quarter. On June 17, 2009, the Administration unveiled its proposal for a sweeping overhaul of the financial regulatory system. The Financial Regulatory Reform proposals are comprehensive and include the creation of an inter-agency Financial Services Oversight council to, among other things, identify emerging risks and advise the Federal Reserve Board regarding institutions whose failure could pose a threat to financial stability; expand the Federal Reserve Board’s powers to regulate these systemically-important institutions and impose more stringent capital and risk management requirements; create a Consumer Financial Protection Agency as a single primary federal consumer protection supervisor, which will regulate credit, savings, payment and other consumer financial products and services and providers of those products and services; and impose comprehensive regulation of over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivatives markets, including credit default swaps, and prudent supervision of OTC derivatives dealers. Draft legislation for strengthening consumer and investor protection, including the creation of the Consumer Financial Protection Agency, has been released and additional proposed legislation in support of the broader financial regulatory restructuring is expected in the near term. It is likely that significant reform of the financial regulatory system will be adopted and that reform is expected to have a significant impact on the operations of financial institutions in the U.S., including us and our affiliates. It is not possible to assess the impact of financial regulatory reform, however, until final legislation has been enacted and related regulations have been adopted.
 
Business Focus
 
As discussed in prior filings, we have been engaged in a continuing, comprehensive evaluation of the strategies and opportunities for our operations. In light of the unprecedented developments in the retail credit markets, particularly in the residential mortgage industry and the continued deterioration of U.S. economic conditions, we are focused on the things we can control and, beginning in mid-2007 and continuing through 2008, we made strategic decisions designed to lower the risk profile and reduce the capital and liquidity requirements of our operations by reducing the size of the balance sheet while maximizing efficiencies.
 
As previously disclosed, this evaluation continued into 2009, and resulted in the discontinuation of new customer account originations for all products by our Consumer Lending business, the closure of our Consumer Lending branch offices as well as the decision in the second quarter of 2009 to close or consolidate other back office and collection facilities in Bridgewater, New Jersey; Minnetonka, Minnesota; Wood Dale, Illinois; Elmhurst, Illinois and Virginia Beach, Virginia. As a result of these decisions, during the six months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded closure costs, predominately related to one-time termination and other employee benefit costs. In addition, during the six months ended June 30, 2009, we incurred related non-cash charges for the impairment of fixed assets and other capitalized costs. See Note 4, “Strategic Initiatives” for additional detail regarding these costs. We continue to service and collect the existing Auto Finance, Consumer Lending and Mortgage Services receivable portfolios as they run off and continue our efforts to reach out and assist mortgage customers utilizing appropriate modification


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and other account management programs, potentially including refinancing a loan with an existing customer in accordance with their financial needs, to maximize collection and home preservation.
 
As a result of these decisions as well as those made from mid-2007 and through 2008, our lending products currently include MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover credit card receivables as well as private label receivables. A portion of new credit card and all new private label receivable originations are sold on a daily basis to HSBC Bank USA, National Association (“HSBC Bank USA”). We also offer specialty insurance products in the United States and Canada as well as tax refund anticipation loans and other related products in the United States. However, the closure of our Consumer Lending loan origination operations has and will continue to significantly decrease the credit insurance policies sold by our Insurance Services business.
 
As previously reported, in January 2009, we sold our General Motors MasterCard receivable portfolio (“GM Portfolio”) and our AFL-CIO Union Plus MasterCard/Visa receivable portfolio (“UP Portfolio”) to HSBC Bank USA at fair value in order to maximize the efficient use of liquidity at each entity. We continue to evaluate our operations as we seek to optimize our risk profile as well as our liquidity, capital and funding requirements and review opportunities in the subprime lending industry as the credit markets stabilize. This could result in further strategic actions that may include changes to our legal structure, additional asset sales and further alterations or refinement of product offerings as we work to reposition our businesses for long-term success. Although nothing is currently contemplated, we continue to evaluate our relationship with HSBC Bank USA to identify additional ways to leverage liquidity and identify funding opportunities, subject to regulatory approval.
 
As a result of the strategic changes in our business focus since mid-2007, our real estate secured, auto finance and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios, which totaled $86.1 billion at June 30, 2009 are currently liquidating. The timeframe in which these portfolios will liquidate is dependent upon numerous factors which are beyond our control. The rate at which receivables pay off prior to their maturity date due to loan prepayments fluctuates for a variety of reasons such as interest rates, availability of refinancing, home values as well as the individual borrower’s employment and credit history. In light of the current economic conditions and mortgage industry trends described above, loan prepayment rates continue to slow even though interest rates remain low. Additionally, our modification programs which are designed to maximize cash collections and avoid foreclosure or repossession if economically expedient, are contributing to the slowing in loan prepayment rates.
 
While difficult to project both loan prepayment rates and net charge-off rates, based on current experience we expect receivables in our run-off real estate secured, auto finance and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios to decline between 40 percent and 60 percent over the next four to five years and be comprised primarily of real estate secured receivables. Attrition will not be linear during this period. Over the next two years, receivable run-off is expected to accelerate as charge-offs are expected to grow to a level consistent with current delinquencies. Run-off will later slow as a high percentage of the remaining real estate secured receivables stay on the balance sheet longer due to the impact of modifications and/or the lack of re-financing alternatives.
 
Performance, Developments and Trends
 
Net loss from continuing operations was $(6.0) billion and $(5.1) billion during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, compared to $(1.4) billion and $(1.2) billion during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively. Loss from continuing operations before income tax was $(7.5) billion and $(5.7) billion during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, compared to $(2.2) billion and $(1.8) billion during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively. Our results in both periods were significantly impacted by the change in the fair value and related derivatives of debt for which we have elected fair value option reporting and, during the 2009 periods, goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges which distort the underlying performance trends of our


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business. The following table summarizes the collective impact of these items on our loss before income tax for all periods presented:
 
                                 
    Three Months
    Six Months
 
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Loss from continuing operations before income tax, as reported
  $ (7,474 )   $ (2,249 )   $ (5,747 )   $ (1,826 )
Change in value of fair value option debt
    4,769       864       657       (313 )
Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges
    1,641       -       2,308       -  
                                 
Loss from continuing operations before income tax, excluding above items
  $ (1,064 )   $ (1,385 )   $ (2,782 )   $ (2,139 )
                                 
 
Excluding the impact of these items, our 2009 results were impacted by lower net interest income and lower other revenues, partially offset by lower provision for credit losses and lower operating expenses. Should economic conditions continue to deteriorate in line with our current forecasts, we would expect to continue to generate losses through 2010 and likely longer.
 
The decrease in net interest income in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 was due to lower average receivables, lower origination volumes due to risk mitigation efforts, including our decision to stop all new account originations in our auto finance and consumer lending businesses, as well as lower consumer spending levels, lower levels of performing receivables and lower overall yields on our receivable portfolios, partially offset by lower interest expense. Overall yields decreased due to the impact of deterioration in credit quality including growth in non-performing assets, increased levels of loan modifications, lower amortization of net deferred fees due to lower loan prepayments and lower loan origination volumes as well as decreases in rates on variable rate products which reflect market rate movements, partially offset by the impact of interest rate floors in portions of our credit card receivable portfolio. Overall yields were also negatively impacted by a shift in receivable mix to higher levels of real estate secured receivables as a result of the sale of the $12.4 billion of credit card receivables and $3.0 billion of auto finance receivables in January 2009 as credit card and auto finance receivables generally have higher yields than real estate secured receivables. We also experienced lower yields on our non-insurance investment portfolio reflecting lower rates on overnight investments. Lower interest expense was due to lower average rates for floating rate borrowings on lower average borrowings. Our net interest margin decreased to 5.70 percent for the three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to 6.47 percent in the prior year quarter. Net interest margin decreased to 5.79 percent for the six months ended June 30, 2009 compared to 6.39 percent for the year-ago period. The decrease in both periods was due to the lower overall yields on our receivable portfolio discussed above, partially offset by lower funding costs due to lower average interest rates for short-term borrowings which reflect actions taken by the Federal Reserve Bank which decreased Federal Fund Rates by 175 basis points since June 30, 2008.
 
Other revenues, which decreased in both periods, was significantly impacted by the loss on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives. The loss on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives increased significantly during the three months ended June 30, 2009 due to a significant narrowing of our credit spreads since March 31, 2009. Credit spreads had widened significantly during the first quarter of 2009 in response to general market conditions and credit rating downgrades by two of the three primary rating agencies as a result of the decision to discontinue new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business and close substantially all Consumer Lending branches. Changes in the credit component of fair value optioned debt decreased other revenues by $5.1 billion during the three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to $969 million in the prior year quarter. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, changes in the credit component of fair value optioned debt decreased other revenues by $1.3 billion compared to increasing other revenues by $320 million in the year-ago period. Excluding the loss on fair value optioned debt and related derivatives, other revenues remained lower in both periods primarily due to the following:
 
  •  Lower fee income and enhancement services revenues on our credit card receivable portfolio due to lower receivable levels and changes in customer behavior; and


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  •  Lower taxpayer financial services revenue due to discontinuing all partner relationships except for H&R Block as well as a shift in mix to lower revenue and lower risk products.
 
These decreases in other revenues were partially offset by:
 
  •  A decrease in the lower of cost or fair market value adjustments for receivables held for sale during the second quarter of 2009;
 
  •  Higher gains on daily sales of receivables to HSBC Bank USA and higher servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates due to higher volumes as a result of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios as previously discussed;
 
  •  For the year-to-date period, a gain of $57 million on the bulk sale to an HSBC affiliate of the credit card and auto finance receivables as previously discussed; and
 
  •  Higher derivative income due to an increase in economic hedge positions designed to offset the interest rate risk associated with slower mortgage loan repayment rates as discussed above.
 
The provision for credit losses decreased during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 as a result of lower provision for credit losses in all of our receivable portfolios with the exception of receivables in our Consumer Lending business. The lower provision for credit losses in our Mortgage Services business as well as in our credit card and auto finance portfolios was due to the following:
 
  •  Provision for credit losses in our Mortgage Services business decreased as compared to the year-ago periods as the portfolio continues to become more fully seasoned and runs off, resulting in lower charge-off levels. While loss severities have continued to increase as discussed above, we have experienced a shift in the mix of charge-offs to first lien loans which generally have lower loss severities than second lien loans.
 
  •  Provision for credit losses in our credit card receivable portfolio decreased significantly in both periods due to lower receivable levels driven by the impact of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. However, excluding the impact of these transferred portfolios, our provision for credit losses still remained lower due to lower non-prime receivable levels as a result of actions taken throughout 2008 and into 2009 to reduce credit appetite and to slow receivable growth as well as lower consumer spending levels. The transfer of $2.0 billion of non-prime receivables to held for sale in June 2008 also contributed to lower provisions as these portfolios were written down through other revenue. These lower credit loss estimates have been partially offset by lower recovery rates on defaulted receivables.
 
  •  Provision for credit losses in our auto finance receivable portfolio decreased in both periods as a result of lower receivable levels reflecting the discontinuation of auto finance originations as well as the sale of $3.0 billion of auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. Additionally, we have experienced lower loss severities driven by improvements in prices on repossessed vehicles. The year-to-date period was also impacted by the adoption of FFIEC charge-off policies during the first quarter of 2009 which increased the provision for credit losses by $36 million.
 
The provision for credit losses in our Consumer Lending business increased during both periods primarily in our first lien, real estate secured receivable portfolio driven by an accelerated deterioration which began in the second half of 2007 for portions of that portfolio. Charge-off and delinquency, including early stage delinquency, continued to increase due to the marketplace deterioration as previously discussed. Lower receivable prepayments and higher loss severities also resulted in a higher real estate secured credit loss provision. Credit loss estimates for Consumer Lending’s personal non-credit card portfolio also increased during the first half of 2009 due to higher levels of charge-off resulting from deterioration in the 2006 and 2007 vintages which was more pronounced in certain geographic regions.
 
The provision for credit losses for all products was negatively impacted by rising unemployment rates in an increasing number of markets and continued deterioration in the U.S. economy and housing markets, higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings and portfolio seasoning. See “Results of Operations” for a more detailed discussion of our provision for credit losses.


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During the three months ended June 30, 2009, the provision for credit losses was $82 million lower than net charge-offs compared to provision in excess of net charge-offs of $535 million in the prior year quarter. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we recorded provision in excess of net charge-offs of $475 million compared to $998 million during the year-ago period. Consequently, while our credit loss reserve levels have increased during the first half of 2009, they have decreased slightly during the second quarter as the rate of deterioration in credit quality slowed and receivable balances have declined. Reserve levels for real estate secured receivables at our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses as well as for our credit card receivables can be further analyzed as follows:
 
                                                 
    Real Estate Secured Receivables     Credit Card
 
    Consumer Lending     Mortgage Services     Receivables  
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Credit loss reserves at beginning of period
  $ 3,859     $ 1,605     $ 3,819     $ 3,806     $ 2,325     $ 2,600  
Provision for credit losses
    891       469       325       943       365       1,007  
Charge-offs
    (472 )     (314 )     (622 )     (871 )     (667 )     (883 )
Recoveries
    5       2       7       7       53       106  
Reserves on receivables transferred to held for sale
    -       (31 )     -       (38 )     -       (571 )
Release of credit loss reserves related to loan sales
    -       -       -       (10 )     -       -  
                                                 
Credit loss reserves at end of period
  $ 4,283     $ 1,731     $ 3,529     $ 3,837     $ 2,076     $ 2,259  
                                                 
 
                                                 
    Real Estate Secured Receivables     Credit Card
 
    Consumer Lending     Mortgage Services     Receivables  
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Credit loss reserves at beginning of period
  $ 3,392     $ 1,386     $ 3,726     $ 3,573     $ 2,258     $ 2,646  
Provision for credit losses
    1,751       947       1,003       1,883       934       1,697  
Charge-offs
    (870 )     (575 )     (1,215 )     (1,594 )     (1,224 )     (1,724 )
Recoveries
    10       4       15       23       108       211  
Reserves on receivables transferred to held for sale
    -       (31 )     -       (38 )     -       (571 )
Release of credit loss reserves related to loan sales
    -       -       -       (10 )     -       -  
                                                 
Credit loss reserves at end of period
  $ 4,283     $ 1,731     $ 3,529     $ 3,837     $ 2,076     $ 2,259  
                                                 
 
Total operating expenses in the first half of 2009 were negatively impacted by the following:
 
  •  Restructuring charges totaling $158 million, primarily recorded during the first quarter of 2009, related to the decision to discontinue all new customer account originations for our Consumer Lending business and to close the Consumer Lending branch offices. See Note 4, “Strategic Initiatives,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information related to this decision.
 
  •  Goodwill impairment charges of $1.6 billion during the three months ended June 30, 2009 related to our Card and Retail Services business and $2.3 billion during the year-to-date period related to our Card and Retail Services and Insurance Services businesses. All of our goodwill has now been fully written off.


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  •  Impairment charges of $14 million during the first quarter of 2009 relating to technology, customer lists and loan related relationships resulting from the discontinuation of originations for our Consumer Lending business.
 
Excluding these items, total operating expenses decreased $411 million, or 31 percent, and $687 million, or 25 percent, during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, due to lower salary expense, lower marketing expenses, lower sales incentives and the impact of entity-wide initiatives to reduce costs, partially offset by higher collection costs.
 
The financial information set forth below summarizes selected financial highlights for continuing operations of HSBC Finance Corporation as of June 30, 2009 and 2008 and for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Loss from continuing operations
  $ (5,959 )   $ (1,448 )   $ (5,087 )   $ (1,210 )
Return on average owned assets
    (22.11 )%     (3.90 )%     (9.02 )%     (1.60 )%
Return on average common shareholder’s equity
    (191.13 )     (44.19 )     (80.07 )     (19.11 )
Net interest margin
    5.70       6.47       5.79       6.39  
Consumer net charge-off ratio, annualized
    10.01       7.66       9.50       7.11  
Efficiency ratio(1)
    (96.80 )     57.23       109.10       38.36  
 
                 
As of June 30,   2009     2008  
   
 
Receivables(2)
  $ 98,078     $ 126,632  
Two-month-and-over contractual delinquency ratio
    15.08 %     8.57 %
 
 
(1) Ratio of total costs and expenses less policyholders’ benefits to net interest income and other revenues less policyholders’ benefits.
 
(2) Excludes receivables held for sale.
 
Our efficiency ratio from continuing operations was (96.80) percent for the three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to 57.23 percent in the prior year quarter. Our efficiency ratio from continuing operations was 109.1 percent for the six months ended June 30, 2009 compared to 38.36 percent in the prior year period. Our efficiency ratio in both periods was significantly impacted by the change in the fair value of debt for which we have elected fair value option reporting and the related derivatives and the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges recorded during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, as discussed above. Excluding these items in the quarters, our efficiency ratio improved 319 points during the second quarter of 2009 as a result of lower salary expense, marketing expense and sales incentives as well as the impact of entity-wide initiatives to reduce costs which resulted in operating expenses decreasing more rapidly than net interest income and fee income. Excluding these items in the year-to-date periods, our efficiency ratio deteriorated 423 points during the six months ended June 30, 2009 primarily as a result of the restructuring charges recorded in the first quarter of 2009 as previously discussed. Additionally, deterioration in the year-to-date period reflects net interest income and fee income decreasing at a more rapid pace than operating expenses prior to the discontinuation of Consumer Lending new customer account originations and branch closures.
 
Our return on average common shareholder’s equity (“ROE”) was (191.13) percent and (44.19) percent, for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. ROE was (80.07) percent and (19.11) percent for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Our return on average assets (“ROA”) was (22.11) percent and (3.90) percent for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. ROA was (9.02) percent and (1.60) percent for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. ROE and ROA were significantly impacted in all periods by the change in the fair value of debt for which we have elected fair value option reporting and the related derivatives and by the goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges. Excluding these items, ROE decreased 1,245 basis points and ROA decreased 218 basis points as compared to prior year quarter. As compared to


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the year-ago periods, excluding these items ROE decreased 1,516 basis points and ROA decreased 233 basis points. The decrease for all periods was a result of the lower net interest income, including lower overall yields on our receivable portfolios due to changes in mix, lower other revenues and for ROE, higher average common shareholder’s equity, partially offset by lower provisions for credit losses and the impact of restructuring charges as previously discussed. ROA for both periods was also negatively impacted by lower average assets as a result of the decision to reduce the size of our balance sheet and lower our risk profile as previously discussed.
 
Our effective tax rate was (20.3) percent and (11.5) percent during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 compared to (35.6) percent and (33.7) percent during the year-ago periods. The effective tax rate was significantly impacted by the incremental valuation allowance recorded in 2009 and the non-tax deductible impairment of goodwill related to our Card and Retail Services business and for the year-to-date period, the non-tax deductible impairment of goodwill related to our Insurance Services business. The percentage impact of reconciling items is larger in the six months ended June 30, 2008 as a result of the significantly lower level of pre-tax book loss in that period. The effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was also impacted by a change in estimate in the state tax rate for jurisdictions where we file combined unitary state tax returns with other HSBC affiliates.
 
Receivables were $98.1 billion at June 30, 2009, $103.1 billion at March 31, 2009 and $126.6 billion at June 30, 2008. The decrease is a result of our decision to reduce the size of our balance sheet and lower our risk profile as previously discussed. We have made significant changes to our product offerings and implemented other risk mitigation efforts since mid-2007 which have resulted in lower originations throughout 2008 and continuing into 2009, including the recent decision in late February 2009 to discontinue new customer account originations of all products in our Consumer Lending business. Lower receivable balances at June 30, 2009 also reflect the transfer of $9.6 billion of credit card and auto finance receivables into receivables held for sale since June 30, 2008 (of which $9.1 billion was subsequently sold in January 2009). Decreases in credit card receivable balances also reflect lower consumer spending as a result of the current economic conditions, partially offset by the transfer in the second quarter of 2009 of $590 million of receivables previously held for sale to receivables held for investment as we now have the intent to hold these receivables for the foreseeable future. Decreases in real estate secured receivable balances at June 30, 2009 have been partially offset by a decline in loan prepayments resulting from fewer refinancing opportunities for our customers due to the previously discussed trends impacting the mortgage lending industry. See “Receivables Review” for a more detailed discussion of the decreases in receivable balances.
 
Receivables held for sale were $1.1 billion at June 30, 2009, $1.4 billion at March 31, 2009 and $9.1 billion at June 30, 2008. As compared to the prior year quarter, the decrease largely reflects the sale of our GM credit card portfolio and other real estate secured receivables which were classified as held for sale. As compared to the prior quarter, the decrease reflects $590 million of credit card receivables transferred from receivables held for sale to receivables held for investment at fair value, partially offset by the transfer of auto finance receivables with a fair value of $450 million to receivables held for sale in the second quarter of 2009 as we no longer have the intent to hold these receivables for the foreseeable future.
 
Our two-months-and-over contractual delinquency ratio increased as compared to both the prior quarter and prior year quarter due to lower receivable levels for all products as discussed above and, compared to the prior year quarter, higher dollars of delinquency. Dollars of contractual delinquency decreased compared to the prior quarter driven by lower delinquency levels in our Mortgage Services real estate secured receivable portfolio due to continued maturation and seasoning of a run-off portfolio, as well as lower delinquency levels in our credit card and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios. Lower delinquency dollars in our credit card and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios reflect the lower receivable levels discussed above, an extended seasonal benefit of increased cash available to consumers as a result of various government economic stimulus actions and lower energy costs, as well as for our credit card receivables, higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings during the first half of 2009 which results in accounts migrating to charge-off more quickly. In addition, we believe the decrease in dollars of delinquency in both portfolios is a result of the risk mitigation actions we have taken since 2007 to tighten underwriting and reduce the risk profile of these portfolios. These decreases in dollars of delinquency were partially offset by increases in delinquency levels in the first lien portion of our Consumer Lending real estate secured receivable portfolio reflecting continued weakening in the housing and mortgage industry as well as continuing delays in processing foreclosures due to


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backlogs in foreclosure proceedings as a result of actions by local governments and actions of certain states which have lengthened the foreclosure process. As compared to both the prior quarter and prior year quarter, delinquency for all products was negatively impacted by the continued deterioration in the U.S. economy, including significantly higher unemployment rates and portfolio seasoning. See “Credit Quality-Delinquency” for a more detailed discussion of two-months-and-over contractual delinquency ratios.
 
Net charge-offs as a percentage of average consumer receivables for the quarter increased compared to both the prior year quarter and prior quarter. As compared to the prior year quarter, the increase was due to lower average consumer receivables, partially offset by lower dollars of net charge-off. The decrease in average consumer receivables reflects changes in product offerings, lower origination volumes, lower consumer spending levels and the sale of real estate secured, credit card and auto finance receivables as previously discussed, partially offset by a decline in loan prepayments for our real estate secured receivables. Lower dollars of net charge-off when compared to the prior year quarter was driven by our Mortgage Services business as the portfolio continues to become more fully seasoned and run-off, including lower charge-off of second lien loans which generally have higher loss severities. As compared to the prior quarter, the increase reflects higher dollars of charge-offs in our real estate secured, credit card and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios and lower average consumer receivables as discussed above. The higher charge-offs reflect the migration of delinquent receivables to charge-off. For our credit card and personal non-credit card portfolios, the higher charge-offs also reflect a higher percentage of loans which progress to later stages of delinquency (“higher roll rates”). Additionally, both periods were negatively impacted by the continued deterioration in the U.S. economy and housing markets, significantly higher unemployment rates, higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings, portfolio seasoning and lower recovery rates on credit card receivables. See “Credit Quality- Net Charge-offs of Consumer Receivables” for a more detailed discussion of net charge-offs as a percentage of average consumer receivables.
 
Funding and Capital During the first half of 2009, HSBC Investments (North America) Inc. (“HINO”) made three capital contributions to us totaling $2.0 billion. Additionally, in late February 2009 we effectively converted $275 million of mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of the Household Capital Trust VIII to common stock by redeeming the junior subordinated notes underlying the preferred securities and then issuing common stock to HINO. These transactions serve to support ongoing operations and to maintain capital at levels we believe are prudent in the current market conditions. These capital contributions occurred subsequent to the dividend of $1.0 billion paid to HINO in January 2009 relating to the capital associated with the receivables sold to HSBC Bank USA. Until we return to profitability, we are dependent upon the continued capital support of HSBC to continue our business operations and maintain selected capital ratios.
 
As discussed previously, in February 2009 we decided to discontinue new customer account originations for all products offered by our Consumer Lending business and close substantially all branch offices as soon as all commitments to customers were satisfied. This action resulted in two of the three primary credit rating agencies electing to lower the ratings on our senior debt, commercial paper and Series B preferred stock. Prior to our February 2009 decision, these agencies had designated HSBC Finance Corporation as a “core” business within the HSBC Group. Following this decision, these agencies felt that we had diminished strategic importance to the overall HSBC Group, resulting in the lower ratings as described above. HSBC remains fully committed to providing the capital support, and has the capacity to provide such support, to ensure our remaining business operations continue and selected capital ratios are maintained. See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” in this MD&A for a schedule showing our credit ratings as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.
 
The balance sheet and corresponding credit dynamics described above will have a significant impact on our liquidity and risk management processes. Lower cash flow as a result of declining receivable balances as well as “cashless” attrition due to charge-offs, will not fully cover maturing debt through 2013. Absent asset sales and financial support from HSBC, we may face additional funding requirements from time to time. Funding requirements will be covered primarily through a combination of capital infusions from HSBC, a robust cash management process and potential opportunistic portfolio sales. HSBC has indicated it remains fully committed and has the capacity to continue to provide such support. We believe a portion of this gap could also be met through potential issuances of unsecured term debt. These issuances would better match the projected cash flows of the remaining real estate secured receivable portfolio and partly reduce reliance on direct HSBC support.


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On October 3, 2008, the United States Congress enacted the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”) with the stated purpose of providing stability to and preventing disruption in the economy and financial system and protecting taxpayers. Pursuant to or in conjunction with the EESA, in 2008 and continuing into 2009 the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the federal banking and thrift regulatory agencies have announced a series of initiatives intended to strengthen market stability, improve the strength of financial institutions and enhance market liquidity. As of June 30, 2009, the only program under the EESA in which we are participating is the Commercial Paper Funding Facility (“CPFF”) which provides a liquidity backstop to U.S. issuers of commercial paper. See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” in this MD&A for a further discussion of our participation in the CPFF. We will continue to evaluate additional initiatives to enhance liquidity and provide other market support as the details of the various programs become available.
 
Basis of Reporting
 
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). Unless noted, the discussion of our financial condition and results of operations included in MD&A are presented on a continuing operations basis of reporting. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform to the current year presentation.
 
In addition to the U.S. GAAP financial results reported in our consolidated financial statements, MD&A includes reference to the following information which is presented on a non-U.S. GAAP basis:
 
Equity Ratios Tangible shareholders’ equity plus owned loss reserves to tangible managed assets (“TETMA + Owned Reserves”) and tangible common equity to tangible managed assets are non-U.S. GAAP financial measures that are used by HSBC Finance Corporation management and certain rating agencies to evaluate capital adequacy. These ratios exclude the equity impact of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities,” the equity impact of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Post-retirement Plans – an amendment of FASB statement Nos. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R),” and the impact of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities – including an amendment of FASB statement No. 115,” including the subsequent changes in fair value recognized in earnings associated with debt for which we elected the fair value option. Preferred securities issued by certain non-consolidated trusts are also considered equity in the TETMA + Owned Reserves calculations because of their long-term subordinated nature and our ability to defer dividends. Managed assets include owned assets plus any loans which we may have sold and service with limited recourse. These ratios may differ from similarly named measures presented by other companies. The most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure is the common and preferred equity to owned assets ratio. For a quantitative reconciliation of these non-U.S. GAAP financial measures to our common and preferred equity to owned assets ratio, see “Reconciliations to U.S. GAAP Financial Measures.”
 
International Financial Reporting Standards Because HSBC reports results in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) and IFRSs results are used in measuring and rewarding performance of employees, our management also separately monitors net income under IFRSs (a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure). All purchase accounting fair value adjustments relating to our acquisition by HSBC have been “pushed


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down” to HSBC Finance Corporation for both U.S. GAAP and IFRSs consistent with our IFRS Management Basis presentation. The following table reconciles our net income on a U.S. GAAP basis to net income on an IFRSs basis:
 
                                 
    Three Months Ended
    Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Net loss – U.S. GAAP basis
  $ (5,959 )   $ (1,445 )   $ (5,087 )   $ (1,190 )
Adjustments, net of tax:
                               
Derivatives and hedge accounting (including fair value adjustments)
    1       13       9       5  
Intangible assets
    9       12       21       33  
Loan origination
    16       19       31       31  
Loan impairment
    11       21       20       35  
Loans held for sale
    23       247       26       246  
Interest recognition
    2       6       4       (11 )
Other-than-temporary impairments on available-for-sale securities
    -       -       9       -  
Securities
    7       -       (68 )     -  
Present value of long term insurance business
    43       -       43       -  
Goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges
    341       -       (615 )        
Loss on sale of U.K. Operations to an affiliate
    -       (362 )     -       (362 )
Other
    6       (3 )     9       21  
                                 
Net loss – IFRSs basis
    (5,500 )     (1,492 )     (5,598 )     (1,192 )
Tax benefit – IFRSs basis
    1,452       614       525       409  
                                 
Loss before tax – IFRSs basis
  $ (6,952 )   $ (2,106 )   $ (6,123 )   $ (1,601 )
                                 
 
A summary of the significant differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRSs as they impact our results are presented below:
 
Derivatives and hedge accounting (including fair value adjustments) – The historical use of the “shortcut” and “long haul” hedge accounting methods for U.S. GAAP resulted in different cumulative adjustments to the hedged item for both fair value and cash flow hedges. These differences are recognized in earnings over the remaining term of the hedged items. All of the hedged relationships which previously qualified under the shortcut method provisions of FAS 133 have been redesignated and are now either hedges under the long-haul method of hedge accounting or included in the fair value option election.
 
Intangible assets – Intangible assets under IFRSs are significantly lower than those under U.S. GAAP as the newly created intangibles associated with our acquisition by HSBC were reflected in goodwill for IFRSs. As a result, amortization of intangible assets is lower under IFRSs.
 
Deferred loan origination costs and fees – Under IFRSs, loan origination cost deferrals are more stringent and result in lower costs being deferred than permitted under U.S. GAAP. In addition, all deferred loan origination fees, costs and loan premiums must be recognized based on the expected life of the receivables under IFRSs as part of the effective interest calculation while under U.S. GAAP they may be recognized on either a contractual or expected life basis. As a result, in years with higher levels of receivable originations, net income is higher under U.S. GAAP as more expenses are deferred. In years with lower levels of receivable originations, net income is lower under U.S. GAAP as the higher costs deferred in prior periods are amortized into income without the benefit of similar levels of cost deferrals for current period originations.
 
Loan impairment provisioning – IFRSs requires a discounted cash flow methodology for estimating impairment on pools of homogeneous customer loans which requires the incorporation of the time value of money relating to recovery estimates. Also under IFRSs, future recoveries on charged-off loans are accrued for on a discounted basis


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and a recovery asset is recorded. Subsequent recoveries are recorded to earnings under U.S. GAAP, but are adjusted against the recovery asset under IFRSs. Interest is recorded based on collectibility under IFRSs.
 
Loans held for sale – IFRSs requires loans designated as held for sale at the time of origination to be treated as trading assets and recorded at their fair market value. Under U.S. GAAP, loans designated as held for sale are reflected as loans and recorded at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. Under U.S. GAAP, the income and expenses related to receivables held for sale are reported similarly to loans held for investment. Under IFRSs, the income and expenses related to receivables held for sale are reported in other operating income.
 
For receivables transferred to held for sale subsequent to origination, IFRSs requires these receivables to be reported separately on the balance sheet but does not change the recognition and measurement criteria. Accordingly for IFRSs purposes, such loans continue to be accounted for in accordance with IAS 39 with any gain or loss recorded at the time of sale. U.S. GAAP requires loans that management intends to sell to be transferred to a held for sale category at the lower of cost or fair value.
 
Interest recognition – The calculation of effective interest rates under IAS 39 requires an estimate of “all fees and points paid or recovered between parties to the contract” that are an integral part of the effective interest rate be included. U.S. GAAP generally prohibits recognition of interest income to the extent the net interest in the loan would increase to an amount greater than the amount at which the borrower could settle the obligation. Also under U.S. GAAP, prepayment penalties are generally recognized as received.
 
Securities – Under IFRSs, securities include HSBC shares held for stock plans at fair value. These shares are recorded at fair value through other comprehensive income. If it is determined these shares have become impaired, the fair value loss is recognized in profit and loss and any fair value loss recorded in other comprehensive income is reversed. There is no similar requirement under U.S. GAAP.
 
During the second quarter of 2009, under IFRSs we recorded income for the value of additional shares attributed to HSBC shares held for stock plans as a result of HSBC’s rights offering earlier in 2009. The additional shares are not recorded under U.S. GAAP.
 
Other-than-temporary impairment on available-for-sale securities – As a result of the guidance issued by the SEC in October 2008, under U.S. GAAP we are allowed to evaluate perpetual preferred securities for potential other-than-temporary impairment similar to a debt security provided there has been no evidence of deterioration in the credit of the issuer and record the unrealized losses as a component of other comprehensive income. There are no similar provisions under IFRSs as all perpetual preferred securities are evaluated for other-than-temporary impairment as equity securities. Under IFRSs all impairments are reported in other operating income.
 
Effective January 1, 2009 under U.S. GAAP, the credit loss component of an other-than-temporary impairment of a debt security is recognized in earnings while the remaining portion of the impairment loss is recognized in other comprehensive income provided a company concludes it neither intends to sell the security nor concludes that it is more-likely-than-not that it will have to sell the security prior to recovery. Under IFRSs, there is no bifurcation of other-than-temporary impairment and the entire decline in value is recognized in earnings.
 
Present value of long term insurance business –  Under IFRSs, the present value of an in-force (“PVIF”) long-term insurance business is determined by discounting future cash flows expected to emerge from business currently in force using appropriate assumptions in assessing factors such as future mortality, lapse rates and levels of expenses, and a discount rate that reflects the risk premium attributable to the respective long-term insurance business. Movements in the PVIF long-term insurance business are included in other operating income. Under U.S. GAAP, revenue is recognized over the life insurance policy term.
 
During the second quarter of 2009, we refined the income recognition methodology in respect of long-term insurance contracts. This resulted in the recognition of a revenue item on an IFRSs basis of $66 million ($43 million after-tax). Approximately $43 million ($28 million after-tax) would have been recorded prior to January 1, 2009 if the refinement in respect of income recognition had been applied at that date.


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Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges – Goodwill levels established as a result of our acquisition by HSBC were higher under IFRSs than U.S. GAAP as the HSBC purchase accounting adjustments reflected higher levels of intangibles under U.S. GAAP. Consequently, the amount of goodwill allocated to our Card and Retail Services and Insurance Services businesses and written off during 2009 is greater under IFRSs. In addition, U.S. GAAP requires a two-step impairment test which requires an analysis of the reporting units’ implied fair value of goodwill to be determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. In the second quarter of 2009, the Card and Retail Services goodwill written off was higher under U.S. GAAP as a greater proportion of goodwill was written off under IFRSs in the first quarter of 2009 due to the two-step process described above resulting in the cash flows supporting a higher amount of goodwill under U.S. GAAP than under IFRSs. Additionally, the intangible assets allocated to our Consumer Lending business and written off during the first quarter of 2009 were higher under U.S. GAAP. There are also differences in the valuation of assets and liabilities under IFRSs and U.S. GAAP resulting from the Metris acquisition in December 2005.
 
Other – There are other differences between IFRSs and U.S. GAAP including pension expense, changes in tax estimates prior to 2009, securitized receivables, purchase accounting and other miscellaneous items as well as a curtailment gain related to post-retirement benefits during the first quarter of 2009.
 
IFRS Management Basis Reporting As previously discussed, corporate goals and individual goals of executives are currently calculated in accordance with IFRSs under which HSBC prepares its consolidated financial statements. As a result, operating results are being monitored and reviewed, trends are being evaluated and decisions about allocating resources, such as employees, are being made almost exclusively on an IFRS Management Basis. IFRS Management Basis results are IFRSs results which assume that the GM and UP Portfolios and the auto finance, private label and real estate secured receivables transferred to HSBC Bank USA have not been sold and remain on our balance sheet and the revenues and expenses related to these receivables remain on our income statement. Additionally, IFRS Management Basis assumes that all purchase accounting fair value adjustments relating to our acquisition by HSBC have been “pushed down” to HSBC Finance Corporation. Operations are monitored and trends are evaluated on an IFRS Management Basis because the receivable sales to HSBC Bank USA were conducted primarily to appropriately fund prime customer loans more efficiently through bank deposits and such receivables continue to be managed and serviced by us without regard to ownership. Accordingly, our segment reporting is on an IFRS Management Basis. However, we continue to monitor capital adequacy, establish dividend policy and report to regulatory agencies on an U.S. GAAP legal entity basis. A summary of the significant differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRSs as they impact our results are summarized in Note 16, “Business Segments,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
 
Quantitative Reconciliations of Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures to U.S. GAAP Financial Measure For quantitative reconciliations of non-U.S. GAAP financial measures presented herein to the equivalent GAAP basis financial measures, see “Reconciliations to U.S. GAAP Financial Measures.”


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Receivables Review
 
The following table summarizes receivables and receivables held for sale at June 30, 2009 and increases (decreases) over prior periods:
 
                                         
          Increases (Decreases) From  
          March 31,
    June 30,
 
    June 30,
    2009     2008  
    2009     $     %     $     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Receivables:
                                       
Real estate secured(1)(3)
  $ 67,054     $ (2,521 )     (3.6 )%   $ (10,267 )     (13.3 )%
Auto finance
    5,390       (1,230 )     (18.6 )     (7,131 )     (57.0 )
Credit card(4)
    11,938       (100 )     (.8 )     (7,955 )     (40.0 )
Private label(2)
    -       -       -       (96 )     (100.0 )
Personal non-credit card(2)
    13,640       (1,124 )     (7.6 )     (3,062 )     (18.3 )
Commercial and other
    56       (5 )     (8.2 )     (43 )     (43.4 )
                                         
Total receivables
  $ 98,078     $ (4,980 )     (4.8 )%   $ (28,554 )     (22.5 )%
                                         
Receivables held for sale:
                                       
Real estate secured
  $ 41     $ (8 )     (16.3 )%   $ (1,190 )     (96.7 )%
Auto finance
    450       450       -       450       -  
Credit card
    609       (751 )     (55.2 )     (7,277 )     (92.3 )
                                         
Total receivables held for sale
  $ 1,100     $ (309 )     (21.9 )%   $ (8,017 )     (87.9 )%
                                         
Total receivables and receivables held for sale:
                                       
Real estate secured(3)
  $ 67,095     $ (2,529 )     (3.6 )%   $ (11,457 )     (14.6 )%
Auto finance
    5,840       (780 )     (11.8 )     (6,681 )     (53.4 )
Credit card(4)
    12,547       (851 )     (6.4 )     (15,232 )     (54.8 )
Private label(2)
    -       -       -       (96 )     (100.0 )
Personal non-credit card(2)
    13,640       (1,124 )     (7.6 )     (3,062 )     (18.3 )
Commercial and other
    56       (5 )     (8.2 )     (43 )     (43.4 )
                                         
Total receivables and receivables held for sale
  $ 99,178     $ (5,289 )     (5.1 )%   $ (36,571 )     (26.9 )%
                                         
 
 
(1) Real estate secured receivables are comprised of the following:
 
                                         
        Increases (Decreases) From
        March 31,
  June 30,
    June 30,
  2009   2008
    2009   $   %   $   %
 
    (dollars are in millions)
 
Mortgage Services
  $ 23,105     $ (1,159 )     (4.8 )%   $ (5,775 )     (20.0 )%
Consumer Lending
    43,939       (1,362 )     (3.0 )     (4,491 )     (9.3 )
All other
    10       -       -       (1 )     (9.1 )
                                         
Total real estate secured
  $ 67,054     $ (2,521 )     (3.6 )%   $ (10,267 )     (13.3 )%
                                         
 
(2) On a continuing basis, private label receivables consist primarily of the liquidating retail sales contracts in our Consumer Lending business with a receivable balance of $28 million and $37 million as of June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009. Beginning in the first quarter of 2009, we began reporting this liquidating portfolio prospectively within our personal non-credit card portfolio.
 
(3) During the first quarter of 2009, $214 million of Consumer Lending real estate secured receivables held for sale were reclassified to held for investment.
 
(4) During the second quarter of 2009, $590 million of credit card receivables held for sale were reclassified to held for investment.


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Real estate secured receivables can be further analyzed as follows:
 
                                         
          Increases (Decreases) From  
          March 31,
    June 30,
 
    June 30,
    2009     2008  
    2009     $     %     $     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Real estate secured:
                                       
Closed-end:
                                       
First lien(1)
  $ 57,681     $ (1,892 )     (3.2 )%   $ (7,536 )     (11.6 )%
Second lien(1)
    7,112       (492 )     (6.5 )     (2,130 )     (23.0 )
Revolving:
                                       
First lien(1)
    226       (6 )     (2.6 )     (25 )     (10.0 )
Second lien(1)
    2,035       (131 )     (6.0 )     (576 )     (22.1 )
                                         
Total real estate secured(2)
  $ 67,054     $ (2,521 )     (3.6 )%   $ (10,267 )     (13.3 )%
                                         
 
 
(1) Receivable classification between fixed rate, adjustable rate, and interest-only receivables is based on the classification at the time of receivable origination and does not reflect any changes in the classification that may have occurred as a result of any loan modifications.
 
(2) Excludes receivables held for sale. Real estate secured receivables held for sale included $41 million, $49 million and $1.2 billion primarily of closed-end, first lien receivables at June 30, 2009, March 31, 2009 and June 30, 2008, respectively. During the first quarter of 2009, $214 million of Consumer Lending real estate secured receivables held for sale were reclassified to held for investment.
 
The following table summarizes various real estate secured receivables information (excluding receivables held for sale) for our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses:
 
                                                 
    June 30, 2009     March 31, 2009     June 30, 2008  
    Mortgage
    Consumer
    Mortgage
    Consumer
    Mortgage
    Consumer
 
    Services     Lending     Services     Lending     Services     Lending  
   
    (In millions)  
 
Fixed rate(3)
  $ 13,344 (1)   $ 41,765 (2)   $ 13,885 (1)   $ 43,016 (2)   $ 15,945 (1)   $ 45,713 (2)
Adjustable rate(3)
    9,762       2,174       10,379       2,285       12,935       2,717  
                                                 
Total
  $ 23,106     $ 43,939     $ 24,264     $ 45,301     $ 28,880     $ 48,430  
                                                 
First lien
  $ 19,417     $ 38,496     $ 20,255     $ 39,556     $ 23,533     $ 41,941  
Second lien
    3,689       5,443       4,009       5,745       5,347       6,489  
                                                 
Total
  $ 23,106     $ 43,939     $ 24,264     $ 45,301     $ 28,880     $ 48,430  
                                                 
Adjustable rate(3)
  $ 8,418     $ 2,174     $ 8,863     $ 2,285     $ 10,342     $ 2,717  
Interest only(3)
    1,344       -       1,516       -       2,593       -  
                                                 
Total adjustable rate(3)
  $ 9,762     $ 2,174     $ 10,379     $ 2,285     $ 12,935     $ 2,717  
                                                 
Total stated income
  $ 4,625     $ -     $ 4,964     $ -     $ 6,516     $ -  
                                                 
 
 
(1) Includes fixed rate interest-only receivables of $318 million, $331 million and $376 million at June 30, 2009, March 31, 2009 and June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
(2) Includes fixed rate interest-only receivables of $41 million, $43 million and $47 million at June 30, 2009, March 31, 2009 and June 30, 2008, respectively.
 
(3) Receivable classification between fixed rate, adjustable rate, and interest-only receivables is based on the classification at the time of receivable origination and does not reflect any changes in the classification that may have occurred as a result of any loan modifications which may have occurred.


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Receivable decreases since June 30, 2008 Real estate secured receivables decreased from the year-ago period. Lower receivable balances in our Mortgage Services business reflect the continuing liquidation of the portfolio. The lower real estate secured receivable levels in our Consumer Lending business resulted from the actions taken since mid-2007 to reduce risk going forward as well as the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue new originations for all loan products in our Consumer Lending operations. The balance of this portfolio will continue to decline going forward as the receivable balances liquidate. The decreases in real estate secured receivables were slowed in both our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses by a decline in loan prepayments due to fewer refinancing opportunities for our customers due to the previously discussed trends impacting the mortgage lending industry.
 
Auto finance receivables decreased as a result of our decision to discontinue auto loan originations in July 2008 as well as the transfer of $3.0 billion of non-delinquent auto finance receivables to receivables held for sale during the third quarter of 2008 which were subsequently sold to HSBC Bank USA. Additionally, during the second quarter of 2009, we transferred auto finance receivables with a fair value of $450 million to receivables held for sale because we no longer had the intent to hold them for the foreseeable future. The balance of the auto finance portfolio will continue to decline going forward as the receivable balances liquidate. Credit card receivables decreased due to the transfer of the UP Portfolio to receivables held for sale during the fourth quarter of 2008 which were subsequently sold to HSBC Bank USA, numerous actions taken to slow receivable growth throughout 2008 and into 2009, including tightening initial credit line sales authorization criteria, closing inactive accounts, decreasing credit lines, tightening underwriting criteria, tightening cash access and reducing marketing expenditures as well as lower consumer spending levels. We continue limited direct marketing mailings and new customer account originations in portions of our portfolio to maintain the value and functionality of our receivable origination platform as well as to collect marketplace knowledge. However, we have also identified certain segments of our credit card portfolio which have been the most impacted by the current housing and economic conditions and have stopped all new account originations in these market segments. As credit performance improves, we will re-evaluate whether to resume direct marketing mailings and new customer account originations for portions of our credit card receivable portfolio. These actions have resulted in an on-going decline in our credit card receivable portfolio. These decreases were partially offset by the transfer of $590 million of credit card receivables previously held for sale to receivables held for investment during the second quarter of 2009. Personal non-credit card receivables decreased as a result of the actions taken throughout 2008 to reduce risk as well as the decision in late February 2009 to cease new customer account originations for all products in our Consumer Lending business.
 
Receivable decreases since March 31, 2009 Real estate secured receivables have decreased since March 31, 2009. Our Mortgage Services real estate secured portfolio and our auto finance receivable portfolio have continued to liquidate during the second quarter of 2009. Lower real estate secured receivables in our Consumer Lending business and personal non-credit card receivables reflect the decision to discontinue new originations for all loan products in late February 2009, as discussed above. The decreases in the real estate secured portfolio were slowed by a decline in loan prepayments which has continued during the second quarter of 2009. Decreases in our credit card receivables were due to the aforementioned actions taken to reduce risk and lower consumer spending levels, partially offset by the transfer of $590 million of credit card receivables previously held for sale to receivables held for investment.
 
Receivables Held for Sale As compared to the prior year quarter, the decrease largely reflects the sale of our GM credit card portfolio and other real estate secured receivables which were classified as held for sale. As compared to the prior quarter the decrease reflects $590 million of credit card receivables transferred from receivables held for sale to receivables held for investment at fair value, partially offset by auto finance receivables with a fair value of $450 million which were transferred to receivables held for sale in the second quarter of 2009 as we no longer have the intent to hold these receivables for the foreseeable future.
 
We currently have no intent to execute bulk sales of our run-off receivables portfolio beyond the auto finance receivables that we have classified as held for sale. Market pricing continues to value the cash flows associated with these receivables in the currently distressed market environment at amounts which are significantly lower than what we as servicer believe will ultimately be realized and we see no return to pricing that would typically be seen under more normal marketplace conditions for the foreseeable future. Therefore, we have decided to hold these run-off receivables for investment. However, should market pricing improve in the future, our intent may change, which could result in the reclassification of a significant portion of the run-off receivables into receivables held for sale.


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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
 
Real Estate Owned
 
We obtain real estate by taking possession of the collateral pledged as security for real estate secured receivables (“REO”). REO properties are made available for sale in an orderly fashion with the proceeds used to reduce or repay the outstanding receivable balance. The following table provides quarterly information regarding our REO properties:
                                         
    Three Months Ended  
    June 30,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Sept. 30,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008     2008     2008  
   
 
Number of REO properties at end of period
    7,105       8,643       9,350       10,887       10,596  
Number of properties added to REO inventory in the period
    3,463       4,143       3,313       5,416       5,606  
Average loss on sale of REO properties(1)
    13.0 %     16.9 %     13.3 %     11.0 %     11.0 %
Average total loss on foreclosed properties(2)
    52.4 %     52.0 %     46.8 %     42.2 %     40.0 %
Average time to sell REO properties (in days)
    194       201       180       174       171  
 
 
(1) The average loss on sale of foreclosed properties is calculated based on cash proceeds, after deducting selling costs, minus the unpaid loan principal balance and any other ancillary amounts owed (e.g., real estate tax advances). This amount is divided by the unpaid loan principal balance plus any other ancillary amounts.
 
(2) The average total loss on foreclosed properties sold each quarter includes both the loss on sale and the cumulative write-downs recognized on the loans up to and upon classification as “Real Estate Owned.” This average total loss on foreclosed properties is expressed as a percentage of the unpaid loan principal balance plus any other ancillary amounts owed (e.g., real estate tax advances).
 
The number of REO properties at June 30, 2009 decreased as compared to March 31, 2009 due to continuing delays in processing foreclosures due to backlogs in foreclosure proceedings as a result of actions by local governments and actions of certain states that have lengthened the foreclosure process. The average loss on sale of REO properties declined during the current quarter as the local government delays in foreclosure have resulted in the receivables remaining on our balance sheet longer and additional write-downs occurring prior to foreclosure. The average total loss on foreclosed properties was essentially flat during the second quarter as a result of some stabilization of home prices during the quarter.
 
Results of Operations
 
Unless noted otherwise, the following discusses amounts reported in our consolidated statement of loss for continuing operations.
 
Net interest income The following table summarizes net interest income:
 
                                                 
                Increase
 
    2009     2008     (Decrease)  
    $     %(1)     $     %(1)     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Three months ended June 30,
                                               
Finance and other interest income
  $ 2,594       9.65 %   $ 3,890       10.88 %   $ (1,296 )     (33.3 )%
Interest expense
    1,062       3.95       1,579       4.41       (517 )     (32.7 )
                                                 
Net interest income
  $ 1,532       5.70 %   $ 2,311       6.47 %   $ (779 )     (33.7 )%
                                                 
Six months ended June 30,
                                               
Finance and other interest income
  $ 5,440       9.80 %   $ 7,999       11.00 %   $ (2,559 )     (32.0 )%
Interest expense
    2,229       4.01       3,352       4.61       (1,123 )     (33.5 )
                                                 
Net interest income
  $ 3,211       5.79 %   $ 4,647       6.39 %   $ (1,436 )     (30.9 )%
                                                 
 
 
(1) % Columns: comparison to average interest-earning assets.


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The decrease in net interest income during the quarter and year-to-date periods were due to lower average receivables, lower origination volumes due to risk mitigation efforts as well as lower consumer spending levels, lower levels of performing receivables and lower overall yields on our receivable portfolio, partially offset by lower interest expense. With the exception of credit card receivables, yields on our receivable portfolio decreased for all products due to increased levels of loan modifications, the impact of deterioration in credit quality, including growth in non-performing assets, lower amortization of net deferred fees due to lower loan prepayments and lower loan origination volumes as well as decreases in rates on variable rate products which reflect market rate movements, partially offset by the impact of interest rate floors in portions of our credit card receivable portfolio. Overall yields were also negatively impacted by a shift in mix to higher levels of real estate secured receivables as a result of the sale of $12.4 billion and $3.0 billion of credit card and auto finance receivables, respectively, in January 2009 as credit card and auto finance receivables generally have higher yields than real estate secured receivables. The higher yields on our credit card receivable portfolio during 2009 were due to a significant shift in mix to higher levels of non-prime receivables which carry higher rates as a result of the sale of GM and UP Portfolios. We also experienced lower yields on our non-insurance investment portfolio reflecting lower rates on overnight investments. The lower interest expense was due to lower average rates for floating rate borrowings on lower average borrowings. The lower average rates for floating rate borrowings reflect actions taken by the Federal Reserve Bank which decreased short-term interest rates by 175 basis points since June 30, 2008.
 
Net interest margin was 5.70 percent during the three months ended June 30, 2009 compared to 6.47 percent in the prior year quarter. Net interest margin was 5.79 percent during the six months ended June 30, 2009 compared to 6.39 percent in the prior year period. Net interest margin decreased during both periods due to lower overall yields on our receivable portfolio as discussed above, partially offset by lower funding costs. The following table shows the impact of these items on net interest margin for the three and six month periods:
 
                 
    2009     2008  
   
 
Net interest margin – Three months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively
    6.47 %     6.40 %
Impact to net interest margin resulting from:
               
Receivable yields:
               
Receivable pricing
    (.17 )     (.07 )
Receivable mix
    (.36 )     .19  
Impact of non-performing assets
    (.56 )     (.53 )
Non-insurance investment income
    (.24 )     (.11 )
Cost of funds
    .56       .59  
                 
Net interest margin – Three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively
    5.70 %     6.47 %
                 
 
                 
    2009     2008  
   
 
Net interest margin – Six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively
    6.39 %     6.32 %
Impact to net interest margin resulting from:
               
Receivable yields:
               
Receivable pricing
    (.21 )     .06  
Receivable mix
    (.32 )     .22  
Impact of non-performing assets
    (.52 )     (.55 )
Non-insurance investment income
    (.24 )     (.07 )
Cost of funds
    .69       .41  
                 
Net interest margin – Six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively
    5.79 %     6.39 %
                 
 
The varying maturities and repricing frequencies of both our assets and liabilities expose us to interest rate risk. When the various risks inherent in both the asset and the debt do not meet our desired risk profile, we use derivative financial instruments to manage these risks to acceptable interest rate risk levels. See “Risk Management” for additional information regarding interest rate risk and derivative financial instruments.


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Provision for credit losses The following table summarizes provision for credit losses:
 
                                 
                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
    2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Three months ended June 30,
  $ 2,436     $ 3,189     $ (753 )     (23.6 )%
Six months ended June 30,
    5,381       6,017       (636 )     (10.6 )
 
Our provision for credit losses decreased in both periods as a result of lower provisions for credit losses in our Mortgage Services business as well as in our credit card and auto finance receivable portfolios due to the following:
 
  •  Provision for credit losses in our Mortgage Services business decreased as compared to the year-ago periods as the portfolio continues to become more fully seasoned and run-off, resulting in lower charge-off levels. Additionally, there has been a shift in the mix of charge-offs to first lien loans which generally have lower loss severities than second lien loans. However, loss severities have continued to increase due to declines in real estate values. Rising unemployment rates in an increasing number of markets and continued deterioration in the U.S. economy were also significant factors partially offsetting the lower credit loss provision.
 
  •  Provision for credit losses in our credit card receivable portfolio decreased significantly in both periods due to lower receivable levels driven by the impact of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. However, excluding the impact of these transferred portfolios, our provision for credit losses still remained lower due to lower non-prime receivable levels as a result of actions taken throughout 2008 and into 2009 to reduce credit appetite and to slow receivable growth as well as lower consumer spending levels. The transfer of $2.0 billion of non-prime receivables to held for sale in June 2008 also contributed to lower provisions as these portfolios were written down through other revenue. These lower credit loss estimates have been partially offset by the continued deterioration in the U.S. economy and housing markets, portfolio seasoning, higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings and lower recovery rates on defaulted receivables.
 
  •  Provision for credit losses in our auto finance receivable portfolio decreased in both periods as a result of lower receivable levels reflecting the discontinuation of auto finance originations as well as the sale of $3.0 billion of non-delinquent auto finance receivables in January 2009 to HSBC Bank USA as discussed above. Additionally, we have experienced lower loss severities driven by improvements in prices on repossessed vehicles. The year-to-date period was also impacted by the adoption of FFIEC charge-off policies during the first quarter of 2009 which increased the provision for credit losses by $36 million. The improvement was partially offset by continued deterioration in the U.S. economy, including significantly higher unemployment rates.
 
The provision for credit losses in our Consumer Lending business increased during both periods primarily in our first lien, real estate secured receivable portfolio driven by an accelerated deterioration which began in the second half of 2007 for portions of that portfolio. Charge-off and delinquency, including early stage delinquency, continued to increase due to the marketplace deterioration as previously discussed. Lower receivable prepayments, portfolio seasoning and higher loss severities due to continued deterioration in real estate values also resulted in a higher real estate secured credit loss provision, as did rising unemployment rates in an increasing number of markets and continued deterioration in the U.S. economy. The higher delinquency trends continued to increase during the second quarter of 2009, particularly in the first lien portions of Consumer Lending’s 2006 and 2007 real estate secured receivable originations and to a lesser extent the real estate secured originations in the first half of 2008 due to the current economic conditions, including higher early stage delinquency levels. As a result, dollars of delinquency in our Consumer Lending real estate secured receivable portfolio at June 30, 2009 were $6.5 billion, an increase of 135 percent, compared to $2.8 billion at June 30, 2008. Credit loss estimates for Consumer Lending’s personal non-credit card portfolio also increased during the first half of 2009 due to higher levels of charge-off resulting from deterioration in the 2006 and 2007 vintages which was more pronounced in certain geographic regions and continued deterioration in the U.S. economy.


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Net charge-off dollars totaled $2,518 million and $4,906 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, as compared to $2,654 million and $5,019 million in the year-ago periods. Dollars of net charge-offs in both periods were essentially flat as increases in net charge-offs due to continued deterioration in the U.S. economy and housing markets, rising unemployment rates, higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings and portfolio seasoning were offset by the impact of lower receivable levels, a shift in mix to higher levels of first lien loans which generally have lower loss severities than second lien loans and local government delays in processing foreclosures. We continue to experience delays in processing foreclosures due to backlogs in foreclosure proceedings as a result of actions by local governments and actions of certain states that have lengthened the foreclosure process. For further discussion see “Credit Quality” in this Form 10-Q.
 
We anticipate delinquency will deteriorate and charge-off will increase during the remainder of 2009. However, the magnitude of these negative trends in 2009 will largely be dependent on the length and depth of the U.S. economic recession, including unemployment rates and to some extent will be offset by the impact of actions we have already taken to reduce risk in these portfolios.
 
Other revenue The following table summarizes other revenues:
 
                                 
                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Insurance revenue
  $ 85     $ 108     $ (23 )     (21.3 )%
Investment income
    25       20       5       25.0  
Derivative income
    208       27       181       100 +
Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives
    (4,769 )     (864 )     (3,905 )     100 +
Fee income
    151       434       (283 )     (65.2 )
Enhancement services revenue
    124       173       (49 )     (28.3 )
Taxpayer financial services revenue
    3       6       (3 )     (50.0 )
Gain on bulk sale of receivables to HSBC Bank USA
    -       -       -       -  
Gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates
    90       67       23       34.3  
Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates
    194       120       74       61.7  
Lower of cost or fair value adjustment on receivables held for sale
    (173 )     (194 )     21       10.8  
Other income
    18       41       (23 )     (56.1 )
                                 
Total other revenues
  $ (4,044 )   $ (62 )   $ (3,982 )     100 +%
                                 
 


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                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Insurance revenue
  $ 178     $ 213     $ (35 )     (16.4 )%
Investment income
    32       45       (13 )     (28.9 )
Derivative income
    246       31       215       100 +
Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives
    (657 )     313       (970 )     (100 +)
Fee income
    379       892       (513 )     (57.5 )
Enhancement services revenue
    259       357       (98 )     (27.5 )
Taxpayer financial services revenue
    93       155       (62 )     (40.0 )
Gain on bulk sale of receivables to HSBC Bank USA
    57       -       57       -  
Gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates
    218       122       96       78.7  
Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates
    387       251       136       54.2  
Lower of cost or fair value adjustment on receivables held for sale
    (343 )     (201 )     (142 )     (70.6 )
Other income
    64       77       (13 )     (16.9 )
                                 
Total other revenues
  $ 913     $ 2,255     $ (1,342 )     (59.5 )%
                                 
 
Insurance revenue decreased during both periods as a result of lower credit related premiums due to the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business. As a result of this decision, we will no longer issue credit insurance policies in this business segment but will continue to collect premiums on existing policies. The decreases in insurance revenue were partially offset by growth in the simplified issue term life insurance product that was introduced in 2007.
 
Investment income includes income on securities available for sale in our insurance business, realized gains and losses from the sale of securities and the recording of other-than temporary impairment charges, as required. Other-than-temporary impairment charges totaled $0 million and $20 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, as compared to $9 million and $15 million in the year-ago periods. Excluding the impact of other-than-temporary impairment charges from all periods, investment income decreased in both periods due to lower yields and lower average investment balances.
 
Derivative income includes realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivatives which do not qualify as effective hedges under derivative accounting principles as well as the ineffectiveness on derivatives which are qualifying hedges. Derivative income is summarized in the table below:
 
                 
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Net realized gains (losses)
  $ (33 )   $ 5  
Mark-to-market on derivatives which do not qualify as effective hedges
    217       2  
Ineffectiveness
    24       20  
                 
Total
  $ 208     $ 27  
                 
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Net realized gains (losses)
  $ (53 )   $ 5  
Mark-to-market on derivatives which do not qualify as effective hedges
    220       13  
Ineffectiveness
    79       13  
                 
Total
  $ 246     $ 31  
                 

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HSBC Finance Corporation
 
As previously discussed, the deterioration in marketplace and economic conditions has resulted in our Consumer Lending and Mortgage Services real estate secured receivables remaining on the balance sheet longer due to lower prepayment rates and higher delinquency levels. To offset the increase in duration of these receivables and the corresponding increase in interest rate risk as measured by the present value of a basis point (“PVBP”) we had $6.2 billion of non-qualifying pay fixed, receive variable rate interest rate swaps outstanding during the current quarter. While these hedge positions lowered our overall interest rate risk, they did not qualify as effective hedges under derivative accounting principles. The mark-to-market on derivatives which do not qualify as effective hedges were positively impacted by rising long-term U.S. interest rates in the second quarter of 2009. The results of these non-qualifying hedges in the first six months of 2009 did, however, negatively impact net realized losses as short-term interest rates fell. The increase in ineffectiveness is primarily driven by changes in the market value of our cross currency cash flow hedges due to the increase in U.S. and foreign interest rates in the second quarter of 2009.
 
Designation of swaps as effective hedges reduces the volatility that would otherwise result from mark-to-market accounting. All derivatives are economic hedges of the underlying debt instruments regardless of the accounting treatment.
 
Net income volatility, whether based on changes in interest rates for swaps which do not qualify for hedge accounting or ineffectiveness recorded on our qualifying hedges under the long haul method of accounting, impacts the comparability of our reported results between periods. Accordingly, derivative income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 should not be considered indicative of the results for any future periods.
 
Gain (loss) on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives reflects fair value changes on our fixed rate debt accounted for under FVO as well as the fair value changes and realized gains (losses) on the related derivatives associated with debt designated at fair value. These components are summarized in the table below:
 
                 
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value(1):
               
Interest rate component
  $ 707     $ 978  
Credit risk component
    (5,122 )     (969 )
                 
Total mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value
    (4,415 )     9  
Mark-to-market on the related derivatives
    (505 )     (930 )
Net realized gains on the related derivatives
    151       57  
                 
Total
  $ (4,769 )   $ (864 )
                 
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value(1):
               
Interest rate component
  $ 888     $ (37 )
Credit risk component
    (1,331 )     320  
                 
Total mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value
    (443 )     283  
Mark-to-market on the related derivatives
    (485 )     (12 )
Net realized gains on the related derivatives
    271       42  
                 
Total
  $ (657 )   $ 313  
                 
 
 
(1) Mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives excludes market value changes due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Foreign currency translation gains (losses) recorded in derivative income associated with debt designated at fair value was a loss of $(188) million and a gain of $41 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Foreign currency translation gains (losses) was a gain of $8 million and a loss of $(305) million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Offsetting gains (losses) recorded in derivative income associated with the related derivatives was a gain of $188 million and a


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loss of $(41) million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and a loss of $(8) million and a gain of $305 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
 
The change in the fair value of the debt and the change in value of the related derivatives reflect the following:
 
  •  Interest rate curve – In the second quarter of 2009, the U.S. LIBOR curve continued to steepen as interest rates with one year terms or less remained low while interest rates for terms greater than two years increased. This resulted in gains in the interest rate component of the mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and losses on mark-to-market on the related derivatives in the current quarter and for the year-to-date period. In the second quarter of 2008, rising long term U.S. interest rates resulted in a gain in the interest rate component on debt designated at fair value and a decrease in the value of receive fixed/pay variable swaps. By the end of the second quarter of 2008, U.S. interest rates were at approximately the same level as at the start of 2008, and the gains recorded during the second quarter of 2008 were offset by the losses recorded during the first quarter of 2008. Changes in the value of the interest rate component of the debt as compared to the related derivative are also affected by the differences in cash flows and valuation methodologies for the debt and related derivative. Cash flows on debt are discounted using a single discount rate from the bond yield curve while derivative cash flows are discounted using rates at multiple points along the LIBOR yield curve. The impacts of these differences vary as short-term and long-term interest rates change relative to each other. Furthermore, certain derivatives have been called by the counterparty resulting in certain FVO debt having no related derivatives which increases the net difference between the change in the value of the interest rate component of the debt and the change in the value of the derivatives. Income from net realized gains increased due to reduced short term U.S. interest rates.
 
  •  Credit – Our credit spreads tightened significantly in the second quarter of 2009. This tightening exceeded the widening that was experienced in the first quarter of 2009 due to general market conditions and credit rating downgrades in early March 2009 following the announcement of the discontinuation of all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business and closure of the Consumer Lending branch offices. Changes in the credit risk component of the debt during the second quarter of 2008 were impacted by a tightening of our credit spreads. The tightening of credit spreads during the second quarter of 2008 was a partial reversal of a general widening of credit spreads experienced in the first quarter of 2008 as new issue and secondary bond market credit spreads across all domestic bond market sectors narrowed as well as a general lack of liquidity in the secondary bond market during the period. The fair value benefit from the change of our credit spreads is a result of having historically raised debt at credit spreads which are not available under today’s market conditions.
 
Net income volatility, whether based on changes in either the interest rate or credit risk components of the mark-to market on debt designated at fair value and the related derivatives, impacts the comparability of our reported results between periods. Accordingly, gain on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives for the six months ended June 30, 2009 should not be considered indicative of the results for any future periods.
 
Fee income, which includes revenues from fee-based products such as credit cards, decreased in both periods primarily as a result of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios as previously discussed, higher fee charge-offs due to increased loan defaults and lower late, overlimit and interchange fees due to lower volumes and customer behavior changes.
 
Enhancement services revenue, which consists of ancillary credit card revenue from products such as Account Secure Plus (debt protection) and Identity Protection Plan, decreased in both periods primarily as a result of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios as previously discussed as well as the impact of lower new origination volumes.
 
Taxpayer financial services (“TFS”) revenue decreased in both periods as H&R Block was the only third-party preparer during the 2009 tax season with whom we had an on-going relationship and a shift in mix to lower revenue and lower risk products.
 
Gain on bulk sale of receivables to HSBC Bank USA for the six months ended June 30, 2009 reflects the gain on sale of the GM and UP Portfolios, with an outstanding receivable balance of $12.4 billion, at the time of sale, and


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$3.0 billion of auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. This gain was partially offset by a loss recorded on the termination of cash flow swaps associated with $6.1 billion of indebtedness transferred to HSBC Bank USA as part of these transactions.
 
Gain on receivable sales to HSBC affiliates consists primarily of daily sales of private label receivable originations and certain credit card account originations to HSBC Bank USA. The increase in both periods is primarily a result of higher sales volumes as a result of the sales of new receivable originations in the GM and UP Portfolios beginning in January 2009.
 
Servicing and other fees from HSBC affiliates represents revenue received under service level agreements under which we service credit card and private label receivables as well as real estate secured and auto finance receivables for HSBC affiliates. The increases in both periods primarily relate to higher levels of receivables being serviced on behalf of HSBC Bank USA as a result of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios as well as certain auto finance receivables in January 2009 which we continue to service.
 
Lower of cost or fair value adjustment on receivables held for sale for the three months ended June 30, 2009 includes a lower of cost or fair value adjustment of $10 million resulting from the transfer of auto finance receivables with a fair value of $450 million previously held for investment to receivables held for sale. Additionally, the current year periods also reflect the impact of current market conditions on pricing for credit card receivables held for sale which resulted in additional lower of cost or fair value adjustments of $163 million and $333 million during the three months and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively. During the second quarter of 2008, we transferred $9,042 million of real estate secured and credit card receivables previously held for investment to receivables held for sale, resulting in a lower of cost or fair value adjustment of $194 million.
 
Other income decreased during the three months ended June 30, 2009 as a result of lower gains on miscellaneous asset sales, including real estate investments. In addition, the year-ago period included a gain of $11 million related to the sale of a portion of our Visa Class B shares as well as higher securitization related revenue as we repaid the remaining securitized credit card receivable trust in February 2008.
 
Operating expenses
 
The following table summarizes total costs and expenses:
 
                                 
                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Salaries and employee benefits
  $ 270     $ 433     $ (163 )     (37.6 )%
Sales incentives
    -       16       (16 )     (100.0 )
Occupancy and equipment expenses
    22       56       (34 )     (60.7 )
Other marketing expenses
    27       87       (60 )     (69.0 )
Real estate owned expenses
    41       64       (23 )     (35.9 )
Other servicing and administrative expenses
    181       307       (126 )     (41.0 )
Support services from HSBC affiliates
    257       253       4       1.6  
Amortization of intangibles
    39       42       (3 )     (7.1 )
Policyholders’ benefits
    48       51       (3 )     (5.9 )
Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges
    1,641       -       1,641       100.0  
                                 
Total costs and expenses
  $ 2,526     $ 1,309     $ 1,217       93.0%  
                                 
 


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                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Salaries and employee benefits
  $ 685     $ 875     $ (190 )     (21.7 )%
Sales incentives
    5       36       (31 )     (86.1 )
Occupancy and equipment expenses
    113       110       3       2.7  
Other marketing expenses
    77       215       (138 )     (64.2 )
Real estate owned expenses
    146       190       (44 )     (23.2 )
Other servicing and administrative expenses
    436       563       (127 )     (22.6 )
Support services from HSBC affiliates
    536       522       14       2.7  
Amortization of intangibles
    81       97       (16 )     (16.5 )
Policyholders’ benefits
    103       103       -       -  
Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges
    2,308       -       2,308       100.0  
                                 
Total costs and expenses
  $ 4,490     $ 2,711     $ 1,779       65.6%  
                                 
 
Salaries and employee benefits for the year-to-date period included severance costs of $74 million and $3 million relating to accelerated stock based compensation and other benefits, partially offset by a $16 million curtailment gain related to post-retirement benefit, primarily related to the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business and close the Consumer Lending branch offices. Excluding the severance costs related to this decision from the year-to-date period, salaries and employee benefits were even lower reflecting the reduced scope of our business operations, including the change in headcount from the strategic decisions implemented throughout 2008, the impact of entity-wide initiatives to reduce costs as well as lower salary costs derived from an increase in customer service, systems, collections and accounting services provided by an HSBC affiliate located outside the U.S. Partially offsetting these decreases were higher salary expense resulting from increased collection capacity.
 
Sales incentives decreased in both periods due to lower origination volumes in our Consumer Lending business resulting from the changes in product offerings and the tightening of underwriting criteria throughout 2008, the economic and market conditions described above and the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business.
 
Occupancy and equipment expenses for the year-to-date period included lease termination and associated costs of $54 million and write-offs of fixed asset and other capitalized costs of $29 million related to the decision in late February 2009 to close substantially all of the Consumer Lending branch offices. Excluding the impact of these items, occupancy and equipment expenses were lower in both periods as a result of the reduction of the scope of our business operations since June 2008.
 
Other marketing expenses include payments for advertising, direct mail programs and other marketing expenditures. The decrease in marketing expense in both periods reflects the decision to continue to reduce credit card and personal non-credit card receivable marketing expenses in an effort to reduce risk and slow receivable growth in these portfolios as well as the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue originations of personal non-credit card receivables.
 
Real estate owned expenses decreased in three and six months ended June 30, 2009 as a result of lower levels of real estate owned due to local government delays in foreclosure proceedings as certain states and municipalities have implemented new rules which lengthen the foreclosure process, partially offset by higher average loss on sale of REO properties.
 
Other servicing and administrative expenses decreased during both periods primarily as a result of the reduction of the scope of our business operations since June 2008. These decreases were partially offset by lower origination cost deferrals due to lower origination volumes, higher third party collection costs and for the year-to-date period, the

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write-off of miscellaneous assets related to the decision in late February 2009 to close substantially all of the Consumer Lending branch offices.
 
Support services from HSBC affiliates includes technology and some centralized operational services and beginning in January 2009, human resources, corporate affairs and other shared services charged to us by HTSU which were previously recorded in salaries and employee benefits. Support services from HSBC affiliates also includes services charged to us by an HSBC affiliate located outside of the United States which provides operational support to our businesses, including among other areas, customer service, systems, collection and accounting functions. Support services from HSBC affiliates increased during the three months and six months ended June 30, 2009 as a result of the human resources, corporate affairs and other shared services which began being provided by HTSU in January 2009, partially offset by a reduction in support services due to reducing the scope of our business operations.
 
Amortization of intangibles decreased in both periods due to lower amortization for technology and customer lists due to the write off of a portion of these intangibles as a result of the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue all new customer account originations for all products in our Consumer Lending business. Additionally, lower amortization of intangibles in the year-to-date period reflects amortization on retail sales merchant agreements which became fully amortized during the first quarter of 2008.
 
Policyholders’ benefits decreased during the three months ended June 30, 2009 due to lower life and disability claims on credit insurance policies as a result of fewer life and disability polices as we are no longer issuing these policies in the Consumer Lending business as discussed above. The decreases were partially offset by higher unemployment claims due to rising unemployment rates during the quarter and higher claims incurred on the simplified issue term life product due to growth in this product offering as discussed above. Policyholders’ benefits were flat during the six months ended June 30, 2009 as decreases during the year-to-date period in life and disability policies discussed above were offset by the impact of rising unemployment rates and growth in the simplified issue term life insurance product.
 
Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges for the six months ended June 30, 2009 includes goodwill impairment charges of $2.3 billion representing all of the goodwill previously allocated to our Card and Retail Services and Insurance Services businesses. Of this amount, $1.6 billion of goodwill impairment charges were recorded during the second quarter of 2009 due to a significant reduction in estimated future cash flows in our Card and Retail Services business as a result of continued deterioration in economic and credit conditions, including rising unemployment rates, as well as the consideration of various legislation and regulatory actions. See Note 10, “Goodwill,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion of the goodwill impairment. Additionally during the first quarter of 2009, we recorded impairment charges of $14 million for intangible assets associated with our Consumer Lending business as a result of our decision to discontinue new customer account originations for all products. See Note 4, “Strategic Initiatives,” and Note 9, “Intangible Assets,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion of the impairment.
 
Efficiency ratio The following table summarizes our efficiency ratio:
 
                 
    2009   2008
 
 
Three months ended June 30,
    (96.80 )%     57.23 %
Six months ended June 30,
    109.10       38.36 %
 
Our efficiency ratio in both periods was significantly impacted by the change in the fair value of debt for which we have elected fair value option reporting and the related derivatives and the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges recorded during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, as discussed above. Excluding these items in the quarters, our efficiency ratio improved 319 points during the second quarter of 2009 as a result of lower salary expense, marketing expense and sales incentives as well as the impact of entity-wide initiatives to reduce costs which resulted in operating expenses decreasing more rapidly than net interest income and fee income. Excluding these items in the year-to-date periods, our efficiency ratio deteriorated 423 points during the six months ended June 30, 2009 primarily as a result of the restructuring charges recorded in the first quarter of 2009 as previously discussed. Additionally, deterioration in the year-to-date period reflects net interest income and fee income


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decreasing at a more rapid pace than operating expenses prior to the discontinuation of Consumer Lending new customer account originations and branch closures.
 
 
We have two reportable segments: Card and Retail Services and Consumer. Our segments are managed separately and are characterized by different middle-market consumer lending products, origination processes and locations. Our segment results are reported on a continuing operations basis.
 
Our Card and Retail Services segment includes our MasterCard, Visa, private label and other credit card operations. The Card and Retail Services segment offers these products throughout the United States primarily via strategic affinity and co-branding relationships, merchant relationships and direct mail. Products are also offered and customers serviced through the Internet.
 
Our Consumer segment consists of our run-off Consumer Lending, Mortgage Services and Auto Finance businesses. The Consumer segment provided real estate secured, auto finance and personal non-credit card loans. Loans were offered with both revolving and closed-end terms and with fixed or variable interest rates. Loans were originated through branch locations and direct mail. Products were also offered and customers serviced through the Internet. Prior to the first quarter of 2007, we acquired loans through correspondent channels and prior to September 2007 we also originated loans sourced through mortgage brokers.
 
The “All Other” caption includes our Insurance, Taxpayer Financial Services and Commercial businesses, each of which falls below the quantitative threshold tests under segment reporting rules, for determining reportable segments, as well as our corporate and treasury activities, which includes the impact of FVO debt. Certain fair value adjustments related to purchase accounting resulting from our acquisition by HSBC and related amortization have been allocated to Corporate, including goodwill arising from our acquisition by HSBC, which is included in the “All Other” caption within our segment disclosure.
 
In the first quarter of 2009, we began allocating a majority of the costs of our corporate and treasury activities to our reportable segments. These allocated costs had previously not been considered in determining segment profit (loss) and are now reported as intersegment revenues in the “All Other” caption and operating expenses for our reportable segments. There have been no other changes in our measurement of segment profit (loss) and there have been no changes in the basis of segmentation as compared with the presentation in our 2008 Form 10-K.
 
We report results to our parent, HSBC, in accordance with its reporting basis, IFRSs. Our segment results are presented on an IFRS Management Basis (a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure) as operating results are monitored and reviewed, trends are evaluated and decisions about allocating resources such as employees are made almost exclusively on an IFRS Management Basis. IFRS Management Basis results are IFRSs results which assume that the GM and UP credit card Portfolios and the auto finance, private label, real estate secured receivables transferred to HSBC Bank USA have not been sold and remain on our balance sheet and the revenues and expenses related to these receivables remain on our income statement. IFRS Management Basis also assumes that the purchase accounting fair value adjustments relating to our acquisition by HSBC have been “pushed down” to HSBC Finance Corporation. Operations are monitored and trends are evaluated on an IFRS Management Basis because the receivable sales to HSBC Bank USA were conducted primarily to fund prime customer loans more efficiently through bank deposits and such receivables continue to be managed and serviced by us without regard to ownership. However, we continue to monitor capital adequacy, establish dividend policy and report to regulatory agencies on a U.S. GAAP legal entity basis. A summary of the significant differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRSs as they impact our results are summarized in Note 16, “Business Segments,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.


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Card and Retail Services Segment The following table summarizes the IFRS Management Basis results for our Card and Retail Services segment:
 
                                 
                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Net interest income
  $ 1,298     $ 1,263     $ 35       2.8 %
Other operating income
    568       773       (205 )     (26.5 )
Loan impairment charges
    1,208       1,236       (28 )     (2.3 )
Operating expenses, excluding goodwill impairment charges
    456       538       (82 )     (15.2 )
Profit (loss) before tax and goodwill impairment charges
    202       262       (60 )     (22.9 )%
Goodwill impairment charges(1)
    530       -       530       100.0  
Profit (loss) before tax
    (328 )     262       (590 )     (100 +)
Intersegment revenues
    1       4       (3 )     (75.0 )
Customer loans
    40,981       46,778       (5,797 )     (12.4 )
Assets
    39,292       45,209       (5,917 )     (13.1 )
Net interest margin, annualized
    12.33 %     10.79 %     -       -  
Return on average assets
    (4.12 )     1.42       -       -  
 
                                 
                Increase
 
                (Decrease)  
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Net interest income
  $ 2,638     $ 2,565     $ 73       2.8 %
Other operating income
    1,228       1,617       (389 )     (24.1 )
Loan impairment charges
    2,719       2,260       459       20.3  
Operating expenses, excluding goodwill impairment charges
    944       1,118       (174 )     (15.6 )
Profit (loss) before tax and goodwill impairment charges
    203       804       (601 )     (74.8 )
Goodwill impairment charges(1)
    530       -       530       100.0  
Profit (loss) before tax
    (327 )     804       (1,131 )     (100 +)
Intersegment revenues
    3       9       (6 )     (66.7 )
Net interest margin, annualized
    12.18 %     10.80 %     -       -  
Return on average assets
    (2.04 )     2.21       -       -  
 
 
(1) Goodwill impairment charges of $530 million recorded during the three months ended June 30, 2009 were not deductible for tax purposes.
 
Our Card and Retail Services segment reported a net loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to net income for the year-ago periods. The net loss in 2009 was significantly impacted by goodwill impairment charges of $530 million (after-tax) during the three months ended June 30, 2009 relating to goodwill which had been established subsequent to our acquisition by HSBC in 2003 and was recorded directly to the balance sheet of our Card and Retail Service segment. Additional goodwill impairment charges of $770 million (after-tax) and $2.4 billion (after-tax) during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, related to our acquisition by HSBC in 2003 was recorded in the “All Other” caption as this goodwill was recorded at corporate and was allocated to our businesses only for purposes of goodwill impairment testing. Excluding the goodwill impairment charges, net income was lower in both periods due to lower other operating income, partially offset by lower operating expenses, higher net interest income and for the three months ended June 30, 2009, lower loan impairment charges. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, loan impairment charges were higher as compared to the year-ago period.


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Loan impairment charges were higher during the six months ended June 30, 2009 due to higher delinquency and charge-off levels as a result of portfolio seasoning, increased levels of personal bankruptcy filings, continued deterioration in the U.S. economy including rising unemployment rates and lower recovery rates on defaulted loans. The higher credit loss estimates in the year-to-date period were partially offset by lower customer loan levels as a result of actions taken throughout 2008 and into 2009 to reduce credit appetite and to slow receivable growth and lower consumer spending levels. Lower loan impairment charges during the three months ended June 30, 2009 were driven by the lower customer loan levels discussed above as well as declines in delinquency levels during the quarter. Lower delinquency levels reflect lower loan levels, an extended seasonal benefit of increased cash available to consumers as a result of various government economic stimulus actions and lower energy costs, as well as higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings during the first half of 2009 which results in accounts migrating to charge-off more quickly. During the first half of 2009, we decreased credit loss reserves to $4.3 billion as loan impairment charges were $59 million lower than net charge-offs. During the first half of 2008, we increased credit loss reserves to $3.6 billion as loan impairment charges were $249 million greater than net charge-offs.
 
Net interest income increased in both periods due to lower interest expense, partially offset by lower interest income. The lower interest income reflects the impact of lower overall loan levels partially offset in the three month period by higher yields. Yields were higher during the three months ended June 30, 2009 as a result of repricing initiatives as well as the impact of interest rate floors in portions of the loan portfolio. Loan yields during the year-to-date period were essentially flat as the impact of repricing initiatives and interest rate floors during the first half of 2009 was offset by the impact of deterioration in credit quality. Net interest margin increased during both periods primarily due to a lower cost of funds and repricing initiatives as well as the impact of interest rate floors in portions of the loan portfolio during the first half of 2009, partially offset by the impact of deterioration in credit quality. The decrease in other operating income in both periods was primarily due to lower cash advance, interchange fees, late fees and enhancement services revenue due to lower volumes and changes in customer behavior. Excluding the goodwill impairment charge discussed above, operating expenses decreased in both periods due to lower marketing expenses in our effort to slow receivable growth in our credit card receivable portfolio as well as lower salary expenses. These decreases were partially offset by $8 million in restructuring costs recorded as a result of our decision in the second quarter of 2009 to close and consolidate additional facilities. See Note 4, “Strategic Initiatives,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information on this decision.
 
ROA decreased during both periods primarily due to the goodwill impairment charge and for the six months ended June 30, 2009, higher loan impairment charges as discussed above, partially offset by lower average assets.
 
On May 22, 2009, the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (the “CARD Act”) was signed into law. The CARD Act modifies and expands upon the amendments to Regulation AA (Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices) (“UDAP”) and Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) adopted by the Federal Reserve in December 2008, which among other things, place restrictions on applying interest rate increases on new and existing balances, require changes to deferred interest plans, prescribe the manner in which payments in excess of the minimum payment may be allocated to amounts due and penalty rates may be charged on past due balances, and limits certain fees. Most of the requirements of the CARD Act become effective in February 2010, however, some provisions will become effective in August 2009 and a few will not become effective until August 2010. New restrictions introduced by the CARD Act include requiring customers to opt-in to over limit fee assessments and requiring re-priced accounts be evaluated for interest rate decreases every six months. The CARD Act also requires the Federal Reserve to conduct rulemaking to ensure penalty fees are reasonable and requires other government agencies to conduct studies on interchange, debt cancellation agreements and credit insurance products and present reports to Congress on these topics. Although we are already compliant with some provisions, other provisions such as those addressing limitations on interest rate increases, over limit fees and payment allocation will require us to make changes to our business practices. This may require us and our competitors to manage risk differently than has historically been the case. Potential pricing, underwriting and product changes in response to the new legislation are under analysis. We are currently in the process of making changes to processes and systems to comply with the new rules and will be fully compliant by the applicable effective dates. Although we currently believe the implementation of these new rules is likely to have a material adverse financial impact to us, the full impact of the CARD Act


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on us at this time is uncertain as it ultimately depends upon the Federal Reserve and other government agencies interpretations of some of the provisions discussed above, successful implementation of our strategies, consumer behavior and the actions of our competitors.
 
In July 2009, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) advised HSBC Bank Nevada, N.A. that it issued Examiner Guidance for Appropriate Minimum Payment Requirements in Credit Card Lending. The guidance sets forth the requirements that national bank credit card issuers should require a minimum payment from the borrower for all credit card programs, thereby no longer allowing “no payment” promotional financing. We currently are in discussions with the OCC to determine the scope and effective date of this guidance. However, if adopted in its broadest terms, our preliminary analysis indicates that the impact of the guidance could be material to the Retail Services business.
 
On June 1, 2009, General Motors announced its plan to restructure, filing for bankruptcy protection under the Chapter 11 reorganization provisions. While we provide credit under the GM Card Program, GM owns and operates the Earnings/Rewards Program. Concurrently with its bankruptcy filing, GM filed a motion with the bankruptcy court requesting authority to honor the GM Card Program in the ordinary course of business, including allowing the continued redemption of earned rewards points as well as authorizing the continued performance by GM under the card agreements. The court approved this motion on June 2, 2009. We have been advised that GM intends to continue the GM Card program and have asked the court to approve the assignment and assumption of the GM Card Agreement to the New GM. In July 2009, the bankruptcy court approved GM’s plan to transfer substantially all of GM’s assets to New GM, and GM was granted permission to exit from bankruptcy.
 
Customer loans for our Card and Retail Services segment can be analyzed as follows:
 
                                         
          Increases (Decreases) From  
          March 31,
    June 30,
 
    June 30,
    2009     2008  
    2009     $     %     $     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Credit card
  $ 25,087     $ (1,246 )     (4.7 )%   $ (4,204 )     (14.4 )%
Private label
    15,772       (630 )     (3.8 )     (1,553 )     (9.0 )
Other
    122       (10 )     (7.6 )     (40 )     (24.7 )
                                         
Total loans
  $ 40,981     $ (1,886 )     (4.4 )%   $ (5,797 )     (12.4 )%
                                         
 
Compared to June 30, 2008, customer loans decreased 12 percent due to the actions taken throughout 2008 to slow receivable growth, including tightening initial credit line sales authorization criteria, closing inactive accounts, decreasing credit lines, tightening underwriting criteria, tightening cash access and reducing marketing expenditures as well as lower consumer spending levels. We continue limited direct marketing mailings and new customer account originations in portions of our non-prime portfolio to maintain the value and functionality of our receivable origination platform as well as to collect marketplace knowledge. However, we have also identified certain segments of our credit card portfolio which have been the most impacted by the current housing and economic conditions and have stopped all new account originations in these market segments. As credit performance improves, we will re-evaluate whether to resume direct marketing mailings and new customer account originations for portions of our credit card receivable portfolio. These actions have resulted in an on-going decline in our non-prime credit card receivable portfolio. Lower private label receivable levels also reflect the termination of unprofitable retail partners.
 
Customer loans decreased 4 percent to $41.0 billion at June 30, 2009 compared to $42.9 billion at March 31, 2009, primarily due to the actions taken to reduce receivable growth and lower consumer spending levels as discussed above.
 
The following is additional key performance data related to our Card and Retail Services portfolios. The information is based on IFRS Management Basis results.


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Our Cards and Retail Services portfolios consist of three key segments. The non-prime portfolios are primarily originated through direct mail channels (the “Non-prime Portfolio”). The prime portfolio consists of General Motors, Union Privilege and Retail Services receivables (the “Prime Portfolio”). These receivables are primarily considered prime at origination, however the credit profile of some customers will subsequently change due to changes in customer circumstances. The other portfolio is comprised of several run-off portfolios and alternative marketing programs such as third party turndown programs (the “Other Portfolio”). The Other Portfolio includes certain adjustments not allocated to either the Non-prime or Prime Portfolios. The Other Portfolio contains both prime and non-prime receivables.
 
The following table includes key financial metrics for our Card and Retail Services business:
 
                                                 
                                  Change between
 
    Quarter Ended     June 30, 2009
 
    June 30,
    Mar. 31,
    Dec. 31,
    Sept. 30,
    June 30,
    and
 
    2009     2009     2008     2008     2008     June 30, 2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Receivables:
                                               
Non-prime
  $ 10,426     $ 11,164     $ 12,247     $ 12,651     $ 12,878       (19.0 )%
Prime
    27,760       28,805       31,344       30,778       30,886       (10.1 )
Other
    2,795       2,898       3,139       3,077       3,014       (7.3 )
                                                 
Total
  $ 40,981     $ 42,867     $ 46,730     $ 46,506     $ 46,778       (12.4 )%
                                                 
Net Interest Margin:
                                               
Non-prime
    19.57 %     20.36 %     17.96 %     17.49 %     17.05 %     14.8 %
Prime
    9.00       9.10       7.75       7.70       7.67       17.3  
Other
    17.88       8.71       11.49       12.67       15.94       12.2  
                                                 
Total
    12.33 %     12.04 %     10.76 %     10.72 %     10.79 %     14.3 %
                                                 
Delinquency Ratio:
                                               
Non-prime
    10.02 %     11.04 %     9.69 %     9.11 %     8.26 %     21.3 %
Prime
    4.49       4.54       4.00       3.55       3.26       37.7  
Other
    8.54       9.43       8.48       7.46       6.58       29.8  
                                                 
Total
    6.17 %     6.57 %     5.79 %     5.32 %     4.85 %     27.2 %
                                                 
 
As previously discussed, customer loans have decreased by 12 percent as compared to the prior year quarter. The Prime Portfolio has decreased at a slower rate than the Non-prime Portfolio due to the need to maintain approval rates as a result of merchant obligations and absolute levels of charge-offs.
 
Net interest margin for both the Non-prime and Prime Portfolios remains strong, primarily due to lower cost of funds, lower promotional balances, incremental pricing actions and the impact of interest rate floors in portions of the loan portfolio.
 
While we have seen deterioration in performance across the Cards and Retail Services segment as compared to the prior year quarter, the Non-prime Portfolio performance has deteriorated to a lesser degree through this stage of the economic cycle. Delinquency in the Non-prime Portfolio has deteriorated at a lower rate than our Prime Portfolio as non-prime customers typically have lower home ownership, smaller credit lines which have lower minimum payment requirements and lower incidences of interest rate increases and credit line decreases. Dollars of net charge-offs in the Non-prime Portfolio have also deteriorated at a lower rate than our Prime Portfolio. However, due to the more rapid decrease in the average loan balance in the Non-prime Portfolio as compared to the Prime Portfolio, the deterioration in the net charge-off ratio has been similar.
 
The trends discussed above are at a point in time. Given the volatile economic conditions, there can be no certainty such trends will continue in the future.


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Consumer Segment The following table summarizes the IFRS Management Basis results for our Consumer segment:
 
                                 
                Increase (Decrease)  
Three Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Net interest income
  $ 977     $ 1,481     $ (504 )     (34.0 )%
Other operating income
    69       23       46       100 +
Loan impairment charges
    2,154       2,150       4       .2  
Operating expenses
    262       447       (185 )     (41.4 )
Loss before tax
    (1,370 )     (1,093 )     (277 )     (25.3 )
Intersegment revenues
    33       45       (12 )     (26.7 )
Customer loans
    90,197       109,783       (19,586 )     (17.8 )
Assets
    87,713       105,271       (17,558 )     (16.7 )
Net interest margin, annualized
    4.18 %     5.30 %     -       -  
Return on average assets
    (3.90 )     (2.60 )     -       -  
 
                                 
                Increase (Decrease)  
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008     Amount     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Net interest income
  $ 2,012     $ 3,044     $ (1,032 )     (33.9 )%
Other operating income
    30       (2 )     32       100 +
Loan impairment charges
    4,589       4,308       281       6.5  
Operating expenses
    819       912       (93 )     (10.2 )
Loss before tax
    (3,366 )     (2,178 )     (1,188 )     (54.6 )
Intersegment revenues
    67       89       (22 )     (24.7 )
Net interest margin, annualized
    4.20 %     5.35 %     -       -  
Return on average assets
    (4.74 )     (2.54 )     -       -  
 
Our Consumer segment reported a higher net loss during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 due to lower net interest income and higher loan impairment charges, partially offset by lower operating expenses and higher other operating income.
 
Loan impairment charges in both periods reflect higher credit loss estimates in our Consumer Lending loan portfolios, partially offset by lower loan impairment charges in our Mortgage Services loan portfolio as this portfolio continues to become more fully seasoned and run-off as we discontinued originations in this portfolio in 2007. Additionally, there has been a shift in mix of charge-offs in our Mortgage Services loan portfolio to first lien loans which generally have lower loss severities than second lien loans. Loan impairment charges in our Consumer Lending business increased during both periods primarily in our first lien, real estate secured loan portfolio driven by an accelerated deterioration which began in the second half of 2007 for portions of that portfolio. Charge-off and delinquency, including early stage delinquency, continued to increase due to the marketplace deterioration as previously discussed. Credit loss estimates for Consumer Lending’s personal non-credit card portfolio also increased during the first half of 2009 due to higher levels of charge-off resulting from deterioration in the 2006 and 2007 vintages which was more pronounced in certain geographic regions and continued deterioration in the U.S. economy. Both our Consumer Lending and Mortgage Services loan portfolios were negatively impacted by portfolio seasoning, rising unemployment rates and continued deterioration in the U.S. economy as well as lower loan prepayments and higher loss severities due to continued deterioration in real estate values in our real estate secured loan portfolios. During the first half of 2009, credit loss reserves increased as loan impairment charges were $603 million greater than net charge-offs. During the first half of 2008, credit loss reserves increased as loan impairment charges were $755 million greater than net charge-offs.
 
The decrease in net interest income was due to lower average customer loans, lower origination volumes, lower levels of performing receivables and lower overall yields partially offset by lower interest expense. Overall yields decreased due to the impact of deterioration in credit quality, including growth in non-performing assets, increased levels of loan modifications, and lower amortization of net deferred fees due to lower loan prepayments and lower origination volumes.


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The decrease in net interest margin was primarily a result of lower overall yields as discussed above. Other operating income increased primarily due to lower losses on sales of REO properties, partially offset by lower credit insurance commissions. Operating expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2009 also included $139 million of costs, net of a curtailment gain of $34 million related to other post-retirement benefits, related to the decision to discontinue new originations for all products in our Consumer Lending business and close the Consumer Lending branch offices. In addition, we were required to perform an interim intangible asset impairment test for our remaining Consumer Lending intangible asset which resulted in an impairment charge of $5 million during the six months ended June 30, 2009. See Note 4, “Strategic Initiatives,” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information. Operating expenses decreased during both periods due to the reductions in the scope of our business operations as well as other cost containment measures, and lower REO expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2009.
 
The decrease in the ROA ratio during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 was primarily due to lower net interest income and for the year-to-date period, higher loan impairment charges as discussed above, partially offset by lower average assets.
 
Government sponsored programs in the mortgage lending environment have recently been introduced which are focused on reducing the number of foreclosures and making it easier for customers to refinance loans. One such program intends to help certain at-risk homeowners avoid foreclosure by reducing monthly mortgage payments. This program provides certain incentives to lenders to modify all eligible loans that fall under the guidelines of the program. Another program focuses on homeowners who have a proven payment history on an existing mortgage owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and provides assistance to eligible homeowners to refinance their mortgage loans to take advantage of current lower mortgage rates or to refinance adjustable rate mortgages into more stable fixed rate mortgages. We continue to evaluate whether we will help our customers address financial challenges through these government programs or through our own home preservation programs.
 
Customer loans for our Consumer segment can be analyzed as follows:
 
                                         
          Increases (Decreases) From  
          March 31,
    June 30,
 
    June 30,
    2009     2008  
    2009     $     %     $     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Real estate secured(1)
  $ 68,738     $ (2,574 )     (3.6 )%   $ (11,736 )     (14.6 )%
Auto finance
    7,736       (1,785 )     (18.7 )     (4,799 )     (38.3 )
Private label(2)
    -       -       -       (83 )     (100.0 )
Personal non-credit card
    13,723       (1,095 )     (7.4 )     (2,968 )     (17.8 )
                                         
Total customer loans
  $ 90,197     $ (5,454 )     (5.7 )%   $ (19,586 )     (17.8 )%
                                         
 
 
(1) Real estate secured receivables are comprised of the following:
 
                                         
          Increases (Decreases) From  
          March 31,
    June 30,
 
    June 30,
    2009     2008  
    2009     $     %     $     %  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Mortgage Services
  $ 25,019     $ (1,239 )     (4.7 )%   $ (6,427 )     (20.4 )%
Consumer Lending
    43,719       (1,335 )     (3.0 )     (5,309 )     (10.8 )
                                         
Total real estate secured
  $ 68,738     $ (2,574 )     (3.6 )%   $ (11,736 )     (14.6 )%
                                         
 
(2) Private label receivables consisted primarily of the liquidating retail sales contracts in our Consumer Lending business with a receivable balance of $28 million and $37 million as of June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009. Beginning in the first quarter of 2009, we began reporting this liquidating portfolio prospectively within our personal non-credit card portfolio.


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Customer loans decreased 18 percent to $90.2 billion at June 30, 2009 as compared to $109.8 billion at June 30, 2008. Real estate secured receivables decreased from the year-ago period. Lower receivable balances in our Mortgage Services business reflect the continuing liquidation of the portfolio. The lower real estate secured receivable levels in our Consumer Lending business resulted from the actions taken throughout 2008 to reduce risk going forward as well as the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue all new originations for all loan products in our Consumer Lending operations. The decrease in real estate secured receivables was partially offset by a continued decline in loan prepayments due to fewer refinancing opportunities for our customers due to the trends impacting the mortgage lending industry. Our auto finance portfolio decreased as a result of the transfer of $833 million to receivables held for sale as we no longer have the intent to hold these receivables for the foreseeable future as well as decisions made in 2008 to reduce and ultimately discontinue new auto loan originations. Personal non-credit card receivables decreased as a result of the actions taken throughout 2008 to reduce risk and limit growth going forward. Additionally as previously discussed, originations of personal non-credit card receivables have been terminated as a result of the decision in late February 2009 to discontinue originations of all products in our Consumer Lending business.
 
Customer loans decreased 6 percent at June 30, 2009 as compared to $95.7 billion at March 31, 2009. Real estate secured receivables have decreased since March 31, 2009. As discussed above, our Mortgage Services real estate secured portfolio has continued to liquidate. Lower real estate secured and personal non-credit card receivables in our Consumer Lending business reflect the decision to discontinue new originations for all loan products in late February 2009, as discussed above. These decreases in the real estate secured portfolio were partially offset by a decline in loan prepayments as discussed above. Decreases in our auto finance portfolio reflect the decision to terminate new auto loan originations as previously discussed.
 
See “Receivables Review” for a more detail discussion of the decreases in our receivable portfolios.
 
Credit Quality
 
Credit Loss Reserves
 
We maintain credit loss reserves to cover probable losses of principal, interest and fees, including late, overlimit and annual fees. Credit loss reserves are based on a range of estimates and are intended to be adequate but not excessive. We estimate probable losses for consumer receivables using a roll rate migration analysis that estimates the likelihood that a loan will progress through the various stages of delinquency, or buckets, and ultimately charge-off based upon recent historical performance experience of other loans in our portfolio. This analysis considers delinquency status, loss experience and severity and takes into account whether loans are in bankruptcy, have been re-aged or rewritten, or are subject to forbearance, an external debt management plan, hardship, modification, extension or deferment. Our credit loss reserves take into consideration the loss severity expected based on the underlying collateral, if any, for the loan in the event of default. Delinquency status may be affected by customer account management policies and practices, such as the re-age of accounts, forbearance agreements, extended payment plans, modification arrangements, external debt management programs and deferments. When customer account management policies or changes thereto, shift loans from a “higher” delinquency bucket to a “lower” delinquency bucket, this will be reflected in our roll rate statistics. To the extent that re-aged or modified accounts have a greater propensity to roll to higher delinquency buckets, this will be captured in the roll rates. Since the loss reserve is computed based on the composite of all of these calculations, this increase in roll rate will be applied to receivables in all respective delinquency buckets, which will increase the overall reserve level. In addition, loss reserves on consumer receivables are maintained to reflect our judgment of portfolio risk factors that may not be fully reflected in the statistical roll rate calculation or when historical trends are not reflective of current inherent losses in the portfolio. Risk factors considered in establishing loss reserves on consumer receivables include product mix, unemployment rates, bankruptcy trends, geographic concentrations, loan product features such as adjustable rate loans, economic conditions, such as national and local trends in housing markets and interest rates, portfolio seasoning, account management policies and practices, current levels of charge-offs and delinquencies, changes in laws and regulations and other items which can affect consumer payment patterns on outstanding receivables, such as natural disasters and global pandemics.


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While our credit loss reserves are available to absorb losses in the entire portfolio, we specifically consider the credit quality and other risk factors for each of our products. We recognize the different inherent loss characteristics in each of our products as well as customer account management policies and practices and risk management/collection practices. Charge-off policies are also considered when establishing loss reserve requirements to ensure the appropriate reserves exist for products with longer charge-off periods. We also consider key ratios such as reserves to nonperforming loans, reserves as a percentage of net charge-offs, reserves as a percentage of two-months-and-over contractual delinquency and months coverage ratios in developing our loss reserve estimate. Loss reserve estimates are reviewed periodically and adjustments are reported in earnings when they become known. As these estimates are influenced by factors outside of our control such as consumer payment patterns and economic conditions, there is uncertainty inherent in these estimates, making it reasonably possible that they could change.
 
The following table sets forth credit loss reserves for the periods indicated:
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Credit loss reserves
  $ 12,834     $ 12,972     $ 10,761  
Reserves as a percent of:
                       
Receivables
    13.09 %     12.59 %     8.50 %
Net charge-offs(1)
    127.4 (2)     135.8 (2)     105.0 (2)
Nonperforming loans
    110.9 (2)     108.4 (2)     118.8 (2)
 
 
(1) Net charge-offs for the quarter, annualized, as a percentage of average consumer receivables for the quarter.
 
(2) Ratio excludes nonperforming receivables and charge-offs associated with receivable portfolios which are considered held for sale as these receivables are carried at the lower of cost or fair value with no corresponding credit loss reserves.
 
Credit loss reserves at June 30, 2009 decreased as compared to March 31, 2009 as the provision for credit losses was $82 million lower than net charge-offs primarily as a result of lower receivable levels for all products and lower overall dollars of delinquency as discussed more fully below. The lower receivable levels are due to lower origination volumes as a result of changes in our product offerings, actions taken beginning in 2007 to slow credit card receivable growth as well as lower consumer spending. The decrease in credit loss reserves was partially offset by a combination of the following factors:
 
  •  Higher late stage delinquency since March 31, 2009 which has resulted in higher credit loss estimates for our Consumer Lending real estate secured receivable portfolios;
 
  •  Higher roll rates for credit card and personal non-credit card receivables;
 
  •  Higher loss severities for real estate secured receivables;
 
  •  Continued deterioration of the U.S. economy and housing markets;
 
  •  Significantly higher unemployment rates;
 
  •  Higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings;
 
  •  Portfolio seasoning; and
 
  •  Continuing local government delays in processing foreclosures for real estate secured receivables due to backlogs in foreclosure proceedings as a result of actions by local governments and actions of certain states that have lengthened the foreclosure process.
 
At June 30, 2009 and going forward, credit loss estimates for our credit card receivable portfolio relate primarily to non-prime credit card receivables as a result of the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. Our non-prime credit card receivable portfolio is structured for customers with lower credit scores. The products have lower credit lines and are priced for higher risk. The credit quality of the non-prime credit card portfolio has deteriorated at a lower rate relative to our GM and UP Portfolios which were sold to HSBC Bank USA


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in January 2009. The continued deterioration of the housing markets in the U.S. has affected the credit performance of our entire credit card portfolio, particularly in states which previously had experienced the greatest home price appreciation. Our non-prime credit card receivable portfolio concentration in these states is approximately proportional to the U.S. population, but a substantial majority of our non-prime customers are renters who are, on the whole, demonstrating a better payment history on their loans than homeowners. Furthermore, our lower credit scoring customers within our non-prime portfolio, which have an even lower home ownership rate, have shown the least deterioration through this stage of the economic cycle. In addition, through June 30, 2009 unemployment has resulted in less credit deterioration in the non-prime portfolios as compared to prime portfolios. However, there can be no certainty that these trends will continue.
 
In establishing reserve levels, given the current housing market trends in the U.S., we anticipate that losses in our real estate secured receivable portfolios will be incurred with greater frequency and severity than historically experienced. There is currently little secondary market liquidity for subprime mortgages. As a result, lenders have significantly tightened underwriting standards, substantially limiting the availability of alternative and subprime mortgages. As fewer financing options currently exist in the marketplace for home buyers, properties in certain markets are remaining on the market for longer periods of time which contributes to home price depreciation. For some of our customers, the ability to refinance and access equity in their homes is no longer an option as home prices remain stagnant in many markets and have depreciated in others. The current housing market trends are exacerbated by the current economic recession, including rising levels of unemployment. As a result, the impact of these industry trends on our portfolio has worsened, resulting in higher charge-off in our receivable portfolio. It is generally believed that recovery of the housing market, as well as unemployment rates, is not expected to begin to occur until at least 2010. We have considered these factors in establishing our credit loss reserve levels, as appropriate.
 
Reserves as a percentage of receivables at June 30, 2009 was higher than at March 31, 2009 and June 30, 2008 due to the impact of additional reserve requirements in our Consumer Lending business as discussed above and lower receivable levels. Additionally, as compared to the prior year quarter, reserves as a percentage of receivables was higher as a result of a shift in mix to higher levels of non-prime receivables which have deteriorated at a lower rate as previously discussed.
 
Reserves as a percentage of net charge-offs was lower at June 30, 2009 as compared to March 31, 2009 as reserves decreased due to lower receivable levels and lower overall delinquency levels while charge-off increased as delinquent accounts have migrated to charge-off. As compared to June 30, 2008, reserves as a percentage of net charge-offs increased as the increase in reserve levels outpaced charge-offs as the growing late stage delinquency in our real estate secured receivable portfolios due to the current economic conditions and actions by local government which has resulted in delays in processing foreclosures, will migrate to charge-off in future periods.
 
Reserves as a percentage of nonperforming loans (excluding nonperforming loans held for sale) was higher at June 30, 2009 as compared to March 31, 2009. As compared to the prior quarter, the decrease in nonperforming loans due to lower receivable levels, higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings and an extended seasonal benefit as discussed above outpaced the decrease in reserve levels as the decreases in reserve levels were partially offset by the increase in reserve requirements for our Consumer Lending business. Reserves as a percentage of nonperforming loans (excluding nonperforming loans held for sale) was lower as compared to the prior year quarter as the majority of the increase in nonperforming loans was from the first lien real estate secured receivable portfolios in our Consumer Lending and Mortgage Services businesses which typically carry lower reserve requirements than second lien real estate secured and unsecured receivables.


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Delinquency
 
The following table summarizes dollars of two-months-and-over contractual delinquency and two-months-and-over contractual delinquency as a percent of consumer receivables and receivables held for sale (“delinquency ratio”):
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Dollars of Contractual Delinquency:
                       
Continuing operations:
                       
Real estate secured(1)
  $ 10,694     $ 10,658     $ 6,969  
Auto finance(2)
    298       245       441  
Credit card(2)
    1,280       1,503       1,609  
Private label(3)
    -       -       19  
Personal non-credit card
    2,675       2,816       2,591  
                         
Total consumer – continuing operations(2)
    14,947       15,222       11,629  
Discontinued Operations
    -       -       204  
                         
Total consumer
  $ 14,947     $ 15,222     $ 11,833  
                         
Delinquency Ratio:
                       
Continuing operations:
                       
Real estate secured(1)
    15.94 %     15.31 %     8.87 %
Auto finance(2)
    5.11       3.70       3.52  
Credit card(2)
    10.20       11.22       5.79  
Private label(3)
    -       -       20.08  
Personal non-credit card
    19.61       19.07       15.51  
                         
Total consumer – continuing operations(2)
    15.08       14.58       8.57  
Discontinued Operations
    -       -       4.46  
                         
Total consumer
    15.08 %     14.58 %     8.44 %
                         


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(1) Real estate secured two-months-and-over contractual delinquency and as a percentage of consumer receivables and receivables held for sale for our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses are comprised of the following:
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Dollars of Contractual Delinquency:
                       
Mortgage Services:
                       
First lien
  $ 3,567     $ 3,747     $ 3,301  
Second lien
    612       707       891  
                         
Total Mortgage Services
  $ 4,179     $ 4,454     $ 4,192  
                         
Consumer Lending:
                       
First lien
  $ 5,641     $ 5,323     $ 2,195  
Second lien
    874       881       582  
                         
Total Consumer Lending
  $ 6,515     $ 6,204     $ 2,777  
                         
Delinquency Ratio:
                       
Mortgage Services:
                       
First lien
    18.34 %     18.46 %     13.79 %
Second lien
    16.59       17.64       16.66  
                         
Total Mortgage Services
    18.05 %     18.33 %     14.31 %
                         
Consumer Lending::
                       
First lien
    14.65 %     13.45 %     5.13 %
Second lien
    16.06       15.33       8.97  
                         
Total Consumer Lending
    14.82 %     13.69 %     5.64 %
                         
 
(2) The trend in dollars of contractual delinquency and the delinquency ratio for our credit card and auto finance portfolios as of June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009 as compared to the year-ago period was significantly impacted by the sale of our GM and UP Portfolios as well as the sale of certain non-delinquent auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. The following table presents on a proforma basis, the delinquency dollars and delinquency ratios for the credit card and auto finance portfolios and for total consumer-continuing operations excluding these receivables from all periods presented:
 
                         
    June 30,
  March 31,
  June 30,
    2009   2009   2008
 
    (dollars are in millions)
 
Dollars of contractual delinquency excluding the sold credit card and auto finance receivables from all periods:
                       
Auto finance
  $ 298     $ 245     $ 441  
Credit card
    1,280       1,503       1,256  
Total consumer – continuing operations
    14,947       15,222       11,276  
Delinquency ratio excluding the sold credit card and auto finance receivables from all periods:
                       
Auto finance
    5.11 %     3.70 %     4.63 %
Credit card
    10.20       11.22       8.38  
Total consumer – continuing operations
    15.08       14.58       9.40  
 
(3) On a continuing operations basis, private label receivables consisted primarily of the retail sales contracts in our Consumer Lending business which are liquidating. In the first quarter of 2009, we began reporting this liquidating portfolio on a prospective basis within our personal non-credit card portfolio.
 
The delinquency ratio for continuing operations increased 50 basis points compared to the prior quarter primarily due to lower receivable levels for all products as a result of lower origination volumes due to changes in our product


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offerings, including the discontinuation of auto finance originations and the cessation of all Consumer Lending originations, as well as lower consumer spending levels, while dollars of delinquency declined at a slower pace. Decreases in real estate secured receivable levels were partially offset by a decline in loan prepayments.
 
Although the delinquency ratio has increased, dollars of contractual delinquency for continuing operations decreased $275 million during the three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to March 31, 2009 driven by lower delinquency levels in our Mortgage Services real estate secured, credit card and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios. Lower delinquency levels in our Mortgage Services real estate secured receivable portfolio primarily reflect the continued maturation and seasoning of a liquidating portfolio. Lower dollars of delinquency in our credit card and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios reflect the lower receivable levels discussed above, an extended seasonal benefit of increased cash available to customers as a result of various government economic stimulus actions and lower energy costs as well as for our credit card receivables higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings during the first half of 2009 which resulted in accounts migrating to charge-off more quickly. In addition, we believe the decrease in dollars of delinquency in both portfolios is a result of the risk mitigation actions we have taken since 2007 to tighten underwriting and reduce the risk profile of these portfolios. To date, delinquency levels in our personal non-credit card receivables, which may have been impacted by the closure of our Consumer Lending branch offices, continue to perform within our expectations.
 
These decreases in dollars of delinquency were partially offset by increases in delinquency levels in the first lien portion of our Consumer Lending real estate secured receivable portfolio reflecting continued weakening in the housing and mortgage industry, particularly in the 2006 and 2007 real estate secured receivable originations and to a lesser extent real estate secured receivable originations in the first half of 2008 due to current economic conditions. Also contributing to the increase were continuing local government delays in processing foreclosures due to backlogs in foreclosure proceedings as a result of actions by local governments and actions of certain states which have lengthened the foreclosure process. To date, delinquency levels in our Consumer Lending real estate secured receivables, which may have been impacted by the closure of our Consumer Lending branch offices, continue to perform within our expectations. As a result, contractually delinquent receivables which would have normally proceeded to foreclosure and reported as real estate owned continue to be reported as contractually delinquent. Higher dollars of delinquency for auto finance receivables reflect portfolio seasoning.
 
While overall dollars of delinquency decreased, delinquency for all receivable products was negatively impacted by the following:
 
  •  Continued deterioration in the U.S. economy;
 
  •  Significantly higher unemployment rates during the quarter; and
 
  •  Portfolio seasoning.
 
Compared to June 30, 2008, our delinquency ratio from continuing operations increased 651 basis points at June 30, 2009 for the reasons discussed above. As compared to the prior year quarter, the trend in dollars of contractual delinquency and delinquency ratios for our credit card receivable portfolio was also significantly impacted by the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios and certain auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009 as discussed in Note 2 to the table above.


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Net Charge-offs of Consumer Receivables
 
The following table summarizes net charge-off of consumer receivables for the quarter, annualized, as a percent of average consumer receivables (“net charge-off ratio”). During a quarter that receivables are transferred to receivables held for sale, those receivables continue to be included in the average consumer receivable balances prior to such transfer and any charge-offs related to those receivables prior to such transfer remain in our net charge-off totals. However, for periods following the transfer to the held for sale classification, the receivables are no longer included in average consumer receivable balance as such loans are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and there are no longer any charge-offs reported associated with these receivables.
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Net Charge-off dollars:
                       
Continuing operations:
                       
Real estate secured(1)
  $ 1,081     $ 979     $ 1,175  
Auto finance(2)
    102       247       135  
Credit card(2)
    612       499       774  
Private label(3)
    -       -       8  
Personal non-credit card
    723       663       562  
                         
Total consumer – continuing operations(2)
    2,518       2,388       2,654  
Discontinued Operations
    -       -       87  
                         
Total consumer
  $ 2,518     $ 2,388     $ 2,741  
                         
Net Charge-off ratio:
                       
Continuing operations:
                       
Real estate secured(1)
    6.33 %     5.54 %     5.85 %
Auto finance(2)
    6.51       13.88       4.29  
Credit card(2)
    20.77       15.48       10.85  
Private label(3)
    -       -       29.23  
Personal non-credit card
    20.35       17.37       13.18  
                         
Total consumer – continuing operations(2)
    10.01       9.02       7.66  
Discontinued Operations
    -       -       4.33  
                         
Total consumer
    10.01 %     9.02 %     7.47 %
                         
Real estate secured net charge-offs and REO expense as a percent of average real estate secured receivables
    6.56 %     6.14 %     6.17 %
                         


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(1) Real estate secured net charge-off dollars, annualized, as a percentage of average consumer receivables for our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses are comprised of the following:
 
                         
    June 30,
  March 31,
  June 30,
    2009   2009   2008
 
    (dollars are in millions)
 
Net Charge-off dollars:
                       
Mortgage Services:
                       
First lien
  $ 355     $ 392     $ 389  
Second lien
    259       193       474  
                         
Total Mortgage Services
  $ 614     $ 585     $ 863  
                         
Consumer Lending:
                       
First lien
  $ 234     $ 185     $ 143  
Second lien
    233       209       169  
                         
Total Consumer Lending
  $ 467     $ 394     $ 312  
                         
Net Charge-off Ratio:
                       
Mortgage Services:
                       
First lien
    7.16 %     7.56 %     6.25 %
Second lien
    27.02       18.83       33.45  
                         
Total Mortgage Services
    10.38 %     9.42 %     11.29 %
                         
Consumer Lending::
                       
First lien
    2.39 %     1.85 %     1.33 %
Second lien
    16.59       14.45       10.20  
                         
Total Consumer Lending
    4.18 %     3.44 %     2.50 %
                         
 
(2) The trend in net charge-off dollars and the net charge-off ratio for our credit card and auto finance portfolios as of June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009 as compared to the year-ago period was significantly impacted by the sale of our GM and UP Portfolios as well as the sale of certain non-delinquent auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009. The following table presents on a proforma basis, the net charge-off dollars and the net charge-off ratio for the credit card and auto finance portfolios and for total consumer-continuing operations excluding these receivables from all periods presented:
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Net charge-off dollars excluding the sold credit card and auto finance receivables from all periods:
                       
Auto finance
  $ 102     $ 247     $ 135  
Credit card
    612       499       581  
Total consumer – continuing operations
    2,518       2,388       2,461  
Net charge-off ratio excluding the sold credit card and auto finance receivables from all periods:
                       
Auto finance
    6.51 %     13.88 %     5.63 %
Credit card
    20.77       15.48       14.81  
Total consumer – continuing operations
    10.01       9.02       8.02  
 
(3) On a continuing operations basis, private label receivables consisted primarily of the retail sales contracts in our Consumer Lending business which are liquidating. In the first quarter of 2009, we began reporting this liquidating portfolio on a prospective basis within our personal non-credit card portfolio
 
Our net charge-off ratio for continuing operations increased 99 basis points compared to the prior quarter primarily due to higher dollars of charge-offs in our real estate secured, credit card and personal non-credit card receivable


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portfolios as the higher delinquency levels we have been experiencing are migrating to charge-off and lower average consumer receivables. The decrease in average consumer receivables reflects reductions in credit appetite, changes in product offerings, lower origination volumes, lower consumer spending levels and the sale of real estate secured, credit card and auto finance receivables as previously discussed, partially offset by a decline in loan prepayments for our real estate secured receivables.
 
Dollars of net charge-offs for all products were negatively impacted by the following:
 
  •  Continued deterioration in the U.S. economy and housing markets;
 
  •  Significantly higher unemployment rates;
 
  •  Higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings; and
 
  •  Portfolio seasoning.
 
Charge-off dollars and ratios increased in our real estate secured receivable portfolio reflecting continued weakening in the housing and mortgage industry, including decreases in home values in certain markets, rising unemployment rates and seasoning in our Consumer Lending real estate secured receivable portfolio. Charge-off dollars and ratios increased in our credit card receivable portfolio as higher delinquency levels in late 2008 are migrating to charge-off and lower recovery rates on credit card receivables as well as higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings during the first half of the year which resulted in accounts migrating to charge-off more quickly. Lower net charge-offs in our auto finance receivable portfolio reflects the adoption of FFIEC charge-off policies during the prior quarter which resulted in an acceleration of auto finance charge-offs of $87 million, portfolio run-off and improvements in loss severities resulting from continuing improvement in pricing for used vehicles, partially offset by the economic conditions described above. Charge-off dollars and ratios in our personal non-credit card receivable portfolio reflect a deterioration in the 2006 and 2007 vintages which was more pronounced in certain geographic regions as well has higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings during the first half of the year which resulted in accounts migrating to charge-off more quickly.
 
Our net charge-off ratio for continuing operations increased 235 basis points compared to the prior year quarter as a result of the lower average consumer receivables discussed above, partially offset by lower dollars of net charge-off. Lower dollars of net charge-off was driven by our Mortgage Services business as the portfolio continues to become more fully seasoned and run-off including lower charge-off of second lien loans which generally have higher loss severities than first lien loans. Dollars of net charge-offs of real estate secured receivables in both our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending business were also impacted by increases in the volume of receivable re-ages and modifications as well as continuing delays in processing foreclosures as discussed above. Lower dollars of net charge-offs for our auto finance receivable portfolio reflect lower receivable levels as well as improvements in loss severities as discussed above. Net charge-off dollars and ratios for our credit card receivable portfolio was impacted by the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios in January 2009 as discussed in Note 2 to the table above. Excluding the impact of the GM and UP Portfolios from the prior year quarter, dollars of net charge-off in our credit card receivable portfolio increased as a result of higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings during the first half of the year which resulted in accounts migrating to charge-off more quickly and lower recovery rates for defaulted receivables. Charge-off dollars and ratios in our personal non-credit card receivable portfolio reflect the continuing deterioration in the 2006 and 2007 vintages which was more pronounced in certain geographic regions as well the impact of higher levels of personal bankruptcy filings previously discussed. Dollars of net charge-offs for all products were negatively impacted by the continued weakening in the U.S. economy, including rising unemployment rates and continued home price depreciation in certain markets. For our credit card portfolio, the impact has been the highest for non-prime customers who are also homeowners and typically carry higher balances.


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Nonperforming Assets
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Continuing operations:
                       
Nonaccrual receivables(1)
  $ 10,800     $ 11,018     $ 8,025  
Nonaccrual receivables held for sale
    55       29       25  
Accruing credit card receivables 90 or more days delinquent(2)
    776       947       1,031  
Accruing credit card receivables 90 or more days delinquent held for sale(2)
    169       179       123  
                         
Total nonperforming receivables
    11,800       12,173       9,204  
Real estate owned
    629       764       1,126  
                         
Total nonperforming assets – continuing operations
    12,429       12,937       10,330  
Discontinued operations
    -       -       172  
                         
Total nonperforming assets
  $ 12,429     $ 12,937     $ 10,502  
                         
Credit loss reserves as a percent of nonperforming receivables – continuing operations(3)
    110.9 %     108.4 %     118.8 %
 
 
(1) Nonaccrual receivables are comprised of the following:
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured:
                       
Closed-end:
                       
First lien
  $ 7,179     $ 7,132     $ 4,297  
Second lien
    850       934       857  
Revolving:
                       
First lien
    5       4       4  
Second lien
    297       323       298  
                         
Total real estate secured
    8,331       8,393       5,456  
Auto finance
    272       245       441  
Private label
    -       -       16  
Personal non-credit card
    2,197       2,380       2,112  
                         
Total nonaccrual receivables
  $ 10,800     $ 11,018     $ 8,025  
                         
 
(2) Consistent with industry practice, accruing credit card receivables 90 or more days delinquent includes credit card receivables.
 
(3) Ratio excludes nonperforming receivables associated with receivable portfolios which are considered held for sale as these receivables are carried at the lower of cost or fair value with no corresponding credit loss reserves.
 
Compared to March 31, 2009, the decrease in total nonperforming receivables is primarily due to the lower receivable levels as discussed above as well as the lower dollars of delinquency in our Mortgage Services, credit card and personal non-credit card receivable portfolios. As compared to June 30, 2008, the increase in total nonperforming receivables is largely due to higher levels of real estate secured nonaccrual receivables at our Consumer Lending business, partially offset by lower levels of accruing credit card receivables 90 or more days delinquent primarily resulting from the sale of the GM and UP Portfolios in January 2009. Total nonperforming real estate secured receivables and real estate owned at June 30, 2009 has also been impacted by the continuing local government delays in foreclosure activities as previously discussed. Real estate secured nonaccrual loans includes stated income loans at our Mortgage Services business of $1.1 billion, $1.2 billion and $1.3 billion at June 30, 2009, March 31, 2009 and June 30, 2008, respectively.


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As discussed more fully below, we have numerous account management policies and practices to assist our customers in accordance with their individual needs, including either temporarily or permanently modifying loan terms. Loans which have been granted a permanent modification, a twelve-month or longer modification, or two or more consecutive six-month modifications are considered troubled debt restructurings for purposes of determining loss reserve estimates under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 114, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan,” (“TDR Loans”).
 
The following table summarizes TDR Loans which are shown as nonperforming assets for continuing operations in the table above:
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Real estate secured
  $ 760     $ 805     $ 240  
Auto finance
    15       10       15  
Credit card
    6       6       9  
Personal non-credit card
    146       144       37  
                         
Total
  $ 927     $ 965     $ 301  
                         
 
For additional information related to our troubled debt restructurings, see Note 6, “Receivables,” to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
 
Customer Account Management Policies and Practices
 
Our policies and practices for the collection of consumer receivables, including our customer account management policies and practices, permit us to modify the terms of loans, either temporarily or permanently, and/or to reset the contractual delinquency status of an account to current, based on indicia or criteria which, in our judgment, evidence continued payment probability. Such policies and practices vary by product and are designed to manage customer relationships, maximize collection opportunities and avoid foreclosure or repossession if economically expedient. If a re-aged account subsequently experiences payment defaults, it will again become contractually delinquent.
 
As a result of the marketplace conditions previously described, in the fourth quarter of 2006 we began performing extensive reviews of our account management policies and practices and, in the first quarter of 2008, conducted a further strategic review of our receivable collection efforts. As more fully discussed below, these reviews have resulted in changes in our strategies for contacting customers as well as expanding existing modification programs to enable us to assist more customers in accordance with their needs.
 
Beginning late in the first quarter of 2008, we expanded our customer contact strategies in an effort to reach more customers. We have increased collection staffing particularly during the morning and evening hours when our customers are more likely to be available. We continue to work with advocacy groups in select markets to assist in encouraging our customers with financial needs to contact us. We have also implemented new training programs to ensure that our customer service representatives are focused on helping the customer through difficulties, are knowledgeable about the re-aging and modification programs available and are able to advise each customer of the best solutions for their individual circumstance. In the past, the majority of our customers were best served by re-aging their loan either with or without a modification of the loan terms. In the current marketplace, we have determined that certain customers may be better served by a modification of the loan terms, which may or may not also include a re-aging of the account. As a result, during 2008 and during the first half of 2009, we have assisted more customers through the use of account modification than in prior years.
 
The following describes the primary programs we currently utilize to provide assistance to our customers with the goal to keep more customers in their homes, while maximizing future cash flows.
 
  •  Proactive ARM Reset Modification Program: As part of our risk mitigation efforts relating to the affected components of the Mortgage Services portfolio, in October 2006 we established a program specifically


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  designed to meet the needs of select customers with ARMs nearing their first interest rate and payment reset that we expect will be the most impacted by a rate adjustment. We proactively contact these customers and, through a variety of means, we assess their ability to make the adjusted payment with a focus on the customer’s debt service capability. As appropriate and in accordance with defined policies, we modify the loans, allowing time for the customer to seek alternative financing or improve their individual situation. Through the first quarter of 2008, these loan modifications primarily involved a twelve-month temporary interest rate relief by either maintaining the current interest rate for the entire twelve-month period or resetting the interest rate for the twelve-month period to a rate lower than originally required at the first reset date. At the end of the modification period, the interest rate on the loan will reset in accordance with the original loan terms unless the borrower qualifies for and is granted a new modification.
 
We anticipate approximately $73 million of ARM loans modified under this program since October 2006 will reach a reset date during the remainder of 2009. Prior to a loan reaching that reset date, we will re-evaluate the loan to determine if an extension of the modification term is warranted. If the loan is less than 30-days delinquent and has not received assistance under any other risk mitigation program, typically the modification may be extended for an additional twelve-month period at a time provided the customer demonstrates an ongoing need for assistance. Loans modified as part of this specific risk mitigation effort are not considered to have been re-aged as these loans were not contractually delinquent at the time of the modification. However, if the loan had been re-aged in the past for other reasons or qualified for a re-age subsequent to the modification, it is included in the re-aging statistics table (“Re-age Table”) below.
 
We modified approximately 240 loans for the first time under the Proactive ARM Reset Modification Program during the six months ended June 30, 2009 with an outstanding receivable balance of $41 million at the time of the modification. Since the inception of the Proactive ARM Reset Modification program in October 2006, we have modified approximately 13,200 loans with an aggregate outstanding principal balance of $2.1 billion at the time of the modification. The following provides information about the post-modification performance of loans granted modifications under this program since October 2006:
 
                 
          Outstanding Receivable
 
    Number
    Balance at Time of
 
Status as of June 30, 2009   of Loans     Modification  
   
 
Current or less than 30-days delinquent
    53 %     51 %
30- to 59-days delinquent
    6       7  
60-days or more delinquent
    9       9  
Paid-in-full
    15       14  
Charged-off, transferred to real estate owned or sold
    17       19  
                 
      100 %     100 %
                 
 
Of the loans modified under this program since October 2006 which remain outstanding at June 30, 2009, approximately 5,300 loans have subsequently qualified for assistance under other risk mitigation programs. Approximately 3,100 loans have reached the end of the modification period but did not qualify for other risk modification programs. Approximately 2,400 of those loans have had the interest rate reset in accordance with the original contractual terms.
 
  •  Foreclosure Avoidance/Account Modification Programs: Since the fourth quarter of 2006, we have significantly increased our use of modifications in response to what we expect will be a longer term need of assistance by our customers due to the weak housing market and U.S. economy. In these instances, at our Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses we are actively using account modifications to modify the rate and/or payment on a number of qualifying loans and re-age certain of these accounts upon receipt of two or more modified payments and other criteria being met. This account management practice is designed to assist borrowers who may have purchased a home with an expectation of continued real estate


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appreciation or whose income has subsequently declined. We also expanded the use of a Foreclosure Avoidance Program for delinquent Consumer Lending customers designed to provide relief to qualifying homeowners through loan modification and/or re-aging.
 
Based on the economic environment and expected slow recovery of housing values, during 2008 we developed additional analytical review tools leveraging off best practices in our Mortgage Services business to assist us in identifying customers who are willing to pay, but are expected to have longer term disruptions in their ability to pay. Using these analytical review tools, we have expanded our foreclosure avoidance/account modification programs to assist customers who did not qualify for assistance under prior program requirements or who required greater assistance than available under the programs. The expanded program includes certain documentation requirements as well as receipt of two qualifying payments before the account may be re-aged. For Consumer Lending customers, prior to July 2008, receipt of one qualifying payment was required for a modified account before the account would be re-aged. During the first quarter of 2008, we began to offer this expanded program to customers who had contacted us and requested payment relief as well as for customers who had not qualified for assistance under one of the existing programs. For selected customer segments, this expanded program lowers the interest rate on fixed rate loans and for ARM loans the expanded program modifies the loan to a lower interest rate than scheduled at the first interest rate reset date. The eligibility requirements for this expanded program allow more customers to qualify for payment relief and in certain cases can result in a lower interest rate than allowed under other existing programs. In the second quarter of 2008, we established a pre-approved payment relief program for customers who may not yet have requested payment relief. In February 2009, we temporarily suspended this proactive relief program as we attempt to better understand and evaluate the U.S. Treasury sponsored debt relief programs. As of the date of this filing, we continue to evaluate this proactive relief program and the Federal debt relief programs. As a result of the current marketplace conditions and our outlook for a slow return to more normal marketplace conditions, we have increased the use of longer term modifications as we believe they provide the most benefit to our customers and stakeholders as the economy recovers. A loan modified under these programs is only included in the Re-age Table if the delinquency status of the loan was reset as a part of the modification or was re-aged in the past for other reasons. Not all loans modified under these programs have the delinquency status reset and, therefore, are not considered to have been re-aged.
 
The following table summarizes loans modified under the Foreclosure Avoidance/Account Modification programs during the six months ended June 30, 2009, some of which may have also been re-aged:
 
                                 
          Outstanding Receivable
 
    Number of
    Balance at Time of
 
    Accounts Modified     Modification  
    Consumer
    Mortgage
    Consumer
    Mortgage
 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009   Lending     Services     Lending     Services  
   
    (accounts are in thousands)     (dollars are in millions)  
 
Foreclosure Avoidance/Account Modification Programs(1)(2)
    35.5 (3)     34.2     $ 5,100 (3)   $ 4,700  
 
 
  (1)  Includes all loans modified under these programs during the first half of 2009 regardless of whether the loan was also re-aged.
 
  (2)  If qualification criteria are met, customer modification may occur on more than one occasion for the same account. For purposes of the table above, an account is only included in modification totals once in an annual period and not for each separate modification.
 
  (3)  Prior to June 30, 2009, the modification totals we reported for our Consumer Lending business excluded any modifications related to the Consumer Lending purchased receivable portfolios. Beginning in the second quarter of 2009, the table above includes modifications related to these purchased receivable portfolios. During the three months ended June 30, 2009, approximately 40 loans in the Consumer Lending purchased receivable portfolios were modified with an outstanding receivable balance of $6 million at the time of the modification.
 
We also support a variety of national and local efforts in homeownership preservation and foreclosure avoidance.
 
As a result of the expansion of our modification and re-age programs in response to the marketplace conditions previously described, modification and re-age volumes since January 2007 for real estate secured receivables have


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significantly increased and we anticipate this trend of higher modification and re-age volumes will continue in the foreseeable future. Since January 2007, we have cumulatively modified and/or re-aged approximately 291,200 real estate secured loans with an aggregate outstanding principal balance of $34.8 billion at the time of modification and/or re-age under the Proactive ARM Modification and the Foreclosure Avoidance/Account Modification Programs described above. These totals include approximately 37,400 real estate secured loans with an outstanding principal balance of $5.9 billion that received two or more modifications since January 2007. The following provides information about the post-modification performance of all real estate secured loans granted a modification and/or re-age since January 2007:
 
                 
          Outstanding Receivable
 
    Number
    Balance at Time of
 
    of Loans     Modification  
   
 
Current or less than 30-days delinquent
    53 %     52 %
30- to 59-days delinquent
    10       10  
60-days or more delinquent
    20       23  
Paid-in-full
    5       4  
Charged-off
    8       5  
Transferred to real estate owned or sold
    4       6  
                 
      100 %     100 %
                 
 
The following table shows the number of real estate secured accounts as well as the outstanding receivable balance of these accounts as of the period indicated for loans that were either re-aged only, modified only or modified and re-aged:
 
                                 
          Outstanding Receivable
 
    Number of Accounts(1)     Balance(1) (4)  
    Consumer
    Mortgage
    Consumer
    Mortgage
 
    Lending(5)(6)     Services     Lending(5)(6)     Services  
   
    (accounts are in thousands)     (dollars are in millions)  
 
June 30, 2009:
                               
Loans re-aged only
    91.7       39.5     $ 7,907     $ 3,824  
Loans modified only(2)
    17.0       11.2       2,309       1,537  
Loans modified and re-aged
    60.9       51.6       8,291       7,289  
                                 
Total loans modified and/or re-aged(3)
    169.6       102.3     $ 18,507     $ 12,650  
                                 
March 31, 2009:
                               
Loans re-aged only
    80.4       42.5     $ 7,192     $ 4,189  
Loans modified only(2)
    15.0       11.3       2,041       1,565  
Loans modified and re-aged
    54.2       45.5       7,288       6,511  
                                 
Total loans modified and/or re-aged(3)
    149.6       99.3     $ 16,521     $ 12,265  
                                 
June 30, 2008:
                               
Loans re-aged only
    83.9       50.2     $ 7,645     $ 5,248  
Loans modified only(2)
    1.9       11.6       205       1,823  
Loans modified and re-aged
    24.4       20.3       3,082       3,038  
                                 
Total loans modified and/or re-aged
    110.2       82.1     $ 10,932     $ 10,109  
                                 
 
 
(1) Loans which have been granted a permanent modification, a twelve-month or longer modification, or two or more consecutive six-month modifications are considered troubled debt restructurings for purposes of determining loss reserve estimates under Statement of Financial


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Accounting Standards No. 114, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan.” For additional information related to our troubled debt restructurings, see Note 6, “Receivables,” to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
 
(2) Includes loans that have been modified under the Proactive ARM Modification program described above.
 
(3) The following table provides information at June 30, 2009 regarding the delinquency status of loans granted modifications of loan terms and/or re-ages of the account:
 
                                 
          Outstanding Receivable
 
    Number of Accounts     Balance  
    Consumer
    Mortgage
    Consumer
    Mortgage
 
    Lending     Services     Lending     Services  
   
 
Current or less than 30-days delinquent
    64 %     67 %     60 %     65 %
30- to 59-days delinquent
    13       10       13       10  
60-days or more delinquent
    23       23       27       25  
                                 
      100 %     100 %     100 %     100 %
                                 
 
(4) The outstanding receivable balance included in this table reflects the principal amount outstanding on the loan excluding any basis adjustments to the loan such as unearned income, unamortized deferred fees and costs on originated loans, purchase accounting fair value adjustments and premiums or discounts on purchased loans.
 
(5) Prior to June 30, 2009, the modification and re-age totals we reported for our Consumer Lending business excluded any modifications or re-ages related to the Consumer Lending purchased receivable portfolios. Beginning in the second quarter of 2009, the table above includes modifications and re-ages related to these purchased receivable portfolios. At June 30, 2009, 140 loans in the Consumer Lending purchased receivable portfolios have been modified and/or re-aged with an outstanding receivable balance of $18 million at June 30, 2009.
 
(6) Prior to July 2008, for Consumer Lending customers receipt of one qualifying payment was required before an account would be re-aged. Beginning in July 2008, receipt of two qualifying payments was required before an account would be re-aged.
 
Although we have shifted our customer assistance programs to include more loan modifications, we continue to monitor and track information related to accounts that have been re-aged. Currently, approximately 80 percent of all re-aged receivables are real estate secured products, which in general have less loss severity exposure because of the underlying collateral. Credit loss reserves take into account whether loans have been re-aged, rewritten or are subject to forbearance, an external debt management plan, modification, extension or deferment. Our credit loss reserves also take into consideration the loss severity expected based on the underlying collateral, if any, for the loan.
 
As previously reported, in prior periods we used certain assumptions and estimates to compile our re-aging statistics. The systemic counters used to compile the information presented below exclude from the reported statistics loans that have been reported as contractually delinquent but have been reset to a current status because we have determined that the loans should not have been considered delinquent (e.g., payment application processing errors). When comparing re-aging statistics from different periods, the fact that our re-age policies and practices will change over time, that exceptions are made to those policies and practices, and that our data capture methodologies have been enhanced, should be taken into account.


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Re-age Table(1)
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Never re-aged
    65.0 %     67.9 %     79.9 %
Re-aged:
                       
Re-aged in the last 6 months
    14.0       13.6       8.7  
Re-aged in the last 7-12 months
    10.6       9.6       6.0  
Previously re-aged beyond 12 months
    10.4       8.9       5.4  
                         
Total ever re-aged(2)
    35.0       32.1       20.1  
                         
Total
    100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %
                         
Total Re-aged by Product(1)(3)
                       
Real estate secured(2)
  $ 27,513     $ 26,143     $ 20,031  
Auto finance
    2,275       2,387       2,219  
Credit card
    531       529       804  
Private label
    -       -       22  
Personal non-credit card
    4,367       4,446       4,203  
                         
Total
  $ 34,686     $ 33,505     $ 27,279  
                         
(As a percent of receivables and receivables held for sale)
                       
Real estate secured
    41.0 %     37.5 %     25.5 %
Auto finance
    39.0       36.1       17.7  
Credit card
    4.2       3.9       2.9  
Private label
    -       -       22.2  
Personal non-credit card
    32.0       30.1       25.2  
                         
Total(2)
    35.0 %     32.1 %     20.1 %
                         
 
 
(1) Excludes commercial and other.
 
(2) The Mortgage Services and Consumer Lending businesses real estate secured re-ages are as shown in the following table:
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Mortgage Services
  $ 11,502     $ 11,144     $ 8,870  
Consumer Lending
    16,011       14,999       11,161  
                         
Total real estate secured
  $ 27,513     $ 26,143     $ 20,031  
                         
 
(3) The outstanding receivable balance included in the Re-age Table reflects the principal amount outstanding on the loan net of unearned income, unamortized deferred fees and costs on originated loans, purchase accounting fair value adjustments and premiums or discounts on purchased loans.
 
The increase in re-aged loans during the second quarter of 2009 was primarily attributable to higher contractual delinquency in our real estate secured portfolio as we continue to work with our customers who, in our judgment, evidence continued payment probability as well as changes to our collection strategies as described above. As we expect economic conditions, particularly unemployment, to worsen in 2009, we anticipate re-aged loans will continue to increase during the second half of 2009. At June 30, 2009, March 31, 2009 and June 30, 2008, $8.7 billion (25 percent of total re-aged loans in the Re-age Table), $8.2 billion (25 percent of total re-aged loans in the Re-age Table) and $4.8 billion (18 percent of total re-aged loans in the Re-age Table), respectively, of re-aged


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receivable balances have subsequently experienced payment defaults and are included in our two-months-and-over contractual delinquency at the period indicated.
 
In addition to our modification and re-aging policies and practices, we employ other customer account management techniques in respect of delinquent accounts that are similarly designed to manage customer relationships, maximize collection opportunities and avoid foreclosure or repossession if commercially sensible and reasonably possible. These additional customer account management techniques include, at our discretion, actions such as extended payment arrangements, approved external debt management plans, forbearance, loan rewrites and/or deferment pending a change in circumstances. We typically use these customer account management techniques with individual borrowers in transitional situations, usually involving borrower hardship circumstances or temporary setbacks that are expected to affect the borrower’s ability to pay the contractually specified amount for some period of time. For example, under a forbearance agreement, we may agree not to take certain collection or credit agency reporting actions with respect to missed payments, often in return for the borrower’s agreement to pay us an additional amount with future required payments. In some cases, these additional customer account management techniques may involve us agreeing to lower the contractual payment amount and/or reduce the periodic interest rate.
 
When we use a customer account management technique, we may treat the account as being contractually current and will not reflect it as a delinquent account in our delinquency statistics. However, if the account subsequently experiences payment defaults, it will again become contractually delinquent. Reserves are maintained specifically for re-aged accounts. We generally consider loan rewrites to involve an extension of a new loan, and such new loans are not reflected in our delinquency or re-aging statistics. Our account management actions vary by product and are under continual review and assessment to determine that they meet the goals outlined above.
 
The amount of receivables subject to forbearance, non-real estate secured receivable modification, rewrites or other customer account management techniques for which we have reset delinquency and that is not included in the re-aged or delinquency statistics was approximately $159 million or .2 percent of receivables and receivables held for sale at June 30, 2009 and $141 million or .1 percent at December 31, 2008.
 
Geographic Concentrations The following table reflects the percentage of consumer receivables and receivables held for sale in states which individually account for 5 percent or greater of our portfolio as of June 30, 2009 as well as the unemployment rate for these states as of June 30, 2009.
 
                                         
    Percentage of Portfolio
             
    Receivables     Percent of
    Unemployment
 
    Credit
    Real Estate
          Total
    Rates as of
 
    Cards     Secured     Other     Receivables     June 30, 2009(1)  
   
 
California
    12 %     11 %     8 %     11 %     11.6 %
Florida
    7       7       6       7       10.6  
New York
    7       6       6       6       8.7  
Ohio
    4       5       5       5       11.1  
Pennsylvania
    4       6       6       5       8.3  
 
 
(1) The U.S. national unemployment rate as of June 30, 2009 was 9.5 percent.


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Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
HSBC Related Funding Debt due to affiliates and other HSBC related funding are summarized in the following table:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in billions)  
 
Debt issued to HSBC subsidiaries:
               
Term debt
  $ 11.0     $ 13.2  
Preferred securities issued by Household Capital Trust VIII to HSBC
    -       .3  
                 
Total debt outstanding to HSBC subsidiaries
    11.0       13.5  
                 
Debt outstanding to HSBC clients:
               
Euro commercial paper
    .7       .4  
Term debt
    .3       .5  
                 
Total debt outstanding to HSBC clients
    1.0       .9  
Cash received on bulk and subsequent sales of credit card receivables to HSBC Bank USA, net (cumulative)
    11.1       -  
Cash received on bulk sales of auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA, net (cumulative)
    2.6       -  
Cash received on bulk and subsequent sales of private label credit card receivables to HSBC Bank USA, net (cumulative)
    17.3       19.3  
Real estate secured receivable activity with HSBC Bank USA:
               
Cash received on sales (cumulative)
    3.7       3.7  
Direct purchases from correspondents (cumulative)
    4.2       4.2  
Reductions in real estate secured receivables sold to HSBC Bank USA
    (6.0 )     (5.8 )
                 
Total real estate secured receivable activity with HSBC Bank USA
    1.9       2.1  
                 
Cash received from sale of U.K. Operations to HOHU
    .4       .4  
Cash received from sale of Canadian Operations to HSBC Bank Canada
    .3       .3  
Cash received from sale of U.K. credit card business to HBEU
    2.7       2.7  
Capital contribution by HSBC Investments (North America) Inc. (cumulative)
    8.2       5.9  
                 
Total HSBC related funding
  $ 56.5     $ 45.1  
                 
 
At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, funding from HSBC, including debt issuances to HSBC subsidiaries and clients, represented 12 percent of our total debt and preferred stock funding.
 
Cash proceeds received from the sale of our Canadian Operations to HSBC Bank Canada, the sale of our U.K. Operations to HOHU, the sale of our European Operations to an HBEU affiliate and the sale of our U.K. credit card business to HBEU were used to pay down short-term domestic borrowings, including outstanding commercial paper balances, and draws on bank lines from HBEU. Proceeds received from the bulk sale and subsequent daily sales of private label and credit card receivables to HSBC Bank USA of $28.4 billion and the proceeds from the bulk sale of certain auto finance receivables of $2.6 billion were used to pay down short-term domestic borrowings, including outstanding commercial paper balances, and during the first half of 2009, to pay down maturing long-term debt. Proceeds from each of these transactions were also used to fund ongoing operations.
 
At December 31, 2008, we had $1.0 billion and $1.2 billion in outstanding short-term debt drawn under previously uncommitted money market facilities from HBEU and a subsidiary of HSBC Asia Pacific (“HBAP”), respectively. The HBEU borrowing matured in February 2009 and we chose not to renew it at that time. The HBAP borrowing matured in April 2009 and we chose not to renew it at that time. We also have a $1.5 billion uncommitted credit facility and a $1.0 billion committed credit facility from HSBC Bank USA. In May 2009, we borrowed $500 million under the $1.5 billion uncommitted credit facility and repaid the amount in June 2009. At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, there were no balances outstanding under either of these lines.


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We had derivative contracts with a notional value of $67.3 billion, or approximately 98 percent of total derivative contracts, outstanding with HSBC affiliates at June 30, 2009 and $77.9 billion, or approximately 98 percent at December 31, 2008.
 
Interest bearing deposits with banks and other short-term investments Interest bearing deposits with banks totaled $33 million and $25 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Securities purchased under agreements to resell totaled $2.6 billion and $1.0 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The increase in the amount of securities purchased under agreements to resell is due to the generation of additional liquidity as a result of the receivable portfolio sales to HSBC Bank USA.
 
Commercial paper totaled $5.8 billion and $9.6 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Included in this total was outstanding Euro commercial paper sold to customers of HSBC of $664 million and $353 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Commercial paper balances were higher at December 31, 2008 as a result of higher short term funding requirements until the completion of the sale of the credit card and auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in January 2009 as discussed above. Euro commercial paper balances were higher at June 30, 2009 due to improved pricing and expanded foreign currency offerings. Our funding strategies are structured such that committed bank credit facilities exceed 100 percent of outstanding commercial paper.
 
On October 7, 2008, the Federal Reserve Board announced the Commercial Paper Funding Facility to provide a liquidity backstop to U.S. issuers of commercial paper. Under the CPFF, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York will finance the purchase of highly-rated, U.S. dollar-denominated, unsecured and asset-backed three-month commercial paper from eligible issuers through its primary dealers. The program will terminate on February 1, 2010 unless extended by the Federal Reserve Board. On October 28, 2008, we became eligible to participate in the program in an amount of up to $12.0 billion. At June 30, 2009, there were no balances outstanding under this program. At December 31, 2008, we had $520 million outstanding under this program.
 
We had committed back-up lines of credit totaling $7.8 billion at June 30, 2009 and $9.8 billion at December 31, 2008, of which $2.5 billion was with HSBC affiliates, to support our issuance of commercial paper. During April 2009, $3.8 billion in third party lines matured. During May 2009, we replaced $1.8 billion of these matured facilities. A substantial portion of our committed back-up lines mature during the next two years. The $2.5 billion credit facility with an HSBC affiliate is scheduled to mature in September 2009 and $4.3 billion in back-up lines with third parties are scheduled to mature during 2010. Based on current market conditions, we do not anticipate renewing all of our third party back-up lines in 2010. Given the overall reduction in our balance sheet, we expect the lower level of back-up lines will support a commercial paper issuance program that is consistent with our reduced funding requirements.
 
Long-term debt decreased to $72.3 billion at June 30, 2009 from $90.0 billion at December 31, 2008 as we have reduced the size of our balance sheet due to the sale of $15.4 billion of receivables to HSBC Bank USA, lower origination volumes and receivable run-off during the first half of 2009. We have been focused on achieving the most effective cost of funding for HSBC’s assets across North America. The following table summarizes issuances and retirements of long term debt during the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008:
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Long-term debt issued
  $ 1,600     $ 2,293  
Long-term debt retired(1)
    (13,017 )     (13,629 )
                 
Net long term debt retired
  $ (11,417 )   $ (11,336 )
                 
 
 
(1) Additionally, during the six months ended June 30, 2009, long term debt of $6.1 billion was assumed by HSBC Bank USA in connection with their purchase of the GM and UP Portfolios, as discussed previously.
 
Issuances of long term debt during the first half of 2009 consisted of $1.6 billion of securities backed by personal non-credit card receivables. For accounting purposes, these transactions were structured as secured financings.


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Common Equity During the first half of 2009, HINO made three capital contributions to us totaling $2.0 billion. Additionally, in late February 2009 we effectively converted $275 million of mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of the Household Capital Trust VIII, which were included as a component of due to affiliates, to common stock by redeeming the junior subordinated notes underlying the preferred securities and then issuing common stock to HINO. These transactions serve to support ongoing operations and to maintain capital at levels we believe are prudent in the current market conditions. These capital contributions occurred subsequent to the dividend of $1.0 billion paid to HINO in January 2009 relating to the capital associated with the receivables sold to HSBC Bank USA. Until we return to profitability, we are dependent upon the continued capital support of HSBC to continue our business operations and maintain selected capital ratios. HSBC has provided significant capital in support of our operations in the last two years and has indicated that they remain fully committed and have the capacity to continue that support.
 
Selected capital ratios In managing capital, we develop targets for tangible shareholders’ equity plus owned loss reserves to tangible managed assets (“TETMA + Owned Reserves”) and tangible common equity to tangible managed assets. These ratio targets are based on discussions with HSBC and rating agencies, risks inherent in the portfolio and the projected operating environment and related risks. These ratios also exclude the equity impact of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities,” the equity impact of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, “Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and other Post-retirement Plans – as amendment of FASB Statement Nos. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R),” and the impact of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities,” including the subsequent changes in fair value recognized in earnings associated with debt for which we elected the fair value option and the related derivatives. Preferred securities issued by certain non-consolidated trusts are also considered equity in the TETMA + Owned Reserves calculations because of their long-term subordinated nature and our ability to defer dividends. Managed assets include owned assets plus any loans which we may have sold and service with limited recourse. Our targets may change from time to time to accommodate changes in the operating environment or other considerations such as those listed above.
 
Selected capital ratios are summarized in the following table:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
 
TETMA + Owned Reserves(1)
    21.85 %     17.85 %
Tangible common equity to tangible managed assets(1)
    7.69       6.68  
Common and preferred equity to owned assets
    9.94       10.27  
 
 
(1) TETMA + Owned Reserves and tangible common equity to tangible managed assets represent non-U.S. GAAP financial ratios that are used by HSBC Finance Corporation management and applicable rating agencies to evaluate capital adequacy and may differ from similarly named measures presented by other companies. See “Basis of Reporting” for additional discussion on the use of non-U.S. GAAP financial measures and “Reconciliations to U.S. GAAP Financial Measures” for quantitative reconciliations to the equivalent U.S. GAAP basis financial measure.


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As previously discussed, subsequent to the announcement of our discontinuation of all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business and the closure of substantially all Consumer Lending branch offices two of the three primary credit rating agencies elected to lower the ratings on our senior debt, commercial paper and Series B preferred stock. The following summarizes our credit ratings at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008:
 
                         
    Standard &
    Moody’s
       
    Poor’s
    Investors
       
    Corporation     Service     Fitch, Inc.  
   
 
As of June 30, 2009:
                       
HSBC Finance Corporation
                       
Senior debt
    A       A3       AA−  
Commercial paper
    A-1       P-1       F-1+  
Series B preferred stock
    BBB       Baa2       A+  
As of December 31, 2008:
                       
HSBC Finance Corporation
                       
Senior debt
    AA−       Aa3       AA−  
Commercial paper
    A-1+       P-1       F-1+  
Series B preferred stock
    A-2       A2       A+  
 
Secured financings Secured financings (collateralized funding transactions which do not receive sale treatment under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities, a Replacement of FASB Statement No. 125,” (“FAS 140”)) of consumer receivables have been a source of funding and liquidity for us. Collateralized funding transactions have been used to limit our reliance on the unsecured debt markets and can be a more cost-effective source of alternative funds. There were no secured financings during either of the three month periods ended June 30, 2009 or 2008. Secured financings are summarized in the following table for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008:
 
                 
Six Months Ended June 30,   2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Auto finance
  $ -     $ 200  
Credit card
    -       500  
Personal non-credit card
    1,600       -  
                 
Total
  $ 1,600     $ 700  
                 
 
Secured financings of $6.6 billion at June 30, 2009 were secured by $9.9 billion of real estate secured, auto finance and credit card receivables. Secured financings of $15.0 billion at December 31, 2008 were secured by $21.4 billion of real estate secured, auto finance, credit card and personal non-credit card receivables. Secured financings, including conduit credit facilities, represented 7 percent of the funding associated with our managed funding portfolio at June 30, 2009 and 13 percent at December 31, 2008.
 
The following table shows by product type the receivables which secure our secured financings:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in billions)  
 
Real estate secured
  $ 7.2     $ 7.6  
Auto finance
    1.7       3.4  
Credit card
    1.0       10.2  
Personal non-credit card
    -       .2  
                 
Total
  $ 9.9     $ 21.4  
                 


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At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, we had conduit credit facilities with commercial banks under which we may issue securities backed with up to $.4 billion and $8.2 billion of receivables, respectively. Of the amounts available under these facilities, $.4 billion and $5.8 billion were utilized at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The decrease in availability of these facilities in the first half of 2009 reflects the transfer of conduit credit facilities totaling $4.1 billion to HSBC Bank USA in conjunction with its purchase of the GM and UP Portfolios as previously discussed, as well as the expiration and reduction of conduit credit facilities totaling $3.7 billion. The facilities are renewable at the banks’ option.
 
Commitments We enter into commitments to meet the financing needs of our customers. In most cases, we have the ability to reduce or eliminate these open lines of credit. As a result, the amounts below do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.
 
                         
    June 30,
    March 31,
    June 30,
 
    2009     2009     2008  
   
    (in billions)  
 
Private label and credit cards(1)
  $ 106     $ 116     $ 154  
Other consumer lines of credit
    1       1       7  
                         
Open lines of credit(2)
  $ 107     $ 117     $ 161  
                         
 
 
(1) These totals include open lines of credit related to private label credit cards and the GM and UP Portfolios which we sell all new receivable originations to HSBC Bank USA on a daily basis.
 
(2) Includes an estimate for acceptance of credit offers mailed to potential customers prior to June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.
 
In January 2009, we extended a line of credit to H&R Block for up to $2.5 billion to fund the purchase of a participation interest in refund anticipation loans. In April 2009, no balances were outstanding under this line and the line was closed.
 
2009 Funding Strategy Our current range of estimates for funding needs and sources for 2009 are summarized in the table that follows.
 
                                                         
    Actual
    Estimated
       
    January 1
    July 1
       
    through
    through
    Estimated
 
    June 30,
    December 31,
    Full Year
 
    2009     2009     2009  
   
    (in billions)  
 
Funding needs:
                                                       
Net asset growth/(attrition)
  $ (4 )   $ (4 )     -       (2 )   $ (8 )     -       (6 )
Commercial paper maturities
    10       0       -       1       10       -       11  
Term debt maturities
    9       7       -       9       16       -       18  
Secured financings, including conduit facility maturities
    8 (2)     2       -       3       10       -       11  
Other
    (3 )     (1 )     -       2       (4 )     -       (1 )
                 
                 
Total funding needs
  $ 20     $ 4       -       13     $ 24       -       33  
                 
                 
Funding sources:
                                                       
Commercial paper issuances(1)
  $ 3     $ 1       -       4     $ 4       -       7  
Term debt issuances
    0       0       -       1       0       -       1  
Asset transfers and loan sales
    15 (2)     0       -       2       15       -       17  
Secured financings, including conduit facility renewals
    0       0       -       1       0       -       1  
HSBC and HSBC subsidiaries, including capital infusions
    2       3       -       5       5       -       7  
                 
                 
Total funding sources
  $ 20     $ 4       -       13     $ 24       -       33  
                 
                 
 
 
(1) For the period January 1 through June 30, 2009, domestic and Euro commercial paper outstandings were $5.8 billion offset by $2.6 billion in short-term liquid investments.
 
(2) Includes proceeds of $15.0 billion from the sale of credit card and auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA, which included the transfer of approximately $6.1 billion of indebtedness.


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As previously discussed, we have experienced deterioration in the performance of all of our receivable portfolios as a result of the current mortgage lending industry trends and economic conditions. As a result, since mid-2007 and through the first half of 2009 we have taken numerous actions which, when combined with normal portfolio attrition, have and will continue to result in a reduction in our aggregate portfolio.
 
For the remainder of 2009, portfolio attrition will again provide a key source of liquidity. The combination of attrition, proceeds received from the sale of credit card and certain auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in the first quarter of 2009, cash generated from operations and planned capital infusions from HSBC will generate the liquidity necessary to meet our maturing debt obligations. These sources of liquidity may be supplemented with HSBC affiliate funding and opportunistic sales of selected receivable portfolios to meet our 2009 funding requirements. Additionally, should credit market conditions continue to improve, a portion of this funding requirement could be met through the potential issuance of unsecured term debt.
 
Commercial paper outstanding for the remainder of 2009 is expected to be lower than 2008 balances. The majority of outstanding commercial paper is expected to be directly placed, domestic commercial paper. Euro commercial paper will continue to be marketed predominately to HSBC clients.
 
Fair Value
 
On January 1, 2007, we adopted FAS 157, “Fair Value “Measurements” and FAS 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities”, (“FAS 159”). Net income volatility arising from changes in either interest rate or credit components of the mark-to-market on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives affects the comparability of reported results between periods. Accordingly, gain on debt designated at fair value and related derivatives for the six months ended June 30, 2009 should not be considered indicative of the results for any future period.
 
Control Over Valuation Process and Procedures
 
A control framework has been established which is designed to ensure that fair values are either determined or validated by a function independent of the risk-taker. To that end, the ultimate responsibility for the determination of fair values rests with Treasury finance. Treasury finance establishes policies and procedures to ensure appropriate valuations. Fair values for debt securities and long-term debt for which we have elected fair value option are determined by a third-party valuation source (pricing service) by reference to external quotations on the identical or similar instruments. An independent price validation process is also utilized. For price validation purposes, we obtain quotations from at least one other independent pricing source for each financial instrument, where possible. We consider the following factors in determining fair values:
 
  •  similarities between the asset or the liability under consideration and the asset or liability for which quotation is received;
  •  whether the security is traded in an active or inactive market;
  •  consistency among different pricing sources;
  •  the valuation approach and the methodologies used by the independent pricing sources in determining fair value;
  •  the elapsed time between the date to which the market data relates and the measurement date; and
  •  the manner in which the fair value information is sourced.
 
Greater weight is given to quotations of instruments with recent market transactions, pricing quotes from dealers who stand ready to transact, quotations provided by market-makers who originally underwrote such instruments, and market consensus pricing based on inputs from a large number of participants. Any significant discrepancies among the external quotations are reviewed by management and adjustments to fair values are recorded where appropriate.
 
Fair values for derivatives are determined by management using valuation techniques, valuation models and inputs that are developed, reviewed, validated and approved by the Derivative Model Review Group of an affiliate, HSBC


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Bank USA. These valuation models utilize discounted cash flows or an option pricing model adjusted for counterparty credit risk and market liquidity. The models used apply appropriate control processes and procedures to ensure that the derived inputs are used to value only those instruments that share similar risk to the relevant benchmark indexes and therefore demonstrate a similar response to market factors. In addition, a validation process is followed which includes participation in peer group consensus pricing surveys, to ensure that valuation inputs incorporate market participants’ risk expectations and risk premium.
 
We have various controls over our valuation process and procedures for receivables held for sale. As these fair values are generally determined using modeling techniques, the controls may include independent development or validation of the logic within the valuation models, the inputs to those models, and adjustments required to outside valuation models. The inputs and adjustments to valuation models are reviewed with management and reconciled to inputs and assumptions used in other internal valuation processes.
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
FAS 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy structure that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to determine the fair value of an asset or liability. FAS 157 distinguishes between inputs that are based on observed market data and unobservable inputs that reflect market participants’ assumptions. It emphasizes the use of valuation methodologies that maximize market inputs. For financial instruments carried at fair value, the best evidence of fair value is a quoted price in an actively traded market (Level 1). Where the market for a financial instrument is not active, valuation techniques are used. The majority of valuation techniques use market inputs that are either observable or indirectly derived from and corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the financial instrument (Level 2). Because Level 1 and Level 2 instruments are determined by observable inputs, less judgment is applied in determining their fair values. In the absence of observable market inputs, the financial instrument is valued based on valuation techniques that feature one or more significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). The determination of the level of fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement of an asset or a liability is classified often requires judgment. We consider the following factors in developing the fair value hierarchy:
 
  •  whether the asset or liability is transacted in an active market with a quoted market price that is readily available;
  •  the size of transactions occurring in an active market;
  •  the level of bid-ask spreads;
  •  a lack of pricing transparency due to, among other things, the complexity of the product structure and market liquidity;
  •  whether only a few transactions are observed over a significant period of time;
  •  whether the pricing quotations vary substantially among independent pricing services;
  •  whether the inputs to the valuation techniques can be derived from or corroborated with market data; and
  •  whether significant adjustments are made to the observed pricing information or model output to determine the fair value.
 
Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that the reporting entity has the ability to access for the identical assets or liabilities. A financial instrument is classified as a Level 1 measurement if it is listed on an exchange or is an instrument actively traded in the OTC market where transactions occur with sufficient frequency and volume. We regard financial instruments such as equity securities and derivative contracts listed on the primary exchanges of a country to be actively traded. Non-exchange-traded instruments classified as Level 1 assets include securities issued by the U.S. Treasury.
 
Level 2 inputs are inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly but do not qualify as Level 1 inputs. We generally classify derivative contracts, corporate debt including asset-backed securities as well as our own debt issuance for which we have elected fair value option which are not traded in active markets, as Level 2 measurements. Currently, substantially all such items qualify as Level 2 measurements. These valuations are typically obtained from a third party valuation source which, in the case of derivatives, includes valuations provided by an affiliate, HSBC Bank USA.


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Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. Level 3 inputs incorporate market participants’ assumptions about risk and the risk premium required by market participants in order to bear that risk. We develop Level 3 inputs based on the best information available in the circumstances. As of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, our Level 3 instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis include $95 million and $175 million, respectively, of U.S. corporate debt, mortgage-backed and perpetual preferred securities. As of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, our Level 3 instruments recorded at fair value on a non-recurring basis included the following:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Receivables held for sale
  $ 645     $ 10,763  
Card and Retail Services goodwill
    -       2,034  
 
Transfers Into (Out of) Level 3 Measurements
 
Assets recorded at fair value on a recurring basis at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 which have been classified as using Level 3 measurements include certain U.S. corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities and at December 31, 2009, our entire portfolio of perpetual preferred equity securities which was sold during the first half of 2009. Securities are classified as using Level 3 measurements when one or both of the following conditions are met:
 
  •  An asset-backed security is downgraded below a AAA credit rating; or
  •  An individual security fails the quarterly pricing comparison test with a variance greater than 5 percent.
 
During the six months ended June 30, 2009, transfers out of Level 3 classifications, net, represents changes in the mix of individual securities that meet one or both of the above conditions. During the three months ended June 30, 2009, we transferred $49 million from Level 2 to Level 3 of individual corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities which met one or both of the conditions described above during the quarter, which was partially offset by the transfer of $28 million of individual corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities from Level 3 to Level 2 as they no longer met one or both of the conditions described above. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, we transferred $119 million of individual corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities from Level 3 to Level 2 as they no longer met one or both of the conditions described above, which was partially offset by the transfer of $85 million from Level 2 to Level 3 of individual corporate debt securities and mortgage-backed securities which met one or both of the conditions described above during the year-to-date period. As a result, we reported a total of $95 million and $175 million of available-for-sale securities, or approximately 3 percent and 6 percent of our securities portfolio as Level 3 at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, total Level 3 assets as a percentage of total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis was 2 percent and 3 percent, respectively.
 
Valuation Techniques for Major Assets and Liabilities Carried at Fair Value
 
Securities: Fair value for our available-for-sale securities is generally determined by a third party valuation source. The pricing services generally source fair value measurements from quoted market prices and if not available, the security is valued based on quotes from similar securities using broker quotes and other information obtained from dealers and market participants. For securities which do not trade in active markets, such as fixed income securities, the pricing services generally utilize various pricing applications, including models, to measure fair value. The pricing applications are based on market convention and use inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. The following summarizes the valuation methodology used for our major security types:
 
  •  U.S. Treasury, U.S. government agency issued or guaranteed and Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions – As these securities transact in an active market, the pricing services source fair value measurements from quoted prices for the identical security or quoted prices for similar securities with adjustments as necessary made using observable inputs which are market corroborated.


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  •  U.S. government sponsored enterprises – For certain government sponsored mortgage-backed securities which transact in an active market, the pricing services source fair value measurements from quoted prices for the identical security or quoted prices for similar securities with adjustments as necessary made using observable inputs which are market corroborated. For government sponsored mortgage-backed securities which do not transact in an active market, fair value is determined using discounted cash flow models and inputs related to interest rates, prepayment speeds, loss curves and market discount rates that would be required by investors in the current market given the specific characteristics and inherent credit risk of the underlying collateral.
  •  Asset-backed securities – Fair value is determined using discounted cash flow models and inputs related to interest rates, prepayment speeds, loss curves and market discount rates that would be required by investors in the current market given the specific characteristics and inherent credit risk of the underlying collateral.
  •  U.S. corporate and foreign debt securities – For non-callable corporate securities, a credit spread scale is created for each issuer. These spreads are then added to the equivalent maturity U.S. Treasury yield to determine current pricing. Credit spreads are obtained from the new issue market, secondary trading levels and dealer quotes. For securities with early redemption features, an option adjusted spread (“OAS”) model is incorporated to adjust the spreads determined above. Additionally, the pricing services will survey the broker/dealer community to obtain relevant trade data including benchmark quotes and updated spreads.
  •  Preferred equity securities – In general, for perpetual preferred securities fair value is calculated using an appropriate spread over a comparable US Treasury security for each issue. These spreads represent the additional yield required to account for risk including credit, refunding and liquidity. The inputs are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.
  •  Money market funds – Carrying value approximates fair value due to the asset’s liquid nature.
 
We perform validations of the fair values sourced from the independent pricing services at least quarterly. Such validation principally includes sourcing security prices from other independent pricing services or broker quotes. The validation process provides us with information as to whether the volume and level of activity for a security has significantly decreased and assists in identifying transactions that are not orderly. Depending on the results of the validation, additional information may be gathered from other market participants to support the fair value measurements. A determination will be made as to whether adjustments to the observable inputs are necessary as a result of investigations and inquiries about the reasonableness of the inputs used and the methodologies employed by the independent pricing services.
 
Debt securities, including mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities represented approximately 80 percent and 76 percent of our total investment securities portfolio at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.
 
Derivatives Derivative values are defined as the amount we would receive or pay to extinguish the contract using a market participant as of the reporting date. The values are determined by Treasury finance using a pricing system maintained by HSBC Bank USA. In determining these values, HSBC Bank USA uses quoted market prices, when available, principally for exchange-traded options. For non-exchange traded contracts, such as interest rate swaps, fair value is determined using discounted cash flow modeling techniques. Valuation models calculate the present value of expected future cash flows based on models that utilize independently-sourced market parameters, including interest rate yield curves, option volatilities, and currency rates. Valuations may be adjusted in order to ensure that those values represent appropriate estimates of fair value. These adjustments, which are applied consistently over time, are generally required to reflect factors such as market liquidity and counterparty credit risk that can affect prices in arms-length transactions with unrelated third parties. Finally, other transaction specific factors such as the variety of valuation models available, the range of unobservable model inputs and other model assumptions can affect estimates of fair value. Imprecision in estimating these factors can impact the amount of revenue or loss recorded for a particular position.
 
Counterparty credit risk is considered in determining the fair value of a financial asset. FAS 157 specifies that the fair value of a liability should reflect the entity’s non-performance risk and accordingly, the effect of our own credit risk (spread) has been factored into the determination of the fair value of our financial liabilities, including


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derivative instruments. In estimating the credit risk adjustment to the derivative assets and liabilities, we take into account the impact of netting and/or collateral arrangements that are designed to mitigate counterparty credit risk.
 
Long-Term Debt Carried at Fair Value Fair value was primarily determined by a third party valuation source. The pricing services source fair value from quoted market prices and, if not available, expected cash flows are discounted using the appropriate interest rate for the applicable duration of the instrument adjusted for our own credit risk (spread). The credit spreads applied to these instruments were derived from the spreads recognized in the secondary market for similar debt as of the measurement date. Where available, relevant trade data is also considered as part of our validation process.
 
Receivables Held for Sale Receivables held for sale are carried at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. Accordingly, fair value for such receivables must be estimated to determine any required write down to fair value when the amortized cost of the receivables exceeds their current fair value. Where available, quoted market prices are used to estimate the fair value of these receivables. Where market quotes are not available, fair value is estimated using observable market prices of similar instruments, including bonds, credit derivatives, and receivables with similar characteristics. Where quoted market prices and observable market parameters are not available, the fair value of receivables held for sale is based on contractual cash flows adjusted for management’s estimates of prepayments, defaults, and recoveries, discounted at management’s estimate of the rate of return that would be required by investors in the current market given the specific characteristics and inherent credit risk of the receivables. Continued lack of liquidity in credit markets has resulted in a significant decrease in the availability of observable market data, which has, in turn, resulted in an increased level of management judgment required to estimate fair value for receivables held for sale. In certain cases, an independent third party is utilized to substantiate management’s estimate of fair value.
 
We review and update our fair value hierarchy classifications quarterly. Changes from one quarter to the next related to the observability of inputs to a fair value measurement may result in a reclassification between hierarchy levels. Imprecision in estimating unobservable market inputs can impact the amount of revenue, loss or changes in common shareholder’s equity recorded for a particular financial instrument. Furthermore, while we believe our valuation methods are appropriate, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial assets and liabilities could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date.
 
See Note 17, “Fair Value Measurements” in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further details including the classification hierarchy associated with assets and liabilities measured at fair value.
 
Risk Management
 
In the first half of 2009 significant steps were undertaken to further strengthen our risk management organization, including the appointment of a Chief Risk Officer and the creation of a distinct, cross-disciplinary risk organization, representing a shift from a business unit driven approach to an independent and integrated risk function.
 
Credit Risk Day-to-day management of credit risk is administered by Chief Credit Officers for each business who report to the Chief Risk Officer. The Chief Risk Officer reports to our Chief Executive Officer and to the Group Managing Director and Chief Risk Officer of HSBC. Although our product offerings have been significantly reduced as a result of our decision to discontinue all new customer account originations in our Consumer Lending business, there have been no other significant changes in our approach to credit risk management since December 31, 2008.
 
Currently the majority of our existing derivative contracts are with HSBC subsidiaries, making them our primary counterparty in derivative transactions. Most swap agreements, both with unaffiliated and affiliated third parties, require that payments be made to, or received from, the counterparty when the fair value of the agreement reaches a certain level. Generally, third-party swap counterparties provide collateral in the form of cash which is recorded in our balance sheet as derivative related assets or derivative related liabilities. We provided third party swap counterparties with collateral totaling $29 million and $26 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The fair value of our agreements with affiliate counterparties required the affiliate to provide cash collateral of $2.4 billion and $2.9 billion at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. These amounts are


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offset against the fair value amount recognized for derivative instruments that have been offset under the same master netting arrangement in accordance with FASB Staff Position No. FIN 39-1, “Amendment of FASB Interpretation No. 39,” (“FSP 39-1”).
 
Liquidity Risk The balance sheet and corresponding credit dynamics described above will have a significant impact on our liquidity risk management processes. Lower cash flow as a result of declining receivable balances as well as “cashless” attrition due to charge-offs, will not fully cover maturing debt through 2013. Absent asset sales and financial support from HSBC, we may face additional funding requirements from time to time. Funding requirements will be covered primarily through a combination of capital infusions from HSBC, a robust cash management process and potential opportunistic portfolio sales. HSBC has indicated it remains fully committed and has the capacity to continue to provide such support. We believe a portion of this gap could also be met through potential issuances of unsecured term debt. These issuances would better match the projected cash flows of the remaining real estate secured receivable portfolio and partly reduce reliance on direct HSBC support.
 
During 2007 and 2008 and continuing into the first half of 2009, the capital markets have been severely disrupted, highly risk averse and reactionary. Until very recently, institutional fixed income investors for the most part remained reluctant to commit significant levels of liquidity to the financial sector of the market unless the corresponding debt issuance was in conjunction with a government guarantee program. Traditional providers of credit to the subprime market have either continued to reduce their exposure to this asset class or have markedly tightened the credit standards necessary to receive financing for subprime assets. This has reduced the availability of third party liquidity while increasing the cost of this liquidity.
 
Other conditions that could negatively affect our liquidity include unforeseen cash or capital requirements, a continued strengthening of the U.S. dollar, a slowdown in the rate of attrition of our balance sheet and an inability to obtain expected funding from HSBC, its subsidiaries and clients.
 
Lastly, maintaining our credit ratings is an important part of maintaining our overall liquidity profile. A credit ratings downgrade could potentially increase borrowing costs, and depending on its severity, substantially limit access to capital markets, require cash payments or collateral posting and permit termination of certain contracts material to us.
 
Following our decision in late February 2009 to discontinue new customer account originations for all products offered by our Consumer Lending business and to close substantially all branch offices, two of the three primary credit rating agencies elected to lower the ratings on our senior debt, commercial paper and Series B preferred stock. While we continue to access short term funding through the commercial paper market at competitive rates, we have identified several investors that have placed a hold on any additional purchases of our commercial paper. We do not anticipate this will have a significant impact on our ability to meet our projected short term funding needs at competitive rates.
 
The rating actions discussed above initially resulted in a widening of the credit spreads quoted on our senior debt trading in the secondary market and a reduction in the number of potential institutional investors willing to purchase this debt. Consistent with the experience of most other financial sector issuers, the quoted spread on our secondary market debt has tightened significantly during the second quarter. Should our 2009 funding plans change and we elect to issue new institutionally-placed senior debt, we would likely experience a reduction in the amount of new debt that could be issued and an increase in the corresponding interest rate and credit spread when compared with our historical issuances.
 
There have been no significant changes in our approach to liquidity risk since December 31, 2008.
 
Market Risk Our exposure to interest rate risk is also changing as the balance sheet declines. Prior to the credit crisis, our real estate portfolio was assumed to have a duration (average life) of approximately 3 years. While the loans had original maturities of 30 years, active customer refinancing resulted in the shorter duration assumption used in the risk management process. Debt was typically issued in intermediate and longer term maturities to maximize the liquidity benefit. The interest rate risk created by combining short duration assets with long duration liabilities was reduced by entering into hedge positions that reduced the duration of the liabilities portfolio.


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The progression of the credit crisis over the last 2 years is impacting this risk profile. Originally modeled as 3 years, the duration assumption for our real estate portfolio is extending as a higher percentage of the remaining loans stay on the books longer due to the impact of modification programs and/or lack of refinancings alternatives. At the same time, the duration of our liability portfolio is declining due to the passage of time and the absence of new term debt issuance. To reduce the interest rate risk arising from this changing balance sheet profile, we have and will continue to enter into economic hedge positions that effectively extend the duration of our floating rate liabilities.
 
HSBC has certain limits and benchmarks that serve as additional guidelines in determining the appropriate levels of interest rate risk. One such limit is expressed in terms of the Present Value of a Basis Point, which reflects the change in value of the balance sheet for a one basis point movement in all interest rates without considering other correlation factors or assumptions. Our absolute PVBP limit was $2.35 million at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 which includes the risk associated with hedging instruments. Thus, for a one basis point change in interest rates, the policy dictates that the value of the balance sheet for June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 shall not increase or decrease by more than $2.35 million. At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 we had an absolute PVBP position of $.855 million and $2.396 million, respectively. Although the PVBP was above the limits as of December 31, 2008, our ALCO elected not to take immediate action as the sale of the credit card and auto finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA which occurred in January 2009 brought this risk measure back within established limits. As described above, we have executed additional economic hedge positions in the second quarter of 2009 to further reduce our PVBP position and our corresponding exposure to rising interest rates. The following table shows the components of absolute PVBP at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 broken down by currency risk:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
USD
  $ .612     $ 2.175  
JPY
    .243       .221  
                 
Absolute PVBP risk
  $ .855     $ 2.396  
                 
 
We also monitor the impact that an immediate hypothetical increase or decrease in interest rates of 25 basis points applied at the beginning of each quarter over a 12 month period would have on our net interest income assuming for 2009 and 2008 a declining balance sheet and the current interest rate risk profile. Our December 31, 2008 estimate included assumptions for the sale of the GM Portfolio, UP Portfolio and Auto Finance receivables to HSBC Bank USA in early January 2009 and the discontinuation of all new customer account originations for all products by our Consumer Lending business all occurred prior to December 31, 2008. These estimates also assume we would not take any corrective actions in response to interest rate movements and, therefore, exceed what most likely would occur if rates were to change by the amount indicated. The following table summarizes such estimated impact:
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (in millions)  
 
Decrease in net interest income following a hypothetical 25 basis points rise in interest rates applied at the beginning of each quarter over the next 12 months
  $ 67     $ 77  
Increase in net interest income following a hypothetical 25 basis points fall in interest rates applied at the beginning of each quarter over the next 12 months
    70       87  


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A principal consideration supporting both of these analyses is the projected prepayment of loan balances for a given economic scenario. Individual loan underwriting standards in combination with housing valuations, loan modification program and macroeconomic factors related to available mortgage credit are the key assumptions driving these prepayment projections. While we have utilized a number of sources to refine these projections, we cannot currently project precise prepayment rates with a high degree of certainty in all economic environments given recent, significant changes in both subprime mortgage underwriting standards and property valuations across the country.
 
Operational Risk There has been no significant change in our approach to operational risk management since December 31, 2008.
 
Compliance Risk There has been no significant change in our approach to compliance risk management since December 31, 2008.
 
Reputational Risk There has been no significant change in our approach to reputational risk management since December 31, 2008.


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HSBC FINANCE CORPORATION
 
RECONCILIATIONS TO U.S. GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
 
                 
    June 30,
    December 31,
 
    2009     2008  
   
    (dollars are in millions)  
 
Tangible common equity:
               
Common shareholder’s equity
  $ 9,618     $ 12,862  
Exclude:
               
Fair value option adjustment
    (1,731 )     (2,494 )
Unrealized (gains) losses on cash flow hedging instruments
    755       1,316  
Postretirement benefit plan adjustments, net of tax
    (19 )     (4 )
Unrealized gains on investments and interest-only strip receivables
    19       55  
Intangible assets
    (827 )     (922 )
Goodwill
    -       (2,294 )
                 
Tangible common equity
  $ 7,815     $ 8,519  
                 
Tangible shareholders’ equity:
               
Tangible common equity
  $ 7,815     $ 8,519  
Preferred stock
    575       575  
Mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of Household Capital Trusts
    1,000       1,275  
                 
Tangible shareholders’ equity
  $ 9,390     $ 10,369  
                 
Tangible shareholder’s(s’) equity plus owned loss reserves:
               
Tangible shareholders’ equity
  $ 9,390     $ 10,369  
Credit loss reserves
    12,834       12,415  
                 
Tangible shareholders’ equity plus owned loss reserves
  $ 22,224     $ 22,784  
                 
Tangible assets:
               
Total assets
  $ 102,518     $ 130,830  
Exclude:
               
Intangible assets
    (827 )     (922 )
Goodwill
    -       (2,294 )
Derivative financial assets
    (1 )     (8 )
                 
Tangible assets
  $ 101,690     $ 127,606  
                 
Equity ratios:
               
Common and preferred equity to owned assets
    9.94 %     10.27 %
Tangible common equity to tangible managed assets
    7.69       6.68  
Tangible shareholders’ equity to tangible managed assets
    9.23       8.13  
Tangible shareholders’ equity plus owned loss reserves to tangible managed assets
    21.85       17.85  
                 


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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
See Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” under the caption “Risk Management — Market Risk” of this Form 10-Q.
 
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
 
We maintain a system of internal and disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by HSBC Finance Corporation in the reports we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported on a timely basis. Our Board of Directors, operating through its audit committee, which is composed entirely of independent outside directors, provides oversight to our financial reporting process.
 
We conducted an evaluation, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report so as to alert them in a timely fashion to material information required to be disclosed in reports we file under the Exchange Act.
 
There has been no significant change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the three months ended June 30, 2009 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
 
General
 
We are party to various legal proceedings resulting from ordinary business activities relating to our current and/or former operations. Certain of these actions are or purport to be class actions seeking damages in very large amounts. These actions assert violations of laws and/or unfair treatment of consumers. Due to the uncertainties in litigation and other factors, we cannot be certain that we will ultimately prevail in each instance. We believe that our defenses to these actions have merit and any adverse decision should not materially affect our consolidated financial condition. However, losses may be material to our results of operations for any particular future period depending on our income level for that period.
 
Consumer Litigation
 
During the past several years, the press has widely reported certain industry related concerns, including rising delinquencies, the tightening of credit and more recently, increasing litigation. Some of the litigation instituted against lenders is being brought in the form of purported class actions by individuals or by state or federal regulators or state attorneys general. Like other companies in this industry, we are involved in litigation regarding our practices. The cases generally allege inadequate disclosure or misrepresentation during the loan origination process. In some suits, other parties are also named as defendants. Unspecified compensatory and punitive damages are sought. The judicial climate in many states is such that the outcome of these cases is unpredictable. Although we believe we have substantive legal defenses to these claims and are prepared to defend each case vigorously, a number of such cases have been settled or otherwise resolved for amounts that in the aggregate are not material to our operations. Insurance carriers have been notified as appropriate.
 
Loan Discrimination Litigation
 
Since July of 2007, HSBC Finance Corporation and/or one or more of its subsidiaries has been named as a defendant in five class actions filed in the federal courts in the Northern District of Illinois, the Central District of California and the District of Massachusetts: Zamudio v. HSBC North America Holdings and HSBC Finance Corporation d/b/a Beneficial,


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(N.D. Ill. 07CV5413), National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (“NAACP”) v. Ameriquest Mortgage Company, et al. including HSBC Finance Corporation (C.D. Ca., No. SACV07-0794AG), Toruno v. HSBC Finance Corporation and Decision One Mortgage Company, LLC (C.D. Ca., No. CV07-05998JSL), Suyapa Allen v. Decision One Mortgage Company, LLC, HSBC Finance Corporation, et al. (D. Mass., C.A. 07-11669) and Doiron, et al. v. HSBC Mortgage Services Inc., et al., (E.D. Ca., 2:08-CV-00605- FCD). Each suit alleges that the named entities racially discriminated against their customers by using loan pricing policies and procedures that have resulted in a disparate impact against minority customers. Violations of various federal statutes, including the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, are claimed. The Zamudio case was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff on July 7, 2008 and may not be reinitiated. In the NAACP case, the Court granted HSBC Finance Corporation’s motion to dismiss for lack of personal jurisdiction on January 9, 2009. At this time, we are unable to quantify the potential impact from the remaining actions, if any.
 
City of Cleveland Litigation
 
On January 10, 2008, a suit captioned, City of Cleveland v. Deutsche Bank Trust Company, et al. (No. 1:08-CV-00139), was filed in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court against numerous financial services entities. HSBC Finance Corporation is a defendant. The City of Cleveland (“City”) seeks damages it allegedly incurred as a result of defendants’ creation of a public nuisance in the City through their respective involvement as lenders and/or securitizers of sub-prime mortgages on properties located in Cleveland. On January 16, 2008, the case was removed to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. On August 22, 2008, the City filed a new complaint, City of Cleveland v. JP Morgan Chase Bank, NA et al, in the Court of Common Pleas, Cuyahoga County Ohio (No. CV 08 668608), in which it made virtually identical allegations as in the Federal Court complaint, alleges violations of the Ohio Corrupt Practices Act and named additional defendants. The two courts have now approved the parties’ agreements regarding the defendants in these two actions. HSBC Finance Corporation was dismissed with prejudice from the Federal Court action. The City appealed this order. Subsidiaries of HSBC Finance Corporation, namely Household Realty Corporation and HSBC Mortgage Services Inc. are defendants in the State Court action. All the defendants filed motions to sever in the State Court action.
 
Card Services Litigation
 
Since June 2005, HSBC Finance Corporation, HSBC North America, and HSBC, as well as other banks and Visa Inc. and Master Card Incorporated, were named as defendants in four class actions filed in Connecticut and the Eastern District of New York; Photos Etc. Corp. et al. v. Visa U.S.A., Inc., et al. (D. Conn. No. 3:05-CV-01007 (WWE)): National Association of Convenience Stores, et al. v. Visa U.S.A., Inc., et al. (E.D.N.Y. No. 05-CV 4520 (JG)); Jethro Holdings, Inc., et al. v. Visa U.S.A., Inc. et al. (E.D.N.Y. No. 05-CV-4521 (JG)); and American Booksellers Ass’n v. Visa U.S.A., Inc. et al. (E.D.N.Y. No. 05-CV-5391 (JG)). Numerous other complaints containing similar allegations (in which no HSBC entity is named) were filed across the country against Visa Inc., MasterCard Incorporated and other banks. These actions principally allege that the imposition of a no-surcharge rule by the associations and/or the establishment of the interchange fee charged for credit card transactions causes the merchant discount fee paid by retailers to be set at supracompetitive levels in violation of the Federal antitrust laws. These suits have been consolidated and transferred to the Eastern District of New York. The consolidated case is: In re Payment Card Interchange Fee and Merchant Discount Antitrust Litigation, MDL 1720, E.D.N.Y. A consolidated, amended complaint was filed by the plaintiffs on April 24, 2006 and a second consolidated amended complaint was filed on January 29, 2009. The parties are engaged in discovery and motion practice. At this time, we are unable to quantify the potential impact from this action, if any.
 
Securities Litigation
 
In August 2002, we restated previously reported consolidated financial statements related to certain MasterCard and Visa co-branding and affinity credit card relationships and a third party marketing agreement, which were entered into between 1992 and 1999. All were part of our Card Services operations. As a result of the restatement and other corporate events, including, e.g., the 2002 settlement with 46 states and the District of Columbia relating to real


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estate lending practices, Household International and certain former officers were named as defendants in a class action lawsuit, Jaffe v. Household International, Inc., et al., No. 02 C 5893 (N.D. Ill., filed August 19, 2002).
 
The complaint, as narrowed by Court rulings, asserted claims under § 10 and § 20 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, on behalf of all persons who acquired and disposed of Household International common stock between July 30, 1999 and October 11, 2002. The claims alleged that the defendants knowingly or recklessly made false and misleading statements of material facts relating to Household’s Consumer Lending operations, including collections, sales and lending practices, some of which ultimately led to the 2002 state settlement agreement, and facts relating to accounting practices evidenced by the restatement. The plaintiffs claim that these statements were made in conjunction with the purchase or sale of securities, that they justifiably relied on one or more of those statements, that the false statement(s) caused the plaintiffs’ damages, and that some or all of the defendants should be liable for those damages.
 
A jury trial began on March 30, 2009 and closing arguments concluded on April 30, 2009. The jury deliberated over the course of four days before rendering a verdict on May 7 partially in favor of the plaintiffs with respect to Household International and three former officers. The jury found 17 of 40 alleged misstatements actionable and that the first actionable statement occurred on March 23, 2001. This effectively excludes claims for purchases made prior to that date. We filed a motion requesting that the Court set aside the jury’s verdict and enter a verdict in favor of all defendants on all claims and a motion for a new trial. Pleadings supporting the motions were filed with the Court by July 20, 2009.
 
Concurrent with the briefing on the motion to set aside the jury verdict, a second phase of the case will proceed to determine the actual damages, if any, due to the plaintiff class. Although the jury determined that the loss per common share attributable to the alleged misstatements varied by day and ranged from -$4.60 (no loss) to $23.94, how this stage of the case will proceed has not been determined by the Court. Matters to be determined include, but are not limited to, whether there will be discovery to determine if shareholders actually relied upon statements found to be misleading, the process for determining which shareholders purchased securities on or after March 23, 2001 and sold during the relevant period (the sale window potentially extending up to 90 days after October 11, 2002), as well as other procedural matters and eligibility criteria. The plaintiffs and defendants each filed proposals on how to conduct this damages phase. Given the complexity associated with this phase of the case, it is impossible at this time to determine whether any damages will eventually be awarded, or the amount of any such award.
 
There are also several motions pending that would dispose of the case prior to a determination of actual damages, including defendants’ motion for summary judgment as filed in May 2008 and motions to direct a verdict made at the close of both the plaintiffs’ and defendants’ cases. When any final judgment is entered by the District Court at the conclusion of the damages phase of the case, the parties have 30 days in which to appeal the verdict to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.
 
Despite the verdict at the District Court level, we continue to believe, after consultation with counsel, that neither Household nor its former officers engaged in any wrongdoing and that we will either prevail on our outstanding motions or that the Seventh Circuit will reverse the trial Court verdict upon appeal.


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Item 6. Exhibits
 
Exhibits included in this Report:
 
         
  12     Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends
  31     Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  32     Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002


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Signature
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
Date: August 3, 2009
 
HSBC FINANCE CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
/s/  Iain J. Mackay
Iain J. Mackay
Senior Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer


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Exhibit Index
 
         
  12     Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends
  31     Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  32     Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002