BNP Paribas Securities Services has expanded its market and financing services for clients in Asia Pacific with a new agency securities lending desk in Hong Kong.
The new desk will focus on Asian markets and provide local client coverage to meet a growing appetite from clients looking to increase their asset allocations into the region.
The new trading desk will complement existing services offered via desks in Sydney, London and New York.
Leading the operation will be Anthony McDonald, who will focus on trading activities and developing services for institutional lenders and borrowers in the region.
McDonald joins BNP Paribas from SEB where he previously ran markets finance for Asia. He has also held roles at RBS Trust Bank, Credit Suisse, Citigroup and Dresdner Kleinwort.
McDonald will report globally to Andrew Geggus who was appointed as global head of securities lending trading in February.
“Having worked in Hong Kong for several years, I know how dynamic the markets can be and see the opportunities in the region,” said Geggus. “Anthony’s appointment, to head up our new agency securities lending desk in Hong Kong, is pivotal for our global expansion plans aligning with our ambitions to further develop across the Asia.”