HSBC has an agreement that when the regulation allows, half of the cards business can be bought on an agreed formula, and it can become a proper joint venture. |
Right now the competition is such that zero fee in the first year is the most common thing you'll see. |
While profit may not be immediately possible, this is something that will develop over the next few years. Crucial to achieving this is ensuring that the percentage of active cards grows along with revolving balances. |
You've got to be realistic and careful that you don't just go for the numbers. I'm more interested in whether the people are going to use the card. |