As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 17, 2003

FORM 6-K

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934

HSBC Holdings plc

42^nd Floor, 8 Canada Square, London E14 5HQ, England

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F...X... Form ...40-F...

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes...... No....X....

If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): .............................N/A..............................

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.

HSBC Holdings plc

By: /s/ P A Stafford

Name: P A Stafford

Title: Assistant Group Secretary

Date: December 17, 2003