HSBC India has unveiled its latest advertising campaign featuring renowned cricketer Virat Kohli as its brand ambassador. The campaign, which appears in prominent placements in The Economic Times, aims to convey a powerful message of leaving the past behind and embracing new beginnings. With the tagline “My Account Starts Today,” the HSBC India campaign urges individuals to focus on the present and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
Developed by Wunderman Thompson’s group company, Contract Advertising, the campaign centers around HSBC’s core purpose of opening up a world of opportunity for its customers. As India continues to aspire and expand its global presence, HSBC India aims to support these ambitions by providing the necessary financial tools and services. The advertisement showcases Virat Kohli in a never-before-seen avatar, emphasizing his association with HSBC India and the shared values of growth, determination, and success.
HSBC India ‘My Account Starts Today’
The campaign’s TV commercial is particularly impactful, evoking nostalgia as it unfolds. It opens with a shot of a cricket stadium, displaying Virat Kohli‘s name on a billboard alongside other legendary batsmen.
However, the name starts fading away, symbolizing the importance of leaving behind past achievements and focusing on the future.
The commercial continues to illustrate this theme as it portrays Virat’s presence gradually disappearing from various elements such as a trophy cabinet, newspapers, YouTube channels, and even the dressing room wall, mirroring the fading names on the Honours Board.
The ad concludes with a close-up of Virat’s determined face, donning his helmet and standing before the red door to his dressing room, signifying the new chapter that lies ahead.
The multi-channel campaign will be rolled out across various media platforms, including print, television, outdoor displays, OTT platforms, and digital channels. This comprehensive approach ensures that the brand message reaches the target audience, connecting with them on different touchpoints and resonating with their aspirations.
Talking about the ad campaign with HSBC India, Virat Kohli said, “When I was informed about the association with HSBC the first thought I had was it feels right and comfortable. And that’s something I always look for when an association comes up. I knew that the association would be very organic and natural and not be forced in any way. One can rest on their accomplishments, but the moment at hand is what counts most. My belief system of discipline, commitment, and focus, aspects that have played a key role in my career so far, resonates deeply with HSBC’s rich legacy in India, disciplined approach, and long-standing commitment”.
Commenting on the association, Sandeep Batra, Head, Wealth and Personal Banking, HSBC India, said, “Our collaboration with Virat Kohli reflects the deep-rooted positive sentiments and unwavering commitment to India. With our extensive range of products and services, we are strategically positioned to support multiple facets of India’s economy, poised for enduring growth. This campaign serves as a testament to our dedication to growth and our aspiration to become the preferred international financial partner for our clients.”
Wealth and Personal Banking, HSBC India said, “The campaign holds a special place in our hearts as it resonates with our core purpose of ‘Opening up a world of opportunity’. In India, cricket’s ability to transcend boundaries seamlessly integrates with our objective. Through the campaign, we are reiterating our dedication to provide new opportunities to our clients. As a brand we are committed to long-term success, investing in the growth and forging an emotional connection with our customers. – Jaswinder Sodhi, Head of Customer Proposition, Digital and Marketing
Rahul Ghosh, ECD & Mumbai Creative Head, Contract Advertising, “At the core of the creative idea was a belief that one makes history only when one forgets history. And this campaign was about making all sorts of history. It was a coming together of two global icons, yet the approach was iconoclastic. We hope we have shattered some glass ceilings of celebrity and BFSI communications.”
The HSBC India campaign’s compelling message and Virat’s involvement are poised to make a lasting impact, resonating with audiences and inspiring them to embrace the present and embark on their own journeys of success with HSBC by their side.
