HSBC takes home App - Banking accolade for iAM Smart Step-up Authentication adoption

The initiative enabled authorised signatories to verify their identity via selfie-based facial recognition.

HSBC was recognised at the Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards 2026, receiving the App - Banking category win for its adoption of iAM Smart Step-up Authentication.

iAM Smart is a widely used digital identity solution in Hong Kong, with more than 4 million registered users as of December 2025. Its Step-up Authentication function enables real-time identity verification for critical online processes using facial recognition via selfie. This provides an additional layer of assurance at key decision points, which is particularly valuable for high-impact actions such as approving a loan application

The bank is the first in Hong Kong to integrate iAM Smart Step-up Authentication, which keeps the user journey fully digital. With the adoption, authorised signatories of eligible SME customers can verify their identities and approve loan applications directly in the HSBC HK Business Express mobile application.

Accessible via HSBC Business Internet Banking, the Bank's digital lending platform leverages data analytics to simplify loan applications and accelerate credit assessments for SME customers. The adoption of “iAM Smart” Step-Up Authentication further supports efforts to enhance the efficiency of SME financing.

iAM Smart Step-up Authentication is offered as an additional option alongside existing verification methods, including Hong Kong identity cards and mobile security keys, giving SMEs greater flexibility and convenience.

With the adoption of iAM Smart Step-up Authentication, HSBC validates its commitment to making financing more accessible, secure, and aligned with customers’ everyday digital routines, made possible by collaborating with stakeholders.

The Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards is Hong Kong's most prestigious platform honouring groundbreaking achievements in technology. This esteemed awards programme recognises companies and organisations that are driving innovation, transforming industries, and setting new benchmarks for excellence in Hong Kong’s dynamic tech landscape. 

The Hong Kong Business Technology Excellence Awards is presented by Hong Kong Business Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding contributions in pursuit of technological innovation, please contact Julie Anne Nuñez-Difuntorum at +(65) 3158 1386 or [email protected].