HSBC boss 'to quit' in shake-up

It comes after chairman Stephen Green announced he was leaving earlier than expected to become a trade minister.

The BBC understands finance director Doug Flint will replace him, if city regulator the FSA gives its approval.

Meanwhile another front-runner for the post, chief executive Mike Geoghegan, is understood to have resigned.

Stuart Gulliver, who runs HSBC's investment bank, is expected to replace him, BBC business editor Robert Peston said.

A bank spokesman declined to comment on speculation, adding that the hunt for a new chairman was ongoing.

The Financial Services Authority is yet to approve either appointment, the BBC understands - although if clearance is given, an official announcement is likely on Friday; Kazinform cites BBC.

See www.bbc.co.uk for full version.