Standard Chartered has opened a branch in Paris, in order to build on the growth of its global corporates and financial institutions business in France.

Revenue from French corporates and financial institutions is growing significantly in 2008, and France now accounts for approximately 10% of all European client revenue.

The team in Paris is headed up by Raoul Leblanc, directeur de la Succursale de Paris. Leblanc joined Standard Chartered over 10 years ago. Commenting on the new branch, he remarks: "Closer proximity to our clients in Paris will allow us to provide them with greater accessibility to the markets they want to do business in. French trade with emerging markets is soaring and becoming increasingly important. We are an ideal partner for French corporations who are looking to capitalise on emerging market opportunities.”

The opening of the new branch comes just as Standard Chartered celebrates 150 years of banking history in China and India.