HSBC warns of foreclosures in holiday ad thanking customers
By RYAN GORMAN
HSBC reminded people their homes could be repossessed -- in a Christmas advertisement.
The Britain-based bank made the handy reminder in a sign posted in the window of a London branch, according to Guardian editor James Ball, who posted a picture to Twitter.
"Thanks to over 100,000 of you who trusted us with your mortgages this year," the sign said just above an ominous message.
"Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
"Season's greetings."
The line drew much scrutiny on social media, but it is mandated by UK Financial Conduct Authority law.
HSBC spokesperson Neil Brazil told AOL News that while the bank understands "it doesn't look very festive, it is a legal requirement to have these words on all our UK mortgage adverts, and for them to be easily noticeable."
A similar disclosure is also required of all U.S. mortgage lenders.
"If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating."
Keep that in mind the next few weeks while deciding who has been naughty and nice.
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