Domestic abusers are using joint mortgages against 750,000 UK women, plunging many victim-survivors into debt and homelessness.

The bank has also enhanced its buy-to-let lending criteria.

HSBC is bringing lending rules for foreign nationals into line with UK residents.

The bank says it wants to create "a more focused organisation built on its core strengths".

The new rates come as part of widespread rate cuts of up to 0.20% across HSBC's residential and buy-to-let mortgage ranges.

The bank plans to refocus on its core strengths in Asia and the Middle East. 

This is the first time HSBC has offered Premier customers an exclusive two-year fixed rate since 2019. 

The lender has also made changes to its Energy Efficient Homes Cashback mortgage.

The lenders have joined Leeds Building Society in reducing rates during the first week of January.

The bank has increased maximum LTVs for applicants with leave to remain in the UK, with EU settled status, and for foreign nationals without permanent residency.