PRESS DIGEST - Top stories in Hong Kong and mainland China newspapers on March 25

These are the leading stories in Hong Kong and mainland Chinese newspapers and websites on Wednesday. The South China Morning Post has not verified these stories.

HSBC will insulate its retail and commercial banking business from riskier investment banking activities and plans to establish the headquarters of the ring-fenced unit in Birmingham. (Hong Kong Economic Journal)

The State Council approved broad blueprints governing the establishment of free-trade zones in Tianjin and the provinces of Guangdong and Fujian as well as the further opening up of the free-trade zone in Shanghai. However, the government did not publish details. (Hong Kong Economic Journal)

Mainland distressed asset manager Huarong bought 51.93 per cent of Simsen International, driving the latter’s share price up by 38.6 per cent yesterday. Media have reported previously that Huarong is seeking an initial public offering in Hong Kong. (Sing Tao Daily)