ThZeal - The Zeal

425 1 y84962ae425.txt HSBC HOLDINGS PLC Filed by HSBC Holdings plc Pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act of 1933 Exchange Act File No.: 001 08198 Subject Company: Household International, Inc. 28 March 2003 HSBC RECEIVES REGULATORY APPROVALS FOR HOUSEHOLD ACQUISITION HSBC Holdings plc ("HSBC") has obtained all regulatory consents and approvals required in connection with its proposed acquisition by way of merger of Household International, Inc. The acquisition remains subject, among other matters, to approvals by the shareholders of both companies at shareholder meetings scheduled to take place later today. Investors and Household security holders are advised to read the proxy statement/prospectus dated 26 February 2003 regarding the proposed merger and the supplement dated 19 March 2003 because they contain important information. The proxy statement/prospectus and supplement have been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by both companies. Household shareholders may obtain a free copy of the proxy statement/prospectus and supplement and other related documents filed by either company at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.