Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits-Assumptions (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Postretirement Plans Other Than Pensions [Member]
Projected Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount rate	4.35%	3.35%
Salary increase assumption	2.75%	2.75%
Net Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rate	3.35%	4.25%	4.95%
Salary increase assumption	2.75%	2.75%	2.75%
Hsbc North America [Member] | HSBC North America Pension Plan [Member]
Pension Expense [Abstract]
Discount rate	3.95%	4.60%	5.30%
Salary increase assumption		2.75%	2.75%
Expected long-term rate of return on Plan assets	6.00%	7.00%	7.25%
Projected Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount rate	4.80%	3.95%	4.60%
Salary increase assumption		2.75%	2.75%