 HSBC Holdings PLC LSE:HSBA, which reports third-quarter results on Tuesday 25 October, shares are the second best performing of the FTSE 100 banks this year even though they are virtually flat, while Standard Chartered PLC LSE:STAN is way out in front with a gain of over 22. This here are many similarities between the pair, though, including the bosses of both have been working hard to slash costs. 