HSBC branches across the state will soon bear a new name, as First Niagara strikes a deal to take over nearly 200 branches. Our Lori Chung has more on what that means for customers.

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NEW YORK STATE -- Come next year, the First Niagara logo will have a lot more visibility in upstate New York. That's when the bank's deal to buy 195 HSBC branches is set to be complete.

"We'll nearly double the number of branches in Upstate, more importantly to us it takes us to a market share in the region of north of 20 percent," said First Niagara CEO John Koelmel.

First Niagara's expansion also marks HSBC's shift from retail banking towards commercial and corporate business. And with 30,000 HSBC jobs worldwide now set to be cut, experts say the local economy dodged a bullet.

"For us to keep those branches local with a bank that's doing well like First Niagara, I think that's the best outcome we can have," said Steven Bouchey of the Bouchey Financial Group.

HSBC company officials say customers with accounts at affected branches don't have to do anything. Those accounts are supposed to transition seamlessly to First Niagara, which some customers will bring a little more convenience.

"It appears to be more First Niagara branches in the area that HSBC, so it's probably easier to find a branch," said HSBC customer Kim Mann.

"I'm glad to hear that they're doing so well. Hopefully it will bring my son's account up to a maximum level," Troy resident Karen Livolsi said.

HSBC reps say there aren't any planned changes to affected accounts. Still experts say it wouldn't hurt keep a close eye on your balances.

"Sometimes there's glitches along the way, but we've seen it before. They'll overcome it," said Bouchey.

The 1,900 locally affected workers are expected to keep their jobs. Terms like that earning praise from the governor who called the deal good news for New York.