HSBC confirmed that it has taken reduced hours at some self-service machines and branches in Hong Kong to protect facilities due to the ongoing pro-democracy protests in the city. 

Since Jan. 3, the bank reduced hours at certain Express Banking centres and ATMs to protect customers who might use them, a spokesperson confirmed via email. 

Protesters have claimed that the bank is helping the authorities raise money. The bank has denied such claims, according to a report by Reuters.

"We are saddened by the attempts to vandalize our premises repeatedly as we believe these are unjustified," the spokesperson said. "We believe the rule of law is essential to HK's status as an international financial centre and we look forward to the speedy resolution of the issues."

The spokesman said that customers can still use the bank's internet, mobile, phone banking or self-service terminals. 

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