The result is greater convenience and better value to
our combined customer base: DBS and POSBank together offer 169 domestic
branch offices and a network of nearly 1,000 ATMs. Customers of both can
now use ATMs for cash withdrawal, balance enquiry, funds transfer and
CashCard services. DBS' Personal Autophone Service is also available to
POSBank Savings Account holders.
Last year we achieved a number of 'firsts' in personal
banking, each with an eye on delivering world-class banking - with
hometown service.
Our continuing investment in technology brought our
customers new products and services - new experiences in the world of
banking and finance. Now, for the first time in Singapore, DBS customers
can open Singapore dollar fixed deposit accounts and apply for DBS
Internet Banking service through our ATMs. We also offer customers
comprehensive investment capabilities via the Net. With a simple 'point
and click' DBS customers can check on the value of their CPF investments
and unit trusts, the status of IPO share applications, foreign currency
executions, securities transactions and financing accounts - at a time and
place convenient to them.
We enhanced programmes targeted to specific customer
groups with new services including the introduction of DBS One, a priority
banking service for affluent customers. DBS One customers enjoy
personalised, priority service at selected DBS branches and have access to
24-hour service centre personnel through DBS Direct. To meet our
customers' growing regional banking needs, account holders can now place
deposits at our overseas branches from any Singapore location.
We have finalised a strategic alliance aimed at
developing an investment management programme for individual investors
with The Frank Russell Company, a 60-year old investment house with a
worldwide reputation for performance and managing over US$1.3 trillion in
assets today. The Frank Russell Company is one of the few premier
investment institutions successfully engaging in U.S. domestic and
international asset management for both individuals and institutions.
We were the first Singapore bank to distribute unit
trusts managed by high-performing global fund managers, and the first to
introduce the Platinum MasterCard and Visa cards, reinforcing our position
as a premier credit card service provider.
Following the consolidation of Thai Danu Bank and DBS
Bank Philippines and the impending acquisition of Kwong On Bank in Hong
Kong, we will be integrating these entities into our network as we begin
to extend our retail franchise throughout the region, responding to
financial needs of our valued customers.
