National Bank launches an innovative guide for borrowers

Montreal, 14 July 2003 - 

The National Bank introduces its innovative Personalized Financing Guide to make it easier for customers to determine their borrower profile and the type of loan that would be most suitable for them.

"The Personalized Financing Guide lets our customers participate fully in the financing application process and make informed decisions about their projects," explained Alain Vallières, Vice-President – Marketing and Training, Wealth Management at the National Bank. Because of the vast selection of financing solutions on the market, the Bank designed an advisory guide to help its customers optimize their choices and borrowing costs, as well as to reduce the risk of interest rate fluctuations (for instance, by taking into account rate fluctuations during the term and at renewal).

Together with their financial advisor, customers can complete the Personalized Financing Guide quickly and easily. By answering a few questions about their sensitivity to interest rate fluctuations and desired flexibility in repaying their loan, they can determine which of the four borrower profiles presented in the Guide best matches their temperament. A financing solution adapted to each customer's particular needs and preferences can then be suggested.

The Personalized Financing Guide, an innovative tool in the financial industry, perfectly complements the advisory role the National Bank has set for itself. It is just one of many decision-making tools the Bank has developed.

About National Bank of Canada
National Bank of Canada is an integrated group which provides comprehensive financial services to consumers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations in its core market, while offering specialized services to its customers elsewhere in the world. The National Bank offers a full array of banking services, including corporate and investment banking. It is an active player on international capital markets and, through its subsidiaries, is involved in securities brokerage, insurance and wealth management, as well as mutual fund and retirement plan management. The National Bank has approximately $75 billion in assets and, together with its subsidiaries, employs over 17,000 people. The Bank's securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX). For more information, visit the Bank's website at www.nbc.ca.

Information (the telephone number and e-mail address provided below are for the exclusive use of journalists and other media representatives):

Denis Dubé
Director – Public Relations
National Bank of Canada
Tel.: (514) 394-8644
E-mail: denis.dube@nbc.ca