The National Bank innovates by launching its new PREMIA MasterCard BusinessCard

Montreal, 8 October 2003 - 

The National Bank is proud to announce the launch of its brand new PREMIA MasterCard BusinessCard, designed specifically for small businesses and self-employed professionals.

"This new credit card will enable entrepreneurs with a keen business sense to better manage their expenses, enjoy a unique combination of advantages and achieve substantial savings," explained Tony Meti, Senior Vice-President – Commercial Banking and International at the National Bank.

The PREMIA card is one of the most attractive business credit cards on the market. Cardholders will enjoy discounts with such partners as Bell (special offers with Bell Mobility, Bell World and Sympatico), Ultramar, Gouverneur Hotels and Les Affaires.

The card also offers an optional rewards program that lets cardholders accumulate points which can be exchanged for credit applicable directly to their account, top-quality merchandise, gift certificates or travel.

What's more, the PREMIA card includes a comprehensive insurance and assistance program that offers coverage against fraudulent use of the card by employees, 90-day purchase protection, an extended warranty that doubles the manufacturer's warranty and rental car insurance coverage. Cardholders can also choose from a selection of optional life and health insurance programs that are normally available only to larger companies. Offered by Blue Cross, these programs can be customized to meet the specific needs of the employer, employees or their families.

Cards are issued in the company's name and a specific monthly spending limit can be set for each cardholder.

This new National Bank product is the latest addition to a full range of products and services for companies and self-employed workers that serves to strengthen the National Bank's standing as Quebec's leading bank.

 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 more than $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