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.
