Date:20/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/01/20/stories/2006012020280400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Netherlands Prime Minister inaugurates ATM outlet

Special Correspondent

Bangalore: The Netherlands Prime Minister, Jan Peter Balkenende, on Thursday inaugurated ING Vysya Bank's Self Bank/ATM outlet in the city .

He made the first transaction.

Dr. Balkenende said, "I recognise the innovative service concept that will further improve banking services to customers, especially, the 24/7 opening is very important with related security features."

`Revolutionary concept'

Michel Zuidgeest, Head (Distribution) of the bank, said, "Self-banking is a revolutionary concept that aims at upgrading an ATM experience enabling a host of activity besides cash withdrawal."

Shantanu Ghosh, Country Head (Retail Banking) of the bank, said, "The customer expectation is freedom and flexibility for them to operate accounts. Our Self Bank/ATM will meet this need adequately and effectively. The bank accordingly intends to expand this delivery channel by promoting 200 such outlets by the end of 2007."