OREANDA-NEWS. August 25, 2011. Citibank (China) Co., Ltd. (“Citibank China”) opened a new sub-branch in Guangzhou, and will also open a new sub branch in Shenzhen this week. The openings continue Citibank’s strong growth momentum in China, and follow last week’s opening of a new Smart Banking sub branch in Shanghai, reported the press-centre of Citibank.

The new Guangzhou sub branch marks Citibank’s third consumer outlet in Guangzhou, and is a “Smart Banking” outlet, designed to deliver a superior service experience to Citibank customers.
Simon Chow, Country Business Manager, Citibank China, said: “We are committed to extending our presence around China, and we are excited with today’s opening in Guangzhou, an key economic center in China. We hope and expect this Smart Banking outlet will be well received in the local market as it delivers innovative new means by which retail customers can conduct their banking business with optimal convenience.”

Smart Banking Features
Citibank’s Wan Guo Plaza Sub-branch features a range of customized service offerings designed to help redefine retail banking in China:

“Citi Explore” comprises of a number of interactive touch screens that enable customers to easily obtain information about Citibank as well as Citibank’s latest product and service offerings at their fingertips. “Citi Explore” also includes hand-held devices containing electronic brochures with detailed introduction to Citibank products and services, market outlook and commentaries, audio and video clips. These devices negate the need for print materials in the spirit of Citibank’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

“Citi Connect” enables customers to browse the web and get access to Citibank China’s next-generation online banking services, which include enhanced online security features, more convenient online payments and transfers; “Global View of Accounts” allowing customers to access Citibank accounts in multiple countries, a comprehensive set of alerts / SMS-based banking services, all delivered with user-friendly interface and modern look-and-feel.

“Citi Assist” refers to interactive video conferencing services that provide customers with the opportunity to obtain additional expert opinion and consultation from Citibank specialists at another location on a real time basis via video phones.

Wireless “Soft Phones” are used by all staff while providing complimentary use of mobile phones for customers.

“Internet kiosk” is a complimentary feature with state-of-the-art computers to access external websites for the convenience of our customers.

Products and Services
Like all other Citibank outlets in China, the new outlet offers both Citibank and Citigold services. Customers using the Citibank service, which requires a minimum balance of RMB80,000, will be provided with a choice of a comprehensive range of services to manage their wealth. Products offered include savings, deposits, investments (including Premium Accounts, Structured Investment Accounts and QDII products) and insurance; as well as ATM / debit cards. Customers can also conduct their banking at their convenience through the multiple electronic channels such as online banking, mobile banking, 24x7 phone banking and fax banking.

The outlet also features a Citigold Service Center, designed to provide leading wealth management services. The Citigold offering, which requires a minimum balance of RMB500,000, is distinguished by factors that include:

Dedicated relationship managers supported by a team of product specialists

Personalized banking products and services

Access to award winning global research, market outlook, latest financial developments and dedicated information channels

Unique proprietary tools such as Citigold Financial Needs Analysis

Membership rewards and privileges

Citigold customers also benefit from Citi’s global presence with worldwide Citigold VIP recognition, courtesy access to world wide Citigold centers, overseas account opening referral, overseas emergency cash up to USD10,000, overseas Citigold preferential FX rate and fee charge, worldwide toll-free home connection service hotline and Citigold International SOS Healthcare Services.

The Guangzhou Wan Guo Plaza Sub-branch houses 21 retail banking professionals. It is located at 1st Floor, No. 131, 133, 135, 137 Jiang Nan Avenue, Guangzhou.