FNB innovates in the Telecommunications market

First National Bank (FNB) today announced the launch of FNB Connect, a new innovation that will enable its customers to save up to 50% on their telephone and Internet costs.

FNB Connect offers online Voice (Voice Over Internet Protocol) and Data products that provides customers flexibility and control over their spend, resulting in FNB consumers saving significantly on communication costs. FNB Connect is a pre-paid easy to use offering with no contracts or penalties.

In the current economic climate, consumers are looking for ways to save money and FNB is challenging the status quo by providing voice calls and data at affordable rates.

“FNB is the first South African bank to enter this space, by offering competitively priced call rates,” says Michael Jordaan, FNB Chief Executive Officer. “We shall always remain competitive and we will continue to offer the best prices to our clients,” adds Jordaan.

“FNB has always been at the forefront of innovation having already created FNB’s messaging service, inContact and the bank’s unique Cellphone Banking offering. FNB Connect is yet another step in fulfilling our brand promise of helping our customers,” says Carmen Roux, FNB Connect Chief Executive Officer.

FNB Connect provides a range of “Talk” and “Surf” products. “Talk” products will enable FNB customers to reduce their telephone call costs both in cellphone and landline usage.

FNB Connect can be easily accessed on a PC or cellphone via a free software application developed by FNB (“Digital Phone”). This enables calls and SMSs at low rates and IM (instant message) for free, as well as international calls for as little as 31c.

With FNB Connect’s “Surf” product, ADSL users are able to purchase prepaid data and carry over data for up to 12 months.

“Companies that will thrive in the current environment are those that find creative ways to add value to their customers while integrating global trends. We believe FNB Connect provides this offering,” adds Roux.