FCIB wins best bank award for the fifth time

Bridgetown, Barbados, April 16, 2008 – FirstCaribbean International Bank continues to be picked out by external commentators as “First”. The Bank won the award for “Best Bank in Barbados” for 2008 from Global Finance Magazine.{{more}} This marks the fifth consecutive year that Barbados has scooped the award.

Global Finance editors, in conjunction with industry analysts, corporate executives and banking consultants, selected the best emerging market banks across the globe. Criteria for choosing the winners included growth in assets, profitability, strategic relationships, customer service, competitive pricing, and innovative products.

“Emerging markets are attracting increased attention as the global economy expands. We have identified the banks that provide service to corporations seeking to take advantage of substantial opportunities for growth in a sometimes challenging environment,” observed publisher and president of Global Finance Joseph D. Giarraputo.

Managing Director, Barbados, Oliver Jordan, in expressing his elation, noted that the award is indeed significant cause for celebration. “This award is excellent testimony to the cadre of talent that resides in our Bank. Over the past few years our efforts at re-engineering and re-energising the Barbados business have been steadfast and our strategic vision and the dedication of our staff during this transformation process has reaped tremendous dividends. I am proud of their efforts and this makes this five-time award extra special.”

His comments have been endorsed by Chief Executive Officer Charles Pink, who observed that despite the global economic climate, FirstCaribbean continues to weather the storm and maintain its reputation as trendsetter. “The award is pleasing independent affirmation that we are what we aim to be: First – the best Financial services organisation in the Caribbean. At our recently concluded ceremony for our Player of the Series winners for 2007, I took the opportunity, as I again do now, to thank all of our staff for helping us to achieve fantastic results. That we continue to do well notwithstanding a tough external environment is tribute to our staff: when the going gets tough the tough get going! Congratulations to the Barbados operating company for a job well done!”