27 December 2022 02:04 am Views - 129
In an effort to triple its customer touch points and add unparalleled levels of banking convenience to its valuable customers, Sampath Bank has taken a significant step in the Agent Banking Model by entering into an agreement with Sri Lanka’s largest mobile network operator Dialog Axiata PLC to introduce eZ Banking.
With the opening of this new channel, in addition to Sampath Bank’s 229 strong branch network and 400+ ATMs, an additional 1,300+ eZ Cash Merchant outlets will be added to its network, resulting in the highest levels of banking convenience. Through this authorised facility, customers will be able to use this network of eZ Banking agents to make deposits and withdrawals to Sampath Bank accounts.
As eZ Banking agents operate even after normal banking hours in the country, customers with busy lifestyles will be able to eliminate the hassle associated with visiting the branch, while also saving on transport costs.
Speaking on this development, Sampath Bank PLC Managing Director Nanda Fernando said, “By adopting the agency model, Sampath Bank’s aim is to serve our customers better by bringing our financial services closer to them. Through eZ Banking, our customers will be able to reap the benefits of convenience and flexibility, regardless of their busy lifestyles. We are confident that this will be a welcome initiative by all our customers, islandwide.”
Aside from the benefits to existing customers, this initiative by Sampath Bank will serve as a catalyst in tackling a socioeconomic issue that has existed in Sri Lanka for many generations. With several underbanked social sections scattered across rural Sri Lanka, eZ Banking will open the doors to financial inclusion
across the nation.
Meanwhile, the bank is expected to benefit from reduced queues in branches, less paperwork and more productive time to invest in customers who come for complex banking transactions, while enabling cross selling opportunities. Ultimately, the bank will reap the overall benefits of growth in customer base and reduction of operational expenses with routine low value transactions being channelled
to this model.