New Edition of the "Virtual Advisor for Enterprises" CD-ROM a unique initiative of National Bank of Canada

National Bank of Canada is proud to announce the launch of a new edition of its "Virtual Advisor for Enterprises" CD-ROM, designed for small and medium-sized enterprises. Since the first version was launched on December 8, 1998, information technology has advanced and the Internet has gained in popularity among individuals and businesses alike. The new version of the "Virtual Advisor for Enterprises" reflects these developments, as well as the needs that have emerged as a result. This CD-ROM is available at all National Bank branches.

Some of the new features of the updated "Virtual Advisor for Enterprises" include a strategic plan – software for complete strategic planning – and an Internet directory designed to help SMEs use the Internet more effectively.

The second generation of the "Virtual Advisor for Enterprises" also contains all the properties and programs of the first version: a complete guide for preparing a business plan (which can be adapted for both start-up companies and existing enterprises looking to expand their operations), as well as a software package to simplify accounting, transfer funds, check account balances online, and manage payroll and human resources. Like its predecessor, the new version has clear, detailed, handy information on all the services available to SMEs through the National Bank and its financial network.

The new edition of the "Virtual Advisor for Enterprises" CD-ROM reaffirms the National Bank's commitment to developing information technology and supporting the efforts of SMEs in integrating technology into their existing work methods to assure their success.

National Bank of Canada is an integrated group whose mission is to provide comprehensive financial services to consumers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations in its core market, while offering specialized services to its clients elsewhere in the world. The National Bank offers a full array of banking services, including all the investment banking services required by large corporations. It is an active player on international capital markets and, through its subsidiaries, is involved in securities brokerage, insurance and wealth management as well as mutual fund and retirement plan management. The National Bank has assets of over $70 billion and, together with its subsidiaries, it employs over 17,000 people. The Bank's shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

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