News

Wells Fargo adds Korean, Vietnamese language screens to webATM machines.

March 16, 2005

SAN FRANCISCO - Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) has added Korean and Vietnamese language screens to its entire network of over 6,200 webATM machines.

According to a news release, Wells Fargo customers who use webATM machines can now choose to have their transaction screens displayed in one of six languages -- English, Spanish, Chinese, Hmong, Korean and Vietnamese.

The bank recently completed the conversion of its entire ATM network to a Microsoft Windows-based platform, which makes it easier to introduce new features such as multiple language options. In addition to the language options, webATM machines feature customizable fast-cash amounts and receipt preferences, access to 22 financial accounts and voice instructions for the visually impaired in both English and Spanish.

According to U.S. Census 2000 data, there are more than 2.4 million Korean and Vietnamese Americans living in the United States today and 94 percent of them have a strong preference for in-language communications -- the highest rate among all Asian segments.

"Wells Fargo's vision is to help our customers succeed financially. This includes a commitment to recognizing the cultural preferences of the diverse communities where we do business, and acting upon those desired needs," said Jonathan Velline, Wells Fargo's head of of ATM Banking.  "Adding Korean and Vietnamese language screens to our ATMs helps us better serve the business and personal banking needs of two of our fastest growing diverse segments."

According to the release, Wells Fargo also has a team of bilingual, bicultural bankers available to serve Korean and Vietnamese customers in many of its markets. The company has also tailored and created programs to serve their educational needs, including bilingual workshops on money management and educational brochures.