I do not mean to be abrasive to your post, Mr. Gardner. I should have just responded that I do not agree with your assesment of SFNB's investment potential.
I have an account with my credit union that I access through the internet. The site allows me to view my accounts, i.e., savings, checking, charge cards, etc. It also allows me to transfer funds between accounts and I believe make monthly scheduled payment on utility bills. I have not explored that option yet. The software was developed in-house and for the most part was created in Java. Previously, when I needed information on my account, I punched my requests through the telephone keypad. Now, I can easily determine where I am with my credit union account. Among other things, I also access my Schwab account through the internet to place trades. Again, I used to punch the telephone keypad to place trades using Schwab's Telebroker. Not anymore.
Looking at sfnb.com, I can tell you that it is a lot more integrated and surprisingly, easier to use. In my opinion, Internet banking is a crucial part if a bank is to have a nationwide presence. The recent banking deregulation and bank mergers make internet banking all the more important. I think SFNB is in a pivotal position at this juncture. The recent interest by other financial institutions tells me that this is just the first round of investments in this company. I'm definitely in for the long haul.
The personal computer revolutionized the accounting, printing, media, and communication industries. The banking industry is next in this revolution. In the future, there will come a time when internet banking will allow me to open accounts in foreign countries. I will then have the ability to park my money in countries that have higher paying interest rate, wire money to a different country when the situation warrants it, and convert my money into a more stable foreign currency. All from the safety and comfort of my home in whatever country that may be. I await with bated breath.
PS. For the record, I am not "hartley," whoever he may be. I have read his postings and the threads run-in with him.
Also, I submitted this message earlier, but somehow it did not go through. |