ABN AMRO and First Data Team up to Provide Global Payment Processing

Global merchants can now benefit from a one-stop solution for card transactions in international markets and major currencies, thanks to a five-year merchant acquiring and processing relationship between ABN AMRO and First Data Corp. (NYSE: FDC).

Under the agreement, First Data will deliver global payment processing services to worldwide merchants, and ABN AMRO will provide merchants access via its global transaction banking network to card and payment systems and banking services throughout Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. It is anticipated that the service will be rolled out from the second quarter of 2006 and fully implemented by 2007.

The agreement leverages ABN AMRO’s global presence, scale and payments expertise and First Data’s processing capabilities, scale and flexible processing platform, for the benefit of a mutual client base. Merchants will also have access to ABN AMRO’s full suite of transaction banking solutions, including payments, treasury and investment management and trade services.

“First Data is a global leader in merchant acquiring and we are delighted to partner with them in this venture, which provides a blueprint for cost-effective merchant acquiring and processing going forward,” said Ann Cairns, Chief Executive Officer, Transaction Banking, ABN AMRO.

Pam Patsley, President, First Data International, said: “In ABN AMRO we have a true global partner to mutually grow our business, and provide merchants with a solution that meets the evolving needs of conducting business across borders. This strategic agreement strengthens our ability to offer payment services to virtually anyone, anywhere and provides versatile payment options for merchants worldwide.”

The agreement covers MasterCard and Visa transactions outside the United States.

ABN AMRO will also be providing global treasury and funds transfer services to First Data.