Thought Leadership
2008
"In This Time of Uncertainty, Your Bank is Doing Something. It's Growing."
An update from Ed Clark, President and CEO of TD Bank Financial Group, for our customers, employees, and shareholders
November 1, 2008
Written by
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Recently, we've all seen how world markets can react in unexpected ways, sometimes dramatically. While no one knows just how long this current uncertainty will last, we do know that our approach to our business hasn't changed, nor has our focus.
That focus has allowed our company to remain strong despite the current economic climate. And it's also why we have some very good news to share with you about our recent and successful expansion into the United States.
Building The First Truly North American Bank.
In 2005, we started our journey in the U.S. with the acquisition of TD Banknorth - a leading retail financial institution in the northeastern United States with an excellent service reputation. This past March, we acquired another outstanding bank in the region, Commerce Bank, with over 450 branches from New Haven to Miami.
Today we're proud to launch these two great brands in the United States under a new name: TD Bank - America's Most Convenient Bank. The transformation begins now, and by Fall 2009 all 1,100 locations in the U.S. will proudly bear the unmistakable green TD sign.
Here in Canada, our network of over 1,000 TD Canada Trust branches will continue to offer you a uniquely comfortable banking experience. And now, from Victoria to St. John's, Maine to Florida, you'll find over 2,100 locations and 70,000 people focused on one thing - delivering exceptional customer service. The first truly North American bank, founded on comfort and convenience for you.
#1 In Customer Satisfaction.
Commerce Bank has been rated "Highest in Customer Satisfaction in Retail Banking in the Mid-Atlantic Region" of the United States by J.D. Power and Associates1, winning three years in a row. With so many competitive banks in the U.S., to be recognized for the best service so consistently is a remarkable achievement.
By coincidence, three years is exactly how long TD Canada Trust has been ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction among the Big Five Retail Banks" by J.D. Power and Associates2in Canada as well. Of course, it's not really a coincidence. It's about a company-wide commitment and the outstanding efforts of our TD employees.
Consistent And Uncompromising.
Through a conservative and disciplined approach to managing our company, we're in the position to take advantage of opportunities unavailable to other organizations. TD Bank Financial Group is one of only seven of the world's top 40 banks to be rated "Aaa" by Moody's3. In fact, of all the banks in Barron's Magazine's most recent Top 500, TD Bank Financial Group scored highest4.
It all goes back to that commitment we make to our clients and customers every day: to offer an unparalleled level of service and convenience. It's how your bank has continued to prosper, and, even in this uncertain time, to grow.
We look to the future with optimism and enthusiasm. To our customers, our shareholders, and all the people who are part of the TD team, the best is yet to come.
Ed Clark
TD Bank Financial Group