Himalayan Bank, AmEx launch Gold Credit Cards

HIMALAYAN Bank Limited (HBL) and American Express on Thursday launched the Himalayan Bank American Express Gold Credit Card in Nepal. Ashoke SJB Rana, chief

executive officer of HBL, and Pranav Barthwal, vice president - global merchant service and partner card services, India and area countries, American Express Banking Corporation, introduced the new card service amid a programme in Kathmandu on Thursday. Speaking at the launching ceremony, Rana said that the card would be available in two variants, the Himalayan Bank American Express Gold Credit Card Domestic (which is valid in Nepal and India) and the Himalayan Bank American Express Gold Credit Card International for outside Nepal and India. “We are pleased to partner with American Express in Nepal to launch the American Express Gold Credit Cards. Our partnership with American Express is based on our mutual belief and commitment in bringing unparalleled value to our customers. The American Express Gold Credit Cards will provide customers with a world-class opportunity to extract the best out of life,” Rana said. Likewise, Barthwal said, “Our expertise, coupled with HBL’s local strength will make for a very powerful combination and a superior product that will help us meet a surging need of affluent consumers in Nepal. We are confident that American Express Cards will be well received by customers in Nepal.” HBL has stated that the domestic American Express Gold Credit Card service offers card member’s savings of up to 20 percent on dining and up to 15 percent on shopping and hotels and spa. Card members will also enjoy privileged access to world-class golf facilities in Nepal and complimentary access to Radisson lounge at International airport in Kathmandu and altitude lounge in domestic airports in Delhi and Mumbai. For getting the card, customers will have to make payment of Rs 2,000 and it can be renewed annually by paying Rs 1,000. Likewise, the international American Express Gold Credit Card offers complimentary membership to the priority pass programme that gives access to 600 VIP airport lounges around the world. Card members will also enjoy great savings and discounts on shopping, dining and travel with the American Express Global Selects. The card is powered by the American Express Global Assist Services offering card members access to travel medical and legal assistance. Customers will have to pay US$ 35 to get the card initially and pay US$ 25 annually for renewing it.