News Releases

As it continues to look at how it can help in the aftermath of the Tsunami tragedy, BMO Financial Group today announced that it will increase its corporate donation to support the Canadian Red Cross relief efforts in South East and South Asia from $75,000 to $150,000.

In addition, BMO will match its employee contributions, up to $100,000, bringing its total contribution to $250,000.

BMO is also collecting donations for the relief efforts through both its Canadian and U.S. branch networks (BMO Bank of Montreal in Canada and Harris Bank in the United States.) Customers who cannot visit branches are also able to make donations online through a link on bmo.com homepage.

As well, in order to assist customers who wish to send drafts or fund transfers directly to relatives or other affected individuals or agencies in the Tsunami impacted regions, BMO is waiving all fees or charges related to these transactions. This program will remain in effect until at least January 31, 2005.

Established in 1817 as Bank of Montreal, BMO Financial Group is a highly diversified North American financial services organization. BMO serves clients across Canada and the United States through its Canadian retail arm BMO Bank of Montreal; Chicago-based Harris, a major U.S. mid-west financial services organization; BMO Nesbitt Burns, one of Canada's leading full-service investment firms; and Harris Nesbitt, its U.S. investment and corporate banking operation.

-30-