HNB launches 'combo' card

Hatton National Bank recently launched HNB One, a NFC (Near Field Communication) enabled card to strengthen the multi-channel banking strategy the bank is pursuing.

The NFC-enabled 'combo' card facilitates speed in transactions and can be used at fast checkout counters for greater customer convenience. The multiple applications include toll payments in the transport industry, drive-through areas of fast food outlets and fuel stations. HNB, COO Dilshan Rodrigo said that 'HNB One' will serve several purposes - as an ATM card, debit or shopping card and in the future an access control card all in one, which relieves customers from carrying many cards, hence lighter on the purse.

The transaction process is simple with a quick 'tap and go' function. HNB has obtained Central Bank approval to embark on this project. The bank will also support replacing its extensive Point of Sale (POS) network with NFC-enabled machines for merchants in the near future, he said.

'HNB One' is also the first combo card to be launched in the market where customers can access their savings and current accounts at HNB and their prepaid account for fast check out payments. Fund transfers can also be made between normal accounts and prepaid accounts through the extensive ATM and branch network, Rodrigo said. HNB with Bharti Airtel, Smart Metro and Sony Felicia will also launch e-ticketing for buses. The pilot project will be launched in long distance buses in the Southern Province, operating under the Matara Passenger Transport Company Ltd.