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 Timeline of the 1990s

  • 1990-1991

    New electronic and card services for Qatar

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    In 1990 the first ever ATMs were introduced in Qatar by Commercial Bank and in 1991 Commercial Bank acquired the Diners Club franchise for Qatar and introduced the Crest Card.

  • 1992-1993

    Innovative services






    In 1992 the first point-of-sale machines were introduced in Qatar by Commercial Bank, making in-store card payments faster and more secure. In 1993 the Ladies’ Branch introduced lending against gold, opening up new possibilities for women without access to other assets.

  • 1995     

    More firsts for Qatar

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    In 1995 Commercial Bank established itself as a broker in Qatari shares. The ‘Commercial Bank of Qatari Shares Index’ became the internationally accepted yardstick for the Qatari stock market. The Bank introduced Cirrus Maestro Cards, making international debit payments possible. The first Visa Credit Card for the Qatar market was also launched. Meanwhile consultancy LoBue Associates helped to improve banking operations.

  • 1996     

    World trading

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    In 1996 Commercial Bank launched funds services, FX trading and bullion margin trading, as well as a new savings plan, the first of its kind in Qatar, which gave direct access to world equity and bond markets, through an alliance with Fidelity Investments.

  • 1997     

    New standards of service

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    In 1997 Commercial Bank launched two new customer service channels: a call centre and an online service called PC Direct. It also became the first licensed broker on the Doha Securities Market. The Bank’s rights issue and public offering were oversubscribed by a factor of six.

  • 1998-1999

    Rewarding customers
    Image courtesy of potowizard / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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    In 1998 Commercial Bank launched its first investment fund, the Tejari Guaranteed Fund. It also acquired the Diners Club franchise in Egypt. In 1999 the Tejari Guaranteed Fund 2 was introduced. Futures trading in currency and bullion also began. The same year Commercial Bank launched new loyalty programmes in the shape of Accolades Rewards and the Falconflyer programme for Visa cardholders, in partnership with Gulf Air.
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