`Online SBI' launched

The State Bank of India has announced the introduction of internet banking facilities from August 1. Called `Online SBI', it will be launched initially from eight branches in five cities.

Targeted mainly at retail customers, the facility will be first available in Mumbai, New Delhi, Calcutta, Chennai and Bangalore. The facility will enable clients to get information about their accounts through the Internet. The initial services available will be limited to viewing account balances, transaction details, downloading of statements and a mail option for sending messages to the branch.