Standard Chartered launches much awaited Working Capital Management Guide globally in Bahrain

Guide shares industry best practice and critical insights for business success in Asia, Africa and the Middle East

6 March 2008, Manama - Standard Chartered today announced the launch of the 'Standard Chartered - Working Capital Management in Asia; Asia, Africa and the Middle East 2008/09' guidebook, to share critical business and regulatory insights for doing business in these emerging market regions.

The book is the second edition in a series, looking at topics ranging from technology, security, electronic delivery channels and Basel compliance. In addition, the guide also carries articles examining China's relationships with Africa and the Middle East and the opportunities and issues within these major trade corridors. This second edition has now also been expanded to cover Central and South Asia with specific analysis on Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Standard Chartered Bank is well placed to share these insights. The Bank has been doing business in the Asian, African and Middle East markets for over 150 years. The bank is recognized in these regions as being one of the oldest international banks with an extensive domestic presence as well as cross border network, all focused on providing the best services for clients, for and in these regions.

Martin Fish, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank Bahrain said:

"Standard Chartered Bahrain is for the first time launching the Working Capital Management guide in Bahrain. The guide is a testament to Standard Chartered's commitment to the continuing economic success for Asia, Africa and the Middle East in decades to come, which reflects in the Bank's unique network & footprint across Asia, Africa & the Middle East. As the demand for international trade continues to grow in Bahrain, Standard Chartered's established presence in Asia, Africa and the Middle East makes the Bank ideally placed to offer advice and support to organizations operating in these areas. We are the Right Partner, leading by example.

"With the challenges brought about by the credit crunch and global economic outlook, corporates are facing greater challenges in meeting their financing goals in relation to their overseas operations and supply chain finance. We believe the publication of this Working Capital Management Guide will help companies better understand the business and regulatory environment in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, putting them in a stronger position to not only navigate these challenging times but also find solutions to optimize their business operations.

Standard Chartered is a forerunner in Supply Chain Management and has strong expertise and networks in the emerging markets of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Coupled with our depth of knowledge and our longevity across these key emerging markets, we are therefore truly well-positioned to offer our expertise and guidance in this area, added Martin ?

Standard Chartered Bank aims to be the number one transaction bank for corporate and institutional clients based or operating in the Asia, African and Middle Eastern regions. It offers its Corporate and Institutional clients a full suite of working capital solutions encompassing Cash Management, Securities Services and Trade Services.

For further information, please contact:

Nimmi Kamal
Head Corporate Affairs Bahrain, Standard Chartered Bank
Tel: +973 3977 076
E-mail: Nimmi.Kamal@sc.com

Notes to Editors

About Transaction Banking

As part of the Bank's Wholesale Banking business for Corporates and Institutions, Transaction Banking provides Cash Management, Securities Services and Trade Services to clients for and in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The business provides a full suite of transactional products and also serves as a bridge to these markets for clients from the U.S and Europe. A leading provider of Transaction Banking services, some highlights of the Bank's external recognition are as follows:

• Top 4 Cash Management Bank globally in Euromoney's Cash Management Poll
• Top-Rated Sub-Custodian by Global Custodian magazine
• Best Structured Trade Finance Bank by The Asset magazine
• Best Bank for Liquidity Management in Africa by Global Finance

Standard Chartered - leading the way in Asia, Africa and the Middle East

Standard Chartered PLC, listed on both the London Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, ranks among the top 25 companies in the FTSE-100 by market capitalisation. The London-headquartered group has operated for over 150 years in some of the world's most dynamic markets, leading the way in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Its income and the number of employees have more than doubled over the last five years primarily as a result of organic growth and supplemented by acquisitions.

Standard Chartered aspires to be the best international bank in its markets through leading by example to be the right partner for its stakeholders. The group now employs 73,000 people, representing 115 nationalities, in more than 1,700 branches and outlets located in over 70 countries. The bank derives more than 90 per cent of its operating income and profits from Asia, Africa and the Middle East, with balanced income derived from both Wholesale and Consumer Banking.

The group is committed to building a sustainable business over the long term and is trusted worldwide for upholding high standards of corporate governance, social responsibility, environmental protection and employee diversity. For more information, please visit: www.standardchartered.com