Webster Forms Strategic e-Commerce Alliance With Combio

Sep 27, 2000

WATERBURY, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 27, 2000--Webster Bank, a Connecticut-based provider of diversified financial services, and Combio (formerly FSPNetwork Inc.), a leading provider of Internet solutions, today announced a strategic alliance designed to further Webster's Internet strategy.

With Internet solutions supported by Combio, Webster customers will not only enjoy the convenience of electronic banking, but also will have access to the latest in portal technology to view the latest news and information on finance, sports, entertainment, health, technology, travel and weather. In addition, Combio provides robust communication and scheduling tools, as well as opportunities for e-shopping at both Connecticut and national online merchants.

"Combio will help us develop e-banking solutions that will give us competitive advantage," said Fran Duggan, senior vice president of Webster's E-Business Group. "Our core strategy is to continue to bring the best of the Web to our customers."

"With Combio powering their Web strategy, Webster Bank will take a central position in the financial lives of its customers," said Fred Covely, Chairman and CEO of Combio. "For Webster Bank customers, this will be the Internet as it was meant to be - building relationships on information, personalization and anytime/anywhere convenience."

The strategic alliance with Combio follows Webster's announcement of an alliance with Princeton eCom, a leading provider of electronic bill presentment and payment services. eCom will help Webster develop faster and easier ways for customers to pay their bills electronically.

About Combio

Combio is a leader in integrating any application or data source rapidly into a private label Web site. A privately held company, Combio is headquartered in Emeryville, Calif. For more information, please visit www.combio.com, or call 1-800-355-8557.

About Webster Bank

Connecticut-based Webster Bank provides business and consumer banking, mortgage, insurance, trust and investment services through more than 110 banking offices, 200 ATMs and the Internet (www.websterbank.com). Webster's online mortgage subsidiary at www.nowlending.com on the Worldwide Web originates low-cost mortgages across the United States.

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CONTACT: Webster Bank, Waterbury
Media Contact:
Jim Kalach, 203/578-2461
jkalach@websterbank.com