UOB resumes full branch operations in Singapore

UNITED Overseas Bank (UOB) is resuming full branch operations in Singapore on Thursday with the reopening of its remaning seven branches, concluding the final phase of its safe reopening branch plan amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

All reopened branches will continue to prioritise service for elderly and vulnerable customers during the first hour of banking operations, UOB said in a statement.

Benny Chan, UOB's head of channels, group channels and digitalisation, said traffic at the bank's branches had steadily increased over the past two months since the lender began to gradually reopen its branches, as customers sought support on banking activities such as financial advisory and business needs.

"As Singapore continues to combat the spread of Covid-19, we encourage our customers to use our digital channels when possible," he added.

Mr Chan added that customers who need to visit UOB branches are encouraged to make an appointment online and to use the SMS queue service to minimise the time spent outside their homes.

The bank will maintain its precautionary measures at all branches. Visitors will be required to wear a mask, complete the SafeEntry check-in and check-out procedures, undergo temperature screening and make health and travel declarations prior to entering, UOB said.

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In addition to increasing the frequency of cleaning of branches, automated teller machines (ATMs) and auto lobbies, UOB has also applied a commercial grade self-disinfecting coating at high-touch areas, including branch counters and meeting areas within its branches and at its ATMs.

DBS on Thursday said it had also been progressively reopening its branches in a measured manner to safeguard the health and well-being of customers and employees.

Customers can visit 61 DBS/POSB branches and round-the-clock assisted digital lobbies islandwide, and withdraw cash at 850 POSB Cash-Points, including at SingPost, Sheng Siong, Giant, 7-11, Guardian Health and Beauty and Hao Mart outlets.

Shares of UOB were trading at S$19.78 as at 1.39pm, down S$0.28 or 1.4 per cent. DBS shares were trading at S$20.59, down S$0.29 or 1.4 per cent.