MONTREAL, April 15, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - National Bank held its annual meeting of shareholders today at the Bank's head office in Montreal. Founded in Quebec City in 1859, National Bank has been an active player in Montreal's development for nearly 145 years.

Solid performance

During the meeting, Louis Vachon, President and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted National Bank's solid performance in fiscal 2015 and the first quarter of 2016. In addition to delivering a sound performance across all business segments and increasing loan and investment volumes, the Bank continued to invest in technology in order to better serve its clients.

Clearly defined drivers of growth

Over the next quarters, National Bank will pursue its business priorities focusing on three main drivers of growth.

• Technological investments
  Building on a multi-channel offering that complements an increasingly modern branch network centred on technology and advisory services.
• Targeted expansion across Canada
  Continuing to develop the services National Bank is noted for, especially in Western Canada, such as private banking, government financing, infrastructure financing and specialized markets for business, e.g., agriculture, healthcare, film and television.
• A structured approach to international development
  Strengthening the Bank's presence in certain geographical markets with attractive long‑term growth potential, including Asia and Africa.

Significant impact on social issues

National Bank continues to act as a driver of social and economic development. The Bank is firmly committed to promoting entrepreneurship and supports a large number of organizations and initiatives, helping to forge ties between education and the private sector.

In addition to being a strong advocate for the advancement of women, the Bank is also committed to cultural diversity. "The integration of newcomers to Canada is achieved not only through family and education, but also through work, which is why National Bank is taking action," said Louis Vachon, President and Chief Executive Officer. "In some teams, as many as 40% of our employees are from different cultural communities. And we will continue to champion diversity over the coming years. The human dimension will remain a key differentiating factor in the banking sector, especially in a context of technological change."

About National Bank of Canada
With $219 billion in assets as at January 31, 2016, National Bank of Canada, together with its subsidiaries, forms one of Canada's leading integrated financial groups. The Bank has close to 20,000 employees and is widely recognized as a top employer. The Bank's securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA). Follow the Bank's activities at nbc.ca or via social media such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

SOURCE National Bank of Canada