MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(MARKET WIRE)--Jul 21, 2008 -- National Bank Financial Group has announced that it is reducing the maximum amortization on new mortgage loans to 35 years effective immediately.

In so doing, National Bank Financial Group has taken the initiative to align itself with the federal government's new rules for government-backed mortgage loans, ahead of the October 15, 2008 deadline.

About National Bank of Canada

National Bank of Canada is an integrated group which provides comprehensive financial services to consumers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations in its core market, while offering specialized services to its clients elsewhere in the world. The National Bank offers a full array of banking services, including retail, corporate and investment banking. It is an active player on international capital markets and, through its subsidiaries, is involved in securities brokerage, insurance and wealth management as well as mutual fund and retirement plan management. National Bank has more than $123 billion in assets and, together with its subsidiaries, employs 17,093 people. The Bank's securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (Toronto:NA.TO - News). For more information, visit the Bank's website at www.nbc.ca.

The telephone number provided below is for the exclusive use of journalists and other media representatives.

     Contacts:
     National Bank Financial Group
     Denis Dube
     Director, Public Relations
     514-394-8644