Reflecting
Financial Service Online (10/00) Vol. 5, No. 10 p.34; Makos, Jeffrey J.
Many of today's financial services companies are
offering "personalized" Web sites, featuring information such as
news, weather, stock research, and search engines. The San
Francisco-based mortgage site iOwn.com, for example, features a
list of links to consumer service sites. Some of these links
include comparison quotes for homeowners insurance, quotes on
auto and life insurance, facts on home inspection, and assistance
with address changes. Personalization trends have also taken off
among online brokerages. MySchwab is a customized page tailored
to both customers and non-customers. The page features
personalized information such as access to breaking stories,
watch lists, general business news, sports, and travel
destinations. MySchwab is easy to use, and visitors can choose
what they want on the page using a personalization form. The
advent of Internet banking and bill paying has prompted many
banks to develop personalized Web sites, as well. Central
Carolina Bank's online venture myCCB has a firm foundation of
traditional banking services. myCCB also offers insurance
products, investment options, and trust services. Developed in
just seven months, myCCB gives its customers quick access to
their banking information, personalized finance tools, financial
calculators, credit report requests, and stock quotes.