Desjardins Group ranked 4th safest North American financial institution

MONTREAL, Sept. 2 /CNW Telbec/ - Desjardins Group, the largest cooperative financial group in Canada, has improved its "World's 50 Safest Banks" ranking to 25^th from 26^th in the world and ranks 4^th among the top 10 safest financial institutions in North America, according to the Global Finance's 2010 survey.

For its 19^th edition, Global Finance, based in New York City, compared the long-term credit ratings from Moody's, Standard & Poor's and Fitch, and total assets of the 500 largest banks from around the world. The survey has become a reliable tool for investors and consumers alike, especially in light of the recent world-wide financial crisis.

Desjardins Group's ranking is a reflection of its role as a leader of financial responsibility across Canada and the world. "Having sound management policies has been the backbone of our business for 110 years," said Monique F. Leroux, Chair of the Board, President and CEO of Desjardins Group. "We also pride ourselves for being one of the best capitalized financial institutions in Canada. By maintaining our capital ratios well beyond the thresholds recommended by regulatory authorities, we are building a foundation of sustainable prosperity from which future generations will benefit."

About Desjardins Group

Desjardins Group is the largest cooperative financial group in Canada and the sixth largest in the world, with assets of over $173 billion. Drawing on the strength of its caisse network in Québec and Ontario, and its subsidiaries across Canada, it offers a full range of financial products and services to its 5.8 million members and clients. Desjardins specializes in Wealth Management and Life and Health Insurance, in Property and Casualty insurance, in Personal Services, in Business and Institutional Services. As one of the largest employers in the country, Desjardins is supported by the skills of its 42,200 employees and the commitment of over 6,200 elected officers. For more information, visit www.desjardins.com.

For further information:

Source (for journalists only):

Sarah Twomey
Media Relations Advisor
Desjardins Group
[phone], ext. 2015
1 877 906-5551, ext. 2015