The convertible debt securities were offered only to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Neither the convertible debt securities nor the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and until so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States or any state absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements.

This announcement is neither an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to buy the convertible debt securities or any other securities and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

American Express Company is a diversified worldwide travel, financial and network services company founded in 1850. It is a world leader in charge and credit cards, Travelers Cheques, travel, financial planning, business services, insurance, on-line brokerage and international banking.

This release contains forward-looking statements about American Express Company’s intention to raise funds from the sale of convertible debentures and its expectations about the use of those funds, which statements are indicated by the words "will," "plan," "expect" and similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise such forward-looking statements.