“We are very excited to offer this unique premium product in Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Francis Hondal, vice president and general manager for the International Dollar Card in Latin America and the Caribbean. “The International Dollar Platinum Card combines the best of both worlds: it offers cardmembers the global benefits associated with our existing program and it incorporates new benefits tailored to meet the needs of preferred international customers who live in or frequent Latin America and the Caribbean.”

American Express announced it also plans to work with over 140 existing bank partners that service Latin America and the Caribbean to invite their best customers to receive the new Platinum Card.

“We have joined forces with many banks that service customers in Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Hondal. “These institutions, which include many U.S. private and international banks, want to ensure that their clients have access to the most exclusive products and services. We agree with our bank partners that the International Dollar Platinum Card is the perfect way for clients to manage their lifestyle needs.”

The International Dollar Platinum Card offers Cardmembers unrivalled benefits and services, including:

Exclusive Platinum Servicing Unit: International Dollar Platinum Cardholders will enjoy continuous access (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) to a dedicated, highly specialized group of American Express representatives that will service their every need, in English or Spanish.

International Airline Program: International Dollar Platinum Cardholders will automatically be enrolled in the International Airline Program and will enjoy access to complimentary overseas companion tickets and roundtrip upgrades on many participating airlines.

Airport VIP Lounges: International Dollar Platinum Cardmembers will also enjoy unrestricted access to over 400 airport VIP clubs and lounges through "Priority Pass", which will ensure that travel is comfortable for the cardholder as well as any additional cardholders on the account. In these lounges, International Dollar Platinum Cardmembers will enjoy complimentary refreshments, private telephones, fax machines copiers and meeting rooms.

Membership Rewards Program: International Dollar Platinum Cardmembers will receive complimentary membership in one of the world's most generous rewards programs, which will allow them to redeem points from a wide array of rewards options, including free flights, hotel stays, and a wide variety of gifts.

Platinum Travel Assistance: International Dollar Platinum Cardholders will have access to the special Platinum Travel Assistance Program, which will provide them with complimentary medical assistance and coverage as well as legal assistance and luggage protection during their travels worldwide.

Concierge Service: Unrestricted access to the American Express Company's renowned Platinum Concierge Service is also provided to International Dollar Platinum Cardholders. This program has been designed to ensure that preferred clients receive valuable assistance for both personal and business needs, including restaurant referrals and reservations, information regarding upcoming events, and location of unique gifts.

Platinum Travel Service: The International Dollar Platinum Cardmembers will also have access to a global, full service travel agency, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, with assistance in English or Spanish.

Additional Benefits: With the International Dollar Platinum Card, Cardmembers will also enjoy several benefits that are available to current Platinum Cardmembers, including no preset spending limit, complimentary additional cards, and a year-end summary.

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 and international banking.