MasterCard and BANKFIRST Introduce the Usher Raymond IV Debit MasterCard Card

Business Wire, July 29, 2004

PURCHASE, N.Y. -- Debit MasterCard Affinity Card Will Feature Likeness of Usher, the Grammy(R) Award-Winning Recording Artist and Business Entrepreneur

MasterCard International and BANKFIRST unveiled the Usher Raymond IV Debit MasterCard Card. Beginning today, consumers and Usher fans can call 1.888.USHERMC or log on to www.ushermc.com to register and learn more about the first affinity card to feature the likeness of Usher Raymond IV.

The Usher Raymond IV Debit MasterCard enables its user to prepay or store money in a financial account that can be accessed for purchases, bill payment, or ATM cash withdrawals. The Usher Debit MasterCard is ideal for Usher fans, and provides exclusive access to "The World of Usher," which offers merchandise discounts and concert tickets. The Usher Debit MasterCard is also well-suited for consumers underserved by traditional financial institutions. Prepaid debit cards have proven a smart payment option for the millions of adults in the United States who may not qualify for a credit card or hold a checking account.

"This past year has been a year of real growth and change for me, so I felt that this was the perfect time for me to step it up in the business world," said Usher Raymond IV. "As an entertainer, I make music for everyone, and I wanted the same mindset to apply to all my business ventures. That's why I'm so excited to work with MasterCard to launch the Usher Raymond IV Debit MasterCard which will financially empower people."

"With the Usher Raymond IV Debit MasterCard, Usher's fans have a great way to connect with their favorite entertainer and business entrepreneur, all while enjoying the payment flexibility enabled by a MasterCard card," said Bill Mathis, senior vice president, Member Relations, MasterCard International. "Cardholders gain access to financial benefits others might take for granted, such as simplified money handling, budget tracking, bill payment and everyday purchasing power."

The Usher Debit MasterCard is accepted at millions of locations worldwide, and includes optional cash access through the Cirrus ATM network worldwide. The card can be reloaded with additional funds, and if subject to loss, theft or fraud, MasterCard Zero Liability protection applies. BANKFIRST will issue the card and hold the financial account. Platinum Financial Group, an authorized representative of BANKFIRST, will manage product marketing.

"The Usher Debit MasterCard provides a platform for financial freedom, bringing its cardholder into the financial mainstream, by delivering the security, conveniences and benefits commonly associated with carrying a MasterCard card," said George Lund, chief executive officer, BANKFIRST. "We are excited to make this card available to Usher enthusiasts worldwide."

The Usher Raymond IV Debit MasterCard Card can be purchased by calling 1.888.USHERMC or visit www.ushermc.com to register and learn more about the product. The card can be loaded with funds by using cash, check, credit card, debit card, direct payment from a personal banking account, or direct deposit from an employer. The card is not a credit card, rather users access only the funds that are loaded or stored in the prepaid account. Consumers will incur a one-time $9.95 charge to obtain the card, and a $10.00 activation fee, put toward shipping and handling costs. Other terms and conditions apply.

About BANKFIRST

BANKFIRST is a privately-held service financial group with approximately 1,000 employees across operations in South Dakota, Minnesota and Arizona. A pioneer in the emerging prepaid industry, the company offers a wide range of services, supporting hundreds of clients and issuing hundreds of thousands of prepaid cards, including personal use cards, gift cards, FSA cards, payroll cards, and others. In addition to prepaid services, the company provides customers nationwide with high interest deposit accounts and credit card products. Please visit www.bankfirstpaysys.com for more information.

About MasterCard International

MasterCard International is a leading global payments solutions company that provides a broad variety of innovative services in support of our global members' credit, deposit access, electronic cash, business-to-business and related payment programs. MasterCard International manages a family of well-known, widely accepted payment card brands including MasterCard(R), Maestro(R) and Cirrus(R) and serves financial institutions, consumers and businesses in over 210 countries and territories. The MasterCard award-winning Priceless(R) advertising campaign is now seen in 96 countries and in 47 languages, giving the MasterCard brand a truly global reach and scope. For more information go to www.mastercardinternational.com.