MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Oct. 20, 2011) - National Bank (TSX:NA) is pleased to announce that it has been named to the list of the "50 Best Employers in Canada" for a 7^th year. The Bank rises this year to the 41^th position, seven steps up from last year's ranking. The list, compiled annually by Hewitt Associates, recognizes companies with human resources practices that strengthen employee commitment and engagement.

"I am very proud of the fact that the Bank has once again made the list of Canada's 50 Best Employers, and would like to thank employees for their vote of confidence in earning us this recognition," said Louis Vachon, President and Chief Executive Officer of National Bank. "National Bank is committed to listening to its employees and implementing management practices that allow them to reach their full potential. This honour encourages us to pursue our efforts in this regard."

National Bank has participated in this survey since it was initiated and uses the results obtained to adapt its human resources practices and remain an employer of choice in Canada year after year.

The list is based on a survey of employees, business leaders and human resources professionals from the participating organizations and is a testimony to National Bank's constant commitment to fostering its employees' engagement.

About National Bank of Canada

National Bank of Canada is an integrated group that provides comprehensive financial services to consumers, small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations in its core market, while offering specialized services to its clients elsewhere in the world. National Bank offers a full array of banking services, including retail, corporate and investment banking. It is an active player on international capital markets and, through its subsidiaries, is involved in securities brokerage, insurance and wealth management as well as mutual fund and retirement plan management. National Bank has over $153 billion in assets and, together with its subsidiaries, employs 19,217 people. The Bank's securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:NA). For more information, visit the Bank's website at [ www.nbc.ca ]. To access National Bank's financial education portal, visit [ www.clearfacts.ca ].

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