OCBC searches for China advertising partner

SHANGHAI - OCBC Bank is believed to have shortlisted agencies to handle its China advertising business, following the Singapore-based company's expansion into the domestic mainland banking market.

According to sources at least two agencies - Y&R and Euro RSCG - have been shortlisted to present, following an initial credentials phase. Y&R currently handles OCBC’s regional creative business out of Singapore.

The pitch comes after OCBC became the second Singapore bank to obtain approval to operate a locally incorporated bank, launching OCBC (China) in early August with branches planned for Guangzhou, Chengdu, Tianjin, Xiamen and Beijing. OCBC representatives did not respond to request for comment.