Jun 11, 2009

CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- High-net-worth consumers rated BB&T Wealth Management as the top regional bank wealth manager and No. 3 nationally in the Luxury Institute's 2009 Luxury Brand Status Index survey.

The New York City-based Luxury Institute said survey respondents - with a minimum of $2 million in investable assets - preferred BB&T because of consistent delivery of superior quality products and services and for making clients feel special across the full customer experience. Respondents described BB&T Wealth Management as "professional," "likeable," "knowledgeable" and "trustworthy providers of quality service."

"We are honored to be ranked the No. 1 regional wealth manager for two consecutive years, and to be among the top three national wealth managers this year," said David Fisher, manager of BB&T's Wealth Division. "We strive to be the most admired and trusted wealth advisory partner in the industry and these results validate our strategy."

BB&T's Wealth Management clients typically include individuals or families with at least $1 million in assets to invest or at least $5 million in net worth. The client base includes owners of closely-held businesses, senior corporate executives, professionals, and individuals and families wanting to transfer wealth.

"It's gratifying to achieve this ranking," said Eric Housman, BB&T Wealth Management sales and service director. "It shows high-net-worth consumers appreciate that we really listen to their wealth management needs and customize plans to help them achieve their individual goals."

The Luxury Brand Status Index survey ranks the nation's top 31 money managers. For more information on the Luxury Institute, visit www.LuxuryInstitute.com.

BB&T's Wealth Management Division is divided into 27 regional teams, each with its own director, throughout BB&T's 11-state territory. The division has more than $18.4 billion in assets under management.

BB&T's Wealth Management division serves as a one-stop provider of five primary services: financial advice, investment, fiduciary, insurance and traditional banking.

With $143.4 billion in assets, Winston-Salem, N.C.-based BB&T Corporation (NYSE: BBT) is the nation's 10th largest financial holding company. Founded in 1872, it operates more than 1,500 financial centers in 11 states and Washington, D.C. More information about the company is available at BBT.com.

SOURCE: BB&T Corporation

Web site: http://www.bbt.com/