Citigroup announced a new mobile browser-based application that lets customers receive notifications and authorize payments via their mobile phones. According to the announcement, the application, called CitiDirect BE Mobile, has been made available to more than 50,000 clients and 300,000 users worldwide.

Citigroup said the new app is being released through its Global Transactions unit and was developed by Citi Innovation Lab Dublin. The company said the new app brings core transaction functionality from its CitiDirect Online Banking platform, including SMS alerts and authorization of payments pending approval, directly to clients' mobile phones, basically providing a separate online channel.

"In today's marketplace, clients increasingly need the ability to connect and access real-time information wherever they are," said Tomasz Smilowicz, Global Head of Mobile Solutions for Citi's Global Transaction Services unit, in the announcement. "CitiDirect BE Mobile provides this convenience and further reinforces our commitment to mobile and to delivering innovative solutions that are consistent with new business models."

Citigroup said the new app is already live in 24 countries will be rolled-out globally throughout the remainder of the year to more than 100 markets.

Citi's Global Head of Treasury and Trade Solutions, Naveed Sultan, said the company's global footprint will allow it to penetrate markets both deep and wide in bringing mobile access to Citi's clients.

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