ATLANTA, Nov. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunTrust Banks, Inc. (NYSE: STI) and Moneta Corporation today announced that SunTrust has selected Moneta's online payment service to offer clients an additional payment option when they shop with select online retailers. The service is currently being provided free to select SunTrust clients as an initial pilot program.

With this service, users are able to pay leading Internet merchants online securely from their bank account, offering more online anonymity and privacy protection. In addition, most participating retailers offer unique incentives and discounts for shoppers paying via Moneta.

"In today's economy, consumers are looking more closely at how they pay for purchases," said Hugh Gallagher, SunTrust's Senior Vice President for deposit product management. "More consumers are going to online shopping sites for everyday needs as well as special occasion purchases. Moneta's payment service provides a secure and convenient payment method, enabling users to pay directly from a bank account for Internet purchases while protecting their financial information. The Moneta payment service dovetails nicely with our commitment to help SunTrust clients 'live solid' by practicing responsible financial management."

"Bank customers continue to be concerned about online privacy and many are increasingly seeking secure and convenient ways to make online purchases without exposing their card information. Consumer demand for non-credit online payment options such as Moneta's have increased during this challenging economic cycle," said Guido Sacchi, Moneta's Chief Executive Officer.

About SunTrust Banks, Inc.

SunTrust Banks, Inc., headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation's largest banking organizations, serving a broad range of consumer, commercial, corporate and institutional clients. As of September 30, 2009, SunTrust had total assets of $172.7 billion and total deposits of $119.3 billion. The Company operates an extensive branch and ATM network throughout the high-growth Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states and a full array of technology-based, 24-hour delivery channels. The Company also serves clients in selected markets nationally. Its primary businesses include deposit, credit, trust and investment services. Through various subsidiaries the Company provides mortgage banking, insurance, brokerage, investment management, equipment leasing and capital markets services. SunTrust's Internet address is suntrust.com.

About Moneta Corporation

Moneta Corporation is a leading payments company offering secure, convenient methods for consumers to pay online merchants directly from their checking or money market accounts. Moneta partners with online merchants and banks to accept and process payments, while providing additional branding opportunities and revenue streams. Moneta's rapidly growing partner network enables online retailers and travel providers to attract valuable customers with a preference for paying directly from their well-established bank accounts. Moneta is a privately-held company headquartered in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.monetacorp.com.

SOURCE SunTrust Banks, Inc.