AIB has announced a new asset finance division to help businesses to meet the costs of replacing or upgrading computer hardware and software programmes for the Year 2000 and the euro.

Funds will be made available to customers through a designated fund, Eurowatch 2000, which will total £10 million. Applications for the funds can be made through AIB's branch network. Successful applicants will receive free electronic business banking with AIB for six months, free connection to the Internet for one year from Indigo and a free watch.