Synovus Named One of the Most Admired Companies in America by FORTUNE

COLUMBUS, GA – Synovus, the Columbus, Georgia-based, diversified financial services company has been named on FORTUNE magazine’s annual listing of “America’s Most Admired Companies” for the second straight year. Synovus ranked No. 3 in the Consumer Credit category for 2005 after being ranked No. 5 in 2004.

“To be admired by the leaders of the top companies in America is an honor and affirms our commitment to manage our business – strategically, responsibly, ethically and fairly,” said Richard E. Anthony, Synovus President and Chief Operating Officer. “Being recognized in the consumer credit category acknowledges our leadership in the credit card business, delivered through our ownership of TSYS, and our commercial and retail lending business. We are proud to be included among such a stellar group of financial services companies.”

FORTUNE ranks companies based on eight attributes: innovation, financial soundness, employee talent, quality of management, use of corporate assets, long-term investment, social responsibility and quality of products/services. Scores are accumulated based on surveys from 10,000 executives, directors and securities analysts in each of the industries represented on the list.