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How Citibank Used Character Animation to Drive 2.8× Increase in Referral Program Signups

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Introduction – Making Financial Services Feel Rewarding and Relatable

Citibank, a global leader in banking and financial services, wanted to promote its new referral and client engagement programs in an exciting and relatable way. Their goal was to boost awareness and participation by turning a standard announcement into a fun, story-driven experience that celebrated customer rewards and loyalty.

The Challenge – Turning a Banking Program into a Fun Story

Referral programs often rely on static messaging that fails to inspire participation. Citibank needed a solution that could:

  • Introduce its Client Center and Referral Rewards Program with clarity and excitement.
  • Create a consistent brand mascot to personify the campaign.
  • Build stronger emotional engagement on social media and internal communication channels.

The challenge was clear — make financial communication feel human, friendly, and fun.

 

The Solution – Introducing Kalvin: Citibank’s Animated Mascot

Our creative team developed an animated character mascot named Kalvin, who served as the friendly face of Citibank’s referral initiatives.

Through character animation and finance animation storytelling, Kalvin introduced the benefits of participating in Citibank’s referral programs — from exclusive rewards to the satisfaction of sharing great financial experiences with friends.

Using bright visuals, smooth transitions, and warm narration, the financial services explainer video transformed program details into a joyful brand experience.
The video’s mixed media animation and cheerful tone reflected Citibank’s global identity while highlighting its personal touch.

The Results – Banking Made Fun and Rewarding

The campaign achieved significant engagement and internal success:

  • 2.8× increase in referral program signups.
  • 60% boost in employee and customer engagement on internal platforms.
  • Positive sentiment and brand recall driven by Kalvin’s character-led storytelling.

By blending financial services video production with memorable character animation, Citibank created not just an announcement — but a personality that connected people with its brand values.

Why It Works

This project highlights how financial services explainer videos can turn informational campaigns into vibrant brand experiences. With Kalvin leading the story, Citibank transformed a referral program into a celebration of rewards, community, and connection — proof that even in finance, storytelling drives loyalty.

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