In Brief: Prime in Deal to Buy Houston Rival Sunbelt

Fast-growing Prime Bancshares, Houston, is planning to acquire nearby Sunbelt National Bank for an undisclosed sum.

The deal, expected to close in the second quarter, would boost Prime's assets to $1.05 billion and increase its branch network in Greater Houston to 13.

"The acquisition of Sunbelt, with its three locations near the Katy Freeway, allows Prime to continue to develop a significant presence throughout the Houston area," said Prime president E.J. Guzzo.

Prime, which went public in September, has boosted its assets from $81 million to $965 million in the last decade, mainly by acquiring failed Texas thrifts. The company now operates 19 branches in the Lone Star State.

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