Growth strategies

Brand Group in Georgia was mulling a public offering but it opted to test the waters as a seller first. That decision led to one of the biggest bank deals announced this year.

A look at how credit unions are making a difference in the communities they serve.

The resulting institution has more than $190 million in assets and serves more than 24,000 members.

The company will gain $305 million in assets after completing the $51 million acquisition.

Another look at how credit unions are giving back to the communities they serve.

The company agreed to pay $32 million for Mercersburg Financial.

County Bancorp in Manitowoc, Wis., posted record profits in the first quarter after completing an acquisition last year.

The Michigan regulator has approved the $670 million credit union to expand its service territory beyond the 11 counties in the mid- to south-central area of the state.

The $142-billion asset bank expects to deepen relationships with existing customers and add new ones, by collaborating with Intellect Global Transaction Banking to develop new services.

Celebrations, donations and the credit union difference in action.

More than a third of banks formed from 2006 to 2008 no longer exist. Leaders of three banks still in business share their tips on how they have remained open — and relevant.

Narmi, launched by a former credit union executive, aims to bring "innovative financial technology" to credit unions throughout the Garden State.

Stock Yards Bancorp in Louisville, Ky., has named James Hillebrand as its next CEO when David Heintzman retires later this year.

The company will also acquire three branches in Worcester County, Mass., when it buys the parent of Milford National Bank and Trust.

Independent Bank had no intention of expanding outside Texas until it gained a few stray branches in a neighboring state.

Another look at the variety of ways credit unions are giving back to the communities they serve.

CEO Bruce Lee believes a multicharter model, which many other banks have scrapped, gives the Iowa company an edge in smaller markets.

Organizers of Scottsdale Community Bank plan to raise a minimum of $16 million.

Bull’s Eye CU prepares to merge with Connexus CU

A competitive job market and improved security protocols are pushing more banks to consider letting employees work remotely.