In Brief: Rumors of Zions Takeover Lift Calif. State Stock

Shares of California State Bank have surged this week on speculation that it may be acquired by Zions Bancorp.

Market sources said Zions, headquartered in Salt Lake City, may offer $42 per share for California State. Officials at California State, based in West Covina, did not return phone calls.

In the past week shares of California State, which has assets of $800 million, have jumped 6% on heavy volume. On Wednesday the stock rose a modest 25 cents, to $39.625. Meanwhile, Zions' shares climbed $1.50, to $42.25.

Such a deal would be fairly easy for Zions, an adept acquirer, and in line with its strategy to build market share. "We don't comment on specific transactions," said a Zions' official. "However, we do have a community bank focus and have announced two acquisitions in California. California's economy is rebounding, and you can get prices that would be immediately accretive to Zions' shareholders."

Last year the $7.2 billion-asset Zions bought eight banking companies, three finance-related companies, and 31 branches. Its two California deals involved GB Bancorp and FP Bancorp.

-Tania Padgett

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, click here.
MORE FROM AMERICAN BANKER