Americas

Empire Bancorp in Islandia, N.Y., has raised $20 million in a private placement.

Simmons First National in Pine Bluff, Ark., has extended the termination date for its purchases of two banks due to delays securing regulatory approval.

The layoffs will take place across the $38 billion-asset bank's four-state service area in New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Connecticut, a spokesman for the bank confirmed.

First Guaranty Bancshares in Hammond, La., has postponed its initial public offering, citing "unfavorable market conditions."

OSHKOSH, Wis. — An unusual merger strategy here has been a roaring success as well as a learning experience for all parties involved.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A campaign to boost usage of e-services not only hit the mark with clever marketing, but taught organizers some lessons about digital outreach.

LAS VEGAS — How difficult is it for marijuana businesses to maintain relationships with mainstream financial institutions? Just ask Jon Levine.

LAS VEGAS — Despite unprecedented levels of support for marijuana legalization in the United States, businesses that work with this budding industry repeatedly voice the same complaint: the inability to obtain and sustain banking relationships because pot is illegal under federal law.

TAMPA, Fla. — In an effort to encourage physical fitness among its membership and local community, GTE Financial CU has offered a cash incentive for individuals who exercise, lose weight and shed belly-fat.

SEATTLE — Verity Credit Union, a $432-million federally-insured state-charter, launched a program last year to further encourage the local popularity of bicycle riding.