Retail & Commercial

Bank of Astoria in Oregon plans to convert all of its branches to the Columbia Bank brand, nine years after the two lenders merged.

Focus Business Bank in San Jose, Calif., has hired a leader for its business banking team. Robert Gionfriddo has joined the $213 million-asset bank as its chief business banking officer, Focus said Tuesday.

Astoria Financial (AF) in Lake Success, N.Y., plans to raise up to $150 million through an offering of depositary shares.

Bank of America (BAC) cut about 5 percent of staff in its appraisal unit last month as the firm rid itself of delinquent mortgages, said two people with knowledge of the move.

Homeowners with underwater mortgages worst-hit by foreclosures are leading refinancings after the government expanded programs like the Home Affordable Refinance Program to aid borrowers, strengthening the weakest link in the housing recovery.

Staffing, policies and vendor relationships will draw scrutiny as community banks look for new ways to make money.

Ocwen Financial has added Wilbur Ross Jr. to its board.

City National will open its first street-level branches in New York to gain visibility in the city where many of its Hollywood clients work and live.

At an industry conference Tuesday, the consumer bureau's second-in-command fielded questions on the pace of its work, the experience of its examiners, and whether it is putting an unfair burden on large banks.

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Mid-Illini CU is putting its faith in a new branch inside Mount Pisgah Church.