Capital

The California company has agreed to buy Grandpoint Capital, a business bank in Los Angeles, for $641 million.

At least eight banks are in various stages of formation, including two that have opened. While that is nowhere near the de novo activity of the early 2000s, it's a positively brisk pace compared with the standstill that existed for many years after the financial crisis.

The company, which is planning to sell at least $25 million in stock, said in a presentation tied to the offering that it is well positioned for M&A.

The company, which raised $23 million through a private placement, had a 6.97% total capital ratio at Dec. 31.

Louisiana credit union says secondary capital influx helped fuel earnings.

The bank said it plans to use proceeds from the placement to expand its operations.

The Texas company will gain four branches and $160 million in loans after the acquisition closes.

The private-equity firms, which invested in a predecessor to Union Bankshares in May 2010, sold their shares for a total of $301 million.

Ameris would gain 24 Atlanta-area branches in the $406 million deal.

Marathon International Bank would target the Ethiopian community with specific advertising and educational programs.