Growth strategies

The 5 biggest bank M&A deals of 2025

Bank merger and acquisition activity rebounded this year, led by Fifth Third's $10.9 billion proposed purchase of Comerica. Huntington, PNC and Columbia were involved in some of the other biggest deals announced in 2025.

By Catherine Leffert
Reporter
American Banker

How Santander plans to grow in the US

While other European-based banks have retreated from the United States, Santander is doubling down by building out its nationwide digital-banking platform. "Unequivocally," said U.S. CEO Christiana Riley, "the opportunity … is so clear."

By Allissa Kline
Reporter
American Banker

Why a serial acquirer in Texas agreed to get acquired

SouthState Corp. plans to purchase Independent Bank Group in a $2 billion deal, marking an end to the latter bank's long run of buying companies. Chairman and CEO David Brooks pointed to a challenging interest rate environment and heightened regulatory scrutiny as reasons he decided to sell.

By Catherine Leffert
Reporter
American Banker

Turning LendingClub into a full-spectrum bank

The company, poised to complete its purchase of Radius Bank, will enjoy new cross-selling opportunities, gain additional sources of fee income and capital as well as benefit from greater regulatory clarity, CEO Scott Sanborn says.

By Penny Crosman
Executive Editor, Technology at Arizent
American Banker

The Bancorp’s risky CRE pivot

The Delaware company, best known for issuing prepaid cards, has ramped up commercial real estate securitizations. The shift promises to deliver big fees, but it could also cause headaches if defaults spike.

By John Reosti
Reporter