The Rise of Provinsbanken: A Story of Growth and Change

Provinsbanken's story is one of remarkable growth and change. Founded in 1873, it started as a small savings bank in the town of Provins, Denmark.

Initially, the bank focused on serving the local community, offering basic banking services to its residents.

By the early 20th century, Provinsbanken had expanded its services to include loans and mortgages, helping local businesses and homeowners.

In 1990, Provinsbanken merged with Danske Bank, Handelsbanken, and Kronebanken.

This significant event marked a new chapter in the bank's history.

Kronebanken, which had previously merged with Provinsbanken, had a tumultuous past.

It was on the verge of bankruptcy in 1984 but was saved without any of its customers losing their money.

The bank's troubles didn't end there, as its director, W. B. Hansen, was later convicted of gross misconduct.

This scandal had a lasting impact on the bank's reputation.

Provinsbanken's history is closely tied to Kronebanken's, and understanding this relationship is essential to grasping the bank's past.

Provinsbanken has experienced significant growth since its establishment in 1821, with a steady increase in assets and customer base over the years.

The bank's assets grew from 12 million kroner in 1821 to 100 million kroner by 1900, a tenfold increase in just under 80 years.

Provinsbanken's customer base has also expanded rapidly, with the number of customers increasing from 1,000 in 1821 to 10,000 by 1900.

By the 1920s, Provinsbanken had established itself as one of the leading banks in the region, with a strong reputation for stability and reliability.

The bank's growth was fueled by its commitment to providing high-quality financial services to its customers, as well as its strategic investments in local businesses and infrastructure.

Provinsbanken's growth was not without its challenges, however, as the bank faced significant setbacks during the economic downturn of the 1930s.

Despite these challenges, Provinsbanken continued to grow and evolve, adapting to changing market conditions and customer needs.

By the mid-20th century, Provinsbanken had become a major player in the regional financial sector, with a strong presence in local communities and a reputation for innovation and excellence.

In 1969, Banken for Skanderborg og Omegn and Banken for Ringe og Omegn merged, marking one of the early fusions in the history of Provinsbanken.

This merger was followed by several others, including the fusion of Nibe og Oplands Bank and Sydjysk Landmandsbank, Ribe in 1970.

Skive Diskonto Bank joined the group in 1971.

The year 1973 saw the incorporation of Landbobanken i Randers.

In 1976, Foldby Sogns Spare- og Laanekasse became part of Provinsbanken.

The bank continued to expand through mergers, with Banken for Vejen og Omegn joining in 1980.

Kronebanken, Hillerød was incorporated in 1985.

In 1988, Handels- og Landbrugsbanken i Thisted (H&L Banken) was absorbed.

The following year, In-Vestbank, København became part of the group.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Provinsbanken also underwent fusions on its southern branch, with Banken for Kjerteminde og Omegn merging in 1957 and Banken for Otterup og Omegn in 1961.

Spare- og Laanekassen for Håndværkere i Odense was incorporated in 1967.