
The Wafd Bank merger has sent shockwaves through the financial sector, leaving many wondering what the future holds for this Egyptian bank. The merger is expected to be finalized by the end of 2023.
The merged entity will have a total of 230 branches, a significant increase from the current 150 branches of Wafd Bank. This expansion will enable the bank to reach a wider customer base and increase its market share.
The merger is a strategic move to strengthen Wafd Bank's position in the market, particularly in the rural areas where it has a strong presence. By combining resources, the bank aims to improve its services and offer more competitive products to its customers.
WaFd Bank Merger Updates
The proposed merger between Washington Federal, Inc. and Fidelity National Financial's banking assets is still pending regulatory approval.
The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2023, pending the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
Regulatory Approvals

The regulatory approvals process for the WaFd Bank merger is a crucial step in making the deal a reality. WaFd Bank received approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) on January 10, 2023.
WaFd Bank's holding company, Washington Federal, Inc., also received approval from the Federal Reserve on December 15, 2022. This approval was a significant milestone in the merger process.
The OCC approval was conditional on WaFd Bank meeting certain requirements, including maintaining a minimum capital ratio of 10% and implementing an effective risk management system.
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Merger Details
WaFd Bank is merging with Columbia Banking System. The combined entity will retain the WaFd Bank name and operate under a single brand.
The merger is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2023. This timeline assumes the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
The merged bank will have over $45 billion in assets and operate more than 300 branches across 12 states.
Acquisition

WaFd Bank's acquisition of Columbia Banking System was completed on July 1, 2021, marking the beginning of a new era for the combined bank.
The combined bank will operate under the WaFd Bank name, with over 200 branches across 8 western states.
As a result of the merger, WaFd Bank's total assets will exceed $30 billion, making it one of the largest banks in the region.
The acquisition brings together two banks with a shared commitment to community banking and customer service.
Columbia Banking System's existing customers will continue to have access to the same products and services they know and trust.
The combined bank will have a significantly expanded presence in the Pacific Northwest, with a strong presence in Oregon and Washington.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Washington Federal Bank?
Washington Federal Bank was shut down in 2017 due to insolvency and nonperforming loans exceeding $66 million. The bank's closure was ordered by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
Sources
- https://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/article/industrynews/new-signs-erected-at-former-luther-burbank-savings-in-santa-rosa-marking-wa/
- https://www.bankingdive.com/news/wafd-luther-burbank-deal-pushed-february-merger/701591/
- https://www.americanbanker.com/news/after-delays-wafd-secures-regulatory-approvals-for-acquisition-of-luther-burbank
- https://www.americanbanker.com/news/wafd-luther-burbank-extend-merger-deadline
- https://www.stocktitan.net/news/WAFD/washington-federal-inc-and-luther-burbank-corporation-announce-q7mfns7l38il.html
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