First National Bank of Omaha to Acquire Western States Bank

First National Bank of Omaha to Acquire Western States Bank

First National of Nebraska, with its subsidiary First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO, www.fnbo.com), announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Western States BanCorporation (Western States) and its wholly-owned subsidiary Western States Bank, headquartered in Laramie, WY. Founded in 2006, Western States operates 10 branches across northeastern Colorado, western Nebraska, and southeastern Wyoming. Western States has $542 million in total assets, $486 million in deposits, and nearly 100 employees. Chairman and President of FNBO Clark D. Lauritzen is looking forward to welcoming Western States’ customers and colleagues to the FNBO family.

“We’re thrilled about this opportunity to grow and continue to serve customers in Colorado and Nebraska markets where we operate today, while introducing ourselves to new customers in the vibrant Wyoming communities of Laramie and Cheyenne,” said Lauritzen.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals, the approval of Western States’ shareholders, and the completion of various closing conditions, and is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2022. Once the conversion is completed, all Western States locations will operate as FNBO, with its systems and suite of products and services.

First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $25 billion in assets and nearly 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. Visit www.fnbo.com for more information.