Growth strategies

First Technology FCU, led by a former banker, stands ready to raise fresh capital by issuing subordinated debt. But first it must wait for a rule change from the National Credit Union Administration that's drawing fierce opposition from the banking industry.

The Columbus, Ohio, company says it has delivered on M&A promises before, and many observers say its deal for rival TCF Financial is an opportunistic move in its bid to build a Midwestern powerhouse. But others questioned whether Huntington's cost-cutting and profit expectations are too optimistic.

First Kansas, part of the multibank holding company Ottawa Bancshares, expects to complete the acquisition early next year.

Acquirers shelved plans to buy banks this year as the coronavirus became widespread but a combination of factors in the months ahead could spur the confidence to restart those conversations.

The Massachusetts company, which had a big second-quarter loss after writing down the goodwill tied to past acquisitions, will sell eight locations to Investors Bancorp and shutter another 16 offices.