A strong economy, large numbers of small businesses and a shakeout from industry consolidation are making the area between Los Angeles and San Diego appealing to bank organizers.
Customers and employees of Opus Bank and Banc of California could bolt to several other Southern California banks amid downsizing, scandal and credit quality issues.
For the first time, the chairmen of the American Bankers Association and the Independent Community Bankers of America are women, marking an important milestone for the industry.
