Associated Banc-Corp Secures Merger Approval with American National Corporation for Strategic Expansion

### Strategic Expansion: Associated Banc-Corp's Merger with American National Corporation

Associated Banc-Corp has achieved a pivotal milestone by securing regulatory approvals for its merger with American National Corporation and its subsidiary, American National Bank. The approvals, granted by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, signify a key step in Associated’s strategic plan to expand its footprint in the Midwestern banking landscape. Scheduled to close on April 1, 2026, this merger is not merely a growth initiative; it represents an opportunity for Associated to enhance its service capabilities and deepen its community connections in the Omaha market, while simultaneously reinforcing its presence in the Twin Cities.

President and CEO Andy Harmening articulates the marriage of these entities as a foundation for improved offerings to American National’s clientele, who will experience the melding of institutions while maintaining the high level of personalized service to which they are accustomed. This strategic move aims to unlock new growth avenues for Associated, which currently stands robust with total assets of $45 billion and nearly 200 banking locations spread across Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri. The merger is viewed as a means of fostering organic growth, leveraging the strengths of both organizations to create a more agile and customer-centric banking experience.

Post-merger, Associated plans to embark on a comprehensive integration process during the third quarter of 2026. American National customers will continue to receive uninterrupted service at their existing locations during this transition phase. It is vital for Associated to prioritize seamless service continuity and client satisfaction throughout this period, ensuring that the unique aspects of American National’s service are retained while enhancing operational efficiency and product offerings. Ultimately, this merger positions Associated to fortify its market presence and drive future growth, ensuring that it remains competitive in the rapidly evolving banking sector.

In addition to the strategic advantages presented by this merger, Associated Banc-Corp’s extensive geographical reach across several states positions it uniquely within the regional banking industry. With a blend of physical branches and loan production offices in key markets, Associated is poised to cater to a diverse customer base while maintaining strong community ties. The upcoming merger can result in an enhanced funnel for customer acquisition and retention strategies that build long-term relationships.

Overall, as Associated Banc-Corp integrates American National Bank's operations, the projected synergy between the two entities will likely yield positive outcomes for stakeholders, positioning the bank to navigate the future banking landscape with greater resilience and adaptability.