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Strategic Acquisition of a Premier Chicago Commercial Banking Franchise to Enhance Growth, Diversification and Expand Litigation Vertical in Chicago

Jericho, NY & Rosemont, IL, March 12, 2026 – Esquire Financial Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: ESQ) (“Esquire”), the parent company of Esquire Bank, National Association and Signature Bancorporation, Inc. (“Signature”), the parent company of Signature Bank, jointly announced today that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement, pursuant to which Esquire will acquire Signature in an all-stock transaction. The combined company will have approximately $4.8 billion in assets at closing, joining Esquire’s established national verticals with Signature’s established Chicago commercial banking franchise, enhancing our continued industry leading performance and growth metrics.

Andrew C. Sagliocca, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Esquire, said, “Signature’s leadership in the attractive Chicago market, best-in-class management team, and exceptional core funding provide Esquire with a strong platform for continued growth and expansion in the country’s third largest metropolitan area or MSA and one of the nation’s largest legal markets.  This merger is compelling on multiple levels. Financially, it enhances our operating profile, expands our resources, and diversifies our balance sheet while maintaining a robust capital position for continued expansion in our unique national litigation platform. Strategically, the combination brings together two institutions with highly complementary commercial banking operations and capabilities. Most importantly, it unites two highly talented management teams with deep client relationships and strong market expertise. We are thrilled to welcome Signature’s team, clients, and shareholders to Esquire.”

Mick O’Rourke, Co-Founder, Director, Chief Executive Officer, and President of Signature, said, “We are excited to announce a partnership that will benefit both institutions, our clients, and our shareholders, while also positioning us to work together towards the next chapter of our combined organization’s legacy. By bringing together Signature’s strong Midwest commercial banking franchise with Esquire’s national capabilities, we will have greater resources and expanded reach to support our clients as they grow. As we celebrate Signature’s 20th anniversary, this merger will provide our shareholders with enhanced liquidity and an opportunity to create greater value in the years ahead.”

Strategic Benefits

Expansion in the Chicago Market: Provides Esquire with a premier Chicago commercial banking franchise and talent in the country’s third largest MSA and fourth largest legal market where Esquire traditionally lacked presence while supporting continued growth in Esquire’s national litigation platform and expanding the resources and capabilities available to Signature’s clients in the Midwest.

Enhances Scale and Combines Complementary Strengths: The combined company will be strategically positioned for enhanced scale with improved opportunities for growth and profitability. Signature brings longstanding history of commercial and commercial real estate relationship banking in the Chicago market while Esquire is a national leader in the litigation vertical that seeks to expand its presence in the Chicago market as well as nationwide.  This creates opportunities to bring Esquire’s specialized capabilities to Signature clients while extending Signature’s commercial banking expertise across a broader platform.

Diversification to Drive Future Growth: Reduces Esquire’s litigation vertical loan and funding concentrations from approximately 70%+ to below 50%, supporting future accelerated growth in Chicago, the Midwest and nationwide.

Maintains Strong Profitability while Deploying Excess Capital: Signature’s high-performing commercial bank with strong low-cost core commercial deposits diversifies Esquire’s balance sheet while contributing significant earnings with strong performance metrics, generating a mid to high-teens IRR for the deployment of Esquire’s excess capital in the merger.

Prospects to Accelerate Shareholder Value Creation: Pro forma calculations of the combined company indicate GAAP EPS accretion of 23% for Esquire in 2027 with no associated revenue enhancement in the pro forma calculations. The transaction is approximately 11% accretive to Esquire’s Tangible Book Value. The transaction only assumes 5% cost savings as the value created in this merger is primarily driven by industry leading growth and performance metrics.  Esquire remains well capitalized with no associated capital raise.

Governance and Leadership

Each of the combined company’s and bank’s board of directors will consist of eleven directors, including nine directors from Esquire and two directors from Signature.

• Leonard S. Caronia: Current Signature Chairman of the Board will join Esquire’s board of directors.
• Michael G. O’Rourke: Current Signature Chief Executive Officer & President will join Esquire’s board of directors.

The combined company will be led by a well-respected management team with significant commercial banking experience.

• Signature’s top three executives have entered into new employment agreements and will oversee commercial business development opportunities and operations in the Chicago market.
  • Michael G. O’Rourke: Current Signature Chief Executive Officer & President and post-merger President of Signature, a division of Esquire Bank. 
  • Bryan D. Duncan: Current Signature Executive Vice President and post-merger Executive Vice President of Signature, a division of Esquire Bank. 
  • Kevin Bastuga: Current Signature Executive Vice President and post-merger Executive Vice President of Signature, a division of Esquire Bank. 

Transaction Details

Under the terms of the merger agreement, shareholders of Signature will receive a fixed exchange ratio of 2.63 shares of Esquire common stock for each share of Signature common stock. The per share value equates to $260.48 for Signature shareholders based on the closing price of Esquire common stock on March 11, 2026, or approximately $348.4 million in aggregate transaction value.

The exchange ratio is subject to an adjustment based on the disposition value of certain Signature Bank loans with a total par value of approximately $70M (“Schedule A Loans”).  The adjusted Exchange Ratio at closing will be no higher than 2.80 and no lower than 2.50.  Signature has initiated a sale process and is expected to dispose of Schedule A Loans prior to closing.

The definitive merger agreement has been approved by the board of directors of each company. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approval, approval of Esquire and Signature shareholders, and other customary closing conditions. Pending these approvals, the transaction is anticipated to close in the third quarter of 2026.

Piper Sandler & Co. is serving as financial advisor and Luse Gorman, PC is serving as legal advisor to Esquire. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. is serving as financial advisor to Signature and Vedder Price P.C. is serving as legal advisor to Signature.

Investor Conference Call

Esquire will host an investor call on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time to discuss the transaction. The live audio webcast link and corresponding presentation slides will be available on Esquire’s Investor Relations web page at investorrelations.esquirebank.com. A replay of the conference call will be available on the website listed above.

Conference Call Details

USA / International Toll +1 (646) 307-1963
USA – Toll-Free (800) 715-9871
Canada – Toronto (647) 932-3411
Canada – Toll-Free (800) 715-9871
Conference ID: 5386343

Webcast Details

https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/729155734

Contact Information

Esquire:  Eric S. Bader

               Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
               Esquire Financial Holdings, Inc.
               (516) 535-2002
               eric.bader@esqbank.com

Signature: Michael G. O’Rourke
                  President and CEO
                  Signature Bancorporation, Inc.
                  (773) 467-5602
                  morourke@signaturebank.bank

About Esquire Financial Holdings, Inc.

Esquire Financial Holdings, Inc. is a financial holding company headquartered in Jericho, New York. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Esquire Bank, is a full-service commercial bank, with branch offices in Jericho, New York and Los Angeles, California, as well as an administrative office in Boca Raton, Florida. The Bank is dedicated to serving the financial needs of the litigation industry and small businesses nationally, as well as commercial and retail customers in the New York and Los Angeles metropolitan areas. The Bank offers tailored financial and payment processing solutions to the litigation community and their clients as well as dynamic and flexible payment processing solutions to small business owners. For more information, visit www.esquirebank.com.

About Signature Bancorporation, Inc.

Signature Bancorporation, Inc. is the parent company of Signature Bank, a business-focused bank headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois. Founded in 2006, Signature Bank is dedicated to providing tailored financial solutions to middle-market businesses. Signature Bank serves a diverse range of business clients — including law firms, medical practices, manufacturers, technology firms, and professional service firms — through a comprehensive suite of commercial lending, treasury management, SBA lending, wealth management, and fraud protection services, delivered through a combination of relationship-based banking and innovative financial technology. For more information, visit www.signaturebank.bank.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with respect to Esquire’s and Signature’s beliefs, goals, intentions, and expectations regarding the proposed transaction, revenues, earnings, earnings per share, loan production, asset quality, and capital levels, among other matters; our estimates of future costs and benefits of the actions we may take; our assessments of probable losses on loans; our assessments of interest rate and other market risks; our ability to achieve our financial and other strategic goals; the expected timing of completion of the proposed transaction; the expected cost savings, synergies and other anticipated benefits from the proposed transaction; and other statements that are not historical facts.

Forward-looking statements are typically identified by such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “should,” and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, which change over time. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those relating to the terms, timing and closing of the proposed transaction.

Additionally, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; Esquire and Signature do not assume any duty, and do not undertake, to update such forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Furthermore, because forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those indicated in such forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, many of which are beyond the control of Esquire and Signature. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the management of Esquire and Signature and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties outside of the control of the parties. Caution should be exercised against placing undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include the following: the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the right of one or both of the parties to terminate the Merger Agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Esquire or Signature; the possibility that the proposed transaction will not close when expected or at all because required regulatory, shareholder or other approvals are not received or other conditions to the closing are not satisfied on a timely basis or at all, or are obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated (and the risk that required regulatory approvals may result in the imposition of conditions that could adversely affect the combined company); the ability of Esquire and Signature to meet expectations regarding the timing, completion and accounting and tax treatments of the proposed transaction; the risk that any announcements relating to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of the common stock of Esquire; the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction will not be realized when expected or at all, including as a result of the impact of, or problems arising from, the integration of the two companies or as a result of the strength of the economy and competitive factors in the areas where Esquire and Signature do business; certain restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that may impact the parties’ ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; the possibility that the transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events; diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; the possibility that the parties may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in the merger within the expected timeframes or at all and to successfully integrate Signature’s operations and those of Esquire; such integration may be more difficult, time consuming or costly than expected; revenues following the proposed transaction may be lower than expected; Esquire’s and Signature’s success in executing their respective business plans and strategies and managing the risks involved in the foregoing; the dilution caused by Esquire’s issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the proposed transaction; effects of the announcement, pendency or completion of the proposed transaction on the ability of Esquire and Signature to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers, and on their operating results and businesses generally; risks related to the potential impact of general economic, political and market factors on the companies or the proposed transaction and other factors that may affect future results of Esquire and Signature; and the other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of Esquire’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of Esquire’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, and other reports Esquire files with the SEC

Additional Information about the Proposed Transaction

In connection with the proposed transaction, Esquire will file a registration statement on Form S-4 with the SEC. The registration statement will include a joint proxy statement of Esquire and Signature, which also constitutes a prospectus of Esquire, that will be sent to stockholders of Esquire and shareholders of Signature seeking certain approvals related to the proposed transaction.

The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF ESQUIRE AND SIGNATURE AND THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES ARE URGED TO READ, WHEN AVAILABLE, THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS TO BE INCLUDED WITHIN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4 AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT ESQUIRE, SIGNATURE AND THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain a free copy of the registration statement, including the joint proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other relevant documents filed with the SEC containing information about Esquire and Signature, without charge, at the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov). Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Esquire will be made available free of charge in the “Company” section of Esquire’s website, www.esquirebank.com, under the heading “Investor Relations.”

Participants in the Solicitation

Esquire, Signature, and certain of their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed transaction under the rules of the SEC. Information regarding Esquire’s directors and executive officers is available in its definitive proxy statement, which was filed with the SEC on April 30, 2025, and certain other documents filed by Esquire with the SEC. Other information regarding the participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed transaction and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the joint proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC. Free copies of these documents, when available, may be obtained as described in the preceding paragraph.

Illinois Bankers Association program supports leadership development through education, service and industry connection

ROSEMONT, IL [February 26, 2026] – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced it has selected two accomplished employees to participate in the 2026–2027 Future Leaders Alliance (FLA) program offered through the Illinois Bankers Association. The 14-month program is designed to support the growth of emerging banking professionals through a structured combination of education, community involvement and peer networking. The bank also recognizes two employees from the 2025–2026 FLA class who will graduate from the program in March 2026.

Connor Donohoe, Commercial Banking Representative, and Ellie Morrissey, Commercial Loan Officer, were selected for their dedication to client relationships, team collaboration and continued engagement within the Chicago business community. In their roles, they work closely with clients and internal teams to support day-to-day banking needs and long-term relationship growth.

“At Signature Bank, we look for people who take ownership, stay curious and elevate the people around them,” said Michael Kowall, Vice President, Credit Administration at Signature Bank. “Connor and Ellie have built strong momentum in their roles and they’ve earned the chance to sharpen their leadership skills through the Future Leaders Alliance. We’re proud to support their continued growth and the impact they’ll bring back to our clients and our teams.”

Joseph Bicek and Matthew Loffredo, Commercial Loan Officers, are completing the 2025–2026 Future Leaders Alliance program this March. During their participation, they advanced financial literacy outreach by speaking at several Chicago-area schools and introduced new ideas to the Bank, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence and cross-team collaboration.

Participants in the Future Leaders Alliance complete a comprehensive program that includes attending educational sessions, developing an advancement strategy project and participating in local community service focused on financial literacy. Program sessions cover a range of topics such as leadership and influence, team building, coaching, service leadership, collaboration skills, financial marketing, personal branding, the legislative process, presentation skills, accounting for bankers, asset liability management, regulatory hot topics, cybersecurity and more.

About Signature Bank 

Signature Bank is celebrating 20 years as an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About the Illinois Bankers Association

The Illinois Bankers Association is a full-service trade association dedicated to creating a positive business climate that benefits the entire banking industry and the communities they serve. Founded in 1891, the IBA brings together state and national banks and savings banks of all sizes in Illinois. Collectively, the Illinois banking industry employs more than 105,000 people in over 4,300 offices across the state.

New division offers clients trust administration, estate planning support and fiduciary management

Chicago, IL & Overland Park, KS – Signature Bank announced today the launch of Signature Trust Company, a new division that expands the bank’s ability to meet the long-term financial and estate planning needs of its clients.

In collaboration with Midwest Trust, an independent, state-chartered trust company with more than $18 billion in assets under administration, Signature Trust Company is designed to provide access to professional fiduciary expertise and oversight helping individuals, families and business owners with long-term planning, while preserving the relationship-driven service they expect from Signature Bank.

“Our clients look to us for more than day-to-day banking,” said Bryan Duncan, Executive Vice President, Signature Bank. “Many are business owners and families preparing for the future: planning how to transfer wealth, pursue charitable goals or support continuity planning for the next generation. Signature Trust Company allows us to serve that full financial picture. We can now stand beside our clients not only as their banker and advisor, but as a partner supporting their legacy and long-term planning needs.”

Clients will benefit from access to dedicated fiduciary officers and estate professionals from Midwest Trust while working with their Signature Trust Company and Signature Bank relationship teams.

Trust and fiduciary services now available

Signature Trust Company offers a broad range of personal and corporate trust services, including:

• Personal trust administration: Ongoing management of revocable and irrevocable trusts in accordance with governing documents and clients’ estate and wealth transfer goals
• Estate Settlement & Executor Services: Efficient and professional administration of estates following the passing of a loved one
• Retirement & IRA Trusts: Oversight and planning designed to support tax-efficient distribution and beneficiary protection
• Special Needs Trusts: Specialized administration intended to help safeguard benefits and supports long-term care for individuals with disabilities
• Charitable & Foundation Trusts: Support for families and organizations seeking to create a lasting philanthropic legacy
• Guardianships & Conservatorships: Fiduciary management for individuals requiring ongoing financial oversight
• Investment Management Accounts: Professional portfolio management within a fiduciary framework, aligned with long-term objectives

“At Midwest Trust, our focus has always been on delivering trusted fiduciary care with personal attention,” said David Yost, President. “Partnering with Signature Bank allows us to extend that care through a bank that shares our values of integrity, relationship service and community focus. Together, we provide clients with professional expertise and personal connection that define exceptional trust administration.”

Signature Trust Company represents the next step in Signature Bank’s mission to help clients manage their financial lives comprehensively, from business growth and banking to investments, estate planning and legacy preservation.

For more information about Signature Trust Company, visit https://www.signaturebank.bank/signaturetrustco/ 

To learn more about Signature Trust Company services, reach out to: 

• Chris Kuckelman, J.D., Vice President and Trust Officer, Signature Trust Co.
  312.216.4551
  chris.kuckelman@signaturetrustco.com  
• Nate Dinger, Senior Vice President, Division Head, Signature Bank
  312.386.6904
  ndinger@signaturebank.bank

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is a Chicago-based business bank serving privately held companies, their owners and their families with customized banking, treasury and wealth services. Founded on the belief that relationships and responsiveness drive success, Signature Bank delivers a personalized banking experience with the depth and sophistication of a large institution.

About Midwest Trust

Founded in 1993, Midwest Trust is an independent, state-chartered trust company headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. With more than $18 billion in assets under administration, the firm provides comprehensive fiduciary and investment services, including trust and estate administration, corporate trustee, charitable trust and retirement planning services through offices across the U.S.

Trust and fiduciary services are non-deposit products: NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK • MAY LOSE VALUE. Trust services are offered by Midwest Trust Company d/b/a Signature Trust Company, a Kansas non-depository trust company regulated by the State Banking Commissioner of Kansas. Signature Trust Company does not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their own legal and tax advisors regarding their individual circumstances.

Midwest commercial bank earns recognition for the ninth consecutive year

Chicago, IL — November 13, 2025 — Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, has been named one of the 2025 Best Banks to Work For by American Banker, marking the ninth consecutive year the Chicago-based institution has earned this prestigious honor. The annual ranking recognizes banks that excel at cultivating exceptional workplace cultures that attract, develop, and retain top talent.

American Banker partners with Best Companies Group to identify the nation’s top employers in the banking industry through a rigorous assessment of workplace practices and an anonymous employee survey. This year, 90 banks earned a spot on the list.

“At Signature Bank, our culture is one of our greatest competitive advantages,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “To be recognized for the ninth year in a row is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of Signature Bank’s teams to build strong, purposeful relationships with our customers, communities, and among each other.”

According to the employee engagement survey conducted as part of the Best Banks to Work For program, Signature Bank continues to demonstrate extraordinary cultural strength in key areas such as valued and trusted relationships with peers, supervisors, and leadership, a supportive work environment, and commitment to employee well-being. 

“The banks recognized as Best Banks to Work For are institutions employees want to join and stay,” said Chana Schoenberger, editor-in-chief of American Banker. “They understand how to give workers reasons to find purpose in their jobs.”

Best Companies Group manages the Best Banks to Work For initiative that involves a comprehensive two-step employer and employee survey and analyzing data to determine the final rankings.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is celebrating 20 years as an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About American Banker

American Banker empowers financial professionals with analysis and insight into the trends shaping the banking industry. Through its journalism, events, and research, American Banker connects a community of over 850,000 industry leaders every day.

About Best Companies Group

Since 2004, Best Companies Group has specialized in identifying and recognizing outstanding employers. As an independent research firm, it ranks organizations using rigorous methodologies that generate actionable data to help companies enhance employee engagement, recruitment, and retention.

Chicago-based commercial bank attributes growth to high-touch service, digital innovation and strategic expansion 

Rosemont, IL (August 13, 2025) – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced it has once again secured a position on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This marks the fifth year of recognition, underscoring the bank’s sustained growth and steadfast commitment to client-focused, relationship-driven banking. 

“Earning a place on the Inc. 5000 list for the fifth year in a row is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our team’s relentless dedication,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “Our growth stems from building trusted client partnerships and delivering the personalized service of a community bank with the capabilities of a larger institution—as demonstrated by our recent rise to number 12 on the Crain’s Chicago Business list of Largest Banks in Chicago.”

The Inc. 5000 list recognizes companies that have achieved significant revenue growth while navigating economic challenges. Signature Bank’s continued expansion has been driven by: 

Client-centered innovation

• Commercial banking expertise: Tailored solutions for privately held businesses across the Midwest
• Digital innovation: Cutting-edge platforms that enhance client convenience and efficiency
• Client loyalty: Long-term relationships and high retention driving consistent growth

Leadership & expansion

• Entrepreneurial leadership: A founder-led executive team with firsthand business-building experience
• Culture of excellence: Recognized as a top workplace, attracting and retaining high-performing talent
• Strategic market expansion: Entering new verticals and regional markets aligned with the bank’s strengths

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” says Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn’t just weather the storm—they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy.” 

About Signature Bank 

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About Inc.

Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com

Chicago-based bank celebrates major milestone as one of the region’s largest and fastest-growing commercial banks

Rosemont, IL — July 9, 2025 — Signature Bank has proudly advanced to the No. 12 position on the prestigious Crain’s Chicago Business 2025 list of the Largest Banks in Chicago, up from No. 15 the previous year. This significant milestone reflects the bank’s robust growth, strong financial performance and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional commercial banking solutions across the Chicago and Wisconsin markets.

“Our improved ranking on Crain’s Chicago Business list demonstrates our ongoing commitment to exceeding expectations,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “We are pleased to further solidify our position as a trusted leader in Chicago’s commercial banking market, offering clients a combination of personalized service and sophisticated financial solutions that rival much larger institutions.”

This annual ranking, based on total assets as of December 31, 2024, highlights Signature Bank’s strategic momentum and elevated market presence. The bank’s upward trajectory is fueled by its focus on customer-centric service, innovative technology and forward-thinking financial strategies.

Key drivers of growth and recognition

• Commercial Banking Excellence: Signature Bank specializes in relationship-based banking tailored to closely held companies throughout Illinois and Wisconsin, combining accessibility and strategic financial expertise.
• Digital Innovation: The bank continues to invest in advanced banking technologies to provide seamless, secure and efficient service for both commercial and retail clients.
• Award-Winning Workplace Culture: Named one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For, Signature Bank is powered by a dedicated team of professionals committed to excellence.

This achievement further reinforces Signature Bank’s status as one of the fastest-growing, independently owned business banks in the Chicago-Wisconsin region.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

Bank receives high marks from employees for supporting their growth and development, trustworthy leadership team, mutual respect among teams

ROSEMONT, IL [June 10, 2025] – The National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has named Chicago-based Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, to Chicago’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® ranking. This is the eighth consecutive year Signature Bank has made the list.

Each year, NABR recognizes companies with the most innovative business and human resources practices. Employees are asked to provide insight into their workplace experience by rating several categories. These categories include teamwork and cooperation; employee education and development; culture, communication and shared vision; recruitment and selection; and compensation benefits and employee solutions.

An independent research firm assesses the winning companies and then compares several key measures against other nationally recognized winners. Signature Bank scored high marks in several areas, including teamwork and cooperation; employee education and development; culture, communication and shared vision; and recruitment and selection.

Highlights from the survey results included that most Signature Bank employees feel they can grow and learn on the job, and that the company supports their growth and development. Employees also trust leadership to make good decisions, feel respected by their coworkers and are able to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Signature Bank has earned numerous awards and recognitions for its growth and success. Most recently, the bank was named to the 2025 Inc. Regionals: Midwest list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Last year, Signature Bank earned a spot on the national Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies in America and was named the 15 th largest bank in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business. American Banker also recognized the company as one of the Best Banks to Work for in the U.S., a notable distinction.

The Best and Brightest Chicago Celebration, which will honor Signature Bank and other winners, will be held at the Chicago Oakbrook Marriott on September 10.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

Illinois Bankers Association development program guides future industry leaders through professional development, community service, and networking

ROSEMONT, IL [March 11, 2025] – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced it has selected three accomplished employees to participate in the Future Leaders Alliance (FLA) program offered through the Illinois Bankers Association. The 14-month leadership program is dedicated to enhancing the professional development of new and promising bank leaders through three primary components: education, community service, and networking.

Joe Bicek, Credit Analyst II; Matt Loffredo, Credit Analyst II; and Ciaran McCarthy, Internal Audit Associate were selected based on their strong work ethic, leadership potential and service to the Chicago community.

“The Future Leaders Alliance program is a valuable opportunity to cultivate and equip employees who exhibit potential, vision, and determination,” Michael Kowall, Vice President, Credit Administration. “Joe, Matt, and Ciaran already deliver great results in the work they do every day, and through this program they will build on that foundation by learning different ways to grow those same qualities in the people around them. By supporting their professional development through the FLA, we are not just making an investment in their careers but also in the future of Signature Bank.”

Future Leaders Alliance participants take part in comprehensive training which involves attending educational sessions, completing an advancement strategy project and performing local community service teaching financial literacy. The education sessions cover core topics such as leadership and influence, team building, coaching, service leadership, collaboration skills, financial marketing, personal branding, legislative process, presentation skills, accounting for bankers, asset liability management, regulatory topics, cyber security, and more.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

About the Illinois Bankers Association

The Illinois Bankers Association is a full-service trade association dedicated to creating a positive business climate that benefits the entire banking industry and the communities they serve. Founded in 1891, the IBA brings together state and national banks and savings banks of all sizes in Illinois. Collectively, the Illinois banking industry employs more than 105,000 people in over 4,300 offices across the state.

Midwest-based commercial bank celebrates eighth consecutive year of record profitability despite soft economic environment

ROSEMONT, IL [March 6, 2025] – Signature Bank, one of the fastest growing, independently-owned commercial banks in the Midwest, today announced noteworthy achievements for 2024, including record profitability, prestigious industry awards, and client growth in Illinois and Wisconsin across specialized industries including manufacturing, professional services, legal, aviation, medical and other sectors.

“Our team has a great deal to be proud of as we reflect on our financial success in 2024, and one of the most important factors in our continued momentum is the strong relationships we have with our clients,” said Mick O’Rourke, President and CEO of Signature Bank. “We remain committed to elevating the experience for all of our customers, which is why in 2024 we invested in growing our wealth management division, we prioritized serving diverse industries, and we enhanced our digital platforms to deliver the best mobile and online banking experience.”

Key Signature Bank accomplishments in 2024 include:

Company Growth: Fiscal Year 2024 was another milestone year for Signature Bank, marking the company’s eighth consecutive year of record profitability. Net income was $34.8 million, which is an 8.4% increase over 2023. This increase was driven by a 21.4% increase in total assets and a strong 3.90% net interest margin.

Signature Bank’s ability to attract corporate deposits helped drive a 22.5% increase in total deposits. The bank’s Insured Cash Sweep (ICS) product, offering full FDIC coverage up to $200 million, played a key role in securing high-value relationships. Additionally, the bank saw a $140 million increase in money market accounts and $65 million increase in IOLTA (lawyer trust accounts).

Ongoing commitment to enhancing the customer experience: In 2024, Signature Bank also invested in the enhancement of clients’ digital experiences.

• The Treasury Management team transitioned the bank to a new Q2 digital banking platform. This new technology allows Signature Bank to work with various technology and finance products and partners to deploy their solutions to customers, enhancing customer engagement. The platform also provides solutions that help monitor, detect, and fight fraud.
• The bank launched a new website in Q4 with a fresh new look and streamlined navigation, reiterating the bank’s commitment to personalized service.

Industry awards and recognition: Over the past year Signature Bank has earned several prestigious banking and business honors.

• For the eighth consecutive year, the bank earned the distinction of being one of the Best Banks to Work For in the U.S. by American Banker. The bank achieved a ranking of 19 out of 90 banks featured on the list for creating a positive and supportive workplace.
• For the seventh year in a row, Signature Bank was named one of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR). The list recognizes companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative business and human resource practices.
• Signature Bank was recognized on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for the fourth year, reflecting seven consecutive years of record profitability.
• Crain’s Chicago Business named Signature Bank the 15th largest bank in Chicago. The bank has the highest “Return on average equity” and second highest “Return on average assets” and “Commercial loans” percentages.

Notable partnerships and customer news: Signature Bank’s commitment to expertly serving clients across industry verticals was reflected in its work with several partners.

• Signature Bank’s expertise in the legal industry resulted in a well-known Chicago law firm selecting the bank for lending and deposit needs. The firm now refers clients to Signature Chicago Wealth Management for expert guidance in handling settlement proceeds.
• A third-generation, family-owned manufacturer in Milwaukee chose Signature Bank to finance its facility expansion and new equipment purchase after securing a major contract. The partnership resulted in a joint marketing campaign that will launch this spring and highlight the successful collaboration.
• Signature Bank helped a long-term client with the transition of ownership to employees. The bank leveraged its extensive experience helping clients with Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) financing, and Signature Chicago Wealth Management lent expertise to the selling shareholder in estate planning to ensure a smooth financial strategy for the selling shareholder.
• Two of Signature Bank Chicago’s long-time customers, Eagle Hair Care, Inc. and BMS Marketing, Inc. (DBA Sir Speedy Printing), were awarded $15,000 grants through Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago’s (FHLBank Chicago) Community First® Accelerate Grants for Small Business program.

Thought leadership in wealth management: Signature Bank continues to demonstrate its dedication to expanding its wealth management division, evident through local thought leadership events and the hiring of a new senior wealth advisor.

• The bank hosted two informative economic update events, presented by John P. Culhane, CFA, Chief Investment Officer at Signature Chicago Wealth Management. Topics covered included post-election impact on wealth management, geopolitical risks and the 2025 economic outlook.
• Signature Chicago Wealth Management welcomed Steve Ricchio, Senior Wealth Advisor, who will focus on growing the bank’s investment advisory practice. With 40 years of experience in the financial services industry, his expertise includes providing comprehensive wealth management services and solutions to business owners, families of generational wealth, and retired executives.

Philanthropy and community: Signature Bank employees annually give admirable time and resources to support numerous organizations in their local communities. Highlights of 2024 include:

• The team participated in the Paint Edgebrook Pink 5K Fun Run and Walk to help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
• Signature Bank continued its ongoing support of the Big Shoulders Fund with a Back-to-School Drive and sponsorship of their annual ball. These efforts provide essential supplies and educational opportunities to local underserved students.
• The bank participated in events with St. Patrick’s Father Missionary Society, Financial Executives International Chicago, and the Technology & Manufacturing Association (TMA), all supporting education, community development, and professional growth.

For additional information about Signature Bank and how it can help your Illinois or Wisconsin business grow, contact Pete Olsen at 773-467-5630.

About Signature Bank

Signature Bank is an award-winning, relationship-based commercial bank wholly owned by Signature Bancorporation, Inc., a privately funded, locally owned bank holding company founded in 2006. Headquartered in Rosemont, IL, Signature Bank provides accessible, strategic, and highly individualized commercial banking services to closely held companies, as well as full-service retail banking capabilities. Technology-driven and well-capitalized, Signature Bank is currently the fastest growing, independently owned business bank in the Chicago-Wisconsin markets and is one of American Banker’s Best Banks to Work For. Visit Signature Bank online at http://www.signaturebank.bank.

Signature Bank is pleased to welcome Erin Reardon Cohn as Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking. With over two decades of experience, she will drive strategic growth, expand and strengthen client relationships through tailored financial solutions and foster community initiatives. Cohn serves as Board Chair of Les Turner ALS Foundation and is currently pursuing a Master of Legal Studies at Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, which she plans to complete in 2025. Read on Crain’s Chicago Business