Hope Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOPE) announced on October 1, 2026, that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Bank of Hope, has completed the acquisition of the Commercial Banking Unit of SMBC MANUBANK. The transaction was previously agreed upon on March 31, 2026, and officially closed on October 1, 2026.
The acquisition adds an established commercial banking franchise and seasoned professionals to Bank of Hope. The company states that the deal diversifies deposit segments, expands the bank's footprint and client base in the Greater Los Angeles market, and reinforces its position as a premier financial partner to middle-market businesses. It also deepens relationships across the Korean and Japanese business communities.
In connection with the closing, a previously announced Collaboration and Partnership Agreement between Bank of Hope and SMBC has become effective. Under this agreement, Bank of Hope will provide comprehensive financial solutions to SMBC’s Japan-based middle-market and retail customers requiring banking services in the United States. The company views this partnership as an additional channel to serve multinational businesses with U.S. operations while strengthening its presence in the Japanese community.
As of June 30, 2026, Hope Bancorp reported total assets of $18.99 billion. The company’s branch network includes 45 full-service branches operating under the Bank of Hope banner across California, New York, New Jersey, Washington, Texas, Illinois, Alabama, and Georgia. Following the acquisition of SMBC MANUBANK branches, the network includes seven additional locations in California. Additionally, the company operates 28 branches in Hawaii under the Territorial Savings banner.
