Bank of the West, a popular financial institution based in San Francisco, California, has recently undergone a significant change. As of April 1, 2021, Bank of the West has been rebranded as BMO Harris Bank N.A. While the change in name may initially cause confusion among customers and the general public, it is important to understand that Bank of the West is now BMO.
The Bank of the West acquisition by BMO Financial Group, a Canadian multinational banking and financial services corporation, was completed in late 2020. BMO saw this as an opportunity to expand its presence in the United States and to offer a wider array of financial services to customers. As a result of this acquisition, the decision was made to rebrand Bank of the West as BMO Harris Bank N.A.
Although the name has changed, the transition is expected to be seamless for customers. BMO Harris Bank N.A. will continue to provide the same level of service, reliability, and commitment to its customers as Bank of the West did. The transition is part of a larger strategic move by BMO Financial Group to unify its brand and create a stronger, more cohesive banking experience for its customers in both the United States and Canada.
While some customers may have concerns about the change, it is important to note that Bank of the West is now BMO and that customers can expect the same level of service and commitment from the newly rebranded bank. Customers are encouraged to reach out to their local branch or customer service representatives with any questions or concerns they may have during this transition period.
FAQs:
1. Is Bank of the West still operating under the same ownership?
Yes, Bank of the West is now owned by BMO Financial Group, a Canadian multinational banking and financial services corporation.
2. Will there be any changes to my account details?
Account details such as account numbers, routing numbers, and online banking login credentials are expected to remain the same after the transition to BMO Harris Bank N.A.
3. Can I still use my Bank of the West debit and credit cards?
Yes, customers can continue to use their Bank of the West debit and credit cards as usual. The cards will eventually be reissued with the BMO Harris Bank N.A. branding.
4. Will the branch locations and hours be affected by the rebranding?
Branch locations and operating hours are expected to remain the same under the new BMO Harris Bank N.A. branding.
5. How will the rebranding affect my existing loan or mortgage with Bank of the West?
Existing loans and mortgages with Bank of the West will continue to be serviced under the new BMO Harris Bank N.A. name.
6. Will there be new products and services offered by BMO Harris Bank N.A.?
BMO Harris Bank N.A. may introduce new products and services as part of its broader strategy to expand its offerings in the United States.
7. Will there be any changes to my account fees or interest rates?
Account fees and interest rates are subject to change, but existing Bank of the West customers will be notified of any changes in advance.
8. How do I access my online banking account with the new BMO Harris Bank N.A. branding?
Customers can continue to access their online banking accounts through the Bank of the West website or app, which will be updated with the new branding.
9. Can I still contact customer service using the same phone numbers?
Existing customer service phone numbers for Bank of the West will continue to be operational under the new BMO Harris Bank N.A. branding.
10. Will there be any changes to the bank’s mobile banking app?
The mobile banking app for Bank of the West will be updated with the new BMO Harris Bank N.A. branding but will continue to offer the same functionality and features.
11. How will the rebranding affect existing business accounts with Bank of the West?
Existing business accounts with Bank of the West will transition to BMO Harris Bank N.A. with no immediate changes expected to account details or services.
12. Will there be any changes to the bank’s ATM network as a result of the rebranding?
The bank’s ATM network is expected to remain the same, with Bank of the West ATMs eventually being rebranded as BMO Harris Bank N.A. ATMs.