Fifth Third Bancorp finalized its acquisition of Comerica this week, creating the ninth-largest bank in the country with approximately $294 billion in assets.
The merger builds upon Fifth Third’s momentum entering 2026, following a year of record revenue, strong loan and deposit growth, and continued leadership in digital banking and commercial payments.
With Comerica on board, Fifth Third will now operate in 17 of the 20 fastest-growing large markets in the country, including key regions in the Southeast, Texas and California. It also solidifies the bank’s leadership in the Midwest. By 2030, Fifth Third is planning to have approximately 1,750 branches, over half of which will be located in the Southeast, Texas, Arizona and California.
The combined company now has two $1 billion recurring fee businesses – Commercial Payments and Wealth and Asset Management. These companies provide durable, diversified earnings and the additional capacity to reinvest for growth.
“We are thrilled to announce we have closed our merger with Comerica,” Tim Spence, chairman, CEO and president of Fifth Third, said. “This combination marks a pivotal moment for Fifth Third as we accelerate our strategy to build density in high-growth markets and deepen our commercial capabilities. Together, we are creating a stronger, more diversified bank that is well-positioned to deliver exceptional value for our shareholders, customers, communities and teammates – starting today, and over the long-term.”
Integration teams are working to ensure a seamless transition for customers. Full system and brand conversions are expected in the third quarter of 2026. Until then, Comerica locations will continue to operate under the Comerica brand.
“Over the next five years, we see four key opportunities: scaling Comerica’s middle market expertise; deepening commercial and wealth relationships to Fifth Third levels; expanding retail banking with our proven playbook, including 150 new de novo branches in Texas; and building a differentiated innovation banking business by leveraging the capabilities of Comerica’s Tech and Life sciences vertical with Fifth Third’s Newline platform,” Spence said. “We’re building a stronger, more innovative bank, deliberately engineered for through-the-cycle performance so we can continue delivering for our customers, communities and teammates.”