Davis Polk partner Pedro Bermeo discussed the increase in banks launching initial public offerings with Bank Director.

“It’s not a wide-open boom in bank IPOs, but it’s no longer shut,” Pedro explained. “Investors are interested. There’s appetite. They’re being thoughtful about investment opportunities, but I think good regional bank franchises can attract capital and can tell a good story.” 

Pedro added that with the markets open, he sees closely held institutions eyeing longer-term independence and shareholder liquidity. “How do you think about the future? One path is you sell and then you’re likely fully out,” he said. “[An IPO] gives you another option, another tool.”

“Environment Heats Up for Bank IPOs,” Bank Director (February 20, 2026) 

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