Esquire Financial to acquire Signature Bancorporation for $348m.

Esquire Financial, a financial holding company, agreed to acquire Signature Bancorporation, a full-service commercial bank holding company, for $348m. "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," Andrew C. Sagliocca, Esquire Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President.