Alma Bank has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire American Community Bank, a move that will combine two relationship-focused community banks and expand their presence across the New York metropolitan area and Northern New Jersey.
Upon the final closure of the transaction—expected in the first quarter of 2027—the combined institution will operate with roughly $2.0 billion in total assets and a network of approximately 21 banking offices. This combined footprint will span across Queens, Long Island, Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Northern New Jersey locations, strengthening commercial and personal banking capabilities throughout the tri-state region.
While Alma Bank brings approximately $1.6 billion in assets and established northern New Jersey branches (including locations in Clifton, Fort Lee, and Tenafly) to the table, American Community Bank contributes a strong network anchored across Long Island.
The merged franchise will provide customers with enhanced lending capacity, expanded treasury and cash management options, digital banking tech upgrades, and localized wealth management solutions. Leadership notes that the strategy centers on maintaining the personalized attention characteristic of community banking while scaling resources to serve commercial enterprises, real estate investors, and municipalities.
“This partnership is grounded in a shared belief that banking is, first and foremost, about people,” Michael Psyllos, president and chief executive officer of Alma Bank, said. “American Community Bank has built a respected franchise by earning the trust of its clients, supporting its employees and remaining deeply connected to the communities it serves.”
Following the close of the transaction, Psyllos will remain president and CEO of Alma Bank. Anthony Capobianco, president and CEO of American Community Bank, is slated to join Alma Bank as senior executive vice president and take a seat on its Board of Directors. Additionally, Aldo Verrelli, chairman of American Community Bancorp, Inc., is expected to join the Board.
Until the merger officially clears regulatory and shareholder approvals early next year, both banks will continue conducting operations independently. Customers can continue utilizing their standard branches, channels, and relationship managers without interruption.
