CEO Advisory Group Advises Frontier Credit Union in Landmark Montana Bank Purchase

CEO Advisory Group announces the successful closing of Frontier Credit Union’s acquisition of First Citizens Bank of Butte, a transaction for which CEO Advisory Group served as financial advisor to Frontier Credit Union. This historic transaction represents the first whole-bank acquisition of a Montana-based bank by a credit union and marks Frontier’s expansion into the state for the first time.

CEO Advisory Group worked alongside Luse Gorman, PC to guide Frontier Credit Union through the financial analysis and regulatory approval process and ensure a smooth closing. The firm’s expertise in credit union bank acquisitions was instrumental in facilitating this strategic expansion.

“Credit union acquisitions of banks have become an increasingly strategic tool for growth and market expansion,” said Glenn Christensen, principal at CEO Advisory Group. “This transaction exemplifies how credit unions can thoughtfully enter new markets while preserving the community banking relationships that make these institutions vital to their communities. We’re seeing more credit unions recognize that bank acquisitions offer a compelling path to scale and diversification.”

Transaction Overview

The acquisition brings together Frontier Credit Union’s 90-year legacy of member-focused financial services with First Citizens Bank of Butte’s strong community banking tradition. Frontier Credit Union now operates 16 service locations across Idaho and Montana, with combined assets of over $773 million.

Strategic Advantages

The transaction reflects the continuing trend of credit unions leveraging bank acquisitions as a strategic growth vehicle. Key advantages include:

• Accelerated Market Entry: Frontier gained immediate presence in Montana, with all branches remaining open.
• Expanded Product Offerings: First Citizens customers now have access to Frontier’s comprehensive suite of financial products and digital banking tools.
• Expanded Network: Members have access to a combined network of 16 service locations throughout Idaho and Montana.

The transaction added approximately $75 million in assets to Frontier’s balance sheet.