California Bank and Trust
| Company type | Subsidiary |
|---|---|
| Industry | Banking |
| Founded | October 1998 |
| Headquarters | San Diego , United States |
Area served | California |
Key people | Eric Ellingsen (CEO) |
| Products | Consumer banking, commercial banking, wealth management |
| Parent | Zions Bancorporation |
California Bank & Trust (CB&T) is a comprehensive banking institution offering consumer, commercial, and wealth management solutions, with its main office situated in San Diego, California. Boasting more than 80 branches across the state and holding assets valued at $91 billion as of 2022, CB&T functions as a subsidiary under Zions Bancorporation, recognized among the top 50 bank holding companies in the United States.
History
The inception of California Bank & Trust took place in October 1998, resulting from the consolidation of three banks acquired by Zions Bancorporation: Sumitomo Bank of California, Grossmont Bank based in San Diego, and First Pacific National Bank.
Following its formation, the bank broadened its reach by acquiring Regency Bank, located in Fresno, in 1999. This was succeeded by the purchase of Eldorado Bancshares in 2001, which encompassed Eldorado Bank and Antelope Valley Bank.
In 2009, CB&T further expanded through the acquisition of Alliance Bank and Vineyard Bank after their closure by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). This deal incorporated $951 million in deposits, $1.14 billion in assets, and up to $225 million in credits originating from Alliance Bank.
Most recently, in June 2025, CB&T enhanced its footprint within the Coachella Valley by purchasing four branches from FirstBank, thereby raising its branch count to six within that area.
Operations
California Bank & Trust maintains over 80 branches managed via four regional offices situated in Irvine, Los Angeles, Oakland, along with its headquarters in San Diego. In November 2024, the Los Angeles office transitioned to the Aon Center, which ranks as the third tallest building in the city.
The bank is led by CEO Eric Ellingsen, who also holds a position on the executive committee of Zions Bancorporation. His dual roles underscore his influential leadership within both CB&T and its parent company.