TOLEDO, Ohio — An 81-year-old Ohio bank has adopted a new identity, rebranding itself as Bank419, saying the name better reflects its regional roots and growth, officials said. The area code for Northwestern Ohio is 419.
The institution formerly known as Metamora State Bank announced the name change as it seeks to expand its presence across northwest Ohio, according to the Toledo Blade.
Bank leaders told the Blade the updated brand expresses a “bold statement” about the company’s evolution from a community bank to a broader regional player. Despite the new name and look, the bank said in a statement on Facebook that its mission of personal, community-focused service remains unchanged.
“We’re excited to introduce a new look that reflects our commitment to helping you live fully, grow confidently, and bank locally,” the bank said in a statement on social media announcing the rebrand.
The rebranding also comes as the bank continues to build on decades of operations in the region. Founded in the mid-20th century, the institution has steadily grown its footprint and services, a spokesperson noted in promotional materials.
Also Name of Well-Known Fraud
Interestingly, “Bank 419” also refers to the widely known 419 scam, also called an advance-fee fraud, originating from Nigeria (Section 419 of the country’s Criminal Code), where fraudsters promise huge riches for help moving money, but instead, trick victims into paying upfront fees (and then steal their money or identity, often using fake bank details or official-looking documents.
