HNB National Bank and Kearney Trust Company jointly announce merger

Editor's note: A previous version of this story has been changed for clarification.

John Zimmer, President and CEO of HNB Bancorp, Inc. (“HNB”) and HNB National Bank (“HNB Bank”), jointly announced with Keith Doss, Chairman of Kearney Trust Company (“Kearney”), a subsidiary of Trustco Bankshares, Inc. (“Trustco”), that the two financial institutions have executed an Agreement of Merger and Plan of Reorganization (the “Agreement”). The Agreement provides for the merger of Trustco with and into HNB and the merger of Kearney Trust Company with and into HNB Bank.

Keith Doss, Chairman of Kearney Trust Company, indicated this merger will allow us to better serve our community. “After thoughtful consideration and with a continued commitment to our customers and community, Kearney Trust Company today announced an agreement to join HNB National Bank, a well-established financial institution with expanded resources and services. This partnership positions our bank to continue its community-focused mission while bringing additional benefits to the people and businesses we serve.” Doss said.

For generations, Kearney Trust Company has been proud to support local families, farmers, and small businesses with personal service and local decision-making. By partnering with HNB, our customers will gain access to a broader range of financial products and services, including enhanced digital banking tools, expanded lending capabilities, and additional financial planning resources—while maintaining the hometown service they expect.

“Partnering with HNB allows us to preserve our local relationships and values while providing greater convenience, technology, and most importantly, long-term stability for those who trust us with their financial needs,” said Scott Middleton, President of Kearney Trust Company.

Customers and staff can expect continuity in their day-to-day banking experience. There are no immediate changes planned to branch locations and our local staff. Familiar faces will remain in place and will continue to handle our customer’s financial needs.

Equally important, this partnership reinforces a shared commitment to community involvement. HNB shares our belief in supporting local schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations, and we look forward to continuing our community investment together.

“We are very excited to become part of the HNB family.” Said Scott Middleton, President and CEO of Kearney Trust Company. “This will provide enhanced services and capabilities to our customers and greater opportunities for our staff”.

Commenting on the transaction, HNB President John Zimmer stated: “We view this as a tremendous opportunity for both institutions. We both have a long history in community banking and we share a commitment to our customers, employees and communities. We are excited for the expanded opportunities in the communities served by Kearney.”

Kearney is a Missouri State-Chartered Depository Trust Company headquartered in Kearney, Missouri, with total assets of approximately $313 million, as of September 30, 2025.

HNB Bank is a National Banking Association headquartered in Hannibal, Missouri, with total assets of approximately $957 million as of September 30, 2025. HNB National Bank operates 15 branches throughout Northern Missouri including locations in St. Joseph, Savannah, Stanberry, Hannibal, Perry, Palmyra, Bowling Green, Louisiana, Monroe City, Wentzville and Troy.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed in the 2nd quarter of 2026.