Our Story
50 Years of Reaching Further
For the past 50 years, we’ve built bridges of opportunity for the people, businesses and communities we’ve served and will continue to serve for years to come.
Starting with a simple mission
We first opened our doors in 1973 with a simple mission—to serve the financial needs of Chinese Americans in Los Angeles, who were often overlooked by mainstream banks. As the first federally-chartered savings institution focused on this community, we were the home for people undermined by discrimination and bias. For 50 years, we’ve taken an active role in uplifting our communities and grown along with them.
Expanding our reach and service
Today, we’re the largest independent bank headquartered in Southern California, with more than 120 locations throughout the US and Asia. With the same focus on building financial and cultural bridges, we help mainstream commercial clients connect to new opportunities and continue to expand our global network to meet our customers’ diverse financial needs in both the East and West.
Leading S&P Global Market Intelligence Ranking
East West Bank was ranked the No. 1 Performing U.S. Public Bank in a 2022 S&P Global Market Intelligence analysis of financial performance at the largest US public banks with over $10 billion in total assets.
Growing careers
We build bridges of opportunity for every community we serve, including our associates. Helping our clients reach further leads to careers that help you reach further.
Building communities
Our community development programs focus on the most pressing needs of the communities we serve: quality of life, small business growth, financial literacy, and diversity and inclusion.
Demonstrating leadership
Our senior management and board of directors have been recognized for their diversity, commitment to inclusion and financial stewardship of the bank.
Related Links
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Download our 2023 ESG Report (PDFs require Adobe Reader)