Banking Commissioner Approves De Novo Bank Charter for Houston Bank & Trust, Houston, Texas

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PRESS RELEASE
Date: May 22, 2026
Banking Commissioner Approves De Novo Bank Charter for Houston Bank & Trust, Houston, Texas Banking Commissioner Charles G. Cooper announces the opening of Houston Bank & Trust, Houston, Texas, the first de novo state bank charter approved since April 2022. The bank is anticipated to serve customers primarily in the Houston Metropolitan Statistical Area, with a focus on Harris and Montgomery counties. Houston Bank & Trust is opening on May 22, 2026, with a minimum capital amount of $35 million. Organizers and board members include A.A. (Trey) Henderson III, who will serve as Chairman; Mark Simmons who will serve as Chief Executive Officer, and Mark Jacobs who will serve as President and Chief Lending Officer. Other organizers and board members include Rebecca Bayless, John Blanchard, James Doyle, Ryan Edone, Lauren Kingry, David Preng, Judson Robinson III, and James Shelton. “The opening of this new state bank reflects the strength of the Texas economy and will benefit the Houston area,” Commissioner Cooper said. “The Texas economy is well served by a strong banking system that provides credit opportunities to businesses and consumers, including trust services, and we welcome Houston Bank & Trust to the state system.”