Bank of the West Launches Blog Featuring Financial and Economic Insights

SAN FRANCISCO, April 7, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of the West today unveiled The Bank of the West Blog, an educational resource for readers looking for ideas and insight on how to best understand and manage financial matters related to their businesses, homes and wealth. In addition, blog readers will be kept informed on U.S. economic activity and how this may affect their finances. Featuring articles written by several of the bank's business leaders, the blog seeks to aid consumers in making sound financial decisions within the current economic climate.

"The Bank of the West Blog attests to our desire to engage in a dialogue with customers and readers around unique, meaningful content they can use to help increase their financial acumen," said Lance Berg, director of corporate communications. "It is our goal to support and inform their financial goals whether buying or selling a home, starting a business or saving for retirement, while also being a reliable online destination that they can visit time and again for professional insight."

As an educational platform, the blog showcases content by Bank of the West thought leaders in four primary subject areas:

• Economic Outlook: The analysis of economic events and trends and how these will influence consumers' finances. This section will feature Scott Anderson, Ph.D., Bank of the West's chief economist.
• Your Home: Mortgage and housing-related commentary intended to assist buyers, sellers, real estate professionals and investors navigating the housing market. Karen Mayfield, senior vice president, Bank of the West's mortgage banking division, will drive the conversation.
• Your Business: Topics for businesses of all sizes, including financing, cash management and fraud protection. Contributors include David Pollino, Bank of the West's fraud prevention officer.
• Your Investments: Tips on investing, trusts and other wealth management. Wade Balliet, head of investment management for Bank of the West's Wealth Management Group, will be the main contributor, along with other team members.

"We understand the financial complexities of today's economy and that consumers need a trusted resource to help them navigate the issues," said Joel Nathanson, head of social media. "This blog intends to help connect readers with the content and resources they need, and in a channel that makes it convenient. Our team of business leaders is excited to offer new perspectives and insights across a wide range of topics."

The blog also allows readers to engage with the team by asking questions and proposing topics for future posts through a Share an Idea tool or in the comments section.

The Bank of the West Blog is now live. Check back often for new content and follow us on Twitter at @BankoftheWest for updates.

About Bank of the West
Founded in 1874, $65 billion-asset Bank of the West (www.bankofthewest.com), member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender, offers a wide range of personal, commercial, wealth management and international banking services. The bank operates more than 600 retail and commercial banking locations in 19 Western and Midwestern states. Bank of the West is a subsidiary of BNP Paribas, which has a presence in 80 countries with 190,000 employees, including 145,000 in Europe.

Deposit and loan products offered by Bank of the West, Member FDIC.

Securities and variable annuities are offered through BancWest Investment Services, a registered broker/dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Financial Advisors are Registered Representatives of BancWest Investment Services. Fixed annuities/insurance products are offered through BancWest Insurance Agency in California, (License #0C52321), through BancWest Insurance Agency in Utah and through BancWest Investment Services, Inc. in AZ, CO, IA, ID, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, WA, WI, WY, HI, GUAM and CNMI. Bank of the West and its various affiliates and subsidiaries are not tax or legal advisors.

BancWest Investment Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of the West and a part of the Wealth Management Group. BancWest Corporation is the holding company for Bank of the West. BancWest Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of BNP Paribas.

Investment and Insurance products:

SOURCE Bank of the West