University Bancorp’s University Bank is expanding its wealth management capabilities through a strategic acquisition of Credit Union Trust. The bank announced it will acquire an additional 37.4999% stake in Credit Union Trust for $3.75 million. This move will boost University Bank’s ownership to 49.9999%, just shy of a controlling majority, with the transaction expected to close on December 31, 2025. All necessary regulatory approvals are reportedly in place, and the timing of the close is designed to streamline accounting processes under GAAP.
Credit Union Trust, headquartered in Troy, Michigan, offers a comprehensive suite of services including trust and estate administration, along with wealth management. As of November 30, 2025, the firm reported $134.7 million in assets under management. This acquisition is positioned as a pivotal element in University Bank’s broader wealth management strategy, signaling a commitment to deepening its service offerings in this crucial financial sector.
The transaction highlights a growing trend among financial institutions to bolster their wealth management arms, recognizing the increasing demand for personalized financial planning and asset stewardship. With an aging population and complex financial landscapes, the need for specialized trust and estate services is paramount. Credit Union Trust’s focus on direct, personal service, with local trust officers and advisors, aligns well with University Bank’s community-focused approach, differentiating it from larger, more centralized competitors.
Jordan Summers, President & CEO of Credit Union Trust, expressed enthusiasm for the increased investment, anticipating that it will accelerate the company’s growth trajectory. His leadership, coupled with a team of experienced trust officers and advisors, provides a strong foundation. The collaboration with University Bank and its existing network of credit union partnerships, legal, and accounting professionals, is expected to enhance Credit Union Trust’s ability to serve its clients’ evolving needs.
Ben Bolen, head of University Bank’s Wealth Management division, emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating financial, aging, caregiving, and legacy planning. His recent book, “Clarity Before Crisis: Beyond Financial, Legal, and Healthcare Guidance for Aging, Caregiving, and Family Legacy,” underscores this commitment to addressing the often-overlooked relational and practical aspects of life planning. This initiative aims to foster open communication and provide accessible guidance to clients navigating complex family dynamics and long-term care considerations.
From a financial perspective, University Bancorp has demonstrated consistent growth, with 2024 revenue increasing by 18.65%. While its Return on Equity (ROE) for 2024 was 12.5%, falling below its 10-year average of 25.97%, the company’s shareholders’ equity at University Bank surpassed $100 million for the first time. As of September 30, 2025, UNIB’s shareholders’ equity stood at approximately $98.3 million. The acquisition of Credit Union Trust is expected to contribute to the ongoing expansion of University Bancorp’s asset management capabilities and client base.
The deal structure, keeping University Bank’s stake just below majority control, may offer strategic advantages, potentially allowing for greater operational flexibility while still capturing significant economic benefits. The $3.75 million investment represents a deliberate capital allocation towards a high-growth segment of the financial services industry.
University Bancorp, a Federal Reserve-regulated financial holding company, operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary University Bank. The bank’s portfolio includes a diverse range of services, from banking and insurance to mortgage servicing, and it has recently announced plans to expand its faith-based banking business with the acquisition of Bank of Whittier, N.A. Collectively, University Bank and its subsidiaries manage over $35 billion in financial assets for more than 183,000 customers, positioning it as a significant player within Michigan’s banking landscape.
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