At North Shore Trust and Savings, we’ve always believed banking is about more than just transactions. It’s about relationships, trust, and being there for our customers through every stage of life.

Recently, we announced that North Shore Trust and Savings has entered into an agreement to become part of a new banking organization. Our parent company, NSTS Bancorp, Inc., has entered into a merger agreement to be acquired by Brookfield Bancshares, Inc. While this marks an exciting milestone for our institution, I know many of our customers are asking the same question:

“What does this mean for me?”

The simple answer is this: your banking experience with North Shore Trust and Savings will remain the same.

You can continue banking with the people you know and trust. Our experienced team will still be here to answer your questions, help you reach your financial goals, and provide the personalized service that has defined North Shore Trust and Savings for generations.

Just as importantly, the products and services you rely on every day are not changing. It’s business as usual at North Shore Trust and Savings. Your accounts, debit cards, checks, direct deposits, automatic payments, routing and account numbers, online banking, mobile app, branch locations, ATMs, and statements will all continue to work just as they do today. Your deposits remain safe and secure and will continue to be federally insured by the FDIC up to the applicable limits. If you have a mortgage or other loan with us, you’ll continue making your payments exactly as you always have.

The acquisition is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2026, pending customary regulatory and shareholder approvals.

We understand that any announcement involving change can raise questions. That’s why we’re committed to keeping you informed every step of the way. We’ll continue sharing updates on our website and through customer communications.

Most importantly, if you have a question, we encourage you to reach out. Whether you stop by your local branch, give us a call, or contact us online, our team is here to help.

Thank you for the confidence you’ve placed in North Shore Trust and Savings over the years. We are honored to serve you, and we’re excited about what this next chapter means for our customers, our employees, and the communities we proudly serve. While our future is bright, our commitment to providing exceptional community banking remains unchanged.

Thank you for your continued trust.

Stephen G. Lear
Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer
North Shore Trust and Savings