American Pride Bank Opens Its First South Carolina Office in Greenville
American Pride Bank has opened its first South Carolina office in Greenville, at 18 S. Markley St., Suite A. The bank marked the milestone with a grand opening on Tuesday, Oct. 13, joined by local business owners, community leaders, clients and its new Greenville team.
“Greenville’s business owners are ambitious. They deserve a bank that will keep up with them and be a forward-thinking financial partner every step of the way,” said Dominik Mjartan, President and Chief Executive Officer of American Pride Bank. “This office is more than a new location. It’s our bet on Greenville’s future and on the people building it.”
The Greenville team is led by Market President Chris Fowler, a well-known banker who has been part of the Greenville business community for decades. Fowler joined American Pride Bank this spring alongside Michael Sharpton, the bank’s Executive Vice President and Chief Growth & Revenue Officer, with whom he has a long working relationship. The team partners with growth-oriented businesses across the Upstate, spanning manufacturing, professional services, construction trades, healthcare, commercial real estate and hospitality, as well as the entrepreneurs and families behind their success. Each client works with one banker who knows their name and their business, and who can make decisions quickly.
“I’ve spent my career banking Greenville’s business owners, and I’m more energized than ever by the growth and opportunity I see across this city,” said Fowler. “The people driving that growth want two things: someone who picks up the phone and someone who can say yes. We’re here to be their partner.”
Greenville is the latest step in the bank’s Carolinas strategy. American Pride Bank opened a branch in Charlotte in July and an office in Winston-Salem, N.C., in early October, and is exploring opportunities in the Raleigh-Cary area. The Greenville and Winston-Salem offices each brought in several million dollars in deposits within days of opening.
Each new market is a deliberate choice. Over the past 12 months, parent company American Bancorp, Inc. raised $186 million in new capital from a strong base of shareholders and reached $1.3 billion in total assets, guided by careful planning at every step. That strength means Greenville businesses can keep growing without outgrowing their bank.
“We chose Greenville because of the people building businesses here,” said Sharpton. “Now they have a local team with the capital to back their next move, and a bank that’s in it with them for the long haul.”
The Greenville office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To meet the team, call 864-214-7618 or visit www.americanpride.bank.
About American Bancorp, Inc. & American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank is a public benefit corporation, mission-driven community bank and national mortgage leader serving ambitious individuals, entrepreneurs and growing businesses. Founded in 2007 by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs, the bank offers high-touch, flexible banking that creates pathways to generational wealth. American Pride Bank is a designated Minority Depository Institution and a wholly owned subsidiary of American Bancorp, Inc., which has $1.3 billion in total assets. The bank has 10 offices across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida. Your success is our pride. Learn more at www.americanpride.bank.
Media Contact
Lawanna Saxon
Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-382-3930 | lsaxon@americanpride.bank
American Bancorp, Inc. Completes Sale of New Republic Bank to Juno Bancorp, Inc.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2026 [CHARLOTTE, NC]
American Bancorp, Inc., the parent company of American Pride Bank and New Republic Bank, announced today that it has completed the sale of New Republic Bank to Juno Bancorp Inc.
The Charlotte, North Carolina, branch and its core clients remain with American Pride Bank and were rebranded as American Pride Bank in July. Charlotte clients continue to work with their bankers at the same location, 700 East Morehead Street.
American Bancorp brought New Republic Bank into its family of banks through a stock-for-stock merger completed on November 7, 2025.
"When we joined forces with New Republic, our goal was to grow our capacity to serve ambitious people across the Carolinas," said Dominik Mjartan, President & CEO of American Bancorp, Inc. and American Pride Bank. "This sale lets us focus on the markets where we're growing fastest, while our core Charlotte clients keep the bankers they know and trust. We're grateful to the New Republic Bank team for their service, and we're confident the bank is in good hands."
With this transaction complete, American Bancorp will operate a single bank, American Pride Bank, with branches across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida.
About American Bancorp, Inc. & American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Bancorp, Inc., serving high-achieving entrepreneurs in the fastest-growing markets in the Southeastern United States. Founded in 2007 by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs, American Pride Bank delivers high-touch, relationship-driven banking that creates pathways to generational wealth and business success. With operations across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida, the Bank is a designated Minority Depository Institution and Benefit Corporation committed to delivering both financial and social returns. At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride. For locations, products, and more information, visit www.americanpride.bank.
Media Contact
Lawanna Saxon
Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-382-3930 | lsaxon@americanpride.bank
Michael D. Sharpton Joins American Pride Bank as Executive Vice President and Chief Growth & Revenue Officer
American Pride Bank announced today that Michael D. Sharpton has joined its executive management team as Executive Vice President and Chief Growth & Revenue Officer.
In this role, Sharpton will lead the Bank’s sales and lending functions, including American Pride Bank’s expanding presence across Georgia, the Carolinas, and Florida. A values-driven leader with more than 30 years of experience building high-performing teams across the Southeastern United States, Sharpton brings deep expertise in sales leadership, strategic planning, and relationship-focused banking solutions.
Sharpton is joined by a team of 18 banking professionals who will establish and grow American Pride Bank’s presence in key markets, including Charlotte and Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina.
“Michael exemplifies the type of bank we want to be — highly responsive, customer-centric, and focused on building lasting relationships with clients, communities, and teammates,” said Dominik Mjartan, President and Chief Executive Officer of American Pride Bank. “Michael and our new colleagues have our full confidence, and we are eager to see this expansion help us fuel the success of more entrepreneurs and small businesses across our footprint.”
These additions build on American Pride Bank’s recent expansion into North Carolina through its merger with New Republic Bank, with full systems conversion scheduled for completion by July 1, 2026.
Sharpton believes community banks remain among the most powerful drivers of local economic growth. “Community banking plays a vital role in creating opportunity at the local level,” Sharpton said. “I’m excited to join American Pride Bank at such a pivotal time and to build on its strong foundation of relationship banking together with this talented team.”
About American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Bancorp, Inc., a $1.2 billion bank holding company serving high-achieving entrepreneurs in the fastest-growing markets in the Southeastern United States. Founded in 2007 by successful entrepreneurs, American Pride Bank delivers high-touch, relationship-driven banking solutions that create pathways to generational wealth and business success. With operations across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida, the Bank is a certified Minority Depository Institution and Benefit Corporation committed to delivering both financial and social returns. At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride. For locations, products, and more information, visit www.americanpride.bank.
Media Contact
Lawanna Saxon
Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-382-3930 | lsaxon@americanpride.bank
Encore Bank to sell two bank branches in the Carolinas to American Pride Bank
Encore Bank has entered into an agreement with American Pride Bank for the sale of the physical assets associated with Encore Bank’s branches in Greenville, South Carolina, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
The transaction includes the physical assets of the two branches and the teams who service the branches; Encore client accounts are not included as part of the agreement. Encore will continue serving these markets through its bankers based in Charleston, S.C. and Charlotte, N.C.
“Although we are closing these offices, our commitment to serving the Greenville and Winston-Salem communities remains the same,” said Phillip Jett, CEO of Encore Bank. “Our teams in Charlotte, Charleston and across all Encore Bank locations will continue to support our clients with the same high level of service they have come to expect from us.”
The agreement comes as Encore Bank continues to focus on optimizing operations and investing in technology to enhance the client experience and support long-term growth and value. For American Pride Bank, this agreement provides an opportunity to accelerate growth into these areas, building on its momentum in the Southeast.
“In today’s environment, smaller banks must seize opportunities to support each other,” said American Pride Bank President & CEO, Dominik Mjartan. “We are grateful to Encore Bank for the opportunity to acquire these two locations, allowing us to enter ideal markets to prudently deploy our growth capital.”
The transaction is subject to regulatory approval. Encore Bank has communicated with its clients that existing deposit accounts, loans and other banking relationships with Encore Bank will remain in place. No further client action is required. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, and the transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.
About Encore Bank
Encore Bank was established in 2019 after its founders purchased a controlling interest in the Capital Bank, rebranded it as Encore Bank and began its remarkable growth journey. Since that time, Encore has grown from $159 million in total assets and a single office to more than $3.5 billion in total assets with a presence across seven states. Headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, Encore Bank is a privately held, commercially focused bank that couples highly experienced and talented bankers with innovative technology to offer unprecedented levels of service to its clients through a hospitality-inspired concierge approach.
With a commitment to empowering clients and supporting the communities it serves, Encore Bank provides a full suite of financial products and services with purpose, passion and precision. For more information, visit bankencore.com.
About American Bancorp Inc. & American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank was founded in 2007, followed by American Bancorp Inc. in 2008, by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs to ensure that everyone has access to the financial products and services needed to earn their American Dream. The bank specializes in serving high-touch, relationship banking solutions that create pathways for generational wealth-building and business success.
Through responsive financial services, American Pride Bank helps small business owners and communities thrive. We take pride in seeing our clients succeed and knowing we played a part in their journey.
At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride. Visit www.americanpride.bank for locations, products, and more information.
Media Contact:
Lawanna Saxon - Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-382-3930| lsaxon@americanpride.bank
American Bancorp Inc. Surpasses $1 Billion in Total Assets, Marking Transformational Year of Growth
About American Bancorp Inc. & American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank was founded in 2007, followed by American Bancorp Inc. in 2008, by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs to ensure that everyone has access to the financial products and services needed to earn their American Dream. The bank specializes in serving high-touch, relationship banking solutions that create pathways for generational wealth-building and business success.
Through responsive financial services, American Pride Bank helps small business owners and communities thrive. We take pride in seeing our customers succeed and knowing we played a part in their journey.
At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride. Visit www.americanpride.bank for locations, products, and more information.
Media Contact:
Lawanna Saxon - Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-382-3930| lsaxon@americanpride.bank
American Bancorp Inc. Completes Merger with New Republic Partners Inc.
Deal Expands Presence Across the Southeast
November 7, 2025 [CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA] — American Bancorp Inc., parent company of American Pride Bank, has finalized its merger with New Republic Partners Inc., parent company of New Republic Bank based in Charlotte, North Carolina. On November 7, New Republic Bank becomes a sister bank of American Pride Bank under the American Bancorp family of banks. Following the merger, American Bancorp has approximately $900 million in total assets and more than $150 million in equity, marking a milestone year of significant growth and expansion.
“This partnership with New Republic Partners represents a resounding vote of confidence from the shareholders and teams at both organizations,” said Dominik Mjartan, President & CEO of American Bancorp Inc. “The transaction was structured as a stock-for-stock exchange, which is an important signal of confidence from New Republic Bank’s shareholders, who have now become shareholders in American Bancorp.”
Ralph Strayhorn, Chairman of New Republic Partners, added, “Our decision to join as equity partners underscores a shared belief in our strategy, leadership, and long-term vision. Together, we are building a strong network of locally rooted banks committed to fueling small business growth and serving ambitious people across the Southeast.” Strayhorn will join the American Bancorp Board of Directors.
New Republic Bank customers will continue working with their trusted bankers following the merger. Jason Grooters, New Republic’s CEO and CFO, has joined American Pride Bank and American Bancorp as Chief Operating Officer. Over time, New Republic Bank will be rebranded as American Pride Bank following a careful phased systems integration to ensure seamless customer service.
“Adding New Republic Bank to our family allows us to extend our mission into new communities—while preserving the entrepreneurial spirit and customer-first approach that define both institutions,” said Ajitkumar “Adam” Patel, Chairman of the American Bancorp Board of Directors.
Over the past 12 months, American Bancorp raised more than $100 million of growth capital, more than doubled total assets from $373 million to approximately $900 million, and expanded its capacity with seasoned banking professionals, new products, and new markets.
Following the merger, American Bancorp will operate eight banking locations across the Southeast and a mortgage division originating loans in 49 states.
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Moraff
Director of Marketing & Communications, Chief of Staff
American Pride Bank
478-238-1533 | emoraff@americanpride.bank
About American Bancorp Inc. & American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank was founded in 2007, followed by American Bancorp Inc. in 2008, by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs to ensure that everyone has access to the financial products and services needed to earn their American Dream. The bank specializes in serving high-touch, relationship banking solutions that create pathways for generational wealth-building and business success.
Through responsive financial services, American Pride Bank helps small business owners and communities thrive. We take pride in seeing our customers succeed and knowing we played a part in their journey.
At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride. Visit www.americanpride.bank for locations, products, and more information.
About New Republic Bank
Established in 1998 and headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, New Republic Bank was founded by families who believed in a more personal approach to banking. Today, NRB continues that legacy by offering concierge-level service to successful individuals, families, and closely held businesses. The bank’s mission is to help clients navigate the complexities of wealth with confidence. We deliver personalized solutions and guidance designed to meet each client’s unique goals and aspirations.
Learn more by visiting www.newrepublicbank.com
American Pride Bank Wholesale Unveils “APB Solutions” — A Portfolio Product Built for the Real-World Borrower
Speed, flexibility, and common-sense underwriting now bundled in one broker-friendly suite
September 2, 2025 [ATLANTA, GA] — American Bancorp Inc. and its subsidiary, American Pride Bank, are proud to introduce APB Solutions, the newest portfolio product suite from APB Wholesale, the Third-Party Origination (TPO) arm of American Pride Bank’s mortgage division.
Built for brokers serving borrowers who don’t fit the vanilla lending mold, APB Solutions delivers a combination of flexible documentation, competitive terms, and lightning-fast turn times — all backed by a team of seasoned mortgage pros who understand how to get unconventional deals done.
“Brokers told us they wanted more ways to say ‘yes’ without the red tape — and APB Solutions is our answer,” said Jessica Bluj, President of American Pride Bank’s mortgage division. “Whether it’s a DSCR loan for a first-time investor, a P&L-only option for an entrepreneur, or a foreign national loan for a second home, we’ve designed this product suite to help brokers win deals that other lenders won’t even look at.”
Key Features of APB Solutions:
- Alt-Doc & Full-Doc Flexibility: Bank statements, P&L-only (PTIN allowed), 1099, Written VOE, and asset utilization options
- Investor-Focused Programs: DSCR and No-Ratio loans — first-time investors welcome — including condotels and short-term rentals
- Foreign National Solutions: Loans up to $3M for 2nd homes and investment properties
- High Loan Amounts: $125K to $3M with LTVs up to 90%
- Broad Property Eligibility: SFRs, 2–4 units, condos (warrantable & non), condotels, rural homes, and more
- Fast, Common-Sense Underwriting: 24-hour decisions ad real people who answer the phone
“APB Solutions is exactly what you get when you combine community-bank service with big-league lending creativity,” added Dominik Mjartan, CEO of American Pride Bank. “It’s about making sure brokers have the tools to serve more clients and close more loans, even in unconventional scenarios.”
Mortgage professionals can now price APB Solutions instantly through the APB Pricer or connect directly with the APB Wholesale team to discuss scenarios by making an inquiry at www.apbwholesale.com today.
About APB Wholesale
American Pride Bank Wholesale, or “APB Wholesale,” is the wholesale arm of the mortgage division at American Pride Bank. Founded in 2007 by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs, American Pride Bank delivers relationship banking services that help people and communities build generational wealth. Through responsive, high-touch financial solutions, the bank supports small business owners, homebuyers, and mission-driven mortgage pros alike. Your success is our pride.
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Moraff
Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-238-1533
emoraff@americanpride.bank
American Pride Bank Welcomes Kristie McMahan as Chief Credit Officer, EVP
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Atlanta, GA — July 21, 2025 — American Pride Bank is pleased to announce that Kristie McMahan has joined the organization as Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer. With nearly 25 years of banking experience, McMahan brings a strong track record of leadership across credit and risk management, commercial and private banking, and operational strategy.
Throughout her career, McMahan has held a number of senior leadership roles, including Director of Commercial Administration, Credit Administration Manager, Loan Operations Manager, and Senior Credit Underwriter. She also has experience as a relationship and portfolio manager, along with financial leadership roles in private equity and international manufacturing—giving her a well-rounded perspective on financial strategy and credit discipline.
McMahan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Finance from Wofford College and an MBA with concentrations in Finance and Risk Management from the University of Georgia. She is widely respected for her strategic insight and dedication to long-term organizational success.
Kristie lives in Decatur, Georgia with her husband, Scott, and their two daughters.
American Pride Bank was founded in 2007 by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs to ensure that everyone has access to the financial products and services needed to earn their American Dream. The bank specializes in serving high-touch, relationship banking solutions that create pathways for generational wealth-building and business success.
Through responsive financial services, American Pride Bank helps small business owners and communities thrive. We take pride in seeing our customers succeed and knowing we played a part in their journey.
At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Moraff
Director of Marketing & Communications, Chief of Staff
American Pride Bank
478-238-1533
emoraff@americanpride.bank
American Pride Bank Welcomes Dominik Mjartan as Chief Executive Officer
Bank’s Total Assets Grow by 46%, Crossing $540M in Six Months
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2025
[ATLANTA, GA] – American Bancorp Inc. is proud to formally announce the appointment of Dominik Mjartan as Chief Executive Officer for both American Bancorp Inc. and its subsidiary, American Pride Bank. A seasoned banker with over twenty years of experience, Mjartan comes with a proven track record of growing both financial and social returns. After just six months under his leadership, American Pride Bank has grown its total assets by 46% and crossed $540 million.
An immigrant from Slovakia, Mjartan came to the United States as a teenager with a dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Since, he has become known as an innovative executive who consistently delivers on both margin and mission. Mjartan comes to American Bancorp Inc. after serving as President and CEO for Optus Bank in South Carolina, where shareholders realized an exponential return on equity under his leadership.
Throughout his career as an executive, Mjartan has been leaving an imprint the banking sector; he is a founding director of Climate First Bank and has served as an advisory board member for the FDIC, a director of the Community Development Bankers Association, and the National Bankers Association, among others. His leadership and business success earned him recognition as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year® Southeast this past year.
At American Bancorp Inc., Mjartan has already set a bold new trajectory of growth, increasing the balance sheet by more than $170 million, including $36 million in new capital. The company also secured a designation as a Public Benefit Corporation and Minority Depository Institution (MDI).
“With Dom on board, we are entering an exciting new season for the bank. His vision and dedication are driving us forward as we build a national footprint. The future couldn’t be brighter,” said Ajitkumar "Adam" Patel, founding director and chairman of the board of American Pride Bank and American Bancorp Inc. Under Patel’s leadership as Chairman, the Bank has been positioning itself to scale nationwide while delivering elite banking services.
Founded in 2007 by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs, American Pride Bank was established to ensure that every person has access to the financial products, services, and knowledge they need to earn their American Dream.
Mjartan remarked, “I am deeply moved by American Pride Bank’s history and inspired by its founders, directors, and strong team. Together, we’re going to build a bank that the financial sector has been missing: one that combines the relational, people-driven prowess of community banks with the capacity, technology, and scale of a Wall Street Enterprise. Thanks to everyone’s efforts, we are well on our way.”
For more information about American Pride Bank and to stay informed about new products, services, and opportunities, visit www.americanpride.bank
About American Pride Bank
American Pride Bank was founded in 2007 by first-generation Americans and entrepreneurs to ensure that everyone has access to the financial products and services needed to earn their American Dream. The bank specializes in serving high-touch, relationship banking solutions that create pathways for generational wealth-building and business success.
Through responsive financial services, American Pride Bank helps small business owners and communities thrive. We take pride in seeing our customers succeed and knowing we played a part in their journey.
At American Pride Bank, your success is our pride.
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Moraff
Director of Marketing & Communications
American Pride Bank
478-238-1533
Emoraff@americanpride.bank
