Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION): History, Ownership, Mission, How It Works & Makes Money

Ever wondered about the story behind Zions Bancorporation, N.A., one of the nation's premier financial services companies? With approximately $89 billion in total assets as of December 31, 2024, and an annual net revenue of $3.1 billion in 2024, it's a major player in the banking world. Keep reading to uncover its rich history, understand its ownership structure, and discover how it operates across 11 western states, building strong communities and fostering economic opportunity.

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) History

Zions Bancorporation Founding Timeline

Year established

Zions Bancorporation was established in 1955.

Original location

The original location was in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Founding team members

The primary figure in the foundation of Zions Bancorporation was Heber J. Grant, who served as the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and played a crucial role in establishing the institution.

Initial capital/funding

Initially, Zions Bancorporation emerged from the remnants of Zion’s Savings Bank and Trust Company, with initial capital reflecting the assets and investments transitioned from its predecessor. While the specific initial capital figure for the 1955 establishment of Zions Bancorporation isn't explicitly detailed, the organization's foundation was built upon a solid base of assets inherited from Zion’s Savings Bank and Trust Company.

Zions Bancorporation Evolution Milestones

Zions Bancorporation Transformative Moments

Zions Bancorporation has undergone several transformative moments that have shaped its growth and strategic direction:

• Strategic Acquisitions: The acquisition of banks such as Nevada State Bank significantly expanded Zions' market presence beyond Utah.
• Technological Adaptations: Embracing digital banking solutions to meet changing customer needs and maintain competitiveness.
• Financial Crisis Management: Navigating the 2008 financial crisis involved strategic decisions to stabilize and strengthen its financial position.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adapting to evolving banking regulations to ensure compliance and maintain a strong reputation.
• Operational Efficiencies: Implementing measures to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

These moments reflect Zions Bancorporation's ability to adapt, grow, and maintain stability in a dynamic financial environment. For further insights into the company's financial health, you might find this resource helpful: Breaking Down Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors.

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Ownership Structure

Zions Bancorporation operates with a mixed ownership structure, comprising a combination of institutional, mutual fund, and individual holdings, reflecting a diverse investor base.

Zions Bancorporation's Current Status

Zions Bancorporation, National Association is a publicly traded company. Its stock is listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol ZION.

Zions Bancorporation's Ownership Breakdown

As of the latest available data for the fiscal year 2024, the ownership of Zions Bancorporation is distributed among various types of shareholders. The following table summarizes the ownership breakdown:

Zions Bancorporation's Leadership

The leadership team at Zions Bancorporation plays a crucial role in guiding the company’s strategic direction and operational execution. Key figures include:

• Harris H. Simmons: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
• Paul E. Burdiss: Chief Financial Officer

These individuals, along with other executive leaders, are instrumental in steering Zions Bancorporation toward its financial and strategic goals. Exploring Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Mission and Values

Zions Bancorporation operates with a commitment to building strong relationships with its customers and communities, guided by principles of integrity, service, and long-term value creation.

Zions Bancorporation's Core Purpose

Official mission statement

While Zions Bancorporation doesn't have a single, universally publicized mission statement, its approach to business reflects several core principles:

• Focus on customer relationships: Building lasting connections with clients by understanding their financial needs.
• Community involvement: Investing in the economic and social well-being of the regions it serves.
• Ethical conduct: Maintaining high standards of integrity and transparency in all business practices.
• Shareholder value: Delivering consistent and sustainable returns to its investors.

These principles are evident in the way Zions operates and interacts with its stakeholders. You can explore more about the company's investor relations Exploring Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Vision statement

Zions Bancorporation's vision can be inferred from its strategic goals and public statements, which emphasize:

• Innovation: Embracing technological advancements to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
• Growth: Expanding its market presence through organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
• Financial Strength: Maintaining a strong balance sheet and capital position to withstand economic cycles.
• Employee Development: Fostering a culture of learning and growth to attract and retain top talent.

Company slogan/tagline

Zions Bancorporation and its affiliated banks typically use individual marketing campaigns and taglines specific to their regions and customer segments, rather than a single overarching corporate slogan. Examples of slogans used by its divisions include:

• 'Great service, smart advice' - This reflects a commitment to providing excellent customer service and knowledgeable financial guidance.
• Emphasis on local focus - Highlighting the bank's understanding and connection to the communities it serves.
• 'We haven't forgotten who's in charge' - Reinforces the customer-centric approach.

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) How It Works

Zions Bancorporation operates as a collection of community-focused banks, employing a decentralized management approach with local brands and teams in various Western markets. This model allows them to tailor services to meet specific community needs while maintaining shared corporate governance principles.

[Company's] Product/Service Portfolio

[Company's] Operational Framework

Zions Bancorporation operates with a 'collection of great banks' model, which emphasizes local management and community focus. Key aspects of their operational framework include:

• Decentralized Management: Each affiliate operates with a high degree of autonomy, allowing them to respond effectively to local economic conditions and customer needs.
• Shared Governance: While local management has autonomy, all affiliates adhere to shared corporate governance and responsibility principles.
• Digital Integration: They are focused on integrating digital technologies to enhance responsiveness and efficiency.
• Community Involvement: Zions is committed to improving communities through strong local relationships and financial support for underserved businesses.

Zions Bancorporation processed over 42,000 loans valued at approximately $7 billion through the Paycheck Protection Program.

[Company's] Strategic Advantages

Zions Bancorporation has several strategic advantages that contribute to its market success:

• Strong Regional Presence: Operates across 11 states in the Western United States, with significant market share in Utah, Idaho, and Nevada. As of Q4 2023, the bank maintained:
  • Utah: 129 branches, 22.5% market share
  • Idaho: 86 branches, 18.3% market share
  • Nevada: 72 branches, 15.7% market share
• Diversified Revenue Streams: Revenue breakdown for 2023:
  • Commercial Banking: $1.2 billion (42%)
  • Retail Banking: $850 million (30%)
  • Wealth Management: $450 million (16%)
  • Other Services: $350 million (12%)
• Solid Capital Position: Consistently maintains capital ratios above regulatory requirements. As of Q4 2023:
  • Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) Ratio: 12.4%
  • Total Capital Ratio: 15.2%
  • Tier 1 Capital Ratio: 13.6%
• Advanced Digital Banking Capabilities: Performance metrics for 2023:
  • Mobile Banking Users: 1.2 million
  • Online Banking Users: 2.1 million
  • Digital Transaction Volume: $42.3 billion
  • Mobile App Rating: 4.6/5
• Robust Risk Management Framework: Strong financial performance with a net income of $782 million in 2023, a Return on Equity (ROE) of 12.3%, and a low Non-Performing Loans Ratio of 0.58%. Net interest income is projected at $2.3 billion for 2024.

Read more about Zions Bancorporation Exploring Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Investor Profile: Who’s Buying and Why?

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) How It Makes Money

Zions Bancorporation, National Association primarily generates revenue through traditional banking activities, including net interest income from loans and investments, as well as fees from various banking services.

Zions Bancorporation's Revenue Breakdown

Zions Bancorporation's Business Economics

Zions Bancorporation operates under economic principles that drive profitability and sustainability. Key aspects include:

• Interest Rate Spreads: The difference between the interest earned on loans and the interest paid on deposits is a primary driver of profitability. Managing this spread effectively is crucial.
• Credit Quality: Maintaining a high-quality loan portfolio minimizes losses from defaults, ensuring stable earnings.
• Operating Efficiency: Controlling operating expenses relative to income enhances profitability.
• Diversification: Spreading loan and investment portfolios across various sectors reduces risk.

Zions Bancorporation's Financial Performance

Key indicators of Zions Bancorporation's financial health include:

• Net Income: Measures overall profitability after all expenses and taxes.
• Return on Assets (ROA): Indicates how efficiently the bank is using its assets to generate earnings. A higher ROA suggests better performance.
• Return on Equity (ROE): Shows how effectively the bank is using shareholders' equity to generate profits.
• Net Interest Margin (NIM): Reflects the difference between interest income and interest expense, relative to interest-earning assets.
• Efficiency Ratio: Measures operating expenses as a percentage of revenue; a lower ratio indicates better efficiency.
• Capital Ratios (e.g., Tier 1 Capital Ratio): These ratios measure the bank's capital strength and its ability to absorb losses. Regulatory requirements mandate specific minimums.

For more information, you might be interested in: Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION).

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Market Position & Future Outlook

As of April 2025, Zions Bancorporation, National Association faces a dynamic market, balancing strategic initiatives with potential economic headwinds, positioning itself for sustained performance and growth.

Competitive Landscape

Opportunities & Challenges

Industry Position

Zions Bancorporation, N.A. operates as a prominent regional bank holding company within the competitive U.S. banking sector. Its industry standing can be further understood through the following points:

• Focus on Relationship Banking: Zions emphasizes building long-term relationships with its customers, particularly small and medium-sized businesses.
• Geographic Concentration: The bank has a strong presence in the Western United States, including key markets like Utah, California, and Texas.
• Diversified Financial Services: Zions offers a range of services, including commercial and retail banking, wealth management, and mortgage services.
• Prudent Risk Management: Zions is known for its conservative approach to risk management, which has helped it navigate economic downturns.

For more insights into the financial health of Zions Bancorporation, National Association, consider reading: Breaking Down Zions Bancorporation, National Association (ZION) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors