Bank of the Ozarks, which has one Wilmington branch, has changed its name as it seeks to expand geographically.
 
The new name, official as of July 16, is Bank OZK.
 
In March, American Banker quoted the bank CEO George Gleason as saying the name change would free the bank from the limitations of a name tied to a specific geographic region.
 
“Our new name reflects both our heritage and dedication to building community and digital experiences to help you meet your financial needs,” officials stated in the bank’s News & Insights Blog on June 28.
 
The statement noted that customers do not need to replace checks, bank documents or bank and credit cards or re-enroll in any bank-related programs.
 
As to how the new name is pronounced, officials said it’s “bank o-zee-kay.”