FNBO

About

The story of First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) is a journey that mirrors the very evolution of the American West. It began in 1857, a time when Omaha was a bustling frontier town, and the currency of the day was often gold dust and bison hides. Two enterprising brothers from Ohio, Herman and Augustus Kountze, saw an opportunity in this burgeoning landscape and founded the Kountze Brothers Bank. This humble beginning laid the groundwork for an institution that would not only witness but actively shape the region's financial future. Just six years later, in 1863, the bank received national charter #209, officially becoming First National Bank of Omaha. This marked a pivotal moment, solidifying its status and bringing in key investors like Edward Creighton, who would serve as its president. For over 165 years, FNBO has remained a family-led institution, now in its sixth generation of leadership under the Lauritzen family. This long-standing private ownership has allowed the bank to focus on a long-term vision of community building and customer success, rather than the pressures of quarterly returns. This philosophy fueled a spirit of innovation that saw FNBO become one of the first banks in the nation to issue credit cards in 1953, a revolutionary step at the time. It was also the first U.S. company to use fuel cell technology as its primary power source for its data center, showcasing a forward-thinking approach that extends beyond finance. From its origins as a single bank serving a local community, FNBO has grown into the largest bank in Nebraska and one of the largest privately held banks in the United States, with assets exceeding $32 billion and a dedicated team of over 4,500 employees. Despite its significant growth, with locations across eight states, FNBO continues to operate with the heart of a community bank, committed to the financial well-being of its customers and the prosperity of the communities it calls home.