JPMorgan to open over 160 Chase branches across US this year, bucking global trends

Core Viewpoint - JPMorgan Chase is set to open over 160 new branches across more than 30 states in 2023, reflecting a significant investment in physical banking despite global trends favoring digital services [1]. Expansion Plans - The bank has major expansion plans for North and South Carolina, Florida, Pennsylvania, Kansas, Massachusetts, and Tennessee by 2026 [2]. - JPMorgan aims to add over 500 branches in three years as part of its 2024 commitment, targeting to capture 15% of the U.S. retail deposits [3][5]. Renovation and Employment - The firm plans to renovate nearly 600 locations by 2026 and hire 1,100 new employees, moving towards a goal of adding over 10,500 consumer bank staff by the end of the year [3][6]. Market Context - This strategy contrasts sharply with UK banks, which have closed over a third of their branches in the past five years, shifting focus to online and telephone banking [6]. - Research indicates that over two-thirds of U.S. consumers prefer living near a bank branch, with 71% of baby boomers and 63% of millennials and Gen Z valuing neighborhood locations [11][12]. Economic Impact - JPMorgan Chase emphasizes that its branches serve as vital engines for economic activity, supporting various sectors including businesses, schools, hospitals, and nonprofits [4][10].