Core Viewpoint - Bank of Montreal (BMO) has initiated the process of selling some of its U.S. branches, which hold approximately $6 billion in deposits, as part of a strategy to optimize its operations following a significant acquisition [1] Company Summary - BMO is evaluating the sale of certain regional branches, considering exits from states like Wyoming and North Dakota, with potential sales being either whole or in parts [1] - The bank declined to comment on the matter when approached for a statement [1] - In 2023, BMO completed the acquisition of West Coast Bank, a subsidiary of BNP Paribas in the U.S., for $16.3 billion, marking its largest transaction to date [1] Industry Context - The banking industry is witnessing a shift as customers increasingly prefer online and mobile banking services, prompting institutions to optimize resource allocation by selling or closing overlapping branches after major acquisitions [1]