Fremont Bank Not Associated With Fremont General Corporation

Fremont Bank, a San Francisco Bay Area community bank, is making an effort to reduce customer confusion caused by the similarity of names between Fremont Bank and Fremont General Corporation, a Southern California company that has been ordered to cease and desist its subprime lending activity by federal regulators.

"We want our customers and our communities to be aware that Fremont Bank is in no way associated with Fremont General or its problems and that our institution is very well capitalized and stronger than it's ever been," says Bradford Anderson, president and chief executive officer of Fremont Bank.

Anderson adds that Fremont Bank is not a subprime lender and adheres to strong underwriting standards. "We remain a prudent residential and commercial lender and look forward to continuing to serve the financial needs of our clients and local communities in every way we can," he says.

Fremont Bank is sending a letter to its clients to clarify the situation and to reassure them of its financial integrity. The bank is also notifying the public in various ways that Fremont Bank remains strong and is here to stay.

About Fremont Bank

Fremont Bank ( www.fremontbank.com ) is the leading full-service community bank in Northern California. Founded in 1964, Fremont Bank is also one of the oldest independent family owned and managed banks in the region and focuses on personalized service for individuals and businesses. It serves communities through 24 branches and 4 additional ATMs throughout the Greater Bay Area. Exceptional client service is the cornerstone of Fremont Bank's business. Accommodation of customer needs in a friendly, personal atmosphere characterize the bank's culture.

CONTACTS: Curt Olsen CFO Communications 415.621.4200 Office 415.283.8017 Mobile Email Contact Kimberly Brokaw Fremont Bank 510.259.4943 Office 510.512.2774 Mobile Email Contact