About ABA
The Banking Industry's Oldest and Largest Trade Association
Founded in 1875, the American Bankers Association is the voice of the nation's $24 trillion banking industry — serving banks of all sizes, from community banks to the largest financial institutions.
Our Mission
The American Bankers Association is the voice of America's banks. We advance policies and promote practices that strengthen banks' ability to serve their customers, communities, and the U.S. economy.
What We Stand For
ABA believes a strong banking system is essential to a prosperous economy. We work every day to ensure that banks can serve customers with innovative products, operate in a fair regulatory environment, and invest in the communities where they do business.
We represent banks of every size and type across all 50 states — from community banks with a single branch to the largest financial institutions in the world. Every member bank is vital to the American economy, and every member bank deserves a strong advocate.
How We Serve Banks
Three Pillars of ABA's Work
Washington Representation
Advocacy & Policy
ABA leads the industry's most effective advocacy operation — engaging Congress, federal regulators, and the White House on issues ranging from capital standards to community reinvestment to payments modernization.
Professional Development
Education & Training
From the Stonier Graduate School to online compliance courses, ABA develops banking professionals through world-class education delivered by practitioners who understand the industry firsthand.
Data-Driven Insights
Research & Intelligence
ABA's economists and researchers produce authoritative data on the banking industry — from deposit trends to credit quality to economic forecasts — giving members the intelligence they need to compete.
Our Reach
A Century and a Half of Banking Leadership
- 1875
Year Founded
America's oldest banking association
- 5,000+
Member Banks
Representing every state
- 2M+
Bankers Trained
Through ABA education programs
- #1
Banking Lobby
Most effective in Washington