Founded in 1870, First Niagara Bank is a provider of numerous financial and commercial banking services to individuals, families and businesses in New York and western and eastern Pennsylvania. First Niagara Bank is a subsidiary of its holding company First Niagara Financial Group Inc. First Niagara Bank s expertise includes retail and commercial banking, international banking solutions, capital markets, wealth management, risk management and insurance. In addition, it provides special financial services like government banking and depository services, risk management and benefits consulting for local governments, municipal agencies, school districts, public authorities, and other special units. The bank operates nearly 256 branches and employs around 3,800 employees.