Signature Bank, which plans to open an office in White Plains this year, has an unusual expansion strategy, and its planned branch opening reflects it.

In an attempt to let its bankers build personal relationships with clients it builds where its senior bankers can draw customers.

Signature focuses partly on private banking, offering personal and business loans as well as payroll accounts and letters of credit to wealthier customers. Private banking accounts for 17 percent of Signature's revenues, business banking for 83 percent.

The bank's focus on developing personal relationships is an attempt to further distinguish itself from its competitors, said Joseph J. ...