Gunjan Kedia Named Second Most Powerful Woman in Banking
The Minneapolis-based U.S. Bancorp leader secured the rank following a successful first year at the helm.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Financial Services
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American Banker ranked U.S. Bank Chairman and CEO Gunjan Kedia as the second most powerful woman in banking for 2026. The recognition follows a year in which Kedia saw a 46% stock gain in her first year as CEO.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the rising influence of Minneapolis-based U.S. Bancorp, which currently holds $726 billion in assets. Under Kedia, the bank has expanded its market presence through the acquisition of BTIG and new partnerships with Amazon and the NFL.
U.S. Bancorp maintains $726 billion in assets, while Gunjan Kedia achieved a 46% stock gain during her first year as CEO. The bank has pursued growth through the acquisition of capital markets firm BTIG.
The players
Gunjan Kedia
She serves as the Chairman and CEO of U.S. Bancorp.
Jane Fraser
She is the executive who ranked first on the American Banker list.
Tasnim Ghiawadwala
She holds the 20th position on the American Banker ranking of powerful women in banking.
U.S. Bancorp
This Minneapolis-based financial services company holds $726 billion in assets.
The details
Gunjan Kedia was named Chairman of the Board of Directors in 2026 after taking on the CEO role in April 2025. The rankings also recognized Tasnim Ghiawadwala, who secured the 20th position on the list.
Timeline
Gunjan Kedia became CEO of U.S. Bancorp in April 2025.
American Banker released its 2026 power rankings.
Gunjan Kedia was named Chairman of the Board in 2026.
Market Landscape
This recognition is part of the 24th annual American Banker program, which tracks leadership performance across the banking sector. The ranking positions Kedia among the industry's most influential executives as U.S. Bancorp continues to compete for market share.
The bank's recent expansion into small-business credit with Amazon and NFL sponsorships suggests a strategic pivot toward consumer-facing financial products. Customers may experience new service offerings or card benefits as the firm scales these partnerships.
The takeaway
Kedia's rise reflects the impact of aggressive growth strategies in the modern banking landscape. Her tenure demonstrates how targeted acquisitions and high-profile partnerships can drive significant stock value in a short timeframe.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership trends, visit the Financial Services section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The American Bazaar.
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