APPROVAL OF BANKING COMMISSIONER.

(a) If the banking commissioner approves the merger and finds that all required filing fees and investigative costs have been paid, the banking commissioner shall:

(1) endorse the face of the original and each copy of the certificate of merger with the date of approval and the word "Approved";

(2) file the original in the department's records; and

(3) deliver a certified copy of the certificate of merger to each surviving, new, or acquiring entity.

(b) A merger is effective on the date of approval, unless the merger agreement provides and the banking commissioner consents to a different effective date.