Lacey, Wash.-based AnchorBancorp ($420.0 million) engaged Keefe Bruyette & Woods to helpit identify and assess strategic options and operating scenarios to maximize shareholdervalue, including a potential sale or merger.

The company has received "many communications from shareholderson their views on improving shareholder value and we are committed to ensuring weevaluate all opportunities," Anchor Bancorp President and CEO Jerald Shaw saidin a news release.

The Anchor Bankparent does not expect to make further public comments regarding these matters duringits review.

In an ownership filing earlier this month, Joseph Stilwell calledon Anchor Bancorp management to find a "suitable merger partner."