Market voices: Banking outlook

Marty Lanahan

Regional President IBERIABANK-First Horizon

When people received CARES Act money, they deposited it in their checking accounts. Some saved more. Some debts have been forgiven. As a result, our balance sheets today look different than last year and will continue to look different a year from now. Current insights indicate that there is a pentup demand. People are beginning to realize that it’s time to start doing that renovation or that expansion. We’re focused on growing. We have a strong reputation that has only improved as word gets out about how well we took care of our clients. We’re already seeing growth in certain sectors.

Now the election is behind us, the market is indicating that rates will begin rising this year, albeit at a modest pace. This will be in conjunction with the economy improving and the rollout of the vaccine program. The more heated the economy gets, the higher the rates will rise. This will have the effect of separating the stronger projects from the more marginal projects. The opportunities will have to be that much more solid to be successful in a higher rate environment. Al Rogers

Executive Vice President & Chief Lending Officer FL & AL Valley Bank

Steve Schultz

Region Bank President Wells Fargo

Toward 3Q21 and beyond, our outlook is positive in terms of what we think will turn around. We’re already starting to see the first signs of this, seeing business pick up a bit. We’re starting to see our branches certainly get busier than they have been in the past or are getting back to some of our previous levels before the pandemic. The housing market also continues to do good things here and we’re excited about people moving into Tampa Bay. In terms of the regulatory environment, we remain optimistic but cautious.

The banking sector has played an integral role in the economic recovery process. That is one of the many things we enjoy about being bankers and a rewarding aspect of the lending process. Our team is active in the community, with boots on the ground, meeting and talking to our clients to assist where needed. This has been our approach before the pandemic, and especially so now. We provide financial solutions that help companies grow and become more efficient. Tampa Bay has experienced significant growth and we are thankful to be a banking partner with so many local businesses. Chris Stewart

Market President – Tampa Bay Region Centennial Bank