BAI Online | Banking Strategies

March/April 2003
Volume LXXIX Number II
Published by BAI
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CONTENTS

Saturation Point?
by Bill Stoneman and Kenneth Cline — While many banks have announced ambitious de novo branching plans, only a few are likely to earn much of a return on their investment.

Profitability Under Pressure
by Somesh Khanna, David Schoeman and Jack Stephenson — Arresting the decline in checking account profitability requires a multi-faceted response from banks — and the sooner, the better.

Special Report: Lines of Defense

Shutting Out Fraud
by Chris Costanzo — As check fraud migrates to smaller institutions, banks of all sizes need to share more information with each other.

Beyond the Firewalls
by Karen Epper Hoffman — Effective online security depends on more than just the latest technology; it also requires the proper mindset and procedures.

DEPARTMENTS

Publisher's Perspective
De Novo Challenge
by Thomas P. Johnson Jr. — Branch expansionists must match boldness with discipline if they are to achieve the growth they seek.

Economics
Price Stability's Hidden Risk
by Harvey Rosenblum — History suggests that extremely low inflation can actually lower bank profitability, underscoring the need for vigilance in an era of stabilizing prices and falling rates.

Trends & Statistics
4Q02 Performance Review — How did the top 50 banks perform in 2002's fourth quarter? Our report is based on data from SNL Financial LC, Charlottesville, Va.

M&A Forum
2002 Merger Review — Our report on the top 25 bank and thrift deals of 2002 is based on data from SNL Financial LC, Charlottesville, Va.

Closing Thoughts
Beyond Mergers
by Steve Klinkerman — Rising demands for efficiency don't necessarily dictate a spin down M&A lane.

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