2024 Journal of Community Bank Case Studies

FIRST PLACE: Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania THIRD PLACE: Southeastern Louisiana University

Figure 9: Available-for-Sale Securities/ Total Securities

B1Bank Silicon Valley Bank First Republic Bank Signature Bank

120%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

79%

77%

77%

80%

70%

65%

60%

50%

40%

33%

22%

22%

20%

13%

11%

11%

10%

7%

0%

0%

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

of equity in a rising rate environment made each vulnerable due to the illiquidity of the position. In contrast, b1Bank manages its loan portfolio and securities as entirely available for sale and focuses on aligning the maturity of these assets to ensure sufficient liquidity. Types of communities b1Bank serves b1Bank targets a distinct niche within the community banking sector–businesses expanding at a rate that might overwhelm smaller community banks but not large enough to garner personal attention from large banks. Focusing on a middle market segment allows the customer to benefit from access to financial products typically reserved for larger entities. The personalized attention b1Bank provides to the middle market segment allows b1Bank to occupy a unique position that bridges the gap between small community banks and larger banks. b1Bank provides services tailored to the needs of mid-sized

businesses which are often underserved by both ends of the banking spectrum. Outreach to customers in the aftermath of the 2023 bank closures In response to the widespread uncertainty following the collapse of SVB, Melville appeared on “Talk Louisiana” of Baton Rouge Public Radio on March 21st, 2023 to provide insights about the difference between community banks and large regional banks. He also participated in several interviews with local press such as NOLA.com and The Advocate of Baton Rouge to calm and reassure depositors during a period of industry-wide anxiety (Riegel; Boone). By choosing to be visible and communicative, b1Bank’s management team reinforced their commitment to their customers and community. Additionally, they communicated with customers and investors by dedicating several pages in the investor presentations for

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