As of September 30, 2024, I am pleased to report that the Arkansas banking industry is in overall strong condition. Arkansas has 71 state-chartered banks with over $166 billion in aggregate total assets. Arkansas banks continue to effectively manage interest rate risk and have benefitted from a more stable rate environment during 2024. Earnings positions continue to outperform the national average and remain favorable. The competition for core deposits and funding sources continues to present challenges for the banking sector; however, Arkansas banks remain focused on serving their communities and continue to offer valuable products and services to meet the needs of their customers and provide a safe and sound banking environment. Overall, capital levels are exceptional and provide support for our banks to facilitate lending and investment opportunities within their customer base, the communities where they operate, and the entire state of Arkansas. As always, challenges are present in the financial sector; however, the banking industry is prepared to meet those challenges and succeed. The Arkansas State Bank Department continues to work with our regulated institutions to maintain a healthy and vibrant banking system and to encourage and support economic development in Arkansas.
Susannah Marshall
Bank Commissioner
The State Bank Department was created by Act 113 of 1913. The Department is charged with regulating state-chartered commercial banks with main offices in Arkansas. These 71 banks hold assets of over $166 billion as of September 30, 2024. The Department also is charged with supervising the bank holding companies of Arkansas state-chartered banks; state-chartered trust companies; regional and county industrial development corporations; industrial loan institutions; and capital development companies. The Department operates to ensure the safety and soundness of, and public confidence in, these institutions and organizations.
