I have just finished exploring what sets high-performing small and medium-sized banks apart from their less successful peers. We found that winners—those flaunting double-digit returns and growth—strategically manage costs, focus on specific geographies, and commit to their strategies much more…

The Efficiency Ratio Rollercoaster: Buckle Up, It’s a Bumpy Ride The efficiency ratio measures non-interest expenses (think salaries, tech investments, and snacks in the breakroom) relative to revenue. A higher ratio? Not so efficient. A lower ratio? You’re probably running…

You might have heard about how bank costs increase as the bank crosses the infamous mark of $10 billion in assets. This is the average efficiency ratio for all US banks by size for 2019 through 2023. And this was…