What loan growth strategies should community banks be thinking about?

The Banker Next Door · Jun 17, 2026 · 15m

Lending for community banks started off good in 2026 despite higher interest rates, geopolitical headwinds, and tariff uncertainty. Now banks must consider the current interest rate environment, further rate cuts are unlikely in 2026, and economic caution, the Iran conflict, oil prices, and inflation. Community banks should focus on staying disciplined with credit underwriting and focus on relationship banking. There is some potential good news on the horizon as changes to Basel III capital rules could help increase residential mortgage lending. What lending products should community banks…