Jim Dobbs

Community banks tapped the brakes during the first quarter, citing higher interest rates, recession threats and fallout from regional-bank failures. Fed data shows the trend has continued into May, and executives are preaching caution.

Shares in small banks have plummeted during this year's banking crisis. But deposits have largely stabilized and credit quality remains historically strong, bolstering the case for bargain buying and a sector rebound.

The Florida lender hired corporate bankers in New York City who had previously worked at First Republic Bank, which collapsed last week.

MVB Financial's agreement to buy Integrated Financial Holdings has fallen through, with both sides citing an uncertain economic outlook and potential regulatory challenges. It's the second M&A deal to be scrubbed in the past week.

In the wake of spiking interest rates and surging deposit costs, bankers are looking for ways to scale back their overall expense bases to protect their bottom lines.

The companies cited an inability to secure regulatory approvals after postponing multiple times a closing that had been originally expected last fall.

Banks grappled with a litany of questions throughout earnings season about the likelihood of a recession and the potential for increased pressure on commercial real estate borrowers.

The Oklahoma lender said its oil-and-gas portfolio remains a key source of stability and potential growth, despite weaker commodity prices.

CEO Rajinder Singh said battered competitors are "throwing off" both talent and customers, creating a chance for the Miami Lakes, Florida, bank to pick up new business.

The Kansas-based buyer is pursuing deals to build out its small-business lending across several states.