Jim Dobbs

The Independent Bank-Texas Capital merger could prompt other banks in the state to consider selling or buying.

Christopher Maher, who has announced seven bank deals since 2015, says a stable rate outlook will help buyers and sellers crunch merger numbers.

Craig Howie, who joined the bank after a merger, will succeed the retiring Jon Evans on Jan. 1.

Several banks have reported spikes in substandard loans, special mention credits and watch-list relationships. What does it all mean?

The smooth and relatively short process should be encouraging to other big banks that are eyeing deals. But their window of opportunity may not last long.

United Bankshares in West Virginia was willing to pay a healthy premium for Carolina Financial, one of a dwindling number of available banks with more than $4 billion in assets.

More banks in the state are considering acquisitions to cut costs and combat margin pressure.

Such credits, which reflect borrowers with financial challenges, increased significantly during the third quarter.

The Louisiana company's willingness to combine with First Horizon without a big initial payday is fueling talk that other banks could be keen on selling at relatively inexpensive prices.

While layoffs at big banks get the headlines, small and midsize lenders are also trimming payrolls in response to lower rates and fears that a recession is getting closer.