First National Community Bank CEO Ryan Earnest said his institution would likely use its entry into Paulding County, an Atlanta suburb, as a template for future expansion.

The Long Island-based thrift, long associated with multifamily and CRE lending, saw business lending spike the past year as it onboarded 15 banking teams. Other banks that did significant hiring have also reported more deposits and wider margins.

New executives were lined up for lenders across the country, including Fremont Bank in California.

When banks realize they are unable to continue their operations, a credit union is often a natural partner to consider.

The agency admitted navigating the different rules and regulations involved in its four existing lines of credit proved time consuming and confusing and kept some lenders from offering them altogether.

The KBW Nasdaq Bank Index was up 18% year to date through July, supporting expectations for more banks to use their shares as currency to take out competitors.

Despite the continuing trends of consolidation and limited startup activity, bankers and industry insiders say there is a path forward. But small lenders must evolve with changing technology.

The five largest bank M&A deals had an average deal value of more than $1.2 billion.

The Hammond, Louisiana, company, which announced changes to its business strategy, cut 71 jobs and reduced its dividend to 8 cents per share.

The $330 million transaction announced late Monday would give the Jasper-based company a foothold in fast-growing Columbus, as well as in Cincinnati.