Lending The majority of First Bank and Trust Company’s lending activity falls into three primary categories: Commercial, Agriculture, and Mortgage. In 2024, all three segments produced very favorable results, with growth in total loans outstanding exceeding $365 million, or 12.7%. This increase was achieved while continuing to maintain the highest degree of asset quality and meeting targeted loan yields.
MORTGAGE Despite a challenging interest rate environment, the Mortgage Division produced outstanding results in 2024. Along with continuing to originate new mortgages, the Division significantly expanded home equity lines of credit to homeowners with existing low-rate mortgages to access their built-up equity. The use of homebuyer assistance programs was also leveraged to foster a smoother path to homeownership for many. First Bank and Trust Company remains committed to providing mortgage financing with local service and support.
COMMERCIAL First Bank and Trust Company is proud to be a true “Community Bank”, providing the investment and financing to strengthen the businesses and organizations within our markets, thereby enhancing economic opportunity. Our customer deposits are reinvested locally, which leads to more employment sources and contributes to the vitality of our local economies. The communities we serve are not just markets, they are our homes, and we have a vested interest in their success.
AGRICULTURE
Farmers helping farmers is more than a slogan at First Bank and Trust Company. All of our agriculture lenders have farming experience, and many still run their own operations. This allows them to uniquely understand the needs and challenges of our customers, and to provide customized solutions to finance and expand their enterprise. With agriculture loans nearing $1 billion, we remain committed to the industry. No one is more dedicated than farmers, and we have consistently proven our commitment to be there for them through every challenge.
18 | 2024 Annual Report
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