2026: Year of Momentum
As shared at our Annual Shareholder Meeting in February, we have designated 2026 as our Year of Momentum. Momentum is about consistent, disciplined progress, doing the right things every day to strengthen our bank, customer relationships, and our communities.
I am pleased to report that we are off to a strong start. The first quarter marks the best performance since our founding in 2007. We continue to achieve quality growth, strong asset quality, and full regulatory compliance. Notably, our capital ratio is well above target at 11.68%, while charge-offs remain at 0.00%.
Earnings for the first quarter exceeded expectations, supported by controlled operating expenses and sustained margin growth. Our efficiency ratio ranks among the best in the industry, demonstrating our ability to generate revenue efficiently. This success is a direct reflection of our team. I am incredibly proud of our employees who consistently embody our core values of PRTR, Professionalism, Respect, Teamwork, and Responsiveness.
This past weekend I received an email from a customer:
“I can say that your service is superior to any banking interactions I’ve had in RC. You were just fantastic to work with & I appreciate everything you helped me with. I will highly recommend BHCB at any opportunity in the future.”
Feedback like this reinforces what we already know – our people are our best asset.
As part of our Year of Momentum, we are also advancing our focus on digital innovation. We are excited to introduce Zelle® to our online banking platform, enabling fast, secure, and convenient person-to-person payments. Additionally, we are preparing to launch another digital solution designed to attract and engage the next generation of customers.
During the Annual Shareholder Meeting in February, we announced that, with the support of matching grant funds from the Federal Home Loan Bank, we are donating $700,000 to local charities in Rapid City and Spearfish. Supporting our communities is a cornerstone of who we are, and we are proud to support nonprofits that strengthen our communities. I encourage you to read the Community Update in this newsletter to learn more about the recipients of these donations.
Overall, our momentum is strong. As we move into the second quarter, we are well positioned for what could be the most successful year in our history. Thank you for being part of this momentum and please continue to refer customers to Your Community Bank.
Sincerely,
JL