ICBA will oppose community banks bearing any financial responsibility for potential losses to the DIF
Washington, D.C. (March 13, 2023) —Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued this response following a joint statement released from the Treasury Department, FDIC, and Federal Reserve following Friday’s closure of Silicon Valley Bank.
“It’s sad to see any bank fail and for depositors to suffer any uncertainty about the safety of their deposits. This is why it’s important to take stock of lessons learned from the Silicon Valley Bank closure.
“As of Dec. 31, 2022, Silicon Valley Bank had $213 billion in assets and was, at the time of its closure, the 16th largest bank in the country. Silicon Valley Bank experienced rapid asset growth of 215% between year-end 2019 and 2022.
“ICBA encourages consumers and small businesses to better understand that not all banks are created equal. In stark contrast to the nation’s largest banks, community banks operate under an entirely different business model—one that’s based locally and is relationship focused. As small businesses themselves, local community banks take pride in serving the unique needs of their customers and communities. In short, they are in it for the long haul to serve the needs of those who count on them for financial stability and prosperity.
“ICBA will continue educating the public about the stability of the community banking industry and its time-tested business model. ICBA will also vehemently oppose community banks bearing any financial responsibility for potential losses to the deposit insurance fund.”
About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America® creates and promotes an environment where community banks flourish. ICBA is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and its membership through effective advocacy, best-in-class education, and high-quality products and services.
With nearly 50,000 locations nationwide, community banks employ nearly 700,000 Americans and are the only physical banking presence in one in three U.S. counties. Holding nearly $5.9 trillion in assets, over $4.9 trillion in deposits, and more than $3.5 trillion in loans to consumers, small businesses and the agricultural community, community banks channel local deposits into the Main Streets and neighborhoods they serve, spurring job creation, fostering innovation and fueling their customers’ dreams in communities throughout America. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at www.icba.org.
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