18 Hoosier Banker January 2015 In today’s environment of narrowing margins, competitively priced loans and constant concern about rising interest rates, it can be challenging for banks to provide an adequate model to regulators regarding interest rate risk. As a longtime IBA Preferred Service Provider and Diamond Associate Member, The Baker Group has earned a reputation as a trusted partner to independent community financial institutions. Baker professionals have the knowledge and experience needed to help institutions navigate through interest rate environments, both current and future. The Baker Group works with nearly 50 Indiana institutions, assisting them to develop, implement, monitor and update financial strategies unique to each client. Because every institution has its own characteristics, there are no cookiecutter, one-size-fits-all answers to the many questions that banks have. Recognizing that the investment portfolio must be managed in the context of the bank’s overall growth and business strategies, The Baker Group professionals utilize all of the company’s knowledge and resources to help institutions achieve their financial goals. It can be easy to lose focus of overall goals when faced with day-to-day issues; The Baker Group assists in ensuring that the bank’s portfolio stays in alignment with strategic goals. As the regulatory climate continues to adapt to the financial environment, keeping policies and processes updated is a full-time job. The Baker Group specializes in regulatory compliance for both interest-rate risk and investments. It stays abreast of changing regulations, so that its client financial institutions are always prepared and understand the regulatory environment. The Baker Group assists in: • Investment strategy development; • Investment education; • Asset/liability reporting and process review; • Online strategy and outlook sessions; and • Strategic planning. Since 1979, The Baker Group has been valued for its leadership, integrity, innovation and results. Additionally it has demonstrated its ability to provide industry-responsive techniques of investment portfolio and interest rate risk management, financial strategies, and cutting-edge proprietary software and products. The firm has helped clients improve decision-making, manage interest rate risk and maximize investment portfolio performance. The proven approach of total resource integration utilizes software and products developed by Baker’s Software Solutions, combined with the firm’s investment experience and advice. After 35 years in operation, The Baker Group continues to grow and evolve. Its expertise has expanded into new products and enhanced services, such as online educational programs; the content of its website, financial articles and newsletters; and software programming. With deep experience, knowledge and commitment to community financial institutions, Baker is a tremendous resource for banks seeking to provide regulators with the necessary information regarding management of interest rate risk – now and in the months and years to come. The Baker Group is a strong partner and a sound investment firm with solid ideas for 21st century community financial institutions. For more information, contact Rod Lasley at 317-387-9380 or rlasley@ indianabankers.org; or contact Tim Beloat or John Parker at the Indianapolis office of The Baker Group at 866-370-3590. t PSP SHOWCASE About the Author Rod Lasley is vice president-products & services of the Indiana Bankers Association, and also serves as president of the for-profit companies owned by the IBA. He can be reached at 317-387-9380, email: rlasley@indianabankers.org. Managing Interest Rate Risk: Let the Professionals Help
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