34 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 The current rate environment is interesting, to say the least. Depending on who you talk to, you will hear the economy is doing well, and we will continue on an upward trend. Others will cast a more pessimistic view, believing we are at a pinnacle and will soon begin a downward fall. With these wide differences in thought, narrow margins and competitively priced loans, it can be a challenge to provide an adequate model to regulators regarding your bank’s interest rate risk. As a long-time IBA Preferred Service Provider and Diamond Associate Member, The Baker Group has been a partner with independent community financial institutions through various fascinating and challenging times. It therefore has the knowledge and experience to provide the assistance needed to navigate through current and future interest rate environments. Currently, The Baker Group works with nearly 40 Indiana institutions to develop, implement, monitor and update financial strategies unique to each client. Every institution has characteristics that make it different from the next. While there are no cookie-cutter, onesize-fits-all answers, there are always solutions. The professionals of The Baker Group realize the investment portfolio must be managed in the context of the bank’s overall growth and business strategies, and they apply all of their company’s resources to help your institution achieve its financial goals. With day-to-day issues arising continuously, it is easy to lose focus on overall goals. Baker will provide assistance in making sure the bank’s portfolio stays on point toward the fulfillment of those 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 understands and specializes in regulatory compliance for both interest rate risk and investments. It is Baker’s job to stay on top of changing regulations, so that your financial institution is prepared and understands the ongoing regulatory environment. Baker can assist in investment strategy development, investment education, asset/liability reporting and process review, online strategy and outlook sessions, and strategic planning. Since 1979, Baker has been recognized for its leadership, integrity, innovation and results. The firm has demonstrated its ability to provide industryresponsive techniques of investment portfolio and interest rate risk management, financial strategies, and cutting-edge proprietary software and products. Baker has helped clients improve decision-making, manage interest rate risk, and maximize investment portfolio performance. Its 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. Even after 39 years, The Baker Group continues to grow and evolve, with expertise including enhanced services, such as numerous online educational programs, the content of its website, financial articles and a newsletter, and Baker software programs. The Managing Interest Rate Risk Let the professionals help Rod Lasley Vice President - Products & Services Indiana Bankers Association rlasley@indianabankers.org @rodlasley PRODUCTS & SERVICES PROFILE
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