It’s no secret that the past two years have challenged us in ways we couldn’t possibly anticipate. And even though it seems that we are gaining more and more control over the pandemic and its numerous disruptions, recent events at home and abroad may once again require us to navigate turbulent water.
While social and economic ambiguity can be quite stressful, you can take solace in the unwavering fact that Merchants & Marine Bank is both well positioned and steadfast in its commitment to support our clients and our communities, just as we have always done since our first charter was issued in 1899. From that loyal perspective, we can see our way clear of the current challenges by recognizing our past resilience through natural disasters, and through financial storms such as the Great Depression and the Great Recession. Through every trial we have emerged stronger than before, seeking to elevate our clients above the fray and lending our support to those communities that we call home.
While we are banking professionals, we are also friends, neighbors and family, and there is no place where our values are more evident than the cities and towns along the Gulf Coast. We are people of tremendous endurance and fortitude, and we understand that to successfully weather storms, we must always be prepared for any ill wind that blows our way.
As a community bank, we have proactively invested in our internal infrastructure in anticipation of these storms. From
maintaining an incredibly strong capital base and liquidity position, to rapidly building a robust technology infrastructure, to grafting in best-in-class talent to our team: we have carefully built a foundation at MMB strong enough to support our clients, our shareholders, and the communities we call home in even the worst of times. While we are never fully able to predict the markets in which we operate and invest, we are always well-positioned to adapt quickly and effectively. And in an environment, such as the one in which we presently find ourselves, proactive thinking and agile positioning is critical to both our success and the success of those we serve.
We work every day to make sound business decisions that ensure the strength and security of your bank. The strength produced by these decisions is reflected in our consistent attainment of 5-star “Superior” Bauer Financial ratings over the years. This rating signifies that Merchants & Marine Bank is among the strongest financial institutions in the nation. For you, our clients, friends and neighbors, this means that your money and assets are being managed and protected based on the highest internal standards.
For more than 120 years, MMB has faced-down adversity and challenge, always planning for what might occur, while also looking for opportunities to stay ahead of the curve. We are confident that together we can move past the events of today in pursuit of a brighter horizon tomorrow. As always, we thank you for your faith and trust in MMB.
Written by: Clayton Legear, President & Chief Executive Officer
