For more information, contact Eric Skrum,
608/441-1216, eskrum@wisbank.com, @wisbank
Bank CEO survey accurately predicted growth, indicates healthy economy
(MADISON) – Ninety-eight percent of the banks which responded to the latest Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Bank CEO Economic Conditions Survey classified the current health of the state’s economy as “good” or “fair.” This rating confirms the prediction made by the same survey conducted in June last year, when 50 percent of respondents said they expected the state’s economy to grow. Data from the bank executives who completed the survey reflects slow, yet steady progress in the health of the banking industry and Wisconsin’s economy.
“The role bankers play in their communities gives them a unique perspective on the economy to offer,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “Wisconsin’s economy is getting stronger.”
The most recent survey also indicates current loan demand for residential real estate is strong, rated as “good” or “excellent” by 53 percent of respondents. Growth in real estate lending is an indicator that the state’s housing market is also on its way back to healthy levels.
Banks predict continued healthy levels for Wisconsin’s economy, with 90 percent indicating they expect the economy to remain steady or improve over the next six months.
Note: Experts made additional 2013 forecasts at the WBA Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon on Jan. 10 at the Monona Terrace & Convention Center, Madison. The event featured special guest speaker Gov. Scott Walker and Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis President James Bullard. To see more information on their forecasts for 2013, visit http://www.wisbank.com/WisEcon. Visit http://www.wisbank.com/2013WisEcon for economic forecasts from other sector leaders.
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The Wisconsin Bankers Association is the state’s largest financial industry trade association, representing nearly 300 commercial banks and savings institutions, their nearly 2,300 branch offices and 29,000 employees.
