For more information, contact:
Amber Seitz, Wisconsin Bankers Association
608/441-1237 | aseitz@wisbank.com
Twitter: @wisbank
Annual WBA Bank CEO Economic Conditions Survey forecasts loan demand and economic growth
(Madison) – More bankers are forecasting an increase in loan demand over the next six months for all surveyed loan categories according to the latest Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) Bank CEO Economic Conditions Survey. Compared to a year ago, more bankers believe there will be an increase in business, commercial real estate, residential real estate and ag loans in 2015.
“Wisconsin’s bankers have a unique insight on the state’s economy because of the data and current economic conditions they see as they help businesses grow and families prosper,” explained Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “This year’s survey is the most optimistic in terms of where the state is and the potential for what the future holds when compared to the last several years. These results also mirror the same optimism we are seeing from other business sectors as shown by our recent Wisconsin Economic Report.”
Wisconsin’s economy is expected to grow in the first six months of 2015, according to 59% of respondents to the WBA survey (compared to 30% a year ago).
Over ninety percent of bankers responding to the survey say the current demand for business loans is good or fair compared to just 76% a year ago. Twenty-eight percent predict an increase in demand over the next six months compared to 20 percent during the same timeframe.
Media note: Governor Scott Walker and Eric Rosengren, President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, will both be speaking at the upcoming Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon on January 8. This event will be hosted by the WBA at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison. For a press pass, contact WBA’s Eric Skrum.
A copy of the WBA’s Wisconsin Economic Report referenced in this release can be found by clicking here. http://www.wisbank.com/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=o8WthD0fgdw%3d&tabid=584
###
The Wisconsin Bankers Association is the state’s largest financial industry trade association, representing nearly 270 commercial banks and savings institutions, their nearly 2,300 branch offices and 23,000 employees.
