DC Community Banks cover a large coveted footprint of DC proper, Northern Virginia, and Maryland as an aggregate unit, but individually are fragmented in market presence and penetration. The individual community bank is a weakness in the current economic environment, and this weakness is a vice on the bank's ability to be competitive, hamper revenue and market growth, and vulnerable to any minor flux in the market or portfolio.  DC Community Banks are missing a market opportunity in wake of the historical demise of Chevy Chase Bank, and the vacuum of a regional player in the market leaves a marketplace of small community banks and banking giants with headquarters elsewhere.  The Washington Post details the challenges of the community banking industry in the DC marketplace. Recent events in the implementation of the financial reform bill and loan demand in a flat economy.  Strategize to survive is a way for community banks to collaborate, coordinate, and innovate to capitalize on … [Read more...]