Civista Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: CIVB)

Civista Bancshares, Inc. (CIVB) is a financial holding company that operates primarily in the community banking industry. With its subsidiary, Civista Bank, the company has established a presence in several states, including Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. CIVB's primary business is community banking, generating revenue through interest and fees on loans, with a significant focus on real estate lending.

In the realm of community banking, CIVB specializes in lending, with a portfolio dominated by commercial real estate loans, which constituted 54% of the total loan portfolio in 2023. Additionally, residential real estate mortgage loans accounted for 23%, and commercial and agriculture loans comprised 11% of the total loan portfolio. The company's loan portfolio is primarily concentrated in its designated market area, which spans several counties in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky.

Competition is a prominent aspect of CIVB's business landscape, as the company competes with various financial institutions, including large regional banks, community banks, thrifts, and credit unions. Despite this competition, CIVB maintains a competitive edge through its community banking model, which prioritizes building strong relationships with customers and providing personalized service.

CIVB's customer base is diverse, comprising individuals, families, businesses, and non-profits. The company's largest customers are primarily located in its designated market area, although some customers are based in neighboring communities. The company's commitment to relationship banking and local presence has helped establish a solid reputation in its market area.

In terms of products and services, CIVB offers a variety of options to its customers, including personal and commercial checking accounts, retirement accounts, money market accounts, time and savings accounts, safe deposit boxes, wire transfers, access to automated teller services, internet banking, ACH origination, telephone banking, and mobile/digital banking. The company also provides remote deposit capture banking, commercial equipment leasing services, and investment advisory services through its Civista Wealth Management division.

CIVB's employee base is vital to its success, with approximately 532 full-time equivalent employees. The company is committed to selecting new talent and enhancing the skills of its employees. In addition, CIVB is subject to extensive supervision and regulation by federal and state agencies, including the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions.