HAPPY THANKSGIVING
It is difficult to believe that we have now entered the fourth quarter of 2019. Thus far, the year 2019 has been filled with excitement, accomplishments and ever-changing competitive and economic landscapes.
It would be a blatant omission not to recognize and acknowledge the most beautiful summer weather bestowed upon Manasquan Bank’s special markets in Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The shore communities thrived and those in our treasured Middlesex County Market experienced economic vibrancy that is by any measure, impressive.
The first three quarters of 2019 were very kind to Manasquan Bank as we proudly celebrated our 145th anniversary. The year, thus far, has been highlighted, to name a few, by:
- The successful integration of a new partner on April 1, 2019 as Metuchen Bank, a Division of Manasquan Bank officially joined the enterprise.
- Strategic organic market expansion evidenced by the opening of branches in Shrewsbury, Little Egg Harbor and Manahawkin.
- Healthy Balance Sheet growth with both deposits and loans balances increasing at a rate significantly surpassing general economic growth and that of other Community Banks.
- Industry market recognition as the American Banker recognized Manasquan Bank as the 43rd Best Bank to work for in the U.S. (total banks approximately 5,300) and #1 in New Jersey.
As we almost complete the 10th year of uninterrupted general economic expansion, the outlook looks cautiously bright. We now find ourselves operating in an economic environment where unemployment, inflation and interest rates are all at low levels. Those indicators create both challenges and opportunities for financial institutions and we at Manasquan Bank are committed to seize the opportunities and transform the challenges into competitive advantages.
As Manasquan Bank continues to grow we remind ourselves, each and every day of our credo, “Respect the Past and Embrace the Future”. We will utilize the tools that got us here to stay grounded, continue our commitment to exemplary customer service, focus on attracting and retaining the best professional talent available and always being accessible to all of those loyal clients who favor us with their business.
We also recognize that the methods by which markets access products and services in the banking industry are changing at a velocity never before seen. Our commitment to technology and innovation has never been greater and we pledge to being very market competitive relative to all digital banking solutions.
Manasquan Bank will always focus on our valued clients, first and foremost. We will endeavor to create a pleasant, efficient, professional, competitive and user-friendly banking solution to each of those who choose to bank with our institution.
We thank each of our stakeholders for their patronage, loyalty and feedback as we work tirelessly to recreate the Community Banking model that is the envy of the industry.
Remember, the best is yet to come and we would be privileged if you would join us on the ride.
May the balance of 2019 and beyond bring to you and your family, good health, prosperity and an enduring partnership with our humble institution.
- James S. Vaccaro
Chairman, President and CEO
Manasquan Bank