For now, we're happy to be filling a part of our niche that seems to want our presence here. Banks big and small are paying attention to the Bay Area's Asian communities. That's good for Asian immigrants and their offspring, as they seek to sink roots in America and compete in a dynamic economy. Mortgage loans open the door to home ownership.
Commercial loans provide working and investment capital to small businesses.
Reaching out to Asian-Americans has also been good business. Bankers say Asian-American customers' commitment to saving is reflected in the high deposit per customer ratios in branches in Asian communities. And Asians have made their impact in the banking industry. But competition is intensifying. Now, word has spread of the opportunities serving Asian-Americans.