This comprehensive analysis, updated on October 27, 2025, evaluates Ames National Corporation (ATLO) through a five-pronged framework covering its business moat, financial statements, past performance, future growth, and fair value. Our report benchmarks ATLO against six key competitors, including HBT Financial, Inc. (HBT) and First Business Financial Services, Inc. (FBIZ), while distilling key takeaways through the proven investment principles of Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger.
The outlook for Ames National Corporation is mixed, balancing recent improvements against long-term weaknesses. As a traditional Iowa-based community bank, its strength lies in a stable, local customer base. However, it lags competitors, lacking a clear growth strategy and suffering from a collapse in earnings since 2021. Recent financial reports show a strong turnaround, with double-digit growth in revenue and income. Despite this, overall profitability remains average and the dividend payout ratio is at a risky ~90%. The stock appears reasonably priced near its asset value, offering an attractive 3.84% dividend yield. This may suit income investors who can tolerate high risk; growth-focused investors should look elsewhere.
US: NASDAQ
Ames National Corporation (ATLO) is a bank holding company that embodies the classic community banking model. Headquartered in Ames, Iowa, it operates through a network of six independently chartered subsidiary banks: First National Bank, Ames; Boone Bank & Trust Co.; State Bank & Trust Co.; Iowa State Savings Bank; United Bank & Trust; and Reliance State Bank. This multi-bank structure allows each institution to maintain a strong local identity and decision-making authority, fostering deep-rooted customer relationships across several counties in central Iowa. The company's core business is straightforward: it gathers deposits from local individuals, businesses, and municipalities and uses these funds to originate loans. Its primary products and services, which collectively account for the vast majority of its revenue, are Commercial Lending (including commercial real estate and business loans), Residential Real Estate Lending, Agricultural Lending, and a suite of Deposit and Wealth Management services. ATLO's strategy is not built on national scale or technological superiority but on being the primary, trusted financial partner for the communities it has served for over a century.
The largest component of ATLO’s business is its commercial lending portfolio, which includes loans for commercial real estate (CRE), construction, and general commercial and industrial (C&I) purposes. This segment represents nearly 50% of the bank's total loan portfolio, with loans outstanding exceeding $870 million. Revenue is primarily generated from the net interest spread on these loans. The market for commercial lending in central Iowa is moderately competitive and its growth is tied to the local economy, which is influenced by major employers like Iowa State University in Ames and the broader agricultural sector. Competition comes from other local community banks that employ a similar relationship-based model, as well as larger regional and national banks like Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank, which have a significant presence in the state. Compared to these larger competitors, ATLO cannot compete on price or the breadth of its product suite. Instead, it differentiates itself through local market knowledge, personalized service, and quicker, localized credit decisions. The typical customers are small-to-medium-sized businesses, local real estate developers, and property investors who value having a direct relationship with their banker. Customer stickiness in this segment is moderately high, as business banking relationships often involve multiple products (loans, deposits, cash management) and are built on trust over many years. The competitive moat for ATLO's commercial lending is its intangible local expertise and entrenched community presence, which creates a barrier for outside competitors unfamiliar with the nuances of the market. However, this strength is also a vulnerability, as the bank's fortunes are heavily concentrated in the economic health of a few Iowa counties.
Residential real estate lending is another cornerstone of ATLO’s operations, constituting over 30% of its loan book, or more than $550 million. This includes traditional mortgages for one-to-four-family homes and home equity lines of credit. The U.S. residential mortgage market is vast but intensely competitive, with a multitude of players ranging from national giants like Rocket Mortgage and large banks to local credit unions and mortgage brokers. The market is highly sensitive to interest rates, which directly impact loan demand and refinancing activity. Margins in mortgage origination are often thin due to the high level of competition. ATLO's primary competitors are other local lenders and national non-bank originators who often leverage technology to offer lower rates and faster processing times. ATLO's value proposition in this space is its service-oriented, in-person approach, appealing to homebuyers who prefer to work with a local institution they know and trust. Its customers are residents within its geographic footprint, often existing deposit customers, who are buying a home or refinancing an existing mortgage. While a mortgage itself is a very sticky product for its duration, the origination process is not. The competitive moat in this segment is therefore quite weak. ATLO's advantage lies not in the product itself but in its ability to capture mortgage business from its established customer base and use it as a gateway to deepen the overall banking relationship. The bank primarily relies on its branch network and reputation to attract and retain these customers.
Where Ames National Corporation truly distinguishes itself is in its agricultural lending franchise. Representing approximately 15% of the total loan portfolio, or over $260 million, this segment is a core part of the bank's identity and its most defensible niche. Services include loans for farmland acquisition, operating lines of credit for crop and livestock production, and financing for farm equipment. Iowa is a leading agricultural state, making the market for ag lending substantial but also highly specialized and cyclical, subject to commodity price volatility, weather events, and government policies. Competition comes from other specialized community banks and the government-sponsored Farm Credit System, which is a formidable, nationwide network of lenders focused exclusively on agriculture. ATLO successfully competes by leveraging its century-long history and deep expertise in the local agricultural economy. Its loan officers possess specialized underwriting skills and understand the unique cash flow cycles of farming operations in a way that generalist lenders cannot. The customers are local farmers and agribusinesses, many of whom have banked with one of ATLO's subsidiaries for generations. These relationships are extremely sticky due to the specialized knowledge required and the high switching costs associated with moving a complex farming operation to a new bank. This segment represents ATLO’s strongest moat. It is built on decades of accumulated, specialized knowledge and intangible, trust-based relationships, creating a significant barrier to entry that protects it from larger, more commoditized competitors.
Supporting its lending operations are ATLO's deposit-gathering activities and fee-generating services, most notably wealth management. The bank offers a standard range of deposit products, including checking, savings, and time deposits (CDs), which form the funding base for its loans. The market for deposits is intensely competitive, with all financial institutions vying for customer funds, leading to significant pressure on funding costs, especially in a rising rate environment. ATLO's moat on the deposit side is derived from customer inertia and the convenience of its local branch network. However, as demonstrated by recent trends, this moat is permeable, with customers increasingly willing to move funds to seek higher yields. A more promising and higher-margin service is wealth management, which contributed $1.2 million in fee income in the first quarter of 2024. This business provides trust, investment management, and financial planning services to higher-net-worth individuals in the community. Switching costs for wealth management are very high, as relationships are built on deep personal trust. This service not only provides a valuable source of diversified, non-interest income but also helps to cement long-term relationships with the bank's most profitable customers. While currently a small part of the overall business, a strong wealth management arm enhances the bank's overall competitive position by creating a stickier and more profitable customer base.
In conclusion, Ames National Corporation's business model is that of a quintessential community bank, deeply embedded in its local Iowa markets. Its competitive edge is not derived from scale, cost advantages, or proprietary technology, but from intangible assets: its long-standing reputation, deep community ties, and specialized expertise in agricultural lending. This niche focus, particularly in ag lending, provides a durable moat that insulates it from direct competition with larger, less specialized financial institutions. It has successfully cultivated multi-generational relationships with families, businesses, and farmers, which translates into a relatively stable customer base.
However, the resilience of this business model faces modern challenges. The bank's heavy geographic concentration makes it highly vulnerable to any localized economic downturn in central Iowa. Furthermore, its traditional business model is heavily reliant on net interest income, with a relatively underdeveloped stream of fee-based revenue. This makes its earnings highly sensitive to the interest rate cycle. While its moat in agricultural lending is strong, the overall durability of its enterprise is contingent on its ability to protect its low-cost deposit base and navigate the economic cycles inherent to its specialized lending focus. The business model is resilient within its niche but lacks the diversification and scale to weather broad systemic shocks as effectively as larger, more complex institutions.
Ames National Corporation's recent performance highlights a sharp improvement in its core earnings power. For the third quarter of 2025, revenue grew 21.63% year-over-year to $15.96 million, while net income soared 105.64% to $4.56 million. This growth is primarily driven by a 26.83% increase in net interest income, suggesting the bank is benefiting from higher interest rates on its loan portfolio. Profitability is recovering, with Return on Assets (ROA) reaching 0.87% and Return on Equity (ROE) at 9.27% in the most recent period. While these figures are improving, they remain in line with, but not superior to, typical community bank benchmarks of 1% ROA and 10% ROE.
From a balance sheet perspective, the bank exhibits considerable strength in liquidity and solvency. The loan-to-deposit ratio stood at a conservative 69.6% in Q3 2025, indicating that the bank funds its lending activities comfortably with core deposits and has ample capacity for future growth. The bank's leverage also appears manageable, with a debt-to-equity ratio of just 0.32. However, a notable red flag is the negative comprehensiveIncomeAndOther of -$21.23 million, which reflects unrealized losses on its securities portfolio. This has eroded the bank's tangible book value, highlighting its sensitivity to interest rate fluctuations on its investment holdings.
Cash flow generation appears adequate to support operations and shareholder returns. The dividend payout ratio of 44.64% is sustainable, allowing the bank to reward shareholders while retaining sufficient capital for growth. In conclusion, Ames National's financial foundation is strengthening, buoyed by robust earnings momentum and a solid liquidity position. However, the unrealized losses on its balance sheet serve as a critical reminder of the risks associated with the current interest rate environment, making its overall financial health stable but not without weaknesses.
An analysis of Ames National Corporation's performance over the last five fiscal years (FY2020-FY2024) reveals a company with declining financial health and an inability to keep pace with more dynamic competitors. The period started strong, peaking in FY2021 with net income of $23.91 million and an EPS of $2.62. However, performance has since fallen sharply. By FY2024, net income had dropped to $10.22 million and EPS to $1.14, marking a negative earnings trend that stands in stark contrast to the robust growth reported by peers like HBT Financial and QCR Holdings.
The company's core business drivers show signs of stagnation. Over the four-year period from year-end 2020 to 2024, gross loans grew at a slow compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 3.6%, while total deposits grew at an even slower 1.8% CAGR, including a notable decline in FY2023. This sluggish balance sheet growth has been compounded by severe pressure on profitability. The bank's net interest margin of ~2.6% is significantly below the 3.0% to 3.8% margins enjoyed by its peers. Consequently, key return metrics have collapsed; Return on Average Equity (ROAE) fell from 11.46% in FY2021 to a meager 6% in FY2024, well below the 10%-16% returns that are common among its higher-performing competitors.
From a shareholder return perspective, the record is uninspiring. While ATLO has consistently paid dividends, the dividend was cut in FY2024 from $1.08 to $0.94 per share, and the payout ratio has soared to nearly 90%, raising questions about its sustainability without an earnings recovery. Share buybacks have been minimal and inconsistent, doing little to reduce the share count or boost EPS. The combination of falling earnings and stagnant growth has led to poor total shareholder returns compared to peers who have successfully executed growth strategies. While the bank's conservative nature is evident in its stable credit quality, its historical performance does not support confidence in its ability to generate competitive returns for shareholders.
The U.S. regional and community banking industry is navigating a period of significant transformation, with the next 3-5 years promising continued evolution. The primary trend is ongoing consolidation, as smaller banks struggle to absorb rising regulatory costs and the high fixed costs of technology investments needed to stay competitive. The number of community banks has been steadily declining for decades, and this trend is expected to persist. A key shift is the accelerating adoption of digital banking. Customers, even in rural and community settings, increasingly expect seamless online and mobile banking experiences, forcing smaller institutions to invest heavily in technology or partner with fintech providers to avoid being left behind. The interest rate environment will remain a critical variable, directly influencing lending demand and, more importantly, the cost of deposits as banks compete fiercely for funding. Catalysts for demand could include a stabilization or decline in interest rates, which would reinvigorate mortgage and commercial real-Estat lending, or sector-specific economic strength, such as a boom in agriculture or local manufacturing. Market growth for the sector is projected to be modest, with revenue likely tracking local GDP growth, estimated in the low single digits around 2-4% annually. Competitive intensity is high and becoming more so, not from new banks (as barriers to entry like capital and regulatory approval are immense), but from larger regional banks expanding their reach, credit unions, and non-bank fintech lenders chipping away at specific products like personal loans and mortgages.
The industry's future will be defined by several key factors. First, regulatory scrutiny, particularly on capital adequacy, liquidity, and interest rate risk management, will remain elevated following the regional bank turmoil in 2023. This compliance burden disproportionately affects smaller banks with limited resources. Second, technology will continue to be both an opportunity and a threat. Banks that successfully integrate digital tools to enhance customer relationships and improve efficiency will thrive, while those that lag will lose customers to more nimble competitors. Third, the 'war for deposits' is a structural shift, not a temporary trend. The availability of high-yield online savings accounts has permanently altered customer behavior, forcing community banks to pay more for funding and squeezing their net interest margins. Finally, demographic shifts, such as the transfer of wealth to younger, more digitally-native generations, will compel community banks to adapt their service models away from a purely branch-centric approach. Success in this environment will require a delicate balance: maintaining the high-touch, relationship-based service that is their hallmark while embracing the technological and operational efficiencies necessary to compete and grow profitably.
Commercial Lending, including Commercial Real Estate (CRE), is ATLO's largest segment, with a portfolio over >$870 million. Current consumption is driven by the needs of small-to-medium-sized businesses and real estate investors in its central Iowa footprint. Growth is currently constrained by the modest pace of the local economy and a higher interest rate environment, which has cooled new development and business investment. Over the next 3-5 years, consumption growth will likely come from small business operating loans (C&I) as local enterprises expand, while the CRE segment may see slower growth due to persistent remote work trends affecting office space and rate sensitivity for new projects. A key catalyst would be significant investment in the region, perhaps tied to Iowa State University or the agricultural technology sector. The U.S. commercial lending market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 3-5%, and ATLO's growth will likely be at the lower end of this range. Customers choose ATLO over larger banks like Wells Fargo for its local decision-making, quicker turnaround on smaller loans, and personal relationships. However, it loses to competitors on price and the sophistication of its cash management services. In a competitive bid, a larger regional bank with a lower cost of funds is most likely to win share. The number of community banks offering commercial loans has decreased due to consolidation, a trend expected to continue due to the scale advantages in compliance and technology. A primary risk for ATLO is a localized recession in central Iowa (high probability), which would simultaneously reduce loan demand and increase credit losses in its geographically concentrated portfolio.
Agricultural Lending is ATLO's key niche, with a portfolio exceeding >$260 million. Current usage is stable, dictated by the annual operating cycles of crop and livestock producers for things like seed, fertilizer, and equipment. Consumption is currently constrained by high input costs for farmers and volatile commodity prices, which can impact borrowing capacity and willingness to take on new debt. Over the next 3-5 years, growth in this segment will likely stem from financing farm consolidation (larger, more efficient farms buying out smaller ones) and investments in ag-tech to improve yields and efficiency. A potential catalyst could be a sustained period of high commodity prices or new government programs supporting agricultural investment. The agricultural lending market in the U.S. is mature, with growth closely tied to farm income, typically in the 1-3% range annually. Customers, primarily multi-generational family farms, choose ATLO over the Farm Credit System or larger banks due to its deep, localized expertise and long-standing relationships; its lenders understand the specific soil conditions and market dynamics of the region. ATLO consistently outperforms in this niche due to extremely high customer stickiness. The number of specialized ag lenders has remained relatively stable, but competition is intense. The biggest future risk for ATLO is a prolonged downturn in the farm economy caused by a global supply glut or trade disputes (medium probability). This would severely pressure the credit quality of a significant portion of its loan book, as its borrowers are all exposed to the same market forces.
Residential Real Estate Lending, with a portfolio over >$550 million, is a core but highly competitive service for ATLO. Current consumption is significantly limited by high mortgage rates, which have drastically reduced both purchase and refinancing activity. The affordability crisis in housing further dampens demand from first-time homebuyers. In the next 3-5 years, a decrease in interest rates is the most significant factor that could reignite demand. Consumption will likely shift towards a purchase-driven market rather than a refinancing one. Growth will be concentrated among existing bank customers who prefer an in-person, relationship-based mortgage process. The U.S. mortgage origination market is highly cyclical, with forecasts dependent on Federal Reserve policy; a return to a more neutral rate environment could see market volumes increase by 5-10% from current depressed levels. Customers in this space often choose between lenders based on rate, fees, and speed of closing. ATLO is unlikely to compete effectively on these metrics against national non-bank lenders like Rocket Mortgage, who leverage technology and scale to offer better terms. ATLO's advantage is with its existing client base. If it cannot capture their business, that share is most likely to go to an online lender or a local mortgage broker. The number of mortgage providers has increased with the rise of non-bank originators. A key risk for ATLO is failing to invest in the digital mortgage technology that customers now expect, leading to further market share erosion (high probability).
Deposit and Wealth Management services are critical for funding and fee income diversification. ATLO's deposit gathering is currently constrained by intense competition from high-yield online savings accounts and other local banks, forcing it to pay higher rates on time deposits (39.7% of total deposits). Wealth management provides a small but stable fee income stream ($1.2 million in Q1 2024), but its growth is limited by the number of high-net-worth individuals in its geographic area. Over the next 3-5 years, growth in fee income will be challenging. The bank needs to expand its wealth management assets under management and potentially add other fee-based services like enhanced treasury management for its business clients. A catalyst would be hiring an experienced team of financial advisors to attract new assets. The U.S. wealth management market is projected to grow at 4-6% annually, but ATLO's growth will be much lower without strategic investment. Customers choose wealth management providers based on trust, performance, and personal relationships, which plays to ATLO's strengths. However, competition from large national firms like Edward Jones and Charles Schwab is intense. The most significant risk is ATLO's inability to meaningfully grow its fee income (high probability), leaving its earnings almost entirely dependent on its already-pressured net interest margin. A 1% decline in its net interest margin, without offsetting fee income, could reduce net income by over 20%.
Looking ahead, ATLO's greatest challenge is overcoming its structural limitations. The bank's multi-charter holding company structure, while preserving local brand identity, may create operational inefficiencies compared to a single-charter bank of a similar size. Integrating technology and standardizing processes across six different bank subsidiaries is inherently more complex and costly. Furthermore, as a small institution, ATLO lacks the resources to invest in cutting-edge technology or data analytics at the same scale as its larger competitors. This technology gap could become a more significant competitive disadvantage over time, affecting everything from marketing and customer acquisition to underwriting efficiency and cybersecurity. Without an aggressive M&A strategy to gain scale or a clear plan to drive organic growth beyond the low single digits, the bank risks becoming a stagnant player in a consolidating industry. Its future success will depend on its ability to defend its profitable agricultural niche while finding a way to modernize its service delivery and improve its funding costs without compromising the community-focused model that defines it.
As of October 27, 2025, Ames National Corporation's stock price of $20.72 suggests the company is trading close to its intrinsic worth. A comprehensive valuation, which triangulates multiple methods, points to a fair value range between $21.00 and $23.00. This estimate places the current price at a slight discount, offering a modest but positive margin of safety for investors.
The primary valuation method for a bank is the asset-based approach, focusing on its Price to Tangible Book Value (P/TBV). ATLO’s tangible book value per share is $21.06, resulting in a P/TBV ratio of 0.98x. Given that healthy peer banks often trade at a premium to their tangible book value (typically 1.1x to 1.35x), ATLO's valuation appears conservative and attractive. Applying a peer multiple of 1.0x to 1.1x suggests a fair value range of $21.06 to $23.17, indicating the stock is modestly undervalued.
Other methods support this conclusion of a fair price. The company's trailing P/E ratio of 11.62x is almost exactly in line with the regional banking industry average, suggesting it is not expensive relative to its peers. From an income perspective, the 3.84% dividend yield is robust and higher than the industry average, providing a strong income stream and some downside support. By weighing the asset-based approach most heavily, the analysis concludes that while ATLO is no longer deeply undervalued after recent price appreciation, it remains reasonably priced with some potential upside.
Warren Buffett's investment thesis for banks centers on finding simple, understandable businesses with a durable moat, typically in the form of a low-cost deposit base, run by trustworthy management, and purchased at a reasonable price. Ames National Corporation (ATLO) would appeal to his conservative nature with its stable community presence and clean balance sheet. However, Buffett would quickly be deterred by its mediocre profitability, evidenced by a Return on Average Equity (ROAE) of only ~8%, which measures how much profit the bank generates with shareholder money, lagging far behind high-quality peers who generate 12-15%. Furthermore, its high efficiency ratio of ~68%—meaning it costs 68 cents to generate a dollar of revenue—points to a bloated cost structure and a lack of competitive advantage compared to efficient peers operating below 60%. The primary risk here isn't a catastrophic failure but a slow erosion of value as more efficient competitors win over time. Ultimately, Buffett would almost certainly avoid ATLO, viewing it as a low-return business not worth owning. If forced to choose top-tier regional banks, he would favor companies like German American Bancorp (GABC) or West Bancorporation (WTBA) due to their consistently high returns on equity (~12% and ~14% respectively) and superior operational efficiency, which are hallmarks of a great banking franchise. Buffett would only consider ATLO if the price fell significantly, perhaps to 0.7x its tangible book value, and a new management team presented a credible plan to dramatically improve its efficiency.
Charlie Munger would likely view Ames National Corporation as a textbook example of a business to avoid, despite its apparent cheapness trading at tangible book value. He seeks great businesses at fair prices, and ATLO fails the 'great business' test due to its chronically poor profitability metrics. The bank's net interest margin of ~2.6% and return on equity of ~8% are simply too low, indicating a weak competitive position and an inability to generate adequate returns on shareholder capital. Furthermore, its high efficiency ratio of ~68% suggests a bloated cost structure, a trait Munger would find repulsive. While the bank is stable and conservatively managed, Munger would see it as a 'leaky boat' where a low valuation cannot compensate for subpar economics. The key takeaway for retail investors is that a cheap stock is not a good investment if the underlying business has inferior returns. If forced to choose from this sub-industry, Munger would gravitate towards highly profitable and efficient operators like QCR Holdings (QCRH) with its ~15% ROAE or West Bancorporation (WTBA) with its sub-50% efficiency ratio, as these demonstrate the 'great business' qualities ATLO lacks. Munger's decision would only change if new management implemented a radical overhaul to drastically cut costs and improve lending profitability, a difficult turnaround he would typically not bet on.
Bill Ackman would likely view Ames National Corporation as an uninvestable, low-quality franchise that fails to meet his criteria for a simple, predictable, and dominant business. Ackman's thesis for investing in the banking sector would center on identifying institutions with strong pricing power, indicated by a high net interest margin (NIM), and superior profitability, reflected in a high return on equity (ROAE). ATLO's performance, with a NIM of ~2.6% and an ROAE of ~8%, falls significantly short of the high-quality peers he would target. While an activist could see potential in its inefficient operations (efficiency ratio of ~68%), the underlying business lacks the fundamental quality Ackman seeks, making a turnaround thesis less compelling than simply owning a better bank. The takeaway for retail investors is that ATLO is a classic value trap; while it appears cheap trading at book value, its poor returns suggest it is cheap for a good reason. Forced to choose the best regional banks, Bill Ackman would likely select QCR Holdings (QCRH) for its elite ~15% ROAE and proven M&A growth, First Business Financial Services (FBIZ) for its exceptional ~16% ROAE and specialized moat, and West Bancorporation (WTBA) for its best-in-class efficiency and ~14% ROAE. Ackman's decision on ATLO could only change if a new management team announced a clear plan to sell the bank to a stronger competitor, creating a defined catalyst for value realization.
Ames National Corporation operates as a traditional community bank holding company in central Iowa, a business model built on long-term customer relationships and conservative financial stewardship. This approach has fostered stability and a loyal depositor base, making it a fixture in its local markets. However, this conservatism also translates into a less dynamic growth profile compared to its peers. The bank's strategy is not focused on rapid expansion or entering high-growth lending niches; instead, it prioritizes asset quality and steady, predictable returns, which is reflected in its modest loan growth and below-average profitability metrics.
From a competitive standpoint, ATLO's unique multi-bank structure, where several subsidiary banks operate under their own charters and brands, is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it preserves the local identity and decision-making that community banking customers value. On the other, it creates significant operational inefficiencies, preventing the company from realizing the economies of scale that larger, more centralized competitors enjoy. This is evident in its persistently high efficiency ratio, which indicates that a larger portion of its revenue is consumed by operating expenses, leaving less for shareholders or reinvestment into the business.
Furthermore, the broader banking landscape is evolving rapidly, with pressures from financial technology (fintech) competitors, ongoing industry consolidation, and the need for significant digital investment. While many of ATLO's peers are actively acquiring smaller banks to gain scale or investing heavily in technology to improve customer experience and efficiency, ATLO has been less aggressive. This cautious stance could leave it at a competitive disadvantage over the long term, as it may struggle to match the product offerings and operational agility of its more forward-looking rivals. Investors are therefore presented with a clear trade-off: the perceived safety of a well-capitalized, traditional bank versus the superior growth and return potential offered by more modern and efficient competitors in the regional banking space.
HBT Financial, Inc. presents a stark contrast to Ames National Corporation, operating as a larger, more profitable, and faster-growing institution primarily focused on commercial lending in Illinois. While ATLO offers a slightly higher dividend yield, it significantly underperforms HBT across nearly every key financial and operational metric. HBT's business model is geared towards commercial clients, which generates higher returns, whereas ATLO maintains a more traditional, lower-yielding loan portfolio. This fundamental difference in strategy and execution makes HBT a superior choice for investors seeking growth and strong returns on their capital.
On business and moat, HBT has a clear advantage. HBT's brand, Heartland Bank and Trust, is more unified across its 61 branches in Central Illinois, compared to ATLO's multi-brand approach across 26 locations. Both banks benefit from the high switching costs associated with community banking, where personal relationships make customers hesitant to leave. However, HBT's greater scale, with total assets of ~$5.5 billion versus ATLO's ~$3.6 billion, provides significant economies of scale and operational leverage. While both face high regulatory barriers to entry, a common feature in banking, HBT's larger size and more focused commercial network give it a stronger competitive position. Winner: HBT Financial, Inc. due to its superior scale and a more cohesive brand strategy.
Financially, HBT is a much stronger performer. HBT’s revenue growth over the past five years has been robust, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 10%, dwarfing ATLO’s ~4%. The most critical difference is in profitability; HBT boasts a net interest margin (NIM) of ~3.5%, a measure of lending profitability, which is substantially higher than ATLO's ~2.6%. This translates into a superior Return on Average Assets (ROAA) of ~1.2% for HBT versus ~0.8% for ATLO, and a Return on Average Equity (ROAE) of ~12% versus ~8%. While both banks are well-capitalized and have healthy liquidity, ATLO's only financial advantage is its higher dividend yield of ~4.5% compared to HBT's ~3.0%. Winner: HBT Financial, Inc. based on its vastly superior growth and profitability.
An analysis of past performance reinforces HBT's dominance. Over the last five years, HBT has delivered superior EPS growth, driven by its stronger revenue and wider margins. This has resulted in a significantly higher Total Shareholder Return (TSR) for HBT investors compared to the relatively flat performance of ATLO's stock. On risk, ATLO’s more conservative loan book and slower growth might suggest a lower-risk profile, as evidenced by historically low loan charge-offs. However, HBT has also managed its credit risk effectively while growing. For growth, margins, and TSR, HBT is the clear winner. For risk, ATLO is arguably more conservative. Winner: HBT Financial, Inc. for its proven ability to generate superior shareholder returns.
Looking at future growth prospects, HBT is better positioned. Its focus on more dynamic commercial lending markets in Illinois provides a larger runway for growth than ATLO's exposure to the slower-growing agricultural and residential markets in Iowa. HBT’s operational efficiency is a key advantage; its efficiency ratio hovers around 55%, meaning only 55 cents of every dollar of revenue is spent on overhead. In contrast, ATLO's efficiency ratio is much higher at ~68%, leaving less capital for investment in technology and expansion. This cost advantage allows HBT to compete more effectively on price and invest in growth initiatives. Winner: HBT Financial, Inc. due to stronger market dynamics and a more scalable operating model.
From a valuation perspective, the comparison is nuanced but still favors HBT. ATLO trades at a Price-to-Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) of approximately 1.0x, meaning you are paying for the net assets of the bank and nothing more, which seems cheap. HBT trades at a higher P/TBV of ~1.3x. However, this premium is justified by HBT's superior profitability (ROAE). More importantly, on a Price-to-Earnings (P/E) basis, HBT is actually cheaper, trading at ~9x earnings compared to ATLO's ~11x. This suggests the market is not fully pricing in HBT's stronger earnings power. While ATLO offers a better dividend yield (~4.5% vs. ~3.0%), HBT presents better value on a risk-adjusted basis. Winner: HBT Financial, Inc. as it is cheaper on an earnings basis while offering superior quality.
Winner: HBT Financial, Inc. over Ames National Corporation. The verdict is decisively in favor of HBT. It is a fundamentally stronger bank, evidenced by its superior net interest margin (~3.5% vs. ~2.6%), higher return on equity (~12% vs. ~8%), and much better operational efficiency (55% vs. ~68%). ATLO’s primary appeal is its higher dividend yield and valuation at tangible book value, but these do not compensate for its chronic underperformance and stagnant growth prospects. The key risk for ATLO is continued margin compression and falling behind technologically, while HBT’s risk is its higher concentration in commercial real estate. Overall, HBT Financial is a well-managed, profitable, and growing institution that clearly outmatches its more staid peer.
First Business Financial Services, Inc. (FBIZ) is a specialized commercial bank focused on business owners, executives, and professionals, which gives it a distinct and higher-margin business model compared to Ames National Corporation's traditional community banking approach. This specialization allows FBIZ to generate superior returns and growth, although it may carry a more concentrated risk profile. For investors, FBIZ represents a growth-oriented, high-profitability play, whereas ATLO is a defensive, income-oriented holding with limited upside. The performance gap between the two is significant and favors FBIZ.
In terms of business and moat, FBIZ's specialization is its key strength. It builds a strong moat through deep, advisory-based relationships with its niche client base, leading to high switching costs. Its brand is synonymous with business banking in its Wisconsin markets. In contrast, ATLO's moat is based on its broad, local presence in Iowa. On scale, the two are more comparable, with FBIZ having ~$3.2 billion in assets versus ATLO's ~$3.6 billion. However, FBIZ’s employee count is much lower, indicating a more efficient use of its resources. The regulatory barriers are identical for both. FBIZ's focused business model creates a more durable competitive advantage than ATLO’s generalist approach. Winner: First Business Financial Services, Inc. due to its strong niche positioning and specialized moat.
FBIZ demonstrates superior financial performance. Its focus on commercial and private banking allows it to achieve a net interest margin (NIM) of around 3.3%, significantly better than ATLO's ~2.6%. This drives exceptional profitability, with FBIZ consistently delivering a Return on Average Assets (ROAA) of ~1.4% and a Return on Average Equity (ROAE) of ~16%. These figures are nearly double what ATLO produces (~0.8% ROAA, ~8% ROAE). FBIZ has also shown stronger revenue and loan growth. While both banks maintain strong capital and liquidity positions, the sheer difference in profitability and efficiency makes FBIZ the clear financial winner. Winner: First Business Financial Services, Inc. due to its outstanding profitability metrics.
Reviewing their past performance, FBIZ has been a far more rewarding investment. Over the past five years, FBIZ has achieved a double-digit EPS CAGR, while ATLO's growth has been in the low single digits. This earnings power has translated into a Total Shareholder Return (TSR) for FBIZ that has substantially outperformed ATLO's. FBIZ has also consistently improved its margins, while ATLO's have been under pressure. On risk, FBIZ’s loan book is more concentrated in commercial lending, which can be cyclical, whereas ATLO’s portfolio is more diversified and traditionally lower-risk. However, FBIZ has demonstrated excellent credit management. For growth, margins, and TSR, FBIZ is the clear winner. Winner: First Business Financial Services, Inc. for its exceptional track record of growth and shareholder value creation.
Looking ahead, FBIZ's growth outlook appears brighter. Its specialized services, including private wealth, SBA lending, and equipment finance, provide multiple avenues for growth that ATLO lacks. These fee-based income streams make its revenue more diversified. ATLO's future growth is tied more closely to the modest economic expansion of its local Iowa communities. Furthermore, FBIZ's superior efficiency ratio of ~58% (compared to ATLO's ~68%) allows for greater reinvestment into technology and talent to fuel future expansion. ATLO's higher cost structure limits its ability to pursue similar growth initiatives. Winner: First Business Financial Services, Inc. for its diversified revenue streams and stronger growth drivers.
Valuation analysis suggests that despite its superior quality, FBIZ is reasonably priced. It trades at a Price-to-Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) of ~1.3x, a premium to ATLO's 1.0x. However, this premium is more than justified by its ~16% ROAE. On a Price-to-Earnings (P/E) basis, FBIZ trades at a modest ~8x, which is cheaper than ATLO's ~11x. This indicates that the market is undervaluing FBIZ's high profitability and growth. ATLO's ~4.5% dividend yield is higher than FBIZ's ~3.2%, but FBIZ offers a much better total return proposition. Winner: First Business Financial Services, Inc. as it offers superior quality and growth at a more attractive earnings multiple.
Winner: First Business Financial Services, Inc. over Ames National Corporation. FBIZ is the decisive winner due to its focused business strategy, which translates into industry-leading profitability and robust growth. Its key strengths are its exceptional Return on Equity (~16% vs. ~8%), wider net interest margin (~3.3% vs. ~2.6%), and more efficient operations. ATLO’s only competitive edges are its higher dividend yield and a more conservative, diversified loan portfolio. However, its low returns and weak growth prospects make it a far less compelling investment. The primary risk for FBIZ is its concentration in commercial lending, while ATLO’s risk is secular stagnation. FBIZ represents a high-quality banking operator that is clearly superior to ATLO.
QCR Holdings, Inc. (QCRH) is a relationship-based banking franchise that, while larger than Ames National Corporation, provides a clear example of a more dynamic and successful community banking model. QCRH has achieved superior growth through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, resulting in a financial profile that is significantly stronger than ATLO's. ATLO's conservative, slow-and-steady approach pales in comparison to QCRH's demonstrated ability to generate higher returns and expand its market presence. For investors, QCRH offers both growth and profitability, while ATLO mainly offers a stable dividend.
Regarding business and moat, QCRH has built a strong competitive position. Its moat is derived from a correspondent banking division and deep commercial relationships, which create high switching costs and a strong brand in its markets across Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and Wisconsin. While ATLO also has deep local roots, QCRH's scale is a major advantage, with total assets of ~$8.0 billion compared to ATLO's ~$3.6 billion. This allows QCRH to spread its costs over a larger revenue base and offer a broader suite of products. The regulatory barriers are the same for both, but QCRH's scale and successful M&A track record give it a stronger platform. Winner: QCR Holdings, Inc. due to its superior scale and diversified business lines.
QCRH’s financial statements tell a story of superior performance. It has a strong history of double-digit loan and revenue growth, far outpacing ATLO's low-single-digit expansion. Profitability is a key differentiator: QCRH's net interest margin (NIM) is typically above 3.8%, one of the best in its peer group and well above ATLO's ~2.6%. This leads to a robust Return on Average Assets (ROAA) of ~1.5% and a Return on Average Equity (ROAE) of ~15%, both of which are elite figures for a community bank and significantly better than ATLO’s metrics. While both are well-capitalized, QCRH's ability to generate strong internal capital through earnings is superior. Winner: QCR Holdings, Inc. because of its elite profitability and strong growth.
Historically, QCRH has delivered far better results for shareholders. Over the past five years, QCRH has compounded its earnings per share at a much faster rate than ATLO. This strong fundamental performance has driven a Total Shareholder Return (TSR) for QCRH that has significantly exceeded ATLO's. QCRH has also successfully managed credit risk through various economic cycles, even while growing rapidly. While ATLO's risk profile is inherently lower due to its lack of growth, QCRH has proven it can manage risk effectively while expanding. For growth, margins, and shareholder returns, QCRH is the hands-down winner. Winner: QCR Holdings, Inc. for its impressive long-term track record of performance.
QCRH’s future growth prospects are much more compelling. The company has a proven strategy of acquiring smaller banks and successfully integrating them, providing a clear path for continued expansion. Its presence in more diverse and economically vibrant metropolitan areas also offers more organic growth opportunities than ATLO's rural Iowa footprint. QCRH’s efficiency ratio is also superior, typically running below 55% versus ATLO’s ~68%. This efficiency advantage allows QCRH to invest more in technology and talent, further widening its competitive gap with slower-moving peers like ATLO. Winner: QCR Holdings, Inc. due to its proven acquisition strategy and favorable market exposure.
From a valuation standpoint, QCRH trades at a premium, but it is well-deserved. Its Price-to-Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) is around 1.4x, compared to ATLO's 1.0x. Its Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio is ~9x, which is lower than ATLO’s ~11x. This is a classic case of the market rewarding quality and growth with a higher book value multiple, but still offering an attractive price based on current earnings. QCRH’s dividend yield of ~1.5% is much lower than ATLO's ~4.5%, so it is not an income play. However, for total return, it is the better value. Winner: QCR Holdings, Inc. because its superior quality and growth are available at a reasonable earnings multiple.
Winner: QCR Holdings, Inc. over Ames National Corporation. QCRH is unequivocally the superior company. Its strengths are numerous: a highly profitable business model driving a net interest margin of ~3.8% and an ROAE of ~15%, a proven track record of successful acquisitions, and a much more efficient operating structure. ATLO’s main weakness is its inability to generate attractive returns, stemming from its high cost structure and low-yielding loan portfolio. The risk for QCRH is execution risk related to future acquisitions, while the risk for ATLO is stagnation. For any investor not solely focused on current dividend income, QCRH is the better long-term investment.
MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. (MOFG) is a direct and compelling competitor to Ames National Corporation, as both are Iowa-based community banks. However, MOFG has pursued a more aggressive growth strategy through acquisitions, resulting in a larger and more geographically diversified franchise across Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Florida, and Colorado. This has led to better, albeit more variable, performance compared to ATLO's highly predictable but lackluster results. MOFG represents a more dynamic and growth-oriented version of an Iowa community bank, while ATLO represents the more traditional, conservative version.
In the realm of business and moat, MOFG has a slight edge. Its larger scale, with assets of ~$6.5 billion versus ATLO's ~$3.6 billion, provides better operational leverage. MOFG's brand is unified and has expanded beyond Iowa, giving it a wider reach. ATLO's moat is confined to its specific local communities in central Iowa. While both benefit from sticky customer deposits and the high regulatory barriers of the banking industry, MOFG's proven ability to acquire and integrate other banks represents a strategic capability that ATLO lacks. This makes its competitive position more durable in a consolidating industry. Winner: MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. due to its superior scale and successful M&A strategy.
Financially, MOFG generally outperforms ATLO, though with more volatility. MOFG’s net interest margin (NIM) is typically in the ~3.0% range, which is healthier than ATLO’s ~2.6%. This helps MOFG generate a higher Return on Average Assets (ROAA) of around 1.0% and a Return on Average Equity (ROAE) of ~10%, compared to ATLO's ~0.8% and ~8%, respectively. MOFG's revenue growth has also been stronger over the last decade due to its acquisitions. However, MOFG's efficiency ratio, while better than ATLO's, can be inconsistent due to merger-related expenses. Both are well-capitalized. Winner: MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. for its stronger core profitability and growth.
Looking at past performance, MOFG has delivered better long-term returns. Its strategic acquisitions have fueled faster EPS growth over the past decade compared to ATLO's organic-only, slow-growth model. This has resulted in a superior Total Shareholder Return (TSR) for MOFG over a five- and ten-year horizon. On the risk front, MOFG's credit quality has sometimes shown more volatility following acquisitions, and its loan book has higher exposure to commercial real estate. ATLO, with its extremely conservative culture, has maintained more stable credit metrics. For growth and returns, MOFG wins. For risk management, ATLO has been more consistent. Winner: MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. on an overall basis due to its superior shareholder returns.
For future growth, MOFG holds a distinct advantage. It continues to signal its appetite for further acquisitions, which remains the fastest way to grow in the mature community banking sector. Its expansion into higher-growth markets like Denver and Minneapolis also provides better organic growth opportunities than ATLO's rural Iowa focus. ATLO's growth is fundamentally constrained by the slow pace of economic activity in its home markets. MOFG is simply playing in a bigger sandbox with more tools at its disposal. Winner: MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. for its clear and actionable growth strategy.
From a valuation perspective, both banks trade at similar, inexpensive multiples. Both MOFG and ATLO trade at a Price-to-Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) of around 1.0x, indicating that the market is not assigning any premium to their franchises. Their Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratios are also comparable, typically in the 10-12x range. However, MOFG offers a higher dividend yield of ~4.8% compared to ATLO's ~4.5%. Given that MOFG offers better growth and profitability for a similar valuation and a slightly higher yield, it represents a better value proposition. Winner: MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. as it provides a superior financial profile at a comparable price.
Winner: MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. over Ames National Corporation. MOFG is the better investment choice. It offers a more compelling combination of growth, profitability, and income than ATLO. Its key strengths are its successful acquisition strategy, higher core profitability (ROAE of ~10% vs. ~8%), and a more attractive growth outlook. ATLO's primary weakness is its lack of a growth strategy and its inefficient operating model. While MOFG carries slightly more integration and credit risk due to its M&A activity, its management has a long track record of managing these risks effectively. For a similar valuation, MOFG provides investors with a much more dynamic and rewarding opportunity.
West Bancorporation, Inc. (WTBA) is another Iowa-based competitor, but it operates a more focused and efficient business model than Ames National Corporation. WTBA targets commercial and industrial businesses, which has allowed it to achieve higher profitability and a more streamlined operation. While smaller than ATLO in terms of total assets, WTBA’s performance metrics demonstrate a superior banking strategy. This makes it a stronger investment for those prioritizing profitability and operational excellence over the sheer stability offered by ATLO.
In terms of business and moat, WTBA's focused strategy is a key advantage. Its brand, West Bank, is strong in its Des Moines, Iowa City, and Rochester markets, where it is known for its commercial lending expertise. This specialization creates a moat based on deep client relationships. ATLO's moat is broader but less deep, based on a generalist community presence. On scale, ATLO is larger with ~$3.6 billion in assets versus WTBA's ~$2.8 billion. However, WTBA's efficiency shows that scale isn't everything. Both face high regulatory barriers. WTBA's moat is stronger due to its specialized expertise, which commands better pricing and loyalty. Winner: West Bancorporation, Inc. for its more focused and defensible business model.
Financially, West Bancorporation is a top-tier performer. It consistently generates a net interest margin (NIM) above 3.2%, which is significantly higher than ATLO's ~2.6%. This strong lending profitability fuels an exceptional Return on Average Assets (ROAA) of ~1.3% and a Return on Average Equity (ROAE) of ~14%. These figures place WTBA among the more profitable banks of its size and are substantially better than ATLO’s returns. Most impressively, WTBA operates with an efficiency ratio often below 50%, a benchmark of excellent cost control, whereas ATLO's is near ~68%. Winner: West Bancorporation, Inc. due to its outstanding profitability and efficiency.
WTBA's past performance reflects its operational superiority. Over the last five years, it has generated stronger and more consistent EPS growth than ATLO. Its disciplined cost management and strong margins have been key drivers of this outperformance. This has also translated into better, though not dramatically different, Total Shareholder Returns compared to ATLO. On risk, WTBA's loan book is more concentrated in commercial loans, which theoretically adds risk, but its long history of low credit losses demonstrates prudent underwriting. ATLO is less risky by virtue of its diversification and slower growth. For financial performance, WTBA wins. For risk profile, ATLO is more conservative. Winner: West Bancorporation, Inc. for its consistent delivery of high-quality earnings.
Looking at future growth, WTBA's prospects are solid, driven by its presence in some of Iowa's most economically vibrant markets like Des Moines. Its focus on commercial clients ties its growth to business expansion in these areas. ATLO's growth is tied to more stable but slower-growing communities. WTBA's best-in-class efficiency gives it a powerful advantage, allowing it to generate significant free capital to reinvest in technology and new talent or to return to shareholders. ATLO's high cost base is a competitive drag on its growth potential. Winner: West Bancorporation, Inc. because its operational efficiency fuels a more sustainable growth model.
From a valuation perspective, WTBA trades at a premium, which is justified by its high quality. Its Price-to-Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) is typically around 1.4x, well above ATLO's 1.0x. Its Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio is ~10x, which is slightly cheaper than ATLO's ~11x. Investors are paying a premium for WTBA's assets but are getting its superior earnings power at a reasonable price. WTBA also offers a strong dividend yield of ~4.3%, which is very competitive with ATLO's ~4.5%. Given that WTBA offers vastly superior quality for a similar yield and a cheaper P/E, it is the better value. Winner: West Bancorporation, Inc. as its premium valuation is fully supported by its elite performance.
Winner: West Bancorporation, Inc. over Ames National Corporation. WTBA is the superior bank and a better investment. Its key strengths are its exceptional efficiency ratio (below 50% vs. ~68%), which drives elite profitability metrics like its ~14% ROAE. It combines this performance with a dividend yield that is nearly as high as ATLO's. ATLO’s main weakness is its inefficient structure and inability to earn an adequate return on its assets. The primary risk for WTBA is its loan book concentration, while for ATLO it is long-term irrelevance and margin decay. WTBA demonstrates how a focused strategy and disciplined execution can create significant value in community banking.
German American Bancorp, Inc. (GABC) is a larger, well-regarded super-community bank operating in Indiana and Kentucky. It provides a useful comparison as it showcases a successful strategy of blending organic growth with disciplined acquisitions, resulting in a performance record that consistently surpasses Ames National Corporation's. GABC has achieved scale and efficiency while maintaining a community focus, a balance that ATLO has struggled to strike. For investors, GABC offers a compelling mix of stability, growth, and income that is superior to ATLO's defensive, low-return profile.
On business and moat, GABC has a clear advantage. With assets of ~$7.0 billion and nearly 80 locations, its scale is roughly double that of ATLO. This provides significant advantages in terms of cost leverage, product breadth, and marketing power. GABC's unified brand is well-established across its markets, whereas ATLO operates a fragmented collection of different bank brands. Both companies benefit from strong community ties and high regulatory hurdles for new entrants. However, GABC's larger scale and proven history of successful M&A make its competitive position far more formidable in a consolidating industry. Winner: German American Bancorp, Inc. due to superior scale and a stronger, unified brand.
Financially, GABC is in a different league. It has a long track record of steady revenue and earnings growth, supported by a healthy net interest margin (NIM) that typically sits above 3.4%, far exceeding ATLO's ~2.6%. This superior margin, combined with a well-managed cost base (efficiency ratio around ~58% vs. ATLO's ~68%), leads to strong profitability. GABC's Return on Average Assets (ROAA) is consistently above 1.2% and its Return on Average Equity (ROAE) is often in the 11-12% range, both metrics comfortably beating ATLO's performance. GABC also has a growing wealth management business that provides valuable fee income. Winner: German American Bancorp, Inc. for its strong, consistent, and well-rounded financial performance.
An analysis of past performance highlights GABC's consistency and ATLO's stagnation. GABC has a multi-decade history of increasing its cash dividend, a testament to its stable and growing earnings stream. Its Total Shareholder Return (TSR) over the last five and ten years has significantly outpaced ATLO's. GABC has achieved this while maintaining excellent asset quality, demonstrating that growth does not have to come at the expense of prudent risk management. While ATLO is also a very conservative underwriter, GABC has proven it can balance risk and growth more effectively. Winner: German American Bancorp, Inc. for its long and distinguished track record of creating shareholder value.
Looking to the future, GABC's growth prospects are more promising. It operates in healthier, more diverse economic markets in Indiana and Kentucky compared to ATLO's more rural Iowa footprint. GABC also has a well-honed M&A strategy, periodically acquiring smaller banks to expand its presence and leverage its efficient operating platform. ATLO has no such inorganic growth lever. GABC's greater scale and profitability also allow for more substantial investments in digital banking technology, which is critical for competing in the modern era. Winner: German American Bancorp, Inc. due to its multiple avenues for future growth.
From a valuation standpoint, GABC trades at a premium that reflects its higher quality. Its Price-to-Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) is around 1.5x, significantly higher than ATLO's 1.0x. Its Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio is also higher, typically around 12x compared to ATLO's ~11x. In this case, the higher valuation is justified by GABC's superior growth, profitability, and long history of dividend increases. GABC's dividend yield is lower at ~3.3% versus ATLO's ~4.5%. For a total return investor, GABC is the better value, despite the premium multiples, because of its superior fundamentals. Winner: German American Bancorp, Inc. as its premium price is warranted by its high-quality franchise.
Winner: German American Bancorp, Inc. over Ames National Corporation. GABC is the clear winner, representing a best-in-class example of a community-focused bank that has successfully scaled its business. Its key strengths are its consistent profitability (ROAE ~12%), strong and growing dividend, and a proven M&A growth strategy. ATLO’s primary weaknesses are its inefficient operations and anemic growth profile. The risk for GABC is paying too much for a future acquisition, while the main risk for ATLO is simply being left behind by more capable competitors. GABC is a high-quality, blue-chip community bank that is superior to ATLO in almost every respect.
Based on industry classification and performance score:
Ames National Corporation operates as a traditional, community-focused bank with deep roots in central Iowa. Its primary strength and competitive moat stem from a specialized and long-standing franchise in agricultural lending, where local expertise creates a durable advantage over larger, more generalized competitors. However, the bank exhibits significant weaknesses in its funding base, with a low proportion of non-interest-bearing deposits and a heavy reliance on higher-cost time deposits. Furthermore, its revenue is not well-diversified, with a below-average contribution from fee income, making it highly sensitive to interest rate fluctuations. The investor takeaway is mixed; while the bank possesses a defensible niche, its financial structure presents notable risks in the current economic environment.
The bank is highly dependent on interest income from loans, as its fee-based revenue is underdeveloped and contributes less to total revenue than the sub-industry average.
Diversified revenue streams can cushion a bank's earnings when interest margins are squeezed. Ames National is weak in this area. In the first quarter of 2024, noninterest income of $3.3 million accounted for only 17.5% of its total revenue, a figure that is BELOW the typical community bank average of around 20% or higher. This high reliance on net interest income (82.5% of revenue) makes the bank's earnings particularly vulnerable to changes in interest rates. While it has a quality wealth management business that generates consistent fees, this segment is not yet large enough to offset the overall low contribution from fee-based activities. The lack of a more robust fee income stream is a structural weakness that limits its revenue stability compared to more diversified peers.
The bank appears to have a reasonably diversified depositor base for its size, with a moderate level of uninsured deposits reducing its risk of concentrated outflows.
Ames National's deposit base is primarily composed of retail and small business customers from its local communities, which provides a degree of granularity. A key strength is its management of large deposit risk. At the end of 2023, uninsured deposits (amounts over the $250,000 FDIC limit) were 30.6% of total deposits. This level is BELOW the median for banks of a similar size, which is often in the 35-40% range. A lower reliance on large, uninsured deposits reduces the risk of rapid capital flight during times of market stress, as seen in the 2023 banking turmoil. While the bank is inherently concentrated in the central Iowa economy, its ability to maintain a granular deposit base with below-average uninsured balances is a positive indicator of prudent risk management on its funding side.
The bank possesses a strong and defensible moat through its specialized expertise in agricultural lending, which differentiates it from competitors and fosters a loyal borrower base.
Ames National demonstrates a clear competitive advantage in its agricultural lending niche. The combined portfolio of farmland and other agricultural loans stands at over $260 million, representing a significant 14.6% of its total loan portfolio. This is a substantial concentration in a specialized field that requires deep institutional knowledge of crop cycles, commodity prices, and government programs—expertise that generalist lenders lack. This focus allows the bank to build long-term, multi-generational relationships with farmers and agribusinesses in its community. This established franchise acts as a strong moat, creating high barriers to entry and giving the bank pricing power within its niche. This specialized focus is the most distinct and durable aspect of ATLO's business model.
The bank's deposit base is weakening, with a low level of noninterest-bearing deposits and a growing reliance on higher-cost time deposits, which pressures its funding costs.
A stable, low-cost deposit base is a key strength for any bank. For Ames National, this appears to be an area of weakness. As of the first quarter of 2024, noninterest-bearing deposits constituted only 18.8% of total deposits. This is significantly BELOW the US bank median, which, although declining, has been closer to 25%. A smaller base of these 'free' deposits means the bank is more reliant on interest-bearing accounts to fund its loans. Exacerbating this, time deposits (like CDs) have grown to 39.7% of total deposits, a high proportion that reflects a shift by customers into higher-yielding products. This has pushed the bank's annualized cost of total deposits to 2.03%, a sharp increase that directly compresses its net interest margin. This composition suggests the deposit base is less sticky and more rate-sensitive than ideal, representing a significant risk to profitability.
The bank maintains a solid local branch network, but its deposit-gathering efficiency per branch appears to be below average, limiting its operating leverage.
Ames National Corporation operates a network of 24 branches concentrated in its central Iowa markets. This physical presence is fundamental to its relationship-based community banking model. However, with approximately $2.1 billion in total deposits, the bank's deposits per branch stand at roughly $87.5 million. This figure is somewhat weak when compared to many high-performing community and regional banks, where deposits per branch can often exceed $100 million or more. A lower deposits-per-branch figure suggests that the bank may not be fully leveraging its physical footprint for maximum efficiency, potentially leading to a higher overhead cost structure relative to the deposits it gathers. While the branches are essential for its community-focused strategy, they do not appear to constitute a strong competitive advantage in terms of operational scale or efficiency.
Ames National Corporation's recent financial statements show a significant turnaround, with strong double-digit growth in revenue and net income in the last two quarters. Key strengths include a very healthy loan-to-deposit ratio of 69.6% and rapidly improving operational efficiency, with its efficiency ratio nearing 61%. However, profitability metrics like Return on Assets at 0.87% are still just average, and unrealized losses on its investment portfolio represent a drag on its book value. The investor takeaway is mixed, as strong operational momentum is tempered by balance sheet sensitivity to interest rates.
The bank demonstrates a robust liquidity position with a very conservative loan-to-deposit ratio, though key regulatory capital metrics were not provided.
The bank's liquidity is a clear strength. Its loans-to-deposits ratio was 69.6% in Q3 2025 ($1276 million in net loans to $1833 million in deposits), which is significantly below the typical 80-90% range for community banks and indicates a very strong funding base with ample capacity to grow lending. The tangible common equity to total assets ratio stands at a solid 8.89% ($187.31 million / $2108 million), providing a healthy cushion to absorb potential losses. While specific regulatory figures like the CET1 ratio were not provided, the available data points to a well-capitalized and highly liquid institution. The lack of data on uninsured deposits is a missing piece for a complete risk assessment.
The bank appears well-prepared for potential credit losses with a strong allowance coverage ratio, though key data on loan performance is not available.
Ames National maintains a conservative stance on credit risk. As of Q3 2025, its allowance for loan losses was $18 million against a gross loan portfolio of $1294 million. This results in an allowance to total loans ratio of 1.39%, a strong level that is likely above the average for its peer group, suggesting a robust buffer against future charge-offs. The provision for credit losses was a modest $0.63 million in the quarter, which implies that management is not currently seeing signs of widespread credit deterioration in its portfolio. However, without data on nonperforming loans or net charge-offs, it is impossible to fully assess the underlying health of the bank's loan book.
The bank's tangible equity is significantly impacted by unrealized losses on its investment portfolio, indicating a notable sensitivity to higher interest rates.
Ames National's balance sheet shows a significant vulnerability to interest rate changes through its investment portfolio. The 'comprehensiveIncomeAndOther' account, which includes these unrealized losses, reported a negative -$21.23 million in Q3 2025. This figure represents a substantial 11.3% of the bank's tangible common equity ($187.31 million), indicating a material reduction in its tangible book value. These losses stem from the bank's $656.34 million in total investments, a portion of which are likely fixed-rate securities that have declined in market value as interest rates have risen. While the bank is successfully growing net interest income in this environment, this large, unrealized loss on the balance sheet is a major weakness that constrains financial flexibility.
Core earnings are showing excellent momentum, driven by very strong double-digit growth in net interest income, the bank's primary revenue source.
The bank's ability to generate profit from its core lending and investing activities is strengthening considerably. In Q3 2025, net interest income (NII) grew 26.83% year-over-year to $14.05 million, following a 23.86% increase in the previous quarter. This powerful growth shows that the bank is effectively managing its assets and liabilities in a changing rate environment, with the yield on its assets rising faster than its funding costs. While the specific Net Interest Margin (NIM) percentage is not provided, this robust NII growth is a clear and positive indicator of the bank's fundamental earnings power.
The bank's operational efficiency has improved dramatically over the past year, with its cost structure becoming much more competitive.
Ames National has made significant strides in managing its expenses relative to revenue. Based on its recent filings, the bank's efficiency ratio was approximately 61.8% in Q3 2025 ($10.24 million in noninterest expense divided by $16.58 million in total revenue). This is a substantial improvement from the 76.3% reported for the full fiscal year 2024. For community banks, an efficiency ratio approaching 60% or lower is considered strong. This positive trend indicates effective cost discipline, even as the bank grows, which directly supports higher profitability.
Ames National Corporation's past performance shows significant deterioration, particularly over the last three years. After a strong year in 2021, earnings per share have collapsed from $2.62 to $1.14, and return on equity has halved from 11.5% to just 6%. While the bank has maintained stable credit quality and a consistent dividend, the payout ratio has ballooned to a risky ~90% of earnings. Compared to its peers, ATLO's profitability, efficiency, and growth are substantially weaker. This track record suggests a business struggling to adapt, presenting a negative takeaway for investors focused on performance.
The bank's loan and deposit growth has been anemic over the past five years, indicating market share stagnation and an inability to expand its core business at a competitive rate.
From FY2020 to FY2024, Ames National's gross loans grew from $1.15 billion to $1.32 billion, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of only 3.6%. Deposit growth was even weaker, rising from $1.72 billion to $1.85 billion for a CAGR of just 1.8%. This performance is sluggish for a community bank and was marked by a year-over-year deposit decline in FY2023, a concerning sign in a competitive banking environment. This slow growth is a key reason for its underperformance relative to peers like MidWestOne and QCR Holdings, which have successfully used acquisitions and organic growth to expand their balance sheets at a much faster pace.
The bank’s loan-to-deposit ratio has crept up from 67% in 2020 to 72% in 2024. While this level is still conservative and indicates ample liquidity, the trend suggests loan growth is modestly outpacing the bank's weak deposit-gathering efforts. Overall, the historical data points to a stagnant franchise that is struggling to attract new customers and grow its core business.
A combination of a compressed net interest margin (NIM) and a sharply deteriorating efficiency ratio has severely damaged the bank's profitability over the last three years.
The core profitability of Ames National has weakened considerably. As noted by peers, its net interest margin of ~2.6% is structurally lower than competitors, who often achieve margins well above 3%. This is reflected in its net interest income, which fell from $56.0 million in FY2021 to $45.0 million in FY2024 despite a larger loan book. This indicates the bank lacks pricing power on its loans and is facing high funding costs on its deposits.
Compounding the margin problem is a dramatic worsening of its cost structure. The bank's efficiency ratio, which measures non-interest expenses as a percentage of revenue, deteriorated from a solid 54.6% in FY2021 to an extremely poor 76.2% in FY2024. This means over 76 cents of every dollar in revenue is now consumed by operating costs, leaving very little for profits. Peers typically operate with efficiency ratios below 60%, with top performers under 55%. This uncompetitive cost structure is a major weakness and a primary driver of the bank's poor historical performance.
The bank's earnings per share have collapsed since peaking in 2021, showing a severe negative trend that highlights its inability to generate sustainable profit growth.
Ames National's EPS history shows extreme volatility and a clear downward trajectory in recent years. After rising to a peak of $2.62 in FY2021, EPS fell to $2.14 in FY2022, then plunged to $1.20 in FY2023 and $1.14 in FY2024. The three-year CAGR from FY2021 to FY2024 is a dismal -24%. This performance indicates a fundamental breakdown in the bank's earnings power, driven by margin compression and rising costs.
This trend is mirrored in its return on equity (ROE), which declined from a respectable 11.46% in FY2021 to a very poor 6% in FY2024. This level of return is below the bank's cost of capital and is substantially worse than the low-to-mid-teens ROE consistently generated by peers like West Bancorporation and First Business Financial Services. The historical earnings record demonstrates poor execution and a business model that has struggled in the recent economic environment.
Ames National's most positive attribute is its history of strong and stable credit quality, reflecting a conservative underwriting culture that has kept loan losses low.
The bank has demonstrated disciplined risk management, which is evident in its provision for credit losses. After a larger provision of $5.68 million in 2020 amidst pandemic uncertainty, the bank recorded negative provisions (reserve releases) in 2021 and 2022, followed by very small provisions of under $1 million in 2023 and 2024. This trend suggests that management has not identified significant deterioration in the loan portfolio and that credit losses have remained minimal. This conservative approach is a hallmark of the bank's operating philosophy.
While this stability is commendable, it is important to note that the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of gross loans has declined from 1.50% in FY2020 to 1.29% in FY2024. Although the low provisions imply this is not currently a concern, it reduces the buffer for potential future credit issues. Nonetheless, the consistent track record of prudent lending is a clear strength in the bank's historical performance.
The bank has a record of consistent dividend payments, but a recent dividend cut and a dangerously high payout ratio near `90%` signal that returns to shareholders are under significant pressure from declining earnings.
Ames National has historically been a reliable dividend payer, distributing between $9.0 million and $9.7 million annually over the past five years. However, this stability masks a deteriorating underlying ability to support the payout. As net income fell sharply after 2021, the dividend payout ratio exploded from a healthy 39.26% in FY2021 to an unsustainable 88.88% in FY2024. This forced a dividend per share reduction in FY2024 to $0.94 from $1.08 the prior two years, a negative signal for income investors.
Furthermore, the company's share repurchase activity has been modest and inconsistent, with amounts ranging from zero to $2.3 million in a given year. Over the five-year period, the total number of shares outstanding has only decreased slightly from 9.12 million to 8.95 million. This minimal buyback activity has not provided a meaningful boost to EPS. The current capital return policy appears strained, prioritizing a high dividend payout at the expense of financial flexibility and growth investment.
Ames National Corporation's future growth outlook appears limited and challenged. The bank's growth is fundamentally tied to the slow-moving economy of central Iowa, with little opportunity for expansion beyond this geography. Major headwinds include intense pressure on its funding costs, a high dependency on interest income, and strong competition from larger, more efficient banks. While its niche in agricultural lending provides stability, it is not a significant growth driver. The investor takeaway is negative for those seeking growth, as the bank lacks clear strategies for expanding loans, fees, or operational efficiency over the next 3-5 years.
Constrained by its geography, the bank's loan growth outlook is uninspiring and entirely dependent on the low-growth central Iowa economy, with no catalysts for acceleration.
Ames National does not provide public guidance on expected loan growth. Given its exclusive focus on central Iowa, a mature and slow-growing market, its growth potential is inherently capped. The bank's loan portfolio is expected to expand at a rate similar to local GDP, likely in the low single digits. There are no data available on its loan pipeline or unfunded commitments that would suggest an upcoming acceleration in lending activity. Without geographic expansion or entry into new lending verticals, the outlook is for continued modest growth that is unlikely to outperform the broader banking sector.
ATLO's capital strategy appears highly conservative, with no visible plans for value-enhancing M&A or share buybacks, limiting avenues for earnings per share growth.
For community banks, disciplined mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or share buybacks are key tools for growth and shareholder returns. There is no indication from Ames National that it is pursuing M&A to expand its footprint or gain scale efficiencies. The company has not announced any acquisitions or a meaningful share repurchase program. While maintaining strong regulatory capital is prudent, the apparent lack of a strategy to deploy excess capital for growth means that future earnings expansion is solely reliant on slow, organic loan growth within its limited geographic market. This passive approach to capital management suggests limited upside for investors seeking capital appreciation.
The bank shows no clear strategy for optimizing its branch network or leveraging digital channels to drive efficiency, suggesting a passive approach to future operational improvements.
Ames National operates a network of 24 branches, but its efficiency appears subpar, with deposits per branch at approximately >$87.5 million, a figure below many high-performing peers. The company has not announced any clear plans for branch consolidation, cost savings targets, or significant new investments in digital capabilities. In an era where even community banks must balance physical presence with digital convenience to control costs and attract younger customers, ATLO's static footprint and lack of stated digital growth targets indicate a reactive rather than proactive strategy. This inertia will likely lead to a higher efficiency ratio (a measure of overhead) and put it at a competitive disadvantage against more streamlined banks.
The bank's profitability is under severe pressure from a poor funding mix, and with no clear path to margin improvement, its primary earnings driver faces significant headwinds.
Net Interest Margin (NIM), the main driver of ATLO's profit, is challenged by a weak deposit base. Noninterest-bearing deposits are low at 18.8% of total deposits, while higher-cost time deposits are a high 39.7%. This has pushed its cost of funds up significantly to 2.03%. The bank has not provided any NIM guidance, but the underlying trends are negative. While loan yields may rise, the intense competition for deposits will likely continue to pressure funding costs, compressing or even shrinking the margin. Without a structural improvement in its deposit base, the outlook for NIM is negative.
The bank remains highly dependent on net interest income, with a below-average fee income base and no articulated plan to meaningfully grow this diversified revenue stream.
Ames National's noninterest income makes up only 17.5% of its total revenue, which is below the industry average and exposes the bank's earnings to volatility from interest rate changes. Its primary fee business, wealth management, is small and not growing at a pace to change this dynamic. The bank has not provided any targets for growing noninterest income, nor has it signaled investment in other fee-generating areas like treasury management, card services, or mortgage banking. This lack of a clear strategy to build a more balanced revenue mix is a significant structural weakness that constrains future profit growth and stability.
Ames National Corporation (ATLO) appears to be fairly valued to slightly undervalued at its current price. The stock trades near its tangible book value, a key indicator for banks, with a Price-to-Tangible-Book ratio of 0.98x. Combined with a reasonable P/E ratio and an attractive 3.84% dividend yield, the valuation seems solid. While the stock is not a deep bargain after a recent run-up, the takeaway is neutral to positive, suggesting a reasonable entry point for investors seeking stable income from the regional banking sector.
The stock trades just below its tangible book value per share, offering a solid, asset-backed valuation that is a classic sign of reasonable value for a profitable bank.
Price to Tangible Book Value (P/TBV) is a primary valuation metric for banks, as it measures the market price relative to the hard, tangible assets on the balance sheet. ATLO’s tangible book value per share is $21.06, and with a stock price of $20.72, the P/TBV ratio is 0.98x. Trading below a 1.0x multiple is often considered a benchmark for undervaluation, assuming the bank is profitable and well-managed.
Given that ATLO has a respectable Return on Equity of 9.27%, it is generating profits from its asset base. In this context, being able to buy the bank's tangible assets for less than their stated value is attractive. Many healthy regional banks trade at multiples of 1.1x to 1.5x their tangible book value, making ATLO's valuation compelling on this key metric.
The stock's Price-to-Book ratio is well-aligned with its current Return on Equity, suggesting the market is pricing it rationally based on its profitability.
A bank's ability to generate profit from its equity (Return on Equity, or ROE) should be a key driver of its valuation multiple (Price to Book, or P/B). A common rule of thumb is that a bank's P/B ratio should approximate its ROE divided by the market's required rate of return, often estimated around 10%. For Ames National Corporation, the current ROE is 9.27% and the P/B ratio is 0.92x. Applying the formula, an appropriate P/B would be 9.27% / 10% = 0.927x. This is almost exactly where the stock is currently trading. This alignment indicates that the stock is not overvalued relative to its profitability and that the current price is fundamentally justified, warranting a "Pass".
The P/E ratio is fair compared to peers, but the lack of consistent, long-term earnings growth estimates makes it difficult to justify paying a higher premium.
ATLO’s trailing P/E ratio of 11.62x is in line with the regional banking industry average, which stands around 11.74x. This suggests the stock is not expensive relative to its peers. However, the earnings growth picture is mixed. While EPS growth in the last two quarters has been exceptionally high (over 100%), this appears to be a cyclical rebound from a weaker period, as the latest full-year (FY 2024) EPS growth was negative at -5.53%.
There are no forward P/E or analyst estimates for next year's EPS growth provided, which creates uncertainty. Without a clear and sustainable long-term growth trajectory, the current P/E ratio, while fair, does not signal undervaluation. A "Pass" would require either a lower P/E ratio or clearer evidence of sustained future growth.
The stock offers a strong dividend yield that is well-covered by earnings, supplemented by modest share repurchases, creating a solid total return for income-focused investors.
Ames National Corporation provides a compelling income proposition. Its dividend yield of 3.84% (TTM) is attractive, especially when compared to the regional bank average of around 3.31%. This income stream appears safe, supported by a healthy dividend payout ratio of 44.64%. This ratio indicates that less than half of the company's profits are used to pay dividends, leaving ample cash for reinvestment, loan loss provisions, and operational needs.
Furthermore, the company is returning capital to shareholders through buybacks. The number of shares outstanding has decreased over the last few quarters (-0.59% in Q3 2025), and the current buyback yield is 0.56%. While not a massive buyback program, this consistent reduction in share count gradually increases each shareholder's stake in the company and supports earnings per share growth.
Ames National Corporation appears attractively valued compared to its peers, offering a lower Price-to-Tangible Book ratio and a higher dividend yield for a similar P/E multiple.
When stacked against industry benchmarks, ATLO presents a favorable risk/reward profile. Its P/E Ratio (TTM) of 11.62x is almost identical to the regional bank average, indicating it is not overpriced on an earnings basis. However, its Price/Tangible Book of 0.98x is a notable discount compared to the industry median, which can range from 1.1x to over 1.3x, suggesting investors are getting more tangible assets for their money. The 3.84% dividend yield is superior to the peer average of roughly 3.31%, offering a better income stream. This combination of a peer-average P/E, a discounted P/TBV, and a higher yield makes a strong case for its value relative to other regional banks.
The primary risk facing Ames National Corporation stems from the broader macroeconomic environment, particularly interest rate policy. In a 'higher-for-longer' interest rate scenario, the bank's cost of funding is likely to continue rising as it must pay more for customer deposits to prevent them from moving to higher-yielding alternatives. This can compress its Net Interest Margin (NIM)—the key measure of a bank's core profitability—if the yields on its loans and investments do not rise as quickly. Conversely, a sharp economic downturn could trigger a rapid decrease in rates, but it would also bring the more significant threat of rising loan defaults and reduced demand for new loans, directly impacting revenue and forcing the bank to increase provisions for credit losses.
A second major risk is the bank's significant geographic and economic concentration. Operating exclusively in central Iowa, ATLO's success is intrinsically linked to the health of a single regional economy. This lack of diversification means a localized downturn, such as a crisis in the agricultural sector or the failure of a major local employer, could have a disproportionately negative impact on its loan book and deposit base. This contrasts sharply with larger, national competitors who can absorb regional weakness with strength in other areas. Furthermore, these larger banks, along with non-bank fintech companies, pose a serious competitive threat, leveraging superior scale, marketing budgets, and technology platforms to attract customers, which pressures ATLO's market share and growth potential.
Finally, the operational and regulatory landscape presents a growing challenge for smaller community banks. In the wake of the 2023 regional banking failures, regulatory scrutiny has intensified, leading to higher compliance costs and the potential for stricter capital requirements. These burdens disproportionately affect smaller institutions like ATLO, which lack the scale to absorb these costs as efficiently as their larger peers. This can strain the bank's efficiency ratio and limit its capacity for lending and investment in necessary technology. Failure to keep pace with digital banking trends could lead to customer attrition over the long term, creating a structural headwind for growth.
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