The Arkansas Bankers Association (ABA) is working closely with its member banks across the state in proactively addressing the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, Arkansas banks are taking aggressive steps to safeguard the health and safety of their customers, staff and communities while ensuring the delivery of important financial services such as money and credit availability. With over $100 billion in deposits and strong capital levels, Arkansas banks remain financially solid and stand ready to provide important financial services to our fellow Arkansans. While Arkansas banks will look to deliver a larger number of products and services through their enhanced mobile and digital channels, even if at a limited capacity, banks are open.
Federal and state regulation requires financial institutions to have continuity plans and testing processes in place which address pandemic response scenarios. While each individual bank’s plan may differ slightly, a growing number of Arkansas banks are implementing the following changes to minimize person-to-person contact and to encourage responsible social distancing:
• Customers are encouraged to check the financial institution’s website for updates as the situation evolves.
In reviewing the changes being implemented by ABA member banks, ABA Board Chairman Rob Robinson, IV (Community President/Senior Credit Officer of Simmons Bank) commented, “Arkansas’ banks are committed to providing continued and safe customer service to their customers while also ensuring that their employees are working in safe environments. I applaud the thought and attention to detail our member banks are taking during this difficult time. Our banks have always placed the interests of their customers and communities as their mission focus, that does not change in today’s challenging environment.”