Merchants Financial Group announced first quarter net income of just over $3.47 million, according to MFGI President and CEO Gregory M. Evans.

“We are on target for a strong 2019 and we’re pleased with both our financial results and progress on key strategic initiatives,” said Evans.

As a result of continued profitable performance, the MFGI board of directors authorized a semiannual dividend of 70 cents per share to shareholders during its April meeting. Dividends will be paid in June to shareholders of record as of May 17.

Net income is ahead of MFGI’s plan for 2019 by $442,818, but is behind performance of a year ago by $476,827. One impact on year-over-year earnings was a necessary contribution of an additional $240,000 in loan loss reserve put aside to cushion against possible future loan stress.

Contributing to the overall positive first quarter performance, three of the bank’s four regions exceeded their 2019 first quarter plans. Additionally, MFGI saw year-over-year growth in total loans of $80 million and total deposits of $53.2 million.

“Our commitment to provide exceptional service to our customers and support our communities is what continues to make us a unique player in the financial industry,” notes Evans. “It’s our stakeholders – everyone from our customers, employees, boards and shareholders – recognizing and valuing this commitment that has helped us achieve a solid start to 2019.”

The ownership of Merchants Financial Group is made up of its more than 440 employees and its shareholders, mostly individuals and families from southeastern Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin.

Founded in 1875 and headquartered in Winona, MN, Merchants Bank is a full-service community bank with 21 branches in southeastern Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin. It has more than $1.76 billion in assets.