Bank OZK's (OZK) ratings and outlook are affirmed by Moody's. This indicates solid financial metrics, while concerns remain in the form of substantial CRE concentration.
Bank OZK (OZK) is well-poised for growth given high rates, its restructuring efforts and a solid balance sheet position. However, a rising expense base and deteriorating asset quality are concerns.
The commercial real estate (CRE) sector, which has been roiled by higher borrowing costs and lower occupancy, has become a key cause of concern for investors and lenders. Citi said the San Diego property "has been rejected numerous times by sizable pharmaceutical companies" and has no known leases. The two projects together account for 3.8% of Bank OZK's non-purchased loans and are more than 8.1 times larger than its allowance for credit losses for construction loans, Citi said.