In Q1 2026, Amerant Bancorp accelerated its Florida footprint expansion with new branches in Bay Harbor Islands and plans for St. Petersburg, complementing an ongoing shift toward residential mortgage lending concentrated in its core markets. This strategic pivot accompanies a wind-down of noncore subsidiaries, like the Cayman trust and national mortgage originator, highlighting a focus on operational efficiency and local market penetration. However, the increased jumbo and nonconforming mortgage holdings amplify interest rate and liquidity sensitivities, while deposit concentration from Venezuelan clients remains a notable risk factor amid geopolitical uncertainties. The bank’s relationship-driven model and diversified offerings support competitive positioning in Florida’s crowded regional banking landscape.