Guaranty Federal Bancshares Inc's

The Bank experiences substantial competition both in attracting and retaining deposit accounts and in the origination of loans. The Banks primary competitors are the financial institutions near each of the Banks offices. In the Springfield metropolitan area, where the Banks main office and branch offices are located, primary competition consists of commercial banks, credit unions, and savings institutions.

Direct competition for deposit accounts comes from other commercial banks, credit unions, regional bank and thrift holding companies, and savings institutions located in the remainder of our Market Area. Significant competition for the Banks other deposit products and services come from money market mutual funds, brokerage firms, insurance companies, and retail stores. Recently, online firms have offered attractive financial service products to consumers, irrespective of location. The primary factors in competing for loans are interest rates and loan origination fees and the range of services offered by various financial institutions. Our larger competitors have a greater ability to finance wide-ranging advertising campaigns through their greater capital resources. Our marketing efforts depend heavily upon referrals from officers, directors and shareholders, selective advertising in local media and direct mail solicitations. The Bank believes it is able to compete effectively in its primary Market Area by offering competitive interest rates and loan fees, and a variety of deposit products, and by emphasizing personal customer service.