Banking Department Mission

The mission of the State Banking Department is to allocate human and other resources to implement an effective regulatory program for financial institutions.  The Department has been, and will continue to be, an advocate for financial institutions in the implementation of this program.  However, our primary focus is to ensure the continuance of safe and sound financial practices in the State’s financial institutions.  It would follow that the financial services offered by these sound institutions would foster economic growth and meet the public demand for these services in their communities.

How Mission is Accomplished

The Department is committed to the development of its staff through education, economic rewards, and the availability of a pleasant work environment.  In that regard, the following objectives have been formulated by the Department:

To strengthen the examination program by improving examination methods and procedures and by improving research and development to stay abreast of changes within the financial industry;

To improve training programs for Department personnel by more efficient utilization of funds and resources, enhancement of internal training programs, and early detection and identification of external schools and seminars to be attended;

To improve communication among bank management, regulatory agencies, public entities, and the general public;

To acquire and maintain the required physical and human resources to allow more efficient and consistent operation; and

To improve the work environment, benefits, and morale of Department personnel in order to enhance staff motivation and satisfaction, improve productivity, and reduce turnover.

How Mission is Measured

To accomplish its mission, the Banking Department examines banks, credit unions, and savings associations, and rates them based on safety and soundness.  The Department also compares trends of capital requirements and assets of prior years.

The Department can then recognize weaknesses and implement formal and informal supervisory action to ensure compliance with applicable laws and prevent the failure of a financial institution. The Department can also compare the results of each examination to evaluate the progress of each financial institution.

With respect to its supervision of money order companies and money transmitters, the Department supervises such institutions to assure they maintain adequate security (such as a surety bond) and net worth.  

The Department’s supervision is directed at consumer protection and making sure that only those companies with sound business operations may conduct business in Oklahoma.