UMBF UMB Financial Corporation

With this being one of the lowest interest rate periods in history, now is an ideal time for consumers to evaluate their current home equity banking accounts and whether they can be improved and/or maximized. The fluctuating interest rate environment may make some homeowners apprehensive about changing their current financial portfolios. A February article by American Banker cited that consumer confidence was somewhat mixed after the Fed's 125 basis points of cuts that took the federal funds rate down to three percent. However, for those with an existing home equity line of credit (HELOC) account, this could be an optimum opportunity to change their plans for the better, with little to no risk. These individuals have already made the commitment and investment by leveraging the equity of the home. And Brad Smith, executive vice president of consumer services at UMB Bank, states, �now is an important time to improve their accounts by evaluating their options at several banks.� Smith added, �Homeowners need to compare offers, rates and professional counsel they receive. Even if no changes are made, they will at least have a more secure outlook and understanding regarding their current plans. On the other hand, homeowners may discover a better product and rate for their situation and a more personable level of service relevant to their needs. It's easy to switch this service and often there's no cost involved to do so. �Homeowners should also look into a HELOC that has, at a minimum, a two-year lock on interest rates. A rate lock allows homeowners to better manage monthly cash flow and provides a level of comfort in a changing rate environment. �People constantly review investments in their 401k and that same practice should be done with one of their biggest investments � the home. Now is a perfect time for homeowners to proactively assess the services used to manage the equity of their homes and talk to different lending institutions to ensure they have the best programs for their individual needs. Very often, a little invested time can result in positive results by saving hundreds or thousands of dollars and, of course, providing better peace of mind.� About UMB UMB Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: UMBF) is a multi-bank holding company headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., offering complete banking, asset management, health spending solutions and related financial services to both individual and business customers nationwide. Its banking subsidiaries own and operate 135 banking centers throughout Missouri, Illinois, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Arizona. Subsidiaries of the holding company and the lead bank, UMB Bank, n.a., include an investment services group based in Milwaukee, Wis., single-purpose companies that deal with brokerage services and insurance, and registered investment advisors for proprietary mutual funds.