Declining Revenue GrowthA multi-period decline in revenue growth erodes scale and limits reinvestment capacity. If loan and fee growth remain weak, the bank may struggle to meet its ROA and ROATCE targets, forcing reliance on expense cuts or capital returns that could compromise long-term growth initiatives.
Gross Margin DeteriorationShrinking gross margins suggest pressure on interest spreads or rising direct costs, which can materially compress net income over time. Sustained margin erosion undermines return metrics and requires either higher volumes, pricing power, or efficiency gains to restore long-term profitability.
Rising Credit Risk IndicatorsAn increase in special mention and substandard loans, even with stable NPAs, signals emerging credit deterioration. If trends persist, provisions and charge-offs could rise, constraining capital, curbing lending capacity, and pressuring returns over the medium term.