Dime Adds Fund Finance Banking Vertical

Core Viewpoint - Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. is launching a new fund finance vertical to enhance its offerings in the private equity sector, led by Michael Watts, aiming to capitalize on growth opportunities in this space [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Expansion - The new fund finance vertical is part of Dime's growth strategy, which has already seen a significant increase in business loans, growing by over $450 million in the twelve months ending March 31, 2025 [2]. - Dime has previously established successful verticals in Healthcare and Not-for-Profit, indicating a strategic focus on industry-specific expertise [2][3]. - The company aims to recruit talented individuals from various financial institutions to bolster its capabilities and coverage [2]. Group 2: Leadership and Strategy - Michael Watts, previously a Senior Vice President at East West Bank, has been appointed to lead the new fund finance vertical, which is expected to provide customized financing solutions to private equity firms [1][3]. - The expansion into fund finance is seen as a way to diversify Dime's business lines and enhance its competitive position in the market [3]. Group 3: Company Profile - Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. holds over $14 billion in assets and has the number one deposit market share among community banks in Greater Long Island [4].