Axos Bank Recognized by Forbes as One of America’s Best Banks
Axos Bank, a subsidiary of Axos Financial, Inc. (NYSE: AX), has been recognized as one of the top financial institutions in the United States by earning a coveted spot on the 2025 Forbes America’s Best Banks list. This recognition underscores Axos Bank’s continued commitment to excellence, financial stability, and customer satisfaction. The Forbes ranking, now in its 16th year, evaluates the 200 largest publicly traded banks and thrifts in the nation, ranking the top 100 institutions based on a range of critical financial metrics.
How Forbes Determines the Best Banks in America
The methodology used by Forbes to compile its annual America’s Best Banks list is both rigorous and comprehensive. For the 2025 ranking, Forbes analyzed financial data for the twelve months ending September 30, 2024, while also considering stock performance for the twelve months through January 10, 2025. This dual-layered approach ensures that the rankings reflect both past performance and future potential.
To determine the top-performing banks, Forbes evaluates each institution based on 11 key financial metrics that assess growth, credit quality, and profitability. The ten equally-weighted financial metrics used in the assessment include:
- Net Interest Margin – The difference between the interest income generated by the bank and the amount of interest paid to lenders, expressed as a percentage of interest-earning assets.
- Return on Average Tangible Common Equity (ROATCE) – A profitability measure that shows how effectively a bank is utilizing its equity capital.
- Return on Average Assets (ROAA) – An indicator of overall profitability and efficiency in utilizing assets.
- Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) Ratio – A measure of a bank’s core capital strength and resilience.
- Efficiency Ratio – The proportion of a bank’s expenses to its revenue, providing insight into operational efficiency.
- Nonperforming Assets as a Percentage of Total Assets – A gauge of asset quality and risk exposure.
- Reserves as a Percentage of Total Assets – The level of financial cushioning maintained to absorb potential losses.
- Risk-Based Capital Ratio – A key measure used to assess the adequacy of a bank’s capital relative to its risk-weighted assets.
- Operating Revenue Growth – The rate at which a bank’s revenue is expanding, indicating growth potential.
- Net Charge-Offs as a Percentage of Total Loans – A reflection of loan portfolio quality and the bank’s ability to manage credit risk.
These metrics provide a well-rounded view of a bank’s financial health, operational efficiency, and ability to deliver strong returns for stakeholders.
Axos Bank’s Continued Excellence in Banking
Earning a place on the Forbes list is no small achievement, and for Axos Bank, this marks the fourth time since 2019 that the institution has been recognized among America’s best banks. This milestone underscores Axos Bank’s unwavering commitment to maintaining strong financial fundamentals while innovating and expanding its range of banking services.
Greg Garrabrants, President and CEO of Axos Financial, Inc., expressed his pride in the achievement, stating, “It’s an honor to be recognized by Forbes as one of the top banks in America for the 4th time since 2019. This recognition is a testament to our diversified consumer and commercial banking model. Our ability to successfully manage growth, profitability, risk, and capital positions us well to deliver strong returns to our shareholders.”
Axos Bank has built a reputation for offering high-quality financial services that cater to both individual and commercial banking customers. Through a combination of technology-driven solutions and customer-centric service, the bank has consistently delivered strong financial performance and growth.
The Evolution of Axos Bank
Founded in 2000 as Bank of Internet USA, Axos Bank has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. The institution rebranded to Axos Bank in 2018, reflecting its expanded range of banking products and digital-first approach. Since its inception, the bank has prioritized efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and superior customer service by leveraging cutting-edge technology. This digital-first model has allowed Axos to operate with lower overhead costs compared to traditional brick-and-mortar banks, giving it a competitive advantage in delivering attractive interest rates and low-fee services to its customers.
Axos Bank has successfully expanded its product offerings to cater to a wide array of financial needs. Its services include personal banking, commercial banking, business lending, mortgage lending, and investment services. By continuously evolving and adapting to market trends, Axos Bank has positioned itself as a leader in the rapidly changing financial landscape.
What This Recognition Means for Customers and Investors
Being named to the Forbes America’s Best Banks list brings significant benefits for both customers and investors. For customers, it serves as a validation of Axos Bank’s financial stability, commitment to service excellence, and ability to offer competitive banking products. Whether it’s high-yield savings accounts, low-cost checking accounts, or innovative lending solutions, customers can feel confident banking with an institution that has been recognized as one of the best in the industry.
For investors, Axos Bank’s consistent performance and recognition on Forbes’ list signal strong fundamentals and a sound growth strategy. The bank’s ability to manage capital efficiently while achieving robust revenue growth and profitability makes it an attractive investment opportunity. As the financial industry continues to evolve, Axos Bank’s digital-first approach positions it well for long-term success.
The Broader Impact of Recognitions Like Forbes’ Best Banks List
Rankings such as the Forbes America’s Best Banks list play a crucial role in shaping consumer and investor perceptions of financial institutions. In an era where banking customers have more choices than ever before, being recognized for financial strength and stability can significantly enhance a bank’s reputation and trustworthiness.
Furthermore, the recognition underscores the importance of key financial metrics in evaluating a bank’s overall health. As financial institutions navigate economic uncertainties, rising interest rates, and evolving regulatory landscapes, the ability to demonstrate strong financial fundamentals remains paramount.
Axos Bank’s inclusion in the 2025 Forbes America’s Best Banks list is a testament to its strong financial performance, commitment to innovation, and dedication to delivering value to its customers and shareholders. The bank’s ability to consistently manage growth, profitability, and risk positions it as a leading financial institution in the digital banking space. As Axos Bank continues to expand its services and enhance customer experiences, this recognition serves as a milestone in its ongoing journey of success.
With its robust digital-first approach, sound financial fundamentals, and a clear vision for the future, Axos Bank is poised to maintain its position as one of the top banks in the United States. Whether you’re a customer looking for a reliable banking partner or an investor seeking a strong financial institution, Axos Bank’s continued excellence makes it a standout choice in the banking industry.
