Is Middlefield Banc Corp. a Buy?

Middlefield Banc Corp., established in 1901 and headquartered in Middlefield, Ohio, serves as the parent organization for The Middlefield Banking Company. This entity delivers a comprehensive array of commercial banking solutions to a diverse clientele, including individuals, professionals, small business proprietors, and small to medium-sized businesses across northeastern and central Ohio. The company's offerings include a variety of deposit accounts such as checking, savings, negotiable order of withdrawal (NOW) accounts, money market accounts, and time certificates of deposit. Its extensive lending portfolio covers commercial, real estate, and various consumer loans. More specifically, Middlefield Banc Corp. provides financing for operational and working capital, term business endeavors, residential construction, professional services, home mortgages, and consumer installment loans for purposes like home improvements, vehicle acquisitions, boats, and other personal expenses. Furthermore, it supports capital purchases, offers select guaranteed or subsidized loan programs for small businesses, and provides agricultural loans. Beyond these core services, the bank furnishes safe deposit facilities, travelers' checks, official checks, money orders, ATM access, and IRA accounts. It also provides online banking and bill payment services for individual clients, alongside online cash management solutions for its business customers. Additionally, the corporation is involved in managing the resolution and disposition of distressed assets within Ohio. As of December 31, 2021, Middlefield Banc Corp. maintained 17 banking centers situated in Chardon, Newbury, Middlefield, Garrettsville, Mantua, Orwell, Cortland, Dublin, Westerville, Sunbury, Powell, Beachwood, Solon, Twinsburg, and Plain City. The company also operates an administrative office in Middlefield and a dedicated loan production office in Mentor.