Additions made to ABA NASDAZ community bank index.

• Position: ABA RESOURCES

THE ABA HAS ADDED FIVE BANKS to the ABA NASDAQ Community Bank Index (ABAQ), effective December 1, 2010. The index includes more than 440 community banks with a market capitalization of about $115 billion. Additionally, Popular Inc. (BPOP) no longer qualifies under the criteria for inclusion in the ABA NASDAQ Community Bank Index, as it is now one of the 50 largest banking charters.

Launched in December 2003, the index is the most broadly representative stock index for community banks and remains an important tool for giving banks more visibility with analysts and investors.

The index includes all banks and savings associations or their holding companies listed on the NASDAQ, with the exception of any of the 50 largest bank and thrift charters based on asset size, banks classified as having an "international specialization" and banks classified as having a "credit card specialization." Asset size and business classifications are based on the most recently available FDIC data.

The index is...