The greater Atlanta metro area was one of the single hardest-hit regions during the financial crisis. In fact, Georgia had more bank failures from 2008-2011, with 74, than any other state.
But that was then, and this is now. Atlanta, and Georgia at large, are recovering. Earlier this year, Wells Fargo Economics, LLC reported a very optimistic report on Georgia's recovery and prospects, pointing to a recovery in real estate, strength in agriculture, and a strong influx of new industry driven by
transportation and distribution... with the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Port of Savannah, Georgia's Interstate highway system and extensive rail network all making the region an attractive place for manufacturing, distribution and corporate headquarters.
In the video, Motley Fool contributor Jay Jenkins uses banks as a proxy for investing in Georgia's future. From megabanks like Bank of America (BAC 1.46%) and Wells Fargo (WFC -0.24%) to regionals like hometown heroes SunTrust Banks (STI) and Synovus Financial Corp (SNV 3.10%), these banks are well-positioned players to benefit from a rejuvenated Peach State.
