Ames National’s Director Buys 4,000 Shares as Insider Confidence Rises Toward New 52‑Week High

Insider Buying Signals a Positive Outlook for Ames National

Ames National Corp (ATLO) saw a fresh wave of insider activity on December 31, 2025, when director Bauer Scott T purchased 4 000 shares at $21.68 per share. This transaction comes at a time when the stock is trading near its 52‑week high of $28.35 and only a modest $0.69 above the recent close of $27.72. The buy‑to‑sell ratio for the company remains favorable, with a price‑to‑earnings ratio of 13.11 and a price‑to‑book of 1.20, indicating that the market values the firm at a reasonable multiple of earnings and book value.

Recent Insider Activity Points to Confidence

Bauer’s purchase is part of a broader pattern of insider buying. The last month, several executives—including Chief Financial Officer Justin Clausen and President Patrick Nelson—have held significant positions, while Michelle Cassabaum added 280 shares on February 2. These actions suggest that insiders view the near‑term outlook as positive, especially as the share price climbs toward a new 52‑week high. Moreover, the absence of large sell‑offs in the last quarter supports the view that insiders are not hedging against an impending downturn.

What This Means for Investors

For investors, the insider buying spree is a bullish signal. When insiders step up their positions, it often reflects confidence in earnings growth, improved capital adequacy, or a belief that the market undervalues the stock. With the bank’s loan portfolio expanding in the agricultural sector and its digital banking initiatives gaining traction, the recent purchases could foreshadow a period of earnings acceleration. The current price‑to‑earnings ratio of 13.11 sits below the sector average, implying that the stock may still have room to grow as the bank capitalizes on its niche market.

A Profile of Bauer Scott T

Bauer Scott T’s transaction history reveals a disciplined buying pattern. Since early 2025, he has accumulated roughly 8 200 shares, averaging around $21.50 per share—well below the current market price. His latest purchase on December 31 added 4 000 shares, bringing his holdings to 4 009 shares. This consistent accumulation over multiple filings indicates a long‑term belief in the company’s prospects rather than a short‑term speculative play. His buy‑to‑sell ratio remains heavily skewed toward purchases, a hallmark of insiders who anticipate upside in the near future.

Conclusion

The recent insider buying by Bauer Scott T and other senior officers suggests confidence in Ames National’s trajectory as it approaches a 52‑week high. While the stock remains modestly priced relative to earnings and book value, the insider sentiment, coupled with a stable trading range and positive fundamentals, offers a compelling case for investors to consider adding positions in ATLO.