ATB Financial today reported first quarter earnings of $64.5 million for the period ending June 30.

Increased operating revenue of $207.2 million, up $30.6 million or 17.35%, was offset by growth in non-interest expenses of $22.9 million or 20.28%.

ATB’s equity now stands at $1.7 billion, up 18.04% compared to June 30, 2006.

“ATB Financial has had an excellent start to the year with a very strong financial performance. Our results represent the strongest first quarter in our history,” said Dave Mowat, president and CEO, ATB Financial, in a release.

Loan growth in the first quarter was $598.0 million compared to $340.5 million in the first quarter last year, up 75.62%. Deposit growth was also strong at $528.6 million, but declined compared to growth for the prior year of $790.6 million, down 33.14%.

Despite limited market growth, assets under management and administration ATB Investor Services grew by $228.7 million or 6.15%, up from growth of $164.9 million a year ago. Assets under management and administration were $3.95 billion at the end of the quarter, an increase of 50.62% over the prior year.