Collectively, credit unions in 41 states reported improved return on average assets statistics during the fourth quarter of 2012, according to the latest Quarterly U.S. Map Review released Tuesday by the NCUA. Forty four states reported positive loan growth, led by North Dakota with a 15.2% annualized increase in total loans outstanding.

“Our analysis shows credit unions are growing as the economy improves, making investments in their members and communities,” NCUA Chairman Debbie Matz said. “This mapping tool provides important benchmarks on industry performance at the ground level.”

• SEE the NCUA state-by-state map and more Credit Union Times analysis.

Nationally, ROAA at federally insured credit unions remained steady from third quarter, at 86 basis points. The share of credit unions with positive ROAA rose in 41 states and Puerto Rico, was unchanged in Wyoming, Guam, and the Virgin Islands, and declined in eight states and the District of Columbia.

 Total loans outstanding grew at an annual rate of 4.6% in the fourth quarter. North Dakota and Oklahoma posted the fastest loan growth rates. Loans declined in six states and territories, led by Nevada's 13.2% decline.

 Asset growth in 2012 outpaced the previous year, with an annualized rate of 6.2% in the fourth quarter. Iowa and North Dakota had the fastest asset growth in the fourth quarter, and only Nevada posted an asset decline (-6.5%) during that period.

The full report is available on the NCUA's website