(a) A state bank acting through an operating subsidiary or a bank holding company acting, directly or through a subsidiary, may, with the prior approval of the Bank Commissioner, engage in real estate investment and development, including without limitation:
(1) Development of subdivisions or additions;
(2) Construction of improvements;
(3) Acquisition of stock or equity interests in any entity created primarily for the purpose of owning and developing real estate, including those activities authorized for community development corporations pursuant to § 23-47-605; and
(4) Any other activities necessary and proper in connection with real estate investment and development.
(b) A state bank's investment in real estate and in real estate subsidiaries, excluding its bank premises, shall not exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of its capital base.
(c) A state bank acting through an operating subsidiary or a bank holding company acting directly or through a subsidiary may carry out any one (1) or more of the purposes, activities, and objectives set forth in this section as principal, factor, agent, or otherwise, either alone, through, or in conjunction with any person, including the performance and carrying out of the purposes and objects herein enumerated as a member of a partnership or joint venture.
(d) Loans to an operating subsidiary engaged in real estate investment and development that are fully secured by securities that the state bank could invest in without limitation pursuant to § 23-47-401 shall not be subject to the limitations of this section.