GREAT SOUTHERN BANCORP INC
10-K, 1996-09-30
SAVINGS INSTITUTIONS, NOT FEDERALLY CHARTERED
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<PAGE>   1
                               UNITED STATES
                    SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                          Washington, D.C. 20549
                               FORM 10-K
 (Mark One)
   /X/ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
       SECURITIES ACT OF 1934
       For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996, or

   / / TRANSACTION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
       SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
       For the transition period from ________ to ________

                       ------------------------------
                       Commission File Number 0-18082
                       ------------------------------

                      Great Southern Bancorp, Inc.
         (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

                                 Delaware
          (State of jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

                                43-1524856
                  (IRS Employer Identification Number)

                            1451 E. Battlefield
                           Springfield, Missouri
                 (Address of principal executive offices)

                                   65804
                                 (Zip Code)

                              (417) 887-4400
             (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:  None

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  
      Common Stock, Par Value $.01

   Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all 
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or 
for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file 
such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements 
for the past 90 days.              Yes   /X/   No   / /
   Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers 
pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and 
will not be contained, to the best of the Registrant's knowledge, 
in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by 
reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this 
Form 10-K.                         / /
   The aggregate market value of the voting stock of the Registrant 
held by non-affiliates of the Registrant on September 17, 1996, 
computed by reference to the closing price of such shares, was 
$131,354,220.  At September 17, 1996, 4,378,474 shares of Common 
Stock, par value $.01 per share, were outstanding. 

<PAGE>   2

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
   Portions of the Registrant's Annual Report to Security Holders 
for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996 (the "Annual  Report"), 
which was electronically filed on September 18, 1996, are 
incorporated by reference into Parts I, II and IV.  With the 
exception of the information explicitly incorporated by reference 
in this Form 10-K, the 1996 Annual Report to Security Holders is 
not to be deemed filed as part of this Form 10-K.
   Portions of the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement prepared 
in connection with the 1996 annual meeting of stockholders (the 
"Definitive Proxy Statement"), which was electronically filed on 
September 18, 1996, are incorporated by reference into Part III.




TABLE OF CONTENTS
  Item                                                      Page
Part I
   1. Business  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   3
   2. Properties  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  66
   3. Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  68
   4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders .  68
Part II
   5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related
        Stockholder Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  70
   6. Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  71
   7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
        Condition and Results of Operations . . . . . . . .  73
   8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . .  73
   9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
        Accounting and Financial Disclosures  . . . . . . .  73
Part III
  10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant. .  73
  11. Executive Compensation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  73
  12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
         and Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74
  13. Certain Relationship and Related Transactions . . . .  74
Part IV
  14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports
        on Form 8-K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74
  Signatures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
  Index to Exhibits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  78















<PAGE>   3

PART I
ITEM 1.  BUSINESS.

Great Southern Bancorp, Inc.

Great Southern Bancorp, Inc. (the "Holding Company", "Bancorp" or 
"Company") was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware 
in July 1989, by authorization of the Board of Directors of Great 
Southern Bank FSB ("Great Southern" or the "Bank"), for the purpose 
of becoming a holding company that would own all of the outstanding 
stock of Great Southern issued upon the conversion (the 
"Conversion") of Great Southern from a mutual savings and loan to a 
stock savings and loan.  After receiving the approval of the Office 
of Thrift Supervision, Department of Treasury (the "OTS"), the 
Holding Company acquired all of the common stock of Great Southern 
issued in connection with the completion of the Conversion in 
December 1989.

As a Delaware corporation, the Holding Company is authorized to 
engage in any activity that is permitted by the Delaware General 
Corporation Law and is not prohibited by law or regulatory policy.  
The Holding Company currently conducts its business as a savings 
and loan holding company.  Through the holding company structure, 
it is possible to expand the size and scope of the financial 
services offered by the Holding Company beyond those offered by the 
Bank prior to the Conversion.  The holding company structure 
provides the Holding Company with greater flexibility than the Bank 
would have to diversify its business activities, through existing 
or newly formed subsidiaries, or through acquisitions or mergers of 
both mutual and stock thrift institutions as well as other 
companies.  The assets of the Holding Company consist of the stock 
of Great Southern, the stock of other subsidiaries, interest in 
housing related partnerships, loans receivable and cash.  Through 
subsidiaries, the Holding Company offers insurance, appraisal, 
travel, discount brokerage and related services, which are 
discussed further below.  The activities of the Holding Company 
have been funded by retained proceeds of the Conversion and through 
dividends from Great Southern and borrowings from third parties.  
See "Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related 
Stockholder Matters" and "Regulation - Holding Company Regulation" 
and "Federal and State Taxation."  Activities of the Holding 
Company may also be funded through sales of additional securities 
or through income generated by other activities of the Holding 
Company.  At this time, there are no plans regarding such 
activities.

The executive offices of the Holding Company are located at 1451 
East Battlefield, Springfield, Missouri 65804, and its telephone 
number at that address is (417) 887-4400.









<PAGE>   4

Great Southern Bank

Great Southern was incorporated as a Missouri-chartered mutual 
savings and loan association in 1923 and in 1989 was converted to a 
Missouri-chartered stock savings and loan association.  In 1994, 
Great Southern changed to a new charter as a federal savings bank.  
Headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, Great Southern offers a 
broad range of banking services through its 25 branches located in 
southwestern and central Missouri.  At June 30, 1996, the Bank had 
total assets of $663 million, deposits of $398 million and 
stockholders' equity of $57 million, or 8.6% of total assets.  Its 
deposits are insured by the Savings Association Insurance Fund 
("SAIF") to the maximum levels permitted by the Federal Deposit 
Insurance Corporation ("FDIC").

Great Southern is principally engaged in the business of attracting 
deposits from the general public and using such deposits, together 
with borrowings and other funds, to originate residential and 
commercial real estate loans and commercial business and consumer 
loans.  Great Southern originates a variety of conventional, 
residential real estate mortgage loans, principally in compliance 
with Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC") and Federal 
National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") standards for resale in the 
secondary market.  Great Southern promptly sells most of the fixed-
rate residential mortgage loans that it originates, with servicing 
retained prior to fiscal 1996 and servicing primarily released 
beginning in fiscal 1996, and retains for its portfolio 
substantially all of the adjustable-rate mortgage loans.  Great 
Southern also originates commercial real estate and construction 
loans, primarily on properties located in its southwestern and 
central Missouri market area, or, in the case of loans secured by 
properties outside of its market area, primarily to borrowers 
residing or doing business in southwestern and central Missouri.  
Great Southern originates commercial business loans and is also an 
issuer of letters of credit.  See "-- Commercial Business Lending," 
"- Classified Assets," and "- Loan Delinquencies and Defaults" 
below and Note 13 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in 
the Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are incorporated 
herein by reference.  Letters of credit are contingent obligations 
and are not included in the Bank's loan and mortgage-backed 
securities portfolio.

In recent years, Great Southern has followed a strategy of 
emphasizing quality loan origination through residential, 
commercial and consumer lending activities in its local market 
area.  The goal of this strategy has been to maintain its position 
as one of the leading providers of financial services in its market 
area, while simultaneously diversifying assets and reducing 
interest rate risk by originating and holding adjustable-rate loans 
in its portfolio and selling fixed-rate loans in the secondary 
market.  The Bank continues to place primary emphasis on 
residential mortgage lending.

The main office of the Bank is located at 1451 East Battlefield, 
Springfield, Missouri 65804 and its telephone number at that 
address is (417) 887-4400.


<PAGE>  5

Market Area

Great Southern's primary market area encompasses 15 counties in 
southwestern and central Missouri.  Deposit and lending activities 
are supported by the Bank's branches and ATMs throughout the 
region, serving such diversified markets as Springfield, Joplin, 
the resort areas of Branson Lakes and Lake of the Ozarks, and 
various smaller communities in the Bank's market area.  The 
management of the Bank believes that its share of the savings and 
lending markets in its market area is less than 10% and their 
affiliates an even smaller percent with the exception of the travel 
agency, which may have a larger percent.

Great Southern's largest concentration of loans and deposits is in 
the Greater Springfield area.  With a population of approximately 
295,000, the Greater Springfield area is the third largest 
metropolitan area in Missouri.  Employment in this area is 
diversified, including small and medium-sized manufacturing 
concerns, service industries, especially in the resort and leisure 
activities sectors, agriculture, the federal government, and a 
major state university.  Springfield is also a regional health care 
center.  The unemployment rate in this area is, and has 
consistently been, below the national average.

The next largest concentration of loans is in the Branson Lakes 
area which is located approximately 35 miles south of Springfield 
and is one of the fastest growing areas in Missouri.  The region is 
a vacation and entertainment center attracting an estimated 5.8 
million tourists annually to its theme parks, resorts, country 
music shows and other recreational facilities.  As a result of the 
rapid growth of the Branson Lakes area, property values have 
increased at unusually high rates in recent years.  This has also 
provided for increased loan demand and a more volatile lending 
market than has previously been present in the Branson Lakes area.  
Property values have started experiencing downward pressure, partly 
as a result of this rapid increase.

During the past few years, a significant portion of the Bank's loan 
originations has been secured by properties in the Branson Lakes 
area.  Approximately $128 million, or 21.8%, of the total loan 
portfolio at June 30, 1996 was secured by properties in this area.  
Of this amount, $58 million are loans secured by commercial real 
estate, commercial construction and other residential properties 
and $69 million are loans secured by one- to four-family 
residential and one- to four-family construction properties.  In 
addition, the Bank`s commercial business and consumer loan 
portfolio includes approximately $1.5 million of loans to customers 
in the Branson Lakes area.  See "- Commercial Real Estate and 
Construction Lending", "- Commercial Business Lending", "- 
Classified Assets" and "- Loan Delinquencies and Defaults".








<PAGE>   6
Lending Activities-General

The principal lending activity of Great Southern is the origination 
of fixed and adjustable-rate conventional residential real estate 
loans to enable borrowers to purchase or refinance owner-occupied 
homes.  In addition, the Bank makes commercial real estate loans, 
commercial business loans (i.e., commercial loans not secured by 
real estate), consumer loans and residential and commercial 
construction loans.  Although Great Southern is permitted under 
applicable regulations to originate or purchase loans and loan 
participations secured by real estate located in any part of the 
United States, the Bank has concentrated its lending efforts in 
Missouri, with the largest concentration of its lending activity 
being in southwestern and central Missouri.

Great Southern has a policy of obtaining collateral for 
substantially all real estate loans and other loans, with the 
exception of certain loans.  The percentage of collateral value 
Great Southern will loan on real estate and other property varies 
based on factors including, but not limited to, the type of 
property and its location and the borrower's credit history.  As a 
general rule, Great Southern will loan up to 80% of the appraised 
value on one- to four-family residential property and will loan up 
to an additional 15% with private mortgage insurance for the loan 
amount above the 80% level.  For commercial real estate and other 
residential real property loans, Great Southern generally loans up 
to a maximum of 75% of the appraised value.  The origination of 
loans secured by other property are considered and determined on an 
individual basis by management with the assistance of any industry 
guides and other information which may be available.

Historically, Great Southern primarily made long-term, fixed-rate 
real estate loans that it retained in its loan portfolio.  
Substantially all of the fixed-rate loans in Great Southern's 
portfolio were originated by Great Southern prior to 1980.  Great 
Southern has since the early 1980's increased its efforts to 
originate short-term and adjustable-rate loans.  Substantially all 
of the adjustable-rate mortgage loans originated by Great Southern 
are held for its own portfolio.  As a result, adjustable-rate real 
estate loans as a percentage of Great Southern's total loan 
portfolio increased from 71% at June 30, 1992, to 81% at June 30, 
1996.  See the discussion on interest rate sensitivity in 
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
Results of Operations in the Annual Report to Stockholders, which 
portions are incorporated herein by reference.














<PAGE>   7

During the fiscal years 1993 and 1994, Great Southern experienced 
increased levels of adjustable-rate residential loans refinancing 
into fixed-rate residential loans, as well as stronger competition 
in the residential lending market.  As a result of the shift in 
loan demand to fixed-rate residential loans, which the Bank does 
not retain in its portfolio, Great Southern increased its 
originations of commercial real estate loans to help maintain the 
desired size of the loan portfolio as well as the overall Company 
size and profit levels.  During the last half of fiscal 1994 and 
during fiscal 1995, Great Southern experienced an increase in 
levels of adjustable-rate residential lending and a decrease in 
levels of fixed-rate residential lending as a result of increasing 
interest rates.  Then in fiscal 1996, Great Southern experienced an 
increase in levels of fixed-rate residential lending and a decrease 
in levels of adjustable-rate residential lending as a result of 
leveling or slightly declining interest rates.  Great Southern will 
continue to place strong emphasis on the origination of one- to 
four-family residential loans subject to market conditions.

Loan applications are approved at various levels of authority, 
depending on the type, amount and loan-to-value ratio of the loan.  
Loan commitments of more than $100,000 ($203,450 in the case of 
fixed-rate one-to four-family residential loans for resale) must be 
approved by Great Southern's loan committee, comprised of the 
President of the Bank, as chairman of the committee, and other 
senior officers of the Bank involved in lending activities.
































<PAGE>   8

Loan Portfolio Composition

The following table sets forth information concerning the 
composition of the Bank's loan portfolio in dollar amounts and in 
percentages (before deductions for loans in process, deferred fees 
and discounts and allowance for loan losses) as of the dates 
indicated.  The table is based on information prepared in 
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and is 
qualified by reference to financial statements and the notes 
thereto.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        June 30,
                                 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       1996             1995              1994             1993             1992
                                 ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
                                  Amount    %      Amount     %      Amount    %      Amount    %      Amount    %
                                 -------- ------  -------- ------  -------- ------  -------- ------  -------- ------
                                                              (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                              <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>
Real Estate Loans:
  Residential
    One- to four- family         $249,348  42.5%  $243,771  43.5%  $203,157  40.9%  $205,980  43.5%  $199,563  54.7%
    Other Residential              81,191  13.8     77,744  13.9     65,906  13.2     45,413   9.6     34,332   9.4
  Commercial                      172,478  29.4    133,244  23.8    105,977  21.3     93,318  19.7     70,303  19.3
  Residential Construction:
    One- to four-family            13,455   2.3     13,319   2.4     18,338   3.7     17,433   3.7     10,223   2.8
    Other residential              13,533   2.3     23,804   4.2     37,588   7.6     38,675   8.2     10,552   2.9
  Commercial construction          16,518   2.8     27,273   4.9     30,894   6.2     41,798   8.8     11,194   3.1
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
    Total real estate loans       546,523  93.1    519,155  92.7    461,860  92.9    442,617  93.5    336,167  92.2
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
Other Loans:
  Consumer loans:
    Guaranteed student loans       11,256   1.9     11,822   2.1      9,445   1.9      6,692   1.4      4,482   1.2
    Automobile                      6,062   1.1      5,651   1.0      4,814   1.0      2,777   0.6      2,662   0.7
    Home equity and improvement     3,688   0.6      3,518   0.6      2,618   0.5      3,192   0.7      3,096   0.9
    Other                           5,921   1.0      5,272   1.0      4,513   0.9      3,681   0.8      3,479   1.0
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
      Total Consumer loans         26,927   4.6     26,263   4.7     21,390   4.3     16,342   3.5     13,719   3.8
  Commercial business loans        13,737   2.3     14,515   2.6     13,907   2.8     14,162   3.0     14,613   4.0
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
        Total other loans          40,664   6.9     40,778   7.3     35,297   7.1     30,504   6.5     28,332   7.8
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
           Total loans            587,187 100.0%   559,933 100.0%   497,157 100.0%   473,121 100.0%   364,499 100.0%
                                          =====            =====            =====            =====
Less:
  Loans in process                 22,383           22,316           35,739           38,879            3,722
  Deferred fees and discounts       3,689            3,761            4,032            4,125            2,732
  Allowance for loan losses        14,356           14,601           13,636           10,590            6,029
                                  -------          -------          -------          -------          -------
Total loans receivable, net      $546,759         $519,255         $443,750         $419,527         $352,016
                                  =======          =======          =======          =======          =======
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   9

The following table shows the fixed- and adjustable-rate composition 
of the Bank's loan portfolio at the dates indicated.  The table is 
based on information prepared in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        June 30,
                                 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       1996             1995              1994             1993             1992
                                 ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
                                  Amount    %      Amount     %      Amount    %      Amount    %      Amount    %
                                 -------- ------  -------- ------  -------- ------  -------- ------  -------- ------
                                                              (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                              <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>
Fixed-Rate Loans:
  Real Estate Loans
    Residential
      One- to four- family       $ 13,212   2.2%  $ 14,260   2.5%  $ 15,488   3.1%  $ 25,231   5.3%  $ 28,742   7.9%
      Other Residential            34,413   5.9     32,515   5.8     30,250   6.1     21,233   4.5     15,734   4.3
    Commercial                     25,374   4.3     12,774   2.3     14,438   2.9     25,314   5.4     32,680   9.0
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
      Total real estate loans      72,999  12.4     59,549  10.6     60,176  12.1     71,778  15.2     77,156  21.2
    Consumer loans                 12,844   2.2     11,706   2.1      9,282   1.8      6,260   1.3      5,944   1.6
    Commercial business loans         415   0.1        994   0.2        864   0.2        522   0.1      1,620   0.4
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
      Total fixed-rate loans       86,258  14.7     72,249  12.9     70,322  14.1     78,560  16.6     84,720  23.2
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
Adjustable-Rate Loans:
  Real Estate Loans
    Residential
      One- to four- family        236,136  40.2    229,510  41.0    187,670  37.7    180,749  38.2   $170,821  46.9
      Other Residential            46,778   8.0     45,228   8.1     37,675   7.6     24,180   5.1     18,598   5.1
    Commercial                    147,104  25.0    120,470  21.5     91,689  18.4     68,004  14.4     37,623  10.3
    Residential construction:
      One- to four-family          13,455   2.3     13,319   2.4     18,338   3.7     17,433   3.7     10,223   2.8
      Other residential            13,533   2.3     23,804   4.2     35,568   7.2     38,675   8.2     10,552   2.9
    Commercial construction        16,518   2.8     27,273   4.9     30,744   6.2     41,798   8.8     11,194   3.1
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
      Total real estate loans     473,524  80.6    459,604  82.1    401,684  80.8    370,839  78.4    259,011  71.1
    Consumer loans                 14,083   2.4     14,559   2.6     12,108   2.5     10,082   2.1      7,775   2.1
    Commercial business loans      13,322   2.3     13,521   2.4     13,043   2.6     13,640   2.9     12,993   3.6
                                  ------  -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
      Total adjustable-rate loans 500,929  85.3    487,684  87.1    426,835  85.9    394,561  83.4    279,779  76.8
                                  ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----    ------- -----
        Total loans               587,187 100.0%   559,933 100.0%   497,157 100.0%   473,121 100.0%   364,499 100.0%
                                          =====            =====            =====            =====            =====
Less:
    Loans in process               22,383           22,316           35,739           38,879            3,722
    Deferred fees and discounts     3,689            3,761            4,032            4,125            2,732
    Allowance for loan losses      14,356           14,601           13,636           10,590            6,029
                                  -------          -------          -------          -------          -------
  Total loans receivable, net    $546,759         $519,255         $443,750         $419,527         $352,016
                                  =======          =======          =======          =======          =======

</TABLE>


<PAGE>  10

The following schedule illustrates the contractual maturities of the 
Bank's loan portfolio at June 30, 1996.  Loans which have adjustable 
interest rates are shown as maturing in the period during which the 
loan is contractually due.  This schedule does not reflect the effects 
of possible prepayments or enforcement of due-on-sale clauses.  The 
table is based on information prepared in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          Other Residential
                  One- to Four-Family       and Other            Commercial and
                    Residential Real        Residential            Commercial        One- to Four-Family
                    Estate Loans            Construction           Construction        Construction
 Due During                  Weighted              Weighted              Weighted               Weighted
 Years Ended                  Average               Average               Average                Average
 June 30,            Amount    Rate         Amount    Rate         Amount   Rate         Amount   Rate
                                                    (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>       <C>          <C>      <C>
1997(1)            $  7,682    9.31%      $ 21,534    8.97%      $ 48,130   9.47%       $13,455   9.33%
1998                    545    8.80          6,648    8.99         17,526   9.66             --   0.00
1999                  1,204    9.03          7,766    8.61         22,771   9.49             --   0.00
2000 and 2001         1,780    8.71         16,591    8.70         54,029   9.43             --   0.00
2002 to 2006         10,974    8.34          4,059    8.88         21,014   9.71             --   0.00
2007 to 2011         30,529    7.98         22,801    9.37         13,864   9.45             --   0.00
2012 to 2022         77,281    8.03         15,328    8.56         11,647   8.98             --   0.00
2023 and Following  119,353    7.51             --      --             15   8.62             --   0.00
                    -------                -------                -------                ------
                   $249,348               $ 94,724               $188,996               $13,455
                    =======                =======                =======                ======


                                                Commercial
                          Consumer               Business                 Total (2)
 Due During                   Weighted                Weighted                 Weighted
 Years Ended                   Average                 Average                  Average
 June 30,             Amount    Rate        Amount      Rate           Amount    Rate
                                         (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                 <C>                   <C>          <C>           <C>        <C>
1997 (1)            $  9,310    8.29%     $  8,733      9.67%        $108,844   10.31%
1998                   4,483    9.19         1,927      9.91           31,126    9.85
1999                   3,573    9.29           977      8.98           36,291    9.99
2000 and 2001          6,030    9.76           898      9.88           79,328    9.92
2002 to 2006           3,531    9.44         1,020      9.95           40,598    9.40
2007 to 2011              --    0.00           182     10.50           67,376    8.83
2012 to 2022              --    0.00            --      0.00          104,256    8.21
2023 and Following        --    0.00            --      0.00          119,368    7.05
                      ------                ------                    -------
                     $26,927               $13,737                   $587,187
                      ======                ======                    =======
<FN>
_____________________________
  (1) Includes demand loans, loans having no stated maturity and 
overdraft loans.
  (2) Of the $478 million of loans due after June 30, 1997, $70 
million, or 15%, have fixed rates of interest and $408 million, or 
85%, have adjustable rates of interest.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>  11
Lending Activities-Environmental Issues

Loans secured with real property, whether commercial, residential 
or other, may have a material, negative effect on the financial 
position and results of operation of the lender if the collateral 
is environmentally contaminated.  The effect can be a result of, 
but is not necessarily limited to, liability for the cost of 
cleaning up the contamination imposed on the lender by certain 
federal and state laws, a reduction in the borrower's ability to 
pay because of the liability imposed upon it for any clean up 
costs, a reduction in the value of the collateral because of the 
presence of contamination or a subordination of security interests 
in the collateral to a super priority lien securing the clean up 
costs by certain state laws.

Management of the Bank is aware of the risk that the Bank may be 
negatively affected by environmentally contaminated collateral and 
attempts to control such risk through commercially reasonable 
methods, consistent with guidelines arising from applicable 
government or regulatory rules and regulations, and to a more 
limited extent publications of the lending industry.  Management 
currently is unaware (without, in many circumstances specific 
inquiry or investigation of existing collateral, some of which was 
accepted as collateral before risk controlling measures were 
implemented) of any environmental contamination of real property 
securing loans in the Bank's portfolio that would subject the Bank 
to any material risk.  No assurance can be made, however, that the 
Bank will not be adversely affected by environmental contamination.

Lending Activities - Residential Real Estate Lending

At June 30, 1996 and 1995, loans secured by residential real estate 
totaled $331 million and $322 million, respectively, and 
represented approximately 56% and 57%, respectively, of the Bank's 
total loan portfolio. In fiscal 1996 and 1995, Great Southern 
originated $55 million and $77 million, respectively, of 
adjustable-rate mortgages.  Fixed-rate mortgages are originated at 
interest rates and on terms agreed to by investors in the secondary 
market (generally the FHLMC or Fleet Mortgage Corp.) and promptly 
sold, primarily with servicing released (primarily with servicing 
retained prior to fiscal 1996) and without recourse, in order to 
generate fee income and reduce the Bank's exposure to changes in 
interest rates.  In fiscal year 1996 and 1995, Great Southern 
originated $34.9 million and $8.9 million, respectively, of fixed-
rate loans and sold $36.6 million and $8.7 million, respectively, 
into the secondary market.

The Bank currently is originating adjustable-rate residential 
mortgage loans primarily with one-year adjustment periods.  Rate 
adjustments are based upon changes in prevailing rates for one-year 
U.S. Treasury securities, and are generally limited to 2% maximum 
annual adjustments as well as a maximum aggregate adjustment over 
the life of the loan.  Accordingly, the interest rates on these 
loans typically may not be as rate sensitive as is the Bank's cost 
of funds.  Generally, the Bank's adjustable-rate mortgage loans are 
not convertible into fixed-rate loans, do not permit negative 
amortization of principal and carry no prepayment penalty.


<PAGE>  12

The Bank's portfolio of adjustable-rate mortgage loans also 
includes a number of loans with different adjustment periods, 
without limitations on periodic rate increases and rate increases 
over the life of the loans or which are tied to other short-term 
market indices.  These loans were originated prior to the 
standardization of adjustable-rate loan product criteria by large 
secondary market purchasers.  Due to the unseasoned nature of 
adjustable-rate mortgage loans in the industry (i.e., such loans 
have not been subject to an interest rate environment which causes 
them to adjust to the maximum), such loans entail unquantifiable 
risks resulting from potential increased payment obligations on the 
borrower as a result of upward repricing.  Further, the adjustable-
rate mortgages offered by Great Southern, as well as by many other 
financial institutions, sometimes provide for initial rates of 
interest below the rates which would prevail were the index used 
for pricing applied initially.  Compared to fixed-rate mortgage 
loans, these loans are subject to increased risk of delinquency or 
default as the higher, fully-indexed rate of interest subsequently 
comes into effect in replacement of the lower initial rate.  The 
Bank has not experienced an increase in delinquencies in 
adjustable-rate mortgage loans due to a relatively low interest 
rate environment in recent years.

In underwriting one- to four-family residential real estate loans, 
Great Southern evaluates both the borrower's ability to make 
monthly payments and the value of the property securing  the loan.  
It is Great Southern's policy that all loans in excess of 80% of 
the appraised value of the property be insured by a private 
mortgage insurance company approved by Great Southern for the 
amount of the loan in excess of 80% of the appraised value.  In 
addition, Great Southern requires borrowers to obtain title and 
fire and casualty insurance in an amount not less than the amount 
of the loan.  Real estate loans originated by the Bank generally 
contain a "due on sale" clause allowing the Bank to declare the 
unpaid principal balance due and payable upon the sale of the 
property securing the loan.  In the case of fixed-rate loans, the 
Bank generally enforces these due on sale clauses to the extent 
permitted by law.

Lending Activities-Commercial Real Estate and Construction Lending

Commercial real estate lending has traditionally been a part of 
Great Southern's business activities.  Beginning in fiscal 1986, 
Great Southern expanded its commercial real estate lending in order 
to increase the yield on, and the proportion of interest rate 
sensitive loans in, its portfolio.  Starting early in fiscal 1988, 
Great Southern reduced its originations of commercial real estate 
loans due to the lower spreads available and the Bank's increased 
levels of problem loans in this area.  In addition, the Financial 
Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989 
("FIRREA") further limited the Bank's commercial real estate 
lending, due to limits imposed on the amounts and types of loans 
the Bank would be permitted to originate.  See "Regulation".  
Starting in fiscal 1992, Great Southern increased its originations 
of commercial real estate and commercial business loans.



<PAGE>  13

  Great Southern expects to continue to maintain the current 
percentage of commercial real estate and commercial business loans 
in its total loan portfolio by originating loans secured by 
commercial real estate and other commercial business assets, 
subject to commercial real estate and other market conditions and 
to applicable regulatory restrictions.  See "Regulation" and "- 
Qualified Thrift Lender Test" below.

At June 30, 1996 and 1995, loans secured by commercial real estate 
totaled $172 million and $133 million, respectively, or 
approximately 29.4% and 23.8%, respectively, of the Bank's total 
loan portfolio.  At June 30, 1996 and 1995, construction loans 
secured by projects under construction and the land on which the 
projects are located aggregated $43.5 million and $64.4 million, 
respectively, or 7.4% and 11.5%, respectively, of the Bank's total 
loan portfolio.  Substantially all of the Bank's commercial real 
estate loans have been originated with adjustable rates of 
interest, a majority of which are tied to the Bank's prime rate.  
At the date of origination, the amounts of the loan commitments 
with respect to substantially all of these loans did not exceed 75% 
of the appraised value of the properties securing the loans.

The Bank's construction loans generally have terms of one year or 
less.  The construction loan agreements for one- to four-family and 
other residential projects generally provide that principal 
payments are required as individual condominium units or single 
family houses are built and sold to a third party in order that the 
remaining loan balance as a proportion to the value of the 
remaining security does not increase.  Loan proceeds are disbursed 
in increments as construction progresses.  Generally, the amount of 
each disbursement is based on the construction cost estimate of an 
independent architect, engineer or qualified fee inspector who 
inspects the project in connection with each disbursement request.  
Normally, Great Southern's construction loans are made either as 
the initial stage of a combination loan (i.e., with a commitment  
from the Bank to provide permanent financing upon completion of the 
project) or with a takeout obligation (i.e., with a commitment to 
provide permanent financing) by a third party.

The Bank's commercial real estate and construction loans generally 
involve larger principal balances than do its residential loans.  
At June 30, 1996, 58 of the Bank's commercial real estate and 
construction loans had net principal balances in excess of $1.0 
million, with the largest being $6.2 million.  The aggregate net 
principal balance of all such loans having net principal balances 
in excess of $1.0 million was $105 million at that date.  Current 
law subjects savings associations to the same loans-to-one borrower 
restrictions that are applicable to national banks with limited 
provisions for exceptions.  In general, the national bank standard 
restricts loans to a single borrower to no more than 15% of a 
bank's unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus, plus an 
additional 10% if the loan is collateralized by certain readily 
marketable collateral.  (Real estate is not included in the 
definition of "readily marketable collateral.")  As computed on the 
basis of the Bank's unimpaired capital and surplus at June 30, 
1996, this limit was approximately $10.5 million.  See "Regulation"  
At June 30, 1996 the Bank was in compliance with the loans to one 
borrower limit.
<PAGE>  14

The table below sets forth, by type of security property, the 
number and amount of Great Southern's commercial real estate and 
construction loans at June 30, 1996.  The amounts shown do not 
reflect allowances for losses.  See "- Classified Assets" and "- 
Loan Delinquencies and Defaults" for a discussion of the Bank's 
largest non-performing assets and items of concern.  The table is 
based on information prepared in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                               Number     Original    Outstanding                  Amount
                                                 of         Loan       Principal   Undisbursed      Non-
                                               Loans     Commitment     Balance       Amount     Performing
                                               -----     ----------   -----------  ------------  ----------
                                                                       (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                             <C>        <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>
Commercial Real Estate Loans
  Hotels/Motels                                  44        $ 50,894      $ 43,136     $   131      $   --
  Medical and long term care                     24          22,026        21,564           4          --
  Golf courses and recreational                  30          25,962        22,819       3,506          --
  Shopping centers                               48          19,519        17,772          --          --
  Commercial land development                   104          44,802        23,334         238          --
  Office buildings                               48          23,292        18,694         231          --
  Industrial real estate                         33           8,919         7,300          97          --
  Restaurants                                    35          14,431        12,832         144       1,407
  Other                                          39           6,669         5,027         747          --
                                                ---         -------       -------       -----       -----
    Total commercial real estate loans          405         216,514       172,478       5,098       1,407
                                                ---         -------       -------       -----       -----
Construction Loans
  One- to four-family residential               130          13,455         6,682       6,064         121
  Other residential                               8          13,533         9,789       3,744          --
  Commercial real estate:
    Hotels/Motels                                 7           7,164         3,953       3,210          --
    Commercial land development                  15           3,518         3,036         482         851
    Restaurants                                   2           2,650         1,422       1,228          --
    Office buildings                              1           1,412            --       1,412          --
    Medical and long term care                    1             725             8         717          --
    Other                                        10           1,759         1,331         428          --
                                                ---         -------       -------      ------       -----
      Total construction loans                  174          44,216        26,221      17,285         972
                                                ---         -------       -------      ------       -----
        Total                                   579        $260,730      $198,699     $22,383      $2,379
                                                ===         =======       =======      ======       =====
</TABLE>












<PAGE>  15

Commercial real estate and construction lending generally affords 
the Bank an opportunity to receive interest at rates higher than 
those obtainable from residential lending and to receive higher 
origination and other loan fees.  In addition, commercial real 
estate and construction loans are generally made with adjustable 
rates of interest or, if made on a fixed-rate basis, for relatively 
short terms.  Nevertheless, commercial real estate lending entails 
significant additional risks as compared with residential mortgage 
lending.  Commercial real estate loans typically involve large loan 
balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers and 
generally involve lower loan-to-value ratios.  In addition, the 
payment experience on loans secured by commercial properties is 
typically dependent on the successful operation of the related real 
estate project and thus may be subject, to a greater extent, to 
adverse conditions in the real estate market or in the economy 
generally.

Construction loans also involve additional risks attributable to 
the fact that loan funds are advanced upon the security of the 
project under construction, which is of uncertain value prior to 
the completion of construction.  Moreover, because of the 
uncertainties inherent in estimating construction costs, delays 
arising from labor problems, material shortages, and other 
unpredictable contingencies, it is relatively difficult to evaluate 
accurately the total loan funds required to complete a project, and 
the related loan-to-value ratios.  See also the discussion under 
the headings "- Classified Assets" and "- Loan Delinquencies and 
Defaults" below.

Lending Activities - Commercial Business Lending

Great Southern is authorized to make secured or unsecured loans for 
commercial, corporate, business and agricultural purposes and to 
engage in commercial leasing activities up to a maximum of 10% of 
the institution's assets.  At June 30, 1996 and 1995, respectively, 
Great Southern had $13.7 million and $14.5 million in commercial 
business loans outstanding, or 2.3% and 2.6%, respectively, of the 
Bank's total loan portfolio.  The largest amount of commercial 
business loans outstanding to any one borrower or group of 
affiliated borrowers at June 30, 1996, had a principal balance of 
$1.7 million.  Great Southern's commercial business lending 
activities encompass loans with a variety of purposes and security, 
including loans to finance accounts receivable, inventory and 
equipment.














<PAGE>  16

The following table sets forth information regarding the number and 
amount of the Bank's commercial business loans as of June 30, 1996.  
The amounts shown do not reflect allowances for losses.  See "- 
Classified Assets" and "- Loan Delinquencies and Defaults" for a 
discussion of the Bank's largest non-performing assets and related 
items.  The table is based on information prepared in accordance 
with generally accepted accounting principles.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          Outstanding  Amount
                                  Number   Principal    Non-
                                 of Loans   Balance   Performing
                                 -------- ----------- ----------
                                         (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                 <C>     <C>          <C>
Secured Loans:
  Accounts receivable,
    inventory and equipment          78     $ 7,942      $ 144
  Stocks and bonds                   25       2,636         --
  Deposit accounts and
    promissory notes                 26       1,630         --
  Other                               8         642        600
                                    ---      ------        ---
    Total secured loans             137      12,850        744
Unsecured Loans                      23         887         --
                                    ---      ------        ---
  Total Commercial Business Loans   160     $13,737       $744
                                    ===      ======        ===
</TABLE>



Unlike residential mortgage loans, which generally are made on the 
basis of the borrower's ability to make repayment from his or her 
employment and other income and which are secured by real property 
whose value tends to be more easily ascertainable, commercial 
business loans are of higher risk and typically are made on the 
basis of the borrower's ability to make repayment from the cash 
flow of the borrower's business.  Commercial business loans are 
generally secured by business assets, such as accounts receivable, 
equipment and inventory.  As a result, the availability of funds 
for the repayment of commercial business loans may be substantially 
dependent on the success of the business itself.  Further, the 
collateral securing the loans may depreciate over time, may be 
difficult to appraise and may fluctuate in value based on the 
success of the business.  At June 30, 1996, approximately $876,000 
in principal balance of commercial business loans, or 0.15%, of 
Great Southern's total loan portfolio was 30 days or more 
delinquent.








<PAGE>  17

The Bank's management recognizes the generally increased risks 
associated with commercial business lending.  Great Southern's 
commercial business lending policy emphasizes complete credit file 
documentation and analysis of the borrower's character, capacity to 
repay the loan, the adequacy of the borrower's capital and 
collateral as well as an evaluation of the industry conditions 
affecting the borrower.  Analysis of the borrower's past, present 
and future cash flows is also an important aspect of Great 
Southern's credit analysis.  The majority of Great Southern's 
commercial business loans have been to borrowers in southwestern 
and central Missouri.  Great Southern intends to continue its 
commercial business lending in this geographic area.

As part of its commercial business lending activities, Great 
Southern issues letters of credit and receives fees averaging 
approximately 1% of the amount of the letter of credit per year.  
At June 30, 1996, Great Southern had 34 letters of credit 
outstanding in the aggregate amount of $8.9 million.  Approximately 
99% of the aggregate amount of these letters of credit were 
secured, including one $8.2 million letter of credit, secured by 
real estate, which was issued to enhance the issuance of housing 
revenue refunding bonds.

Lending Activities - Consumer Lending

Great Southern management views consumer lending as an important 
component of its business strategy.  Specifically, consumer loans 
generally have short terms to maturity, adjustable rates or both, 
thus reducing Great Southern's exposure to changes in interest 
rates, and carry higher rates of interest than do residential 
mortgage loans.  In addition, Great Southern believes that the 
offering of consumer loan products helps to expand and create 
stronger ties to its existing customer base.

Great Southern offers a variety of secured consumer loans, 
including automobile loans, home equity loans and loans secured by 
savings deposits.  In addition, Great Southern also offers home 
improvement loans, guaranteed student loans and unsecured consumer 
loans.  Consumer loans totaled $26.9 million and $26.3 million at 
June 30, 1996 and 1995, respectively, or 4.6% and 4.7%, 
respectively, of the Bank's total loan portfolio.

The underwriting standards employed by the Bank for consumer loans 
include a determination of the applicant's payment history on other 
debts and an assessment of ability to meet existing obligations and 
payments on the proposed loan.  Although creditworthiness of the 
applicant is of primary consideration, the underwriting process 
also includes a comparison of the value of the security, if any, in 
relation to the proposed loan amount.









<PAGE>  18

Student loans are underwritten in compliance with the regulations 
of the US Department of Education for the Federal Family Education 
Loan Programs (FFELP).  The FFELP loans are administered and 
guaranteed by the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education 
as long as the Bank complies with the regulations.  The Bank has 
contracted with the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (the 
"MOHELA") to originate and service these loans and to purchase 
these loans during the grace period immediately prior to the loans 
beginning their repayment period.  This repayment period is 
generally at the time the student graduates or does not maintain 
the required hours of enrollment.

Consumer loans may entail greater risk than do residential mortgage 
loans, particularly in the case of consumer loans which are 
unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciable assets such as 
automobiles.  In such cases, any repossessed collateral for a 
defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate source of 
repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the 
greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation.  The remaining 
deficiency often does not warrant further substantial collection 
efforts against the borrower.  In addition, consumer loan 
collections are dependent on the borrower's continuing financial 
strength, and thus are more likely to be adversely affected by job 
loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy.  Furthermore, the 
application of various federal and state laws, including federal 
and state consumer bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the 
amount which can be recovered on such loans.  Such loans may also 
give rise to claims and defenses by a consumer loan borrower 
against an assignee of such loan such as the Bank, and a borrower 
may be able to assert against such assignee claims and defenses 
which it has against the seller of the underlying collateral.

Applicable laws and regulations permit institutions to make secured 
and unsecured consumer loans (which, together with any commercial 
paper or corporate debt securities held by the Bank as permitted by 
the OTS, may not exceed a maximum of 35% of the institution's 
assets).  Loans in excess of 30% of the assets may be invested only 
in loans which are made by the institution directly to the original 
obligor and with respect to which the institution does not pay any 
finder, referral or other fee, directly or indirectly, to any third 
party.

Originations, Purchases, Sales and Servicing of Loans

The Bank originates loans through internal loan production 
personnel located in the Bank's main bank and branch offices.  
Walk-in customers and referrals from real estate brokers and 
builders are also important sources of loan originations.  The 
table below shows the dollar volume of loan originations for the 
periods indicated.  For the fiscal years ended June 30, 1996, 1995 
and 1994, the table reflects approximately $31.5 million, $7.5 
million, and $27 million of loans refinanced which were previously 
included in the loan portfolio or were loans owned by investors and 
serviced by the Bank.  Due to the high level of adjustable-rate 
loans refinanced into fixed-rate loans and the higher fixed-rate 



<PAGE>  19

loans refinanced into lower fixed-rates, management has included 
the refinanced amounts in the origination table to more accurately 
reflect the amount of originations and sales during all fiscal 
years except June 30, 1992.

During the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996 the Bank originated $189 
million adjustable-rate loans and $52 million fixed-rate loans 
compared to $195 million adjustable-rate loans and $30 million 
fixed-rate loans during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1995.  
Management does not expect the high growth of originations 
experienced during the past four years to continue.  However, as 
long as the lower interest rate environment continues, there is a 
higher level of financing and refinancing expected than would exist 
in a higher rate environment.

Great Southern also purchases whole real estate loans and 
participation interests in real estate loans from the FHLMC as well 
as private investors, such as other thrift institutions, banks and 
life insurance companies.  Great Southern may limit its ability to 
control its credit risk when it purchases participations in such 
loans.  The terms of participation agreements vary; however, 
generally Great Southern may not have direct access to the borrower 
or information about the borrower, and the institution 
administering the loan may have some discretion in the 
administration of performing loans and the collection of non-
performing loans.

In fiscal 1996, 1995 and 1994, there were no loan purchases by the 
Bank.  In fiscal 1993, the Bank purchased 2 loans from another 
financial institution, totaling $2.4 million in total principal 
balance, secured by commercial real estate.  In fiscal 1992, the 
Bank purchased 26 loans from the Resolution Trust Corporation, 
totaling $16.9 million in total principal balance, secured mainly 
by other residential real estate and commercial real estate.  At 
June 30, 1996 and 1995, approximately $12.5 million, or 2.1% and 
$14.8 million, or 2.6%, respectively, of the Bank's total loan 
portfolio consisted of purchased loans.

Great Southern also sells whole real estate loans and participation 
interests in real estate loans to the FHLMC as well as private 
investors, such as other thrifts, banks and life insurance 
companies.  These loans and loan participations are generally sold 
without recourse and for cash in amounts equal to the unpaid 
principal amount of the loans or loan participations determined 
using present value yields to the buyer, that generally produce 
gains to the Bank upon sale and allow a margin for servicing 
income.  Loan participations are generally sold with Great Southern 
retaining control of the administration of the loan.  The Bank sold 
whole real estate loans and loan participations in aggregate 
amounts of $36.6 million, $8.7 million and $53.5 million during the 
years ended June 30, 1996,  1995 and 1994, respectively.  Sales of 
whole real estate loans and participations in real estate loans 
generally can be beneficial to the Bank since these sales may 
generate income at the time of sale, produce future servicing 
income, provide funds for additional lending and other investments, 
and increase liquidity.


<PAGE>  20

Great Southern also sells guaranteed student loans to the MOHELA at 
the time the borrower is scheduled to begin making repayments on 
the loans.  In the past, these loans were generally sold with 
limited recourse and for cash in amounts equal to the unpaid 
principal amount of the loans.  Beginning in July 1995, Great 
Southern re-negotiated its agreement with the MOHELA and these 
loans will generally be sold with limited recourse and for cash in 
amounts equal to the unpaid principal amount of the loans and a 
transfer fee based on average borrower indebtedness.  The fee is 
based on a sliding scale with a higher fee paid for a higher 
average borrower indebtedness and a lower fee paid for a lower 
average borrower indebtedness.  The Bank sold guaranteed student 
loans in aggregate amounts of $8.6 million, $5.0 million and $3.9 
million during the years ended June 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994, 
respectively.  Sales of guaranteed student loans generally can be 
beneficial to the Bank since these sales remove the burdensome 
servicing requirements of these types of loans once the borrower 
begins repayment.

Gains, losses and transfer fees on sales of loans and loan 
participations are recognized at the time of the sale.  When real 
estate loans and loan participations sold have an average 
contractual interest rate that differs from the agreed upon yield 
to the purchaser (less the agreed upon servicing fee), resulting 
gains or losses are recognized in an amount equal to the present 
value of the differential over the estimated remaining life of the 
loans.  Any resulting discount or premium is accreted or amortized 
over the same estimated life using a method approximating the level 
yield interest method.  When real estate loans and loan 
participations are sold with servicing released, as the Bank did 
beginning in fiscal 1996, an additional fee is received for the 
servicing rights.  Net gains and transfer fees on sales of loans 
for the years ended June 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 were $540,000 
$91,300 and $565,000, respectively.

Prior to fiscal 1996, when whole real estate loans were sold, the 
Bank typically retained the responsibility for servicing the loans.  
The Bank receives a servicing fee for performing these services.  
The Bank had the servicing rights for approximately $80 million, 
$88.3 million and $94.8 million at June 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994, 
respectively, of loans owned by others.  The servicing of these 
loans generated net servicing fees to the Bank for the years ended 
June 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 of $316,000, $347,000 and $338,000, 
respectively.  When guaranteed student loans are sold, the Bank 
typically releases the responsibility for servicing the loans to 
the MOHELA.












<PAGE>  21

In addition to interest earned on loans and loan origination fees, 
the Bank receives fees for loan commitments, letters of credit, 
prepayments, modifications, late payments, transfers of loans due 
to changes of property ownership and other miscellaneous services.  
The fees vary from time to time, generally depending on the supply 
of funds and other competitive conditions in the market.  Fees from 
prepayments, commitments, letters of credit and late payments 
totaled $487,000, $470,000 and $566,000 for the years ended June 
30, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.  Loan origination fees, net 
of related costs, are accounted for in accordance with Statement of 
Financial Accounting Standards No. 91 "Accounting for Nonrefundable 
Fees and Costs Associated With Originating or Acquiring Loans and 
Initial Direct Costs of Leases."  Loan fees and certain direct loan 
origination costs are deferred, and the net fee or cost is 
recognized in interest income using the level-yield method over  
the contractual life of the loan.  For further discussion of this 
issue see Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in 
the Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are incorporated 
herein by reference.


The table on the following page shows the loan origination, 
purchase, sale and repayment activities of the Bank for the periods 
indicated.  The table is based on information prepared in 
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

































<PAGE>  22

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Year Ended June 30,
                                                     ---------------------------------------------------------
                                                        1996        1995        1994        1993        1992
                                                     ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                                                                     (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                                  <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Loans Originated:
  Adjustable-Rate Loans:
    Real Estate:
      One- to four-family residential                $  54,699   $  76,753   $  53,077   $  51,912   $  31,968
      Other Residential                                 28,977      27,324      38,315      47,597      10,734
      Commercial                                        70,812      49,473      38,141      68,677      14,832
      Construction                                      20,237      21,253      28,524      22,645       4,153
    Non-real Estate:
      Consumer loans                                     8,383       7,848       8,519       6,744       6,113
      Commercial business loans                          9,742      12,741       6,044       7,228       9,653
                                                       -------     -------     -------      ------      ------
        Total adjustable-rate                          192,850     195,392     155,582     204,803      77,453
                                                       -------     -------     -------      ------      ------
  Fixed-Rate Loans:
    Real Estate:
      One- to four-family residential                   34,855       8,927      49,288      44,554      20,911
      Other Residential                                  5,499           0       7,044       3,692       7,403
      Commercial                                         1,787       2,031       3,787       3,595       4,273
    Non-real Estate:
      Consumer loans                                     9,863      10,112       8,944       3,923       2,647
      Commercial business loans                             92       9,039       2,295         199         347
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------      ------
        Total fixed-rate                                52,096      30,109      71,358      55,963      35,581
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------      ------
Total loans originated                                 244,946     225,501     243,978     260,766     113,034

Loans Purchased:
  Real Estate loans (1)                                      0           0           0       2,395      16,883
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------      ------
    Total additions                                    244,946     225,501     243,978     263,161     129,917
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------      ------
Loans Sold:
  Real Estate loans (2)                                 36,643       8,686      53,544      40,487      20,072
  Consumer loans (3)                                     8,566       5,036       3,887       2,289       1,761
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------     -------
    Total sales                                         45,209      13,722      57,431      42,776      21,833
Principal repayments                                   169,658     143,020     160,206     113,156      57,428
Decrease (increase) other items, net                     2,825       5,983       2,306      (1,393)     29,829
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------      ------
  Total reductions                                     217,692     162,725     219,943     154,539     109,090
                                                       -------     -------     -------     -------      ------
Net increase                                         $  27,254   $  62,776   $  24,035    $108,622   $  20,827
                                                       =======     =======     =======     =======      ======
<FN>
(1)  Substantially all of the loans for June 30, 1992 are multifamily residential or health care loans.  
Substantially all of the loans for June 30, 1993 are commercial real estate loans.
(2)  Substantially all of  these loans are fixed-rate, one- to four-family residential loans.
(3)  Substantially all of these loans are guaranteed student loans where the borrowers graduated and the loans 
were sold prior to the beginning of repayment.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>  23

Allowance for Losses on Loans and Foreclosed Assets

Management periodically reviews Great Southern's allowance for loan 
losses, considering numerous factors, including, but not 
necessarily limited to, general economic conditions, loan portfolio 
composition, prior loss experience, and independent appraisals.  
Further allowances are established when management determines that 
the value of the collateral is less than the amount of the unpaid 
principal of the related loan plus estimated costs of the 
acquisition and sale or when management determines a borrower of an 
unsecured loan will be unable to make full repayment.  Allowances 
for estimated losses on foreclosed assets (real estate and other 
assets acquired through foreclosure) are charged to expense, when, 
in the opinion of management, any significant and permanent decline 
in the market value of the underlying collateral reduces such 
market value to less than the carrying value of the asset.

The Bank has increased its lending in the Branson Lakes area during 
recent years primarily due to the substantial growth in the area.  
While management believes the loans it has funded have been 
originated pursuant to sound underwriting standards, and 
individually have no unusual credit risk, the short period of time 
in which the Branson Lakes area has grown and the lower than 
expected increase in tourists visiting the area during recent years 
causes some concern as to the credit risk associated with the 
Branson Lakes area as a whole.  Due to this concern and the overall 
growth of the commercial real estate and other residential real 
estate loan portfolios, management provided increased levels of 
loan loss allowances in recent years.

The allowances for losses on loans and foreclosed assets are 
maintained at an amount management considers adequate to provide 
for potential losses.  Although management believes that it uses 
the best information available to make such determinations, future 
adjustments to the allowances for losses on loans and foreclosed 
assets may be necessary, and net income could be significantly 
affected, if circumstances differ substantially from the 
assumptions used in making the initial determinations.

At June 30, 1996 and 1995, Great Southern had an allowance for 
losses on loans and foreclosed assets of $15.4 million and $15.5 
million, respectively, of which $1.6 million and $2.0 million, 
respectively, had been allocated as an allowance for specific 
loans, $1.1 million and $900,000, respectively, had been allocated 
for foreclosed assets and $800,000 and $0, respectively, had been 
allocated for impaired loans.  The allowances are discussed further 
in Notes 3 and 4 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
Results of Operations in the Annual Report to Stockholders, which 
portions are incorporated herein by reference.








<PAGE>  24

The following table sets forth an analysis of the Bank's allowance 
for losses on loans showing the details of the allowance by types 
of loans and the allowance balance by loan type.  The table is 
based on information prepared in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                 Year Ended June 30,
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
                                              1996         1995         1994         1993         1992
                                            -------      -------      -------      -------      -------
                                                              (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                         <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Balance at beginning of period              $14,601      $13,636      $10,590      $ 6,029      $ 4,732
                                             ------       ------       ------       ------       ------
Charge-offs:
  One- to four-family residential               189           13           85          189          189
  Other residential                           1,072          474          101           25            0
  Commercial real estate                        509          227           33           70        1,582
  Consumer                                      198           48           33           28          272
  Commercial business                            25          120           32          106           18
                                             ------       ------       ------       ------       ------
    Total charge-offs                         1,993          882          284          418        2,061
                                             ------       ------       ------       ------       ------
Recoveries:
  One- to four-family residential                33            0            8            0           13
  Commercial real estate                        136          442          181          183          142
  Consumer                                       48           22           59           53           74
  Commercial business                            80           64           57           66          272
                                             ------       ------       ------       ------       ------
    Total recoveries                            297          528          307          302          501
                                             ------       ------       ------       ------       ------
Net charge-offs (recoveries)                  1,696          354          (23)         116        1,560
Provision for losses on loans
        (charged to expense)                  1,451        1,319        3,023        4,677        2,857
                                             ------       ------       ------       ------       ------
Balance at end of period                    $14,356      $14,601      $13,636      $10,590      $ 6,029
                                             ======       ======       ======       ======       ======
Ratio of net charge-offs to
        average loans outstanding             0.32%        0.07%       (0.01%)       0.03%        0.46%
                                              ====         ====         ====         ====         ====
</TABLE>















<PAGE>  25

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
The allowance for losses on loans at the date indicated is summarized as follows.  The table is based on 
information prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                                                    June 30,
                     -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          1996              1995             1994               1993               1992
                     ----------------  ----------------  ----------------  -----------------  ----------------
                               % of              % of              % of              % of               % of
                              Loans to          Loans to          Loans to          Loans to          Loans to
                               Total             Total             Total             Total             Total
                      Amount   Loans    Amount   Loans    Amount   Loans   Amount    Loans    Amount   Loans
                     -------  -------  -------  -------  -------  -------  -------  -------  -------  -------
                                                      (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                  <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
One- to four-family
  residential and
  construction       $   757   44.8%   $   670   45.9%   $   363   44.6%   $   320   47.2%    $  104   57.5%
Other residential
  and construction       503   16.1        480    8.1        668   20.8        557   17.8        121   12.3
Commercial real estate
  and construction
  and commercial
    business           7,875   34.5      7,596   31.3      7,394   30.3      3,995   31.5      1,901   26.4
Consumer                 488    4.6        546    4.7        414    4.3        359    3.5        411    3.8
Unallocated            4,733    0.0      5,309    0.0      4,797    0.0      5,359    0.0      3,492    0.0
                      ------  -----     ------  -----     ------  -----      -----  -----      -----  -----
    Total            $14,356  100.0%   $14,601  100.0%   $13,636  100.0%   $10,590  100.0%    $6,029  100.0%
                      ======  =====     ======  =====     ======  =====      =====  =====      =====  =====
</TABLE>


Loan Delinquencies and Defaults

When a borrower fails to make a required payment on a loan, the 
Bank attempts to cause the delinquency to be cured by contacting 
the borrower.  In the case of loans secured by residential real 
estate, a late notice is sent 15 days after the due date.  If the 
delinquency is not cured by the 30th day, a delinquent notice is 
sent to the borrower.  Additional written contacts are made with 
the borrower 45 and 60 days after the due date.  If the delinquency 
continues for a period of 65 days, the Bank usually institutes 
appropriate action to foreclose on the collateral.  The actual time 
it takes to foreclose on the collateral varies depending on the 
particular circumstances and the applicable governing law.  If 
foreclosed, the property is sold at public auction and may be 
purchased by the Bank.  Delinquent consumer loans are handled in a 
generally similar manner, except that initial contacts are made 
when the payment is five days past due and appropriate action may 
be taken to collect any loan payment that is delinquent for more 
than 15 days.  The Bank's procedures for repossession and sale of 
consumer collateral are subject to various requirements under the 
applicable consumer protection laws as well as other applicable 
laws and the determination by the Bank that it would be beneficial 
from a cost basis.


<PAGE>  26

Delinquent commercial business loans and loans secured by 
commercial real estate are initially handled by the loan officer in 
charge of the loan, who is responsible for contacting the borrower.  
The Senior Vice President in charge of commercial lending also 
works with the commercial loan officers to see that necessary steps 
are taken to collect such delinquent loans.  In addition, the Bank 
has a Problem Loan Committee which meets at least monthly which 
reviews all commercial loans 30 days or more delinquent as well as 
other loans not 30 days delinquent which management feels may 
present possible collection problems.  If an acceptable work out of 
a delinquent commercial loan cannot be agreed upon, the Bank may 
initiate foreclosure on any collateral securing the loan.  However, 
in all cases, whether a commercial or other loan, the prevailing 
circumstances may be such that management may determine it is in 
the best interest of the Bank not to foreclose on the collateral.

Delinquent loans at June 30, 1996 were $12.1 million compared to 
$11.7 million at June 30, 1995.  This increase is mainly 
attributable to an increase in the 60-89 day and 90 days and over 
delinquent categories offset by a decrease in the 30-59 day 
category.  The increase in total delinquencies mainly occurred in 
the one- to four-family real estate and other residential real 
estate, offset by a decrease in the commercial real estate.  For 
loans that Great Southern is servicing, the owners generally 
prescribe the collection procedures.  Great Southern may act on the 
owners behalf in the collection process.

The table on the following page sets forth information concerning 
delinquent mortgage and other loans held in the Bank's portfolio at 
June 30, 1996, as well as comparative information for June 30, 
1995, in dollar amount and as a percentage of the Bank's total loan 
portfolio.  The amounts presented represent the total outstanding 
principal balances of the related loans rather than the actual 
payment amounts which are overdue.  For related information, see 
the discussion under the heading "- Allowance for Losses on Loans 
and Foreclosed Assets" above.  The table is based on information 
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles.




















<PAGE>  27

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 Loans Delinquent for
                            ---------------------------------------
                                                 90 Days   Total
                             30-59      60-89      and   Delinquent
                              Days       Days     Over     Loans
                            -------    -------   ------- ----------
                                     (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                          <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>  
One- to four-family
   residential real estate:
      Number of loans            23        15        15         53
      Amount                 $1,665    $1,437    $1,195    $ 4,297
      Percent                  0.28%     0.25%     0.20%      0.73%
Other residential:
      Number of loans             1         1         2          4
      Amount                 $  675    $  259    $  934    $ 1,868
      Percent                  0.12%     0.04%     0.16%      0.32%
Commercial real estate:
      Number of loans             2         5         4         11
      Amount                 $  238    $1,839    $1,407    $ 3,484
      Percent                  0.04%     0.31%     0.24%      0.59%
Construction:
      Number of loans             1         2         3          6
      Amount                 $   11    $   30    $  972     $1,013
      Percent                  0.00%     0.01%     0.16%      0.17%
Consumer:
      Number of loans            73        30        59        162
      Amount                 $  235    $   76    $  202    $   513
      Percent                  0.04%     0.01%     0.04%      0.09%
Commercial business:
      Number of loans             2         3         5         10
      Amount                 $  106    $   26    $  744    $   876
      Percent                  0.02%     0.00%     0.13%      0.15%
Total June 30, 1996:
      Number of loans           102        56        88        246
      Amount                 $2,930    $3,667    $5,454    $12,051
      Percent                  0.50%     0.62%     0.93%      2.05%

Total June 30, 1995:
      Number of loans           102        29        95        226
      Amount                 $7,144    $1,476    $3,065    $11,685
      Percent                  1.28%     0.26%     0.55%      2.09%
</TABLE>













<PAGE>  28

Classified Assets

Federal regulations provide for the classification of loans and 
other assets such as debt and equity securities considered to be of 
lesser quality as "substandard," "doubtful" or "loss" assets.  The 
regulations require insured institutions to classify their own 
assets and to establish prudent general allowances for losses from 
assets classified "substandard" or "doubtful."  For the portion of 
assets classified as "loss," an institution is required to either 
establish specific allowances of 100% of the amount classified or 
charge such amount off its books.  Assets which do not currently 
expose the insured institution to sufficient risk to warrant 
classification in one of the aforementioned categories but possess 
potential weaknesses are required to be designated "special 
mention" by management.  In addition, the OTS may require the 
establishment of a general allowance for losses based on assets 
classified as "substandard"  and "doubtful" or based on the general 
quality of the asset portfolio of an institution.  Following are 
the total classified assets per the Bank's internal asset 
classification list.  There were no significant off-balance sheet 
items classified at June 30, 1996.  The Bank's significant 
classified assets are discussed individually below.

<TABLE>
                                                                        Total      Allowance
            Asset Category        Substandard   Doubtful     Loss    Classified   for Losses
        -----------------------   -----------   --------     ----    ----------   ----------
                                                  (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                 <C>          <C>         <C>       <C>          <C>
        Loans and off-balance
          sheet risks               $10,037      $    0      $142      $10,179      $14,356
        Foreclosed assets            10,755           0         0       10,755        1,086
                                     ------       -----       ---       ------       ------
            Total                   $20,792      $    0      $142      $20,934      $15,442
                                     ======       =====       ===       ======       ======
</TABLE>

The table below sets forth the amounts and categories of non-
performing assets (classified loans which are not performing under 
regulatory guidelines and all foreclosed assets, including assets 
acquired in settlement of loans) in the Bank's loan portfolio at 
the times indicated.  Loans are placed on non-accrual status when 
the loan becomes 90 days delinquent or when the collection of 
principal, interest, or both, otherwise becomes doubtful.  For all 
years presented, the Bank has not had any (i) accruing loans 
delinquent more than 90 days or (ii) troubled debt restructurings, 
which involve forgiving a portion of interest or principal on any 
loans or making loans at a rate materially less than that of market 
rates.  It has been the Bank's practice to sell its foreclosed 
assets to new borrowers and originate loans with higher loan-to-
value ratios than those generally required for the Bank's one- to 
four-family residential loans.  Starting in fiscal 1993, the Bank 
adopted a policy of presenting such loans in the non-performing 
assets category until sufficient payments of principal and interest 
are received or the loan has a 90% loan-to-value ratio.  
Substantially all of the loans presented in this category are 
performing and the Bank is accounting for the interest on these 
loans on the accrual method.
<PAGE>  29

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       June 30,
                                               -------------------------------------------------------
                                                 1996        1995        1994        1993        1992
                                               -------     -------     -------     -------     -------
                                                                 (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                            <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Non-accruing loans:
  One- to four-family residential              $ 1,195     $   149     $   341     $   739     $ 1,212
  Other residential                                934          --         200         198         202
  Commercial real estate                         1,407       2,004       4,500         766       2,928
  One- to four-family construction                 121          --          --          99          --
  Consumer                                         202         260         195          52          44
  Commercial business                              744         652         786          64         220
  Commercial construction                          851          --          --          --          --
                                                ------      ------      ------      ------      ------
    Total non-accruing loans                     5,454       3,065       6,022       1,918       4,606
Loans in connection with sales of
  foreclosed assets                                453         775       1,321       2,541          --
                                                ------      ------      ------      ------      ------
    Total non-performing loans                   5,907       3,840       7,343       4,459       4,606
                                                ------      ------      ------      ------      ------
Foreclosed assets:
  One- to four-family residential                  517         695       1,440         650         921
  Other residential                              7,121       3,359       1,709         198          --
  Commercial real estate                         3,309       4,878       6,180       9,451      12,582
  Construction                                      --          --          --          --          --
  Commercial business                               --          --          --          --          --
                                                ------      ------      ------      ------      ------
    Total foreclosed assets                     10,947       8,932       7,620      10,101      13,503
                                                ------      ------      ------      ------      ------
Total non-performing assets                    $16,854     $12,772     $14,963     $14,560     $18,109
                                                ======      ======      ======      ======      ======
Total non-performing assets as a
      percentage of average total assets          2.45%       2.18%       2.83%       3.04%       3.89%
                                                  ====        ====        ====        ====        ====
</TABLE>

For fiscal 1996 and 1995, approximately $135,000 and $185,000, 
respectfully, was included in interest income with respect to the 
above non-accruing loans.  If the loans had been current in 
accordance with their original loan terms, interest income for 
fiscal 1996 and 1995 of approximately $444,000 and $735,000, 
respectfully,  would have been recorded with respect to the above 
non-accruing loans.  In addition, there was one loan that is being 
accounted for under the cost recovery method that has no principal 
balance which interest income of $604,000 and $19,000 was received 
and reported in fiscal 1996 and 1995, respectively.









<PAGE>  30

The level of non-performing assets are primarily attributable to 
the Bank's commercial real estate, other residential, construction 
and commercial business lending activities.  These activities 
generally involve significantly greater credit risks than single-
family residential lending.  The level of non-performing assets 
increased at a rate greater than that of the Bank's commercial 
lending portfolio in fiscal 1996, and at a rate less than that of 
the Bank's commercial lending portfolio in fiscal 1992, 1993, 1994 
and 1995.  For a discussion of the risks associated with these 
activities, see the discussions under the heading  "- Commercial 
Real Estate and Construction Lending" and "- Commercial Business 
Lending" above.

As of June 30, 1996, the Bank had approximately $5.5 million of 
non-accruing loans compared to $3.1 million at June  30, 1995 and 
$6 million at June 30, 1994.  The following is a summary of each 
non-accruing loan of $750,000 or more in principal balance at June 
30, 1996.  Where there is more than one loan to the same borrower 
on the same project, these loans are combined for this discussion.

1.  Taney County, Missouri  -  Residential single-family 
development.  In June 1993, the Bank originated a $1.2 million loan 
for development of 100 residential single-family lots on 204 acres 
and additional loans from August 1993 to September 1995 totaling 
$3.4 million for construction of 49 single-family homes.  43 of 
these homes were sold throughout the two year period, but at a 
slower pace than anticipated.  The Bank began foreclosure 
proceedings and the borrower declared bankruptcy.  The Bank is in 
the process of reaching an agreement with the borrower to sell one 
house by the 15th of each month starting in December 1996 for four 
months, with the remaining two houses to be sold by June 15, 1997, 
and a complete auction of the remaining property in July 1997.  If 
the borrower does not comply with these terms, they will be 
required to have a complete auction within 30 days of the first 
violation of the agreement or allow the Bank to foreclose on the 
property.  The principal balance at June 30, 1996 was $1.3 million.

2.  Branson, Missouri  -  Restaurant.  In June 1993, the Bank 
originated two loans totaling $1 million for the construction and 
equipping of a 1950's diner-style restaurant located in Branson, 
Missouri.  An additional $30,000 was originated in September 1994 
to complete the equipping of the restaurant and provide temporary 
operating cash.  The borrower experienced lower than anticipated 
revenues in the beginning and was unable to make the required 
payments due to the lack of adequate cash flows.  The borrower has 
experienced increased business during the 1996 season and has paid 
the majority of the delinquent payments on these loans.  If the 
borrower continues with the scheduled payments for the remainder of 
the 1996 season, the loans will have been brought current.  The 
principal balance was $984,000 at June 30, 1996 compared to 
$998,000 at June 30, 1995.

<PAGE>  31

3.  Lake Ozark, Missouri  -  Residential development.   In 1990, 
the Bank originated a $2.3 million loan for the purpose of land 
development and construction of condominiums and related amenities 
located adjacent to an 18 hole Arnold Palmer designed golf course 
located at the Lake of the Ozarks, near Osage Beach, Missouri.  The 
Bank subsequently provided additional loans totaling $2.3 million 
in 1992 to refinance existing debt on the golf course and for the 
construction of a club house and additional loans totaling $675,000 
in 1993 to provide working capital and Tax Increment Financing 
("TIF") of various development costs.  Repayment was to come from 
development and sale of condominium units, operating income of the 
golf course which opened in late summer of 1992 and collection of 
taxes assigned to the TIF credit.  The Company foreclosed on the 
golf course and club house in July 1995 and sold these properties 
in March 1996.

The residential development portion of this project, which was a 
loan to a separate borrower of $1.1 million, was still recorded as 
a loan at June 30, 1996 as the borrower was in chapter 11 
bankruptcy.  Subsequent to June 30, 1996, the property securing 
this loan was auctioned at a bankruptcy court sponsored sale and 
purchased by independent third parties for approximately $1.1 
million.  The borrower has repaid this loan in full.  At June 30, 
1996, the principal balance was $934,000 compared to a carrying 
value as an in-substance foreclosure in foreclosed assets of 
$960,000 at June 30, 1995.

The above balances do not include the TIF loan of approximately 
$600,000 at both June 30, 1996 and 1995 which is included in the 
non-accrual loans.  Subsequent to June 30, 1996, all delinquent 
payments on the TIF loan were received and the loan was brought 
current.


As of June 30, 1996, the Company had approximately $9.9 million in 
book value (net of $1,086,000 in reserves) of foreclosed assets 
compared to $8 million (net of $933,000 in reserves) at June 30, 
1995.  The following is a summary of the foreclosed assets with a 
carrying value of $500,000 or more at June 30, 1996.

1.  Branson, Missouri  -  The Woodlands Condominium Units .  In 
August 1993, the Bank originated loans totaling $1.7 million for 
the refinancing of a 30 acre acquisition loan, for development 
costs of infrastructure, and construction of one 10-unit 
condominium building overlooking Lake Taneycomo.  In June 1994, the 
Bank originated an additional $5.4 million for refinancing of the 
club house, development of an additional 5 acres, and construction 
of five condominium buildings with a total of 52 units.  The 
borrower presented contracts showing several of these units as pre-
sold at the time of obtaining the financing, however, these 
contracts did not materialize once the units were complete.  Due to 
the overbuilding of the market, the borrower was unable to sell the 
units and make the required payments on these loans.  The Bank 
began foreclosure proceedings and the borrower filed bankruptcy.  




<PAGE>  32

After a short period of negotiation, the Bank and the borrower 
worked out an agreement and the Bank took a deed-in-lieu of 
foreclosure on the property.  Subsequent to June 30, 1996, the Bank 
sold this property for $4.7 million with 100% financing.  The new 
owner has already sold two units and has an additional 9 units 
under contract or with contracts pending.  At June 30, 1996, the 
carrying value was $4.3 million, compared to a loan balance at June 
30, 1995 of $5.6 million.  The decrease was the result of a charge 
down of $1.4 million at the time of foreclosure.

2.  Branson, Missouri  -  Brighton Place Motel.   The Bank 
originated a $1.6 million loan in April 1986 to provide 
construction and permanent loan financing on a 77-unit motel.  In 
1988, the motel was sold and the Bank's loan was assumed by the 
purchaser. The borrower went through chapter 11 bankruptcy and the 
property was foreclosed in October 1995.  The Bank has operated the 
property since foreclosure and will continue to do so until the 
property is ultimately sold.  The carrying value of the property 
was approximately $1.6 million at June 30, 1996 compared to a 
principal balance on the loan of an equal amount at June 30, 1995.

3.  Branson, Missouri  -  Suncrest Condominium Units.  In August 
1992, the Bank originated an $800,000 loan for the construction of 
15 condominium units, a club house and swimming pool.  In May 1993, 
the Bank originated an additional $1.4 million loan to construct an 
additional 18 condominium units.  The borrower was unable to 
perform on the loans and the Bank repossessed the property along 
with an additional 6.2 acres.  The carrying value at June 30, 1996 
was $1.2 million compared to $1.5 million at June 30, 1995.  The 
reduction was due to additional reserves allocated to this 
property.

4.  Taney County, Missouri  -  Brotherton residential development.  
In November 1993, the Bank originated loans totaling $1.5 million 
for the development of a 62 lot residential development and the 
construction of 20 homes.  In September 1994, an additional 
$500,000 was originated to construct another 7 homes and three 
foundations.  Due to an overbuilding in the market, only 13 homes 
were sold and these sales were inadequate to make the required 
payments.  The Bank foreclosed and currently has 13 completed 
houses, 15 undeveloped acres, one single-family lot, one commercial 
lot, one patio home lot and four lots with foundations.  The 
principal balance was $1.3 million at June 30, 1996.

5.  Branson, Missouri  -  Clevenger Cove campground.   In 1984, the 
Bank originated a $1.3 million loan, secured by a 53-acre vacation 
camp resort near Branson, Missouri.  The Bank subsequently provided 
additional loans totaling approximately $200,000 for working 
capital purposes.  These additional loans have been charged off by 
the Bank.  The Bank foreclosed on the property in June 1988.  In 
February 1991, the Bank sold the property with 100% financing, with 
the property as collateral.  The borrower has struggled with this 
project and the Bank is in the process of taking back the property 
by way of a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure.  At June 30, 1996, the 
carrying value of the property was approximately $600,000 compared 
to $967,000 at June 30, 1995.  This decrease was due to an 
additional allocation of reserves on the property.

<PAGE>  33
6.  Springfield, Missouri  -  Ellis Trucking terminal.   In 1989, 
the Bank originated a loan for the construction and permanent loan 
financing of a truck terminal and office building and for 
additional working capital needs.  The business closed in late 1991 
and the loan was modified to allow acceptance of lease payments for 
a two year period to allow the borrower to market the property for 
sale.  The property was later determined to have little or no 
equity above the loan balance and was recorded as an in-substance 
foreclosure.  The Bank accepted a deed in lieu of foreclosure in 
fiscal year 1996.

The property has two underground storage tanks, one for fuel 
storage and one for waste oil storage.  Both tanks are currently 
empty and not in use.  The tanks were installed new in 1989 with 
all applicable Department of Natural Resources ("DNR") permits in 
place.  They are fiberglass lined tanks and were installed 
according to Underground Storage Tank ("UST") standards with a 
computerized leak detection system and a guarantee by the installer 
of compliance with all DNR and UST standards until the year 2001.  
There has also been storage in the past of 50 gallon drums of waste 
oil on the property.  While there appears to be no material 
environmental problems with the location, an environmental study on 
the property has not been prepared.  Accordingly, the environmental 
exposure to the Company, if any, has not been determined. 
The property is currently leased with right of first refusal 
options held by the tenants.  Subsequent to June 30, 1996, the Bank 
entered into a contract with an independent third party to sell 
this property, subject to the tenants' right of first refusal, for 
$675,000 with approximately 25% cash down payment and financing of 
the balance at market terms.  The property had a carrying value of 
$550,000 at both June 30, 1996 and 1995.

The Bank encounters certain environmental risks in its lending and 
related activities.  Under federal and state environmental laws, 
lenders may become liable for the costs of cleaning up hazardous 
materials found on property held as collateral as well as property 
acquired at foreclosure on defaulted loans.  This issue is 
discussed in more detail under the heading "Lending Activities-
Environmental Issues" above.




















<PAGE>  34

Investment Activities

Federally-chartered thrift institutions have authority to invest in 
various types of liquid assets, including U. S. Treasury 
obligations and securities of various federal agencies, 
certificates of deposit at insured institutions, obligations issued 
by a State (with a 10% limit on obligations of a single issuer) 
that qualify as liquid assets (see "Liquidity") and certain other 
assets.  The Bank's authority to invest in commercial paper and 
corporate debt securities is subject to its overall 35% consumer 
loan limit.  See "Lending Activities -- Consumer Lending" above.
Great Southern must maintain minimum levels of investments that are 
liquid assets as specified by the OTS as discussed under the 
heading "Regulation-Liquidity" below.  Liquidity may increase or 
decrease depending upon the availability of funds and comparative 
yields on investments in relation to the return on loans.  
Historically, the Bank has maintained its liquid assets above the 
minimum requirements imposed by the regulations and at a level 
believed adequate to meet requirements of normal daily activities, 
repayment of maturing debt and potential deposit outflows.  Cash 
flow projections are regularly reviewed and updated to assure that 
adequate liquidity is maintained.  For further discussion, see the 
discussion under the heading "Regulation-Liquidity" below and Note 
1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 
Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are incorporated 
herein by reference.

The Bank's investment securities portfolio at June 30, 1996 and 
1995 contained no securities (tax exempt or of any issuer) with an 
aggregate book value in excess of 10% of the Bank's retained 
earnings, excluding those issued by the United States Government, 
or its agencies.

On August 15, 1995, the OTS adopted its final rule on regulatory 
capital-stockholders' equity.  This rule requires investment and 
equity securities to be segregated into the following three 
categories: trading, held-to-maturity and available-for-sale.  
Trading securities are purchased and held principally for the 
purpose of reselling them within a short period of time.  The 
unrealized gains and losses are included in earnings.

Investments classified as held-to-maturity are accounted for at 
amortized cost, but an institution must have both positive intent 
and the ability to hold those securities to maturity.  There are 
very limited circumstances under which securities held-to-maturity 
can be sold without jeopardizing the cost basis accounting for the 
remainder of the securities in this category.  These circumstances 
include a significant deterioration of the issuer's 
creditworthiness; changes in the tax law that reduce the tax-exempt 
status of interest on the debt securities; major business 
combinations that require a significant disposition of assets to 
maintain the institutions' existing interest rate risk or credit 
risk policy; and certain changes in statutory or regulatory 
investment authority or capital requirements.  Any security that 
might be sold in response to changes in the market interest rates, 
changes in the security's prepayment risk, increases in loan demand 
or general liquidity needs or similar factors would not be 
classified as held-to-maturity.
<PAGE>  35

Securities not classified as either trading or held-to-maturity are 
considered available-for-sale.  Unrealized gains and losses on the 
available-for-sale securities are excluded from earnings and 
reported as a net amount in a separate component of stockholders' 
equity until realized.

As of June 30, 1996 and 1995, the Bank held approximately $49.2 
million and $47 million, respectively, in principal amount of 
investment securities which the Bank intends to hold until 
maturity.  As of such dates, these securities had a market value of 
approximately $49.3 million and $47.3 million, respectively.  In 
addition, as of June 30, 1996 and 1995, the Company held 
approximately $4.7 million and $3.1 million, respectively, in 
principal amount of investment securities which the Company 
classified as available-for-sale.  The implementation of the OTS 
policy statement has not had a material impact on the Bank's 
financial condition or results of operations since management has 
historically purchased securities with the intent of holding until 
maturity.  This issue is discussed further under the heading 
"Regulation-Accounting" below and in Notes 1 and 2 of Notes to 
Consolidated Financial Statements in the Annual Report to 
Stockholders, which portions are incorporated herein by reference.

The amortized cost and approximate fair values of, and gross 
unrealized gains and losses on, investment securities at the dates 
indicated are summarized as follows.  The table is based on 
information prepared in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 June 30, 1996
                                              --------------------------------------------------
                                                              Gross        Gross     Approximate
                                              Amortized    Unrealized    Unrealized     Fair
                                                 Cost         Gains        Losses       Value
                                              ---------    ----------    ----------  -----------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                             <C>           <C>          <C>         <C>
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES:
  Equity securities                             $4,498        $259         $102        $4,656
                                                 =====         ===          ===         =====
HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES:
  U.S. Treasury                                $ 6,902        $  7         $ 22       $ 6,887
  U.S. government
    agencies and corporations                   41,831         159           35        41,955
  States and political subdivisions                449           0            0           449
                                                ------         ---          ---        ------
    Total held-to-maturity securities          $49,182        $166         $ 57       $49,291
                                                ======         ===          ===        ======








<PAGE>  36
                                                                 June 30, 1995
                                              --------------------------------------------------
                                                              Gross        Gross     Approximate
                                              Amortized    Unrealized    Unrealized     Fair
                                                 Cost         Gains        Losses       Value
                                              ---------    ----------    ----------  -----------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                             <C>           <C>          <C>         <C>
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES:
  Equity securities                             $2,498        $593         $  0        $3,091
                                                 =====         ===          ===         =====
HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES:
  U.S. Treasury                                $ 1,267        $ 20         $  0       $ 1,287
  U.S. government agencies and corporations     45,247         334           59        45,522
  States and political subdivisions                456           0            0           456
                                                ------         ---          ---        ------
    Total held-to-maturity securities          $46,970        $354         $ 59       $47,265
                                                ======         ===          ===        ======

                                                                 June 30, 1994
                                              --------------------------------------------------
                                                              Gross        Gross     Approximate
                                              Amortized    Unrealized    Unrealized     Fair
                                                 Cost         Gains        Losses       Value
                                              ---------    ----------    ----------  -----------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                            <C>            <C>          <C>        <C>
HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES:
  U.S. Treasury                                $ 8,018        $  0         $ 42       $ 7,976
  U.S. government agencies and corporations     39,730           1          274        39,457
  States and political subdivisions                463           0            0           463
  Equity securities                                  6           0            0             6
                                                ------         ---          ---        ------
    Total held-to-maturity securities          $48,217        $  1         $316       $47,902
                                                ======         ===          ===        ======
<FN>
  (1) See "Regulation-Federal Home Loan Bank System" and Note 2 of 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Annual Report to 
Stockholders, which portions are incorporated herein by reference.
</TABLE>

The following table presents the contractual maturities and 
weighted average yields of held-to-maturity securities at June 30, 
1996.  The table is based on information prepared in accordance 
with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                             Amortized  Approximate
                                      Cost     Yield    Fair Value
                                    -------  ---------  -----------
                                        (Dollars in thousands)
In one year or less                 $39,087     6.55%     $39,236
After one through five years          9,646     5.70%       9,606
Other securities, not
  due on a single maturity date (1)     449     8.00%         449
                                     ------                ------
    Total                           $49,182               $49,291
                                     ======                ======
(1)  These are tax exempt securities.  The yields on these 
securities have not been computed on a tax equivalent basis.
<PAGE>  37

Sources of Funds

General.  Deposit accounts have traditionally been the principal 
source of the Bank's funds for use in lending and for other general 
business purposes.  In addition to deposits, the Bank obtains funds 
through advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, 
Iowa ("FHLBank"), collateralized short-term borrowings under 
repurchase agreements, loan repayments, loan sales, and cash flows 
generated from operations.  Scheduled loan payments are a 
relatively stable source of funds, while deposit inflows and 
outflows and the related costs of such funds have varied widely.  
Borrowings such as FHLBank advances may be used on a short-term 
basis to compensate for seasonal reductions in deposits or deposit 
inflows at less than projected levels and may be used on a longer 
term basis to support expanded lending activities.  The 
availability of funds from loan sales is influenced by general 
interest rates as well as the volume of originations.

Deposits.  The Bank attracts both short-term and long-term deposits 
from the general public by offering a wide variety of accounts and 
rates.  In recent years, the Bank has been required by market 
conditions to rely increasingly on short-term accounts and other 
deposit alternatives that are more responsive to market interest 
rates than the passbook accounts and regulated fixed-interest-rate, 
fixed-term certificates that were the Bank's primary source of 
deposits prior to 1978.  The Bank offers regular passbook accounts, 
checking accounts, various money market accounts, fixed-interest-
rate certificates with varying maturities, certificates of deposit 
in minimum amounts of $100,000 ("Jumbo" accounts), brokered 
certificates and individual retirement accounts.  The composition 
of the Bank's deposits at the end of recent periods is set forth in 
Note 6 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in 
the Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are incorporated 
herein by reference.
























<PAGE>  38

The following table sets forth the dollar amount of deposits, by 
interest rate range, in the various types of deposit programs 
offered by the Bank at the dates indicated.  The table is based on 
information prepared in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 June 30,
                                      -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                             1996                   1995                   1994
                                      ------------------     -------------------     ------------------
                                                Percent                 Percent                Percent
                                       Amount   of Total       Amount   of Total      Amount   of Total
                                      --------  --------     ---------  --------     --------  --------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                   <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>
Time deposits:
    0.00% -   3.99%                   $  2,376     0.60      $  3,746     0.97%     $ 83,940    23.38%
    4.00% -   4.99%                     14,472     3.65        30,873     8.03        65,272    18.18
    5.00% -   5.99%                    169,905    42.79        84,499    21.99        20,795     5.79
    6.00% -   6.99%                     32,596     8.21        89,817    23.37        11,677     3.25
    7.00% -   7.99%                     17,123     4.31        20,105     5.23        13,584     3.79
    8.00%  - 10.25%                        646     0.16         3,801     0.99         4,869     1.36
                                       -------   ------       -------   ------       -------   ------
Total Time deposits                    237,118    59.72       232,841    60.58       200,137    55.75
Non-interest-bearing demand deposits     8,886     2.24         8,182     2.13         5,330     1.48
Savings deposits (2.50%-2.52%-2.50%)    37,010     9.32        38,285     9.96        43,460    12.11
Interest-bearing demand
     deposits (2.41%-2.51%-2.35%)      112,224    28.26       103,335    26.89       109,053    30.38
Accrued Interest                         1,817      .46         1,684     0.44         1,007     0.28
                                       -------   ------       -------   ------       -------   ------
Total Deposits                        $397,055   100.00%     $384,327   100.00%     $358,987   100.00%
                                       =======   ======       =======   ======       =======   ======
</TABLE>
























<PAGE>  39

The following table sets forth the deposit flows of the Bank during 
the periods indicated.  Net increase refers to the amount of 
deposits during a period less the amount of withdrawals during the 
period.  The net increase in deposits during the year ended June 
30, 1996 was in interest-bearing deposits, while during the year 
ended June 30, 1995 was an increase in time deposits and during the 
year ended June 30, 1994 was due to an overall increase in all 
deposit types.  Deposit flows at savings institutions may also be 
influenced by external factors such as competitors' pricing, 
governmental credit policies and, particularly in recent periods, 
depositors' perceptions of the adequacy of federal insurance of 
accounts.  The table is based on information prepared in accordance 
with generally accepted accounting principles.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 Year Ended June 30,
                                      ----------------------------------------
                                         1996           1995           1994
                                      ----------     ----------     ----------
                                              (Dollars in thousands)
     <S>                              <C>            <C>            <C>
     Opening balance                  $  384,327     $  358,987     $  326,611
     Deposits                          1,731,347      1,652,386      1,538,741
     Withdrawals                       1,730,268      1,636,288      1,514,179
     Interest credited                    11,649          9,242          7,814
                                       ---------      ---------      ---------
     Ending Balance                   $  397,055     $  384,327     $  358,987
                                       =========      =========      =========
     Net increase                        $12,728        $25,340        $32,376
                                          ======         ======         ======
     Percent increase                      3.31%          7.06%          9.91%
                                           ====           ====           ====
</TABLE>


The variety of deposit accounts offered by the Bank has allowed it 
to be competitive in obtaining funds and has allowed it to respond 
with flexibility to changes in consumer demand.  The Bank has 
become more susceptible to short-term fluctuations in deposit 
flows, as customers have become more interest rate conscious.  The 
Bank manages the pricing of its deposits in keeping with its 
asset/liability management and profitability objectives.  Based on 
its experience, management believes that its passbook and 
certificate accounts are relatively stable sources of deposits, 
while its checking accounts have proven to be more volatile.  
However, the ability of the Bank to attract and maintain deposits, 
and the rates paid on these deposits, has been and will continue to 
be significantly affected by money market conditions.










<PAGE>  40

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
The following table sets forth the time remaining until maturity of the Bank's time deposits as of June 30, 
1996.  The table is based on information prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                                             Maturity
                                    ---------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Over       Over        Over
                                    3 Months      3 to 6     6 to 12       12
                                     or Less      Months      Months      Months       Total
                                    --------     -------     -------     -------     --------
                                                      (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                  <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Time deposits:
  Less than $100,000                 $57,118     $36,052     $48,459     $28,877     $170,506
  $100,000 or more                    16,100       7,428       6,420       5,345       35,293
  Brokered                             9,273       2,491       2,956      11,727       26,447
  Public funds (1)                     2,733       1,473         666          --        4,872
                                      ------      ------      ------      ------      -------
    Total                            $85,224     $47,444     $58,501     $45,949     $237,118
                                      ======      ======      ======      ======      =======
<FN>
(1)  Deposits from governmental and other public entities.
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
The following table shows rate and maturity information for the Bank's time deposits as of June 30, 1996.  The 
table is based on information prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                  0.00-     4.00-     5.00-     6.00-     7.00-     8.00-              % of
                                  3.99%     4.99%     5.99%     6.99%     7.99%    10.25%     Total    Total
                                 ------    -------   -------   -------   -------   ------   --------  -------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                              <C>       <C>      <C>        <C>       <C>         <C>    <C>       <C>
Time deposits maturing
    in quarter ending:
  September 30, 1996             $1,933    $11,943  $ 60,819   $ 7,865   $ 2,438     $226   $ 85,224   35.94%
  December 31, 1996                 160        505    42,725     2,422     1,563       69     47,444   20.01
  March 31, 1997                    100      1,053    19,040     8,247       775       40     29,255   12.34
  June 30, 1997                      68        498    24,426     4,061       162       31     29,246   12.33
  September 30, 1997                 69        240     5,886     1,314         9        8      7,526    3.17
  December 31, 1997                  --         26     5,259       498       308       27      6,118    2.58
  March 31, 1998                     --        139     3,096     1,205       534       --      4,974    2.10
  June 30, 1998                      --          8     3,121     1,655     7,775        2     12,561    5.30
  September 30, 1998                 --         39       560       299        --        2        900    0.38
  December 31, 1998                  --         12       806        42        --       18        878    0.37
  March 31, 1999                     --         --       929       455       175       20      1,579    0.67
  June 30, 1999                      --         --       815       279        94        1      1,189    0.50
  September 30, 1999                 --         --       278       435        --        2        715    0.30
  December 31, 1999                  --          8       136       234       296       --        674    0.28
  March 31, 2000                     --         --       134       189       385       --        708    0.30
  June 30, 2000                      --         --       250       640        52       --        942    0.40
  Thereafter                         46          1     1,625     2,756     2,557      200      7,185    3.03
                                   ----     ------   -------    ------    ------      ---    -------  ------
    Total                        $2,376    $14,472  $169,905   $32,596   $17,123     $646   $237,118  100.00%
                                  =====     ======   =======    ======    ======      ===    =======  ======
</TABLE>
<PAGE>  41

Borrowings.  Great Southern's other sources of funds include 
advances from the FHLBank and collateralized borrowings.  As a 
member of the FHLBank, the Bank is required to own capital stock in 
the FHLBank and is authorized to apply for advances from the 
FHLBank.  FIRREA requires that all long-term FHLBank advances be 
for the purpose of financing residential housing.  Pursuant to 
FIRREA, the Federal Housing Finance Board has promulgated 
regulations which establish standards of community investment for 
FHLBank members to maintain continued access to long-term advances.  
Each FHLBank credit program has its own interest rate, which may be 
fixed or variable, and range of maturities.  The FHLBank may 
prescribe the acceptable uses for these advances, as well as other 
risks on availability, limitations on the size of the advances and 
repayment provisions.  The Bank has a $75 million revolving line of 
credit with the FHLBank which provides for immediately available 
funds.  At June 30, 1996, $63.4 million of the revolving line was 
in use with $11.6 million remaining available.  These funds can be 
drawn by the Bank for lending or other liquidity needs with some 
limitations.

The Bank's borrowings also include borrowings collateralized with 
whole mortgage loans from the Bank's portfolio.  These borrowings 
are also discussed in Note 8 of  Notes to Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in the Annual Report to Stockholders, which 
portions are incorporated herein by reference.

The following table sets forth the maximum month-end balances and 
average daily balances of FHLBank advances and collateralized 
borrowings during the periods indicated.  The table is based on 
information prepared in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles.

                                       Year Ended June 30,
                                ------------------------------
                                   1996       1995       1994
                                ------------------------------
                                    (Dollars in thousands)
Maximum Balance:
  FHLBank advances              $188,450   $156,667   $119,923
  Collateralized borrowings       20,132     18,695     27,477

Average Balances:
  FHLBank advances              $169,468   $127,361   $104,298
  Collateralized borrowings       17,344     15,607     19,310














<PAGE>  42

The following table sets forth certain information as to the Bank's 
FHLBank advances and collateralized borrowings at the dates 
indicated.  The table is based on information prepared in 
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

                                            June 30,
                                 -------------------------------
                                   1996       1995        1994
                                 --------    -------    --------
                                      (Dollars in thousands)

FHLBank advances                 $180,797    $154,323    $93,087
Collateralized borrowings          16,468      13,947     15,500
                                  -------    -------     -------
  Total borrowings               $197,265    $168,270   $108,587
                                  =======    =======     =======

Weighted average interest rate
  of FHLBank advances               6.06%      6.61%      6.03%
                                    ====       ====        ====

Weighted average interest rate
  of collateralized borrowings      2.63%      2.96%      2.14%
                                    ====       ====        ====

Subsidiaries

Great Southern.  As a federally-chartered savings bank, Great 
Southern may invest up to 3% of its assets in service corporations.  
The Bank had no investment in service corporations at June 30, 1996 
and 1995.

Holding Company.  At June 30, 1996, the Holding Company's total 
investment in Great Southern Financial Corporation ("GSFC") and 
Great Southern Capital Management, Inc. ("Capital Management") was 
$1 million and $400,000, respectively.  Both GSFC and Capital 
Management are incorporated under the laws of the state of 
Missouri.  These subsidiaries are primarily engaged in the 
following activities:

Appraisal Services.  Appraisal Services, Inc., incorporated in 
1976, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GSFC and performs primarily 
residential real estate appraisals for a number of clients, the 
majority of which is for the Bank and its loan customers.  
Appraisal Services, Inc. had net income of $7,000 and $6,000 in 
fiscal 1996 and 1995, respectively.

General Insurance Agency.  Great Southern Insurance, a division of 
GSFC, was organized in 1974.  It acts as a general property, 
casualty and life insurance agency for a number of clients, 
including the Bank.  Great Southern Insurance had net income of 
$98,000 and $52,000 in fiscal 1996 and 1995, respectively.






<PAGE>  43

Travel Agency.  Great Southern Travel, a division of GSFC, was 
organized in 1976.  At June 30, 1996, it was the largest travel 
agency based in southwestern Missouri.  Great Southern Travel 
operates from 15 full-time locations, including a facility at the 
Springfield-Branson Regional Airport, and additional part-time 
locations.  It engages in personal, commercial and group travel 
services.  Great Southern Travel had net income of $122,000 and 
$65,000 in fiscal 1996 and 1995, respectively.

Brokerage Services.  Capital Management, organized in 1988, offers 
a full line of financial consultation, investment counseling and 
discount brokerage services.  Capital Management operates through 
Great Southern's branch office network.  Capital Management had net 
income of $257,000 and $370,000 in fiscal 1996 and 1995, 
respectively.

Competition

Great Southern faces strong competition both in originating real 
estate and other loans and in attracting deposits.  Competition in 
originating real estate loans comes primarily from other savings 
institutions, commercial banks and mortgage bankers making loans 
secured by real estate located in the Bank's market area.  
Commercial banks and finance companies provide vigorous competition 
in consumer lending.  The Bank competes for real estate and other 
loans principally on the basis of the interest rates and loan fees 
it charges, the types of loans it originates and the quality of 
services it provides to borrowers.  The other lines of business of 
the Bank including loan servicing and loan sales, as well as the 
Holding Company subsidiaries, face significant competition in their 
markets.

The Bank faces substantial competition in attracting deposits from 
other savings institutions, commercial banks, money market and 
mutual funds, credit unions and other investment vehicles.  The 
Bank attracts a significant amount of deposits through its branch 
offices primarily from the communities in which those branch 
offices are located; therefore, competition for those deposits is 
principally from other savings institutions and commercial banks 
located in the same communities.  The Bank competes for these 
deposits by offering a variety of deposit accounts at competitive 
rates, convenient business hours, and convenient branch locations 
with interbranch deposit and withdrawal privileges at each.

The authority to offer money market deposits and the expanded 
lending and other powers authorized for thrift institutions by 
federal and state legislation have resulted in increased 
competition for both deposits and loans between thrift institutions 
and other financial institutions such as commercial banks.

Employees

At June 30, 1996, the Bank and its affiliates had a total of 471 
employees, including 216 part-time employees.  None of the Bank's 
employees is represented by any collective bargaining agreement.  
Management considers its employee relations to be good.


<PAGE>  44

REGULATION

General

Great Southern is a federal-chartered, federally insured, Federal 
Savings Bank which is a member of the FHLBank System ("FHLBank 
System").  Accordingly, Great Southern is subject to broad federal 
regulation and oversight extending to all of its operations.  Great 
Southern is a member of the FHLBank of Des Moines and is subject to 
certain limited regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal 
Reserve System ("Federal Reserve Board").  As the savings and loan 
holding company of Great Southern, the Holding Company also is 
subject to federal regulation and oversight.  The purpose of the 
regulation of the Holding Company is to protect Great Southern and 
its depositors.

On August 9, 1989, FIRREA was enacted into law.  FIRREA 
substantially changed the regulatory structure and oversight for 
all savings associations, including Great Southern, and their 
holding companies.  Prior to FIRREA, Great Southern's deposits were 
insured by the Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation 
("FSLIC") and Great Southern was subject to regulation by the 
FHLBB, as operating head of the FSLIC.  Under FIRREA, the FHLBB was 
abolished and its regulatory authority over Great Southern and its 
holding company was transferred to the OTS. The FSLIC was abolished 
and replaced by the SAIF, a new deposit insurance fund administered 
by the FDIC.  As a result, the FDIC has certain regulatory and 
examination authority over Great Southern.  FIRREA revised many 
substantive requirements and limitations to which Great Southern is 
subject, generally resulting in increased restrictions on Great 
Southern's authorized investment and lending activities.  FIRREA 
also provided for various changes in the regulation of savings and 
loan holding companies, such as the Holding Company.  In addition, 
FIRREA revised the structure of the FHLBank System, including the 
requirements for obtaining advances from the FHLBank.

The Board of Directors of the Bank approved the conversion of the 
Bank from a Missouri-chartered savings bank to a federal savings 
bank charter.  The conversion process required the preparation and 
filing of an application with the OTS regional office.  The OTS 
approved the conversion in December 1994. By converting, the Bank 
was able to eliminate the duplicate cost associated with complying 
with both federal and state regulations and has not seen a material 
change in its business.

The Company and Great Southern are subject to extensive regulation 
by the federal government.  The regulatory structure also gives the 
regulators extensive discretion in their regulatory activities.  
Any changes in such regulatory structure or regulation could have a 
material adverse affect on the operations of the Company or Great 
Southern. Certain of the material regulatory requirements and 
restrictions applicable to the Company and the Bank are discussed 
below or elsewhere in this document.  However, the following is a 
brief summary of certain aspects of the regulation of the Company 
and Great Southern and does not purport to fully discuss such 
regulation.


<PAGE>  45

Federal Regulation

The OTS has extensive authority over the operations of the Bank.  
As part of this authority, Great Southern is required to file 
periodic reports with the OTS and is subject to periodic 
examinations by the OTS.  The investment and lending authority of 
Great Southern is limited by federal law and regulations.

Certain of these regulations limit Great Southern's investments 
including investments in equity securities, real estate, service 
corporations and operating subsidiaries, as well as land loans and 
nonresidential construction loans with loan-to-value ratios in 
excess of 80%.  In addition, as noted below, certain investments 
increase the capital requirements of the Bank.  Federal laws and 
regulations also impose certain limitations on Great Southern's 
operations, including restrictions on loans to one borrower, 
transactions with affiliates and affiliated persons, liability 
growth and capital distributions.  Federal laws and regulations 
also impose requirements for the retention of housing and thrift-
related investments.  See "--Qualified Thrift Lender Test."

Federal law provides that no savings association may invest in 
corporate debt securities not rated in one of the four highest 
rating categories by a nationally recognized rating organization.  
In addition, investment in loans secured by nonresidential real 
property may not exceed 400% of capital, with authority in the OTS 
to increase that investment level on a case-by-case basis.  The 
authority of Great Southern to engage in transactions with 
affiliates, including the Holding Company and its non-savings 
association subsidiaries, or to make loans to certain insiders, is 
subject to certain provisions of the Federal Reserve Act.  Among 
other things, those provisions require that these transactions with 
affiliates be on terms and conditions comparable to those for 
similar transactions with non-affiliates.  See "--Transactions With 
Affiliates."  In addition, these affiliate transactions are 
regulated further by the OTS to address safety and soundness 
concerns.

The OTS has extensive enforcement authority over all savings 
associations and their holding companies, including Great Southern 
and the Holding Company, and this enforcement authority has been 
enhanced substantially by FIRREA and the Federal Deposit Insurance 
Corporation Improvements Act of 1991 ("FDICIA").  This enforcement 
authority includes, among other things, the ability to assess civil 
money penalties, to issue cease-and-desist or removal orders and to 
initiate injunctive actions.  In general, these enforcement actions 
may be initiated for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe 
or unsound practices.  Other actions or inactions may provide the 
basis for enforcement action, including misleading or untimely 
reports filed with the OTS.  FIRREA significantly increased the 
amount of and grounds for civil money penalties.  FIRREA requires, 
except under certain circumstances, public disclosure of final 
enforcement actions by the OTS.

The FDIC has been granted certain regulatory and oversight 
authority over federal associations by FIRREA.  See "--Insurance of 
Accounts and Regulation by the FDIC."

<PAGE>  46

Insurance of Accounts and Regulation by the FDIC

Great Southern's depositors are insured by the SAIF up to $100,000 
per insured account (as defined by law and regulation).  This 
insurance is backed by the full faith and credit of the United 
States Government.  The SAIF is administered and managed by the 
FDIC.  As insurer, the FDIC is authorized to conduct examinations 
of and to require reporting by SAIF-insured associations.  It also 
may prohibit any FDIC-insured institution from engaging in any 
activity the FDIC determines by regulation or order to pose a 
serious threat to the SAIF.  The FDIC also has the authority to 
initiate enforcement actions against savings associations, after 
first giving the OTS an opportunity to take such action.

Great Southern pays annual assessments for SAIF insurance.  Under 
current FDIC regulations, the annual SAIF assessment rate, is 
based, in part, on the degree of risk to the deposit insurance fund 
that, in the opinion of the FDIC, is presented by a particular 
depository institution compared to other depository institutions.  
The FDIC uses a matrix having as variables the level of 
capitalization of a particular institution and the level of 
supervision that its operations require; and the risk-based 
amendment rates determined in this fashion range from 0.23% of 
deposits for the least risky to 0.31% for the most risky.  In 
establishing the SAIF assessment rate, the FDIC is required to 
consider the SAIF's expected operating expenses, case resolution 
expenditures and income and the effect of the assessment rate on 
SAIF members' earnings and capital.  There is no longer a cap on 
the amount the FDIC may increase the SAIF assessment rate.  Great 
Southern does not anticipate that the FDIC's adoption of a risk-
based deposit insurance assessment program will result in a 
significant increase in its costs for deposit insurance; however, 
it appears likely that SAIF deposit insurance assessments will 
remain at a high level or even increase until SAIF reaches the 
reserve ratio designated by Congress.  The Bank currently has a 
risk based assessment rate of 0.23%.  In addition, the FDIC is 
authorized to raise the assessment rates in certain instances.  Any 
increases in the assessments would negatively impact the earnings 
of Great Southern.

The FDIC may terminate the deposit insurance of any insured 
depository institution if it determines, after a hearing, that the 
institution has engaged or is engaging in unsafe or unsound 
practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue 
operations or has violated any applicable law, regulation, order or 
any condition imposed by or an agreement with the FDIC.  It also 
may suspend deposit insurance temporarily during the hearing 
process for the permanent termination of insurance, if the 
institution has no tangible capital.  If insurance of accounts is 
terminated, the accounts at the institution at the time of the 
termination, less subsequent withdrawals, shall continue to be 
insured for a period of six months to two years, as determined by 
the FDIC.





<PAGE>  47

The FDIC has reduced deposit insurance premiums for members of the 
Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF").  Highly-rated institutions, which 
account for 92 percent of banks, will pay only the statutory 
minimum of $2,000 annually for FDIC insurance.  The remaining 
institutions pay on a scale ranging from 3 cents to 30 cents per 
$100 of insured deposits.  The deposit insurance premiums currently 
assessed against SAIF members are on a scale of 23 cents to 31 
cents per $100 of insured deposits.  This premium differential 
reflects the relative levels of attainment by the two insurance 
funds of their mandated capitalization requirements, but may create 
a competitive disadvantage for SAIF-insured institutions, including 
the Bank.

Complicating the deposit insurance reform issue is the requirement, 
initially imposed solely on savings institutions that constitute 
the bulk of the membership of the SAIF, to fund debt service 
obligations under bonds issued by a specially created government 
entity ("FICO"), the proceeds of which were applied toward 
resolution of the thrift industry crisis in the 1980s.  Use of SAIF 
premiums for this purpose has been a principal reason for the 
failure of the SAIF to be re-capitalized as quickly as the BIF has 
been.

Certain proposals have been presented to Congress for re-
capitalization of the SAIF or for payment of the FICO obligations.  
Although not yet final, some of such proposals involve assessments 
and payments by SAIF members such as the Bank.  Paying such fees 
and assessments would reduce profits and perhaps put the Bank at a 
competitive disadvantage with BIF members.  Other pending proposals 
include spreading the responsibility for the FICO payments 
proportionally over all FDIC-insured institutions and merging the 
BIF and the SAIF as soon as practicable. No reliable prediction can 
be made as to how these matters may ultimately be resolved or as to 
the impact that any such resolution may have on the Bank.  There is 
also pending before Congress a proposal that would require each 
federally chartered association to hereafter either convert to a 
national bank charter, or to a state thrift charter.  If enacted, 
such proposal would have an effect on the powers and authority of 
the Bank.  Differing forms of this proposal have been passed on by 
both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and there is 
currently no way of predicting whether any proposal will ultimately 
be enacted as law.

Regulatory Capital Requirements

Federally insured savings associations, such as Great Southern, are 
required to maintain a minimum level of regulatory capital.  These 
requirements have increased significantly in recent years.  FIRREA 
required the OTS to establish new capital standards for all savings 
associations, including a tangible capital requirement, a leverage 
ratio (or core capital) requirement and a risk-based capital 
requirement.  FIRREA mandated that these new capital requirements 
be generally as stringent as the comparable capital requirements 
for national banks.




<PAGE>  48

The capital regulations promulgated pursuant to FIRREA require that 
all savings associations have tangible capital of at least 1.5% of 
adjusted total assets.  Tangible capital generally includes common 
stockholders' equity (including retained earnings), most non-
cumulative perpetual preferred stock and related earnings, certain 
non-withdrawable accounts and pledged deposits at mutual 
institutions and minority equity interests in fully consolidated 
subsidiaries. Tangible capital excludes intangible assets, except 
that purchased mortgage servicing rights remain includable in 
tangible capital in an amount that may not exceed the lesser of (i) 
90% of their fair market value (if determinable), or (ii) 100% of 
their current amortized book value under GAAP (except that 
purchased mortgage servicing rights owned on February 9, 1990 are 
grandfathered and may be recognized for regulatory capital purposes 
to the extent otherwise permitted by the OTS).  Great Southern has 
no purchased mortgage servicing rights.  In general, for purposes 
of calculating the tangible capital ratio, adjusted total assets is 
defined as consolidated total assets in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), excluding intangible 
assets (except includable purchased mortgage servicing rights).  In 
addition, as described in more detail below, certain subsidiary 
investments are excluded from capital and from adjusted total 
assets for purposes of determining compliance with the tangible 
capital requirement.

The OTS regulations establish special capitalization requirements 
for savings associations that own service corporations and other 
subsidiaries.  According to these regulations certain subsidiaries 
are consolidated for capital purposes and others are excluded from 
assets and capital.  In determining compliance with the tangible 
capital requirement and the leverage limit, all subsidiaries 
engaged solely in activities permissible for national banks, 
engaged solely in mortgage-banking activities, or engaged in 
certain other activities solely as agent for its customers are 
includable subsidiaries that are consolidated for capital purposes 
in proportion to the association's level of ownership, including 
the assets of includable subsidiaries in which the association has 
a minority interest that is not consolidated for GAAP purposes (the 
investment in such subsidiaries is excluded from adjusted total 
assets).  For all other subsidiaries ("non-includable 
subsidiaries"), the debt and equity investments in such 
subsidiaries are deducted from assets and capital.  This deduction 
is phased-in for investments existing on April 12, 1989, in non-
includable subsidiaries.

From July 1, 1990 through June 30, 1991, 90% of the lesser of the 
investment in a non-includable subsidiary existing on April 12, 
1989 or the then-current investment level in such subsidiary was 
permitted to be included in capital and assets.  During each of the 
next three years, only 75%, 60% and 40%, respectively, of such 
investments could be included in capital.  During this transition 
period, the assets of a non-includable subsidiary were consolidated 
for capital purposes in inverse proportion to the level of the 
investment that was excluded.  For example, from July 1, 1990 
through June 30, 1991, 10% of the investment in such non-includable 
subsidiaries were excluded from capital and assets and 90% of the 
assets of such subsidiaries were consolidated for capital purposes 

<PAGE>  49

(the remaining 90% of the investment in such subsidiaries was 
excluded from adjusted total assets).  After June 30, 1994, 100% of 
the investment in such non-includable subsidiary is excluded from 
capital and assets.  At June 30, 1996, Great Southern had tangible 
capital equal to 8.5% of adjusted total assets, which exceeds the 
minimum requirement of 1.5% as in effect on June 30, 1996.

The new capital standards mandated by FIRREA also include a 
leverage ratio requirement that requires all savings associations 
to maintain core capital equal to at least 3% of adjusted total 
assets.  Core capital generally consists of common stockholders' 
equity (including retained earnings), most non-cumulative preferred 
stock and related surplus, certain non-withdrawable accounts and 
pledged deposits at mutual institutions, minority equity interests 
in consolidated subsidiaries, and, as described in more detail 
below, certain remaining goodwill permitted under regulatory 
accounting principles.  Intangible assets, including goodwill, are 
excluded from core capital, except, as described in more detail 
below, purchased mortgage servicing rights.  In general, for 
purposes of calculating the core capital ratio, adjusted total 
assets is defined as consolidated total assets in accordance with 
GAAP, excluding intangible assets not permitted to be included in 
core capital and excluding all qualifying supervisory goodwill.  In 
addition, the special capitalization requirements for subsidiaries 
that apply for determining the tangible capital requirement also 
apply for determining the leverage ratio requirement.

Purchased mortgage servicing rights may be included in core capital 
up to the lesser of (i) 90% of their fair market value (if 
determinable), or (ii) their current amortized book value under 
GAAP (except that purchased mortgage servicing rights owned on 
February 9, 1990 are grandfathered and may be recognized for 
regulatory capital purposes to the extent otherwise permitted by 
the OTS).  At June 30, 1996, Great Southern had no purchased 
mortgage servicing rights eligible for inclusion in capital.

Through the end of 1994, "eligible" savings associations were 
permitted to include certain supervisory goodwill recognized under 
GAAP and certain additional goodwill recognized under former 
regulatory accounting principles (or "regulatory goodwill"), which 
together constitute "qualifying supervisory goodwill", in core 
capital up to certain specified limits.  Subsequent to 1994, no 
goodwill may be included in core capital.  Great Southern's 
goodwill of $1.3 million qualified as supervisory goodwill as of 
June 30, 1994 under the regulations but, after January 1, 1995, may 
not be included in core capital.

At June 30, 1996, Great Southern had core capital equal to 8.5% of 
adjusted total assets, which exceeds the minimum leverage ratio 
requirement of 3% now in effect.








<PAGE>  50

The risk-based requirement promulgated by OTS requires savings 
associations to have total capital of at least 8% of risk-weighted 
assets.  Total capital consists of core capital, as defined above, 
and supplementary capital. Supplementary capital consists of 
certain permanent and maturing capital instruments that do not 
qualify as core capital, plus general loss reserves up to a maximum 
of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets.  The extent to which maturing 
capital instruments may be included as supplementary capital 
decreases as the maturity date of the instrument approaches.  At 
June 30, 1996, Great Southern had no capital instruments that 
qualified as supplementary capital. At June 30, 1996, Great 
Southern had $15.4 million in general loss reserves, which is $9.4 
million greater than 1.25% of risk-weighted assets.  Supplementary 
capital qualifies as total capital only to the extent it does not 
exceed an association's core capital.  At June 30, 1996, Great 
Southern had $6.0 million in qualifying supplementary capital.

To calculate risk-weighted assets, on-balance sheet assets and off-
balance sheet assets (after being converted to an on-balance sheet 
credit equivalent amount) are risk-weighted in four risk categories 
from 0% to 100%, depending on the credit risk inherent in the 
asset.  Before being assigned a risk-weight, off-balance sheet 
items are adjusted by conversion factors of 0% to 100% to determine 
the amount of the on-balance credit equivalent amount against which 
risk-based capital must be maintained.  The risk-weightings are 
applied to the on-balance sheet credit equivalents based on the 
obligor.  On June 30, 1996, Great Southern had total capital 
(including $49.1 million in core capital and $6.0 million in 
qualifying supplementary capital) of $61.9 million and risk-
weighted assets (including $9 million in converted off-balance 
sheet assets) of $476 million; or total capital of 13% of risk-
weighted assets.  This amount is in excess of the required level.

The OTS has adopted a rule, implemented as of March 31, 1995, 
incorporating an interest rate risk component into the risk-based 
capital requirement for savings associations such as the Bank.  
Under this rule, an institution's interest rate risk is measured by 
the decline in net portfolio value ("NPV") resulting from a 
hypothetical 200 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates 
(whichever leads to the lower NPV) divided by the estimated 
economic value of its assets.  An institution is required to make a 
deduction from total capital for purposes of calculating its risk-
based capital if a decline in its NPV (resulting from a 200 basis 
point shock) exceeds 2 percent of its assets (expressed in present 
value terms).  Such an institution is required to deduct from its 
total risk-based capital an amount equal to one-half of the 
difference between its measured interest rate risk and 2 percent, 
multiplied by the estimated economic value of its assets.  The new 
rule has not had a significant effect on Great Southern's 
compliance with capital requirements.








<PAGE>  51

Any savings association that fails any of the new capital standards 
is subject to enforcement actions by the OTS or the FDIC.  In 
addition, FIRREA authorizes, and under certain circumstances 
requires, the OTS to take certain actions against associations that 
fail to meet current or future capital requirements.  OTS shall 
prohibit the asset growth of any association not meeting its 
capital standards, except for certain limited growth in low-risk 
assets up to net interest credited, and shall issue a capital 
directive against the association.  FIRREA enables associations to 
seek exemptions from the various sanctions or penalties for failure 
to meet their capital requirements, other than the mandatory growth 
restrictions and appointment of a conservator or receiver.  The OTS 
will grant no exemptions without the submission of an approved 
capital plan.  FDICIA, which is discussed below, also requires 
certain regulatory actions if a savings institution does not meet 
these capital standards.

Capital Distributions Regulation

An OTS regulation limits the capital distributions that can be made 
by savings associations, including cash dividends, payments by an 
association to repurchase or otherwise acquire its shares, payments 
to shareholders of another institution in a cash-out merger and 
other distributions charged against capital (the "Capital 
Distributions Regulation").  The Capital Distributions Regulation 
establishes a three-tiered system of regulation based primarily on 
capital levels, with the greatest flexibility being afforded to 
well-capitalized, well-managed institutions.

An association that has capital immediately prior to, and on a pro 
forma basis after giving effect to, a proposed capital distribution 
that is equal to or greater than the amount of its fully phased-in 
capital requirement, as modified to reflect any individual minimum 
capital requirement applicable to the association would be a Tier 1 
association ("Tier 1 Association"), provided the association has 
not been notified by the OTS that it is in need of more than normal 
supervision.  An association that satisfies the Tier 1 capital 
criteria but that has been notified that it has need of more than 
normal supervision could be treated as a Tier 2 or Tier 3 
association (a determination left to the discretion of the OTS).

An association that has capital immediately prior to, and on a pro 
forma basis after giving effect to, a proposed capital distribution 
that is equal to or in excess of its minimum capital requirement 
but that is less than its fully phased-in capital requirement would 
be a Tier 2 association ("Tier 2 Association").  An association 
that does not satisfy its minimum capital requirement immediately 
prior to, or on a pro forma basis after giving effect to, the 
proposed capital distribution would be a Tier 3 association ("Tier 
3 Association").








<PAGE>  52

A Tier 1 Association could, after prior notice but without the need 
to obtain prior approval from the OTS, make capital distributions 
during a calendar year up to the higher of (1) 100% of the 
association's net income to date during the calendar year plus the 
amount that would reduce by one-half the association's "surplus 
capital ratio" (the percentage by which its capital-to-assets ratio 
exceeds the ratio of its fully phased-in capital requirement to its 
assets) at the beginning of the calendar year or (2) 75% of the 
association's net income over the most recent four-quarter period.  
Any additional amount of capital distributions would require prior 
regulatory approval.

A Tier 2 Association could, after prior notice but without the need 
to obtain prior approval from the OTS, (1) make capital 
distributions of up to 75% of its net income over the most recent 
four-quarter period if the association's current capital satisfies 
the risk-based capital standard that was applicable to it on 
January 1, 1993, or (2) make capital distributions of up to 50% of 
its net income over the most recent four-quarter period if the 
association's current capital satisfies the risk-based standard 
that was applicable to it on January 1, 1991; or (3) make capital 
distributions of up to 25% of its net income over the most recent 
four-quarter period if the association's current capital satisfies 
the current risk-based capital requirement applicable to it.  In 
computing an association's current permissible amount of capital 
distributions, an association must deduct the amount of capital 
distributions that it has previously made during the most recent 
four-quarter period.  Any additional amount of capital 
distributions would require prior regulatory approval.

A Tier 3 Association is not permitted to make any capital 
distributions without prior regulatory approval unless the capital 
distribution is consistent with a pre-approved capital plan.

The Capital Distributions Regulation provides that its requirements 
supersede the provisions of agreements or conditions to approved 
applications controlling associations' capital distributions that 
are less stringent than the restrictions imposed under the Capital 
Distributions Regulation.  An association that is subject to 
restrictions under an agreement or application condition that is 
more stringent than the restrictions imposed under the Capital 
Distributions Regulation may seek approval from the OTS to become 
subject exclusively to the restrictions imposed under the Capital 
Distributions Regulation.

The OTS has notified Great Southern that for purposes of the 
Capital Distributions Regulation it is currently being treated as a 
Tier 1 Association for purposes of computing permissible capital 
distributions.  Notwithstanding the Capital Distribution 
Regulations, the regulatory authorities have broad discretion to 
prohibit the payment of capital distributions in certain instances, 
including if such authorities determine that the payment would 
constitute an unsafe or unsound practice.  In addition, FDICIA can 
limit capital distributions.  See also "Item 5. Market for the 
Registrant's Common Stock and Related Stockholder Matters" and 
"FDICIA" below.


<PAGE>  53

Liquidity

Federally insured savings associations are required to maintain an 
average daily balance of liquid assets equal to a certain 
percentage of the sum of average daily balances of net withdrawable 
deposit accounts and borrowings payable in one year or less.  The 
liquidity requirement may vary from time to time (between 4% and 
10%) depending upon economic conditions and savings flows of all 
savings associations.  At the present time, the required liquid 
asset ratio is 5%.

For purposes of this ratio, liquid assets include specified short-
term assets (e.g., cash, certain time deposits, certain bankers' 
acceptances and short-term United States Treasury obligations), and 
long-term assets (e.g., United States Treasury obligations of more 
than one and less than five years and state agency obligations with 
a maximum term of two years).  The regulations governing liquidity 
requirements include as liquid assets debt securities hedged with 
forward commitments obtained from, or debt securities subject to 
repurchase agreements with, members of the Association of Primary 
Dealers in United States Government Securities or banks whose 
accounts are insured by the FDIC, debt securities directly hedged 
with a short financial futures position, and debt securities that 
provide the holder with a right to redeem the security at par 
value, regardless of the stated maturities of such securities.  
FIRREA also authorizes the OTS to designate as liquid assets 
certain mortgage-related securities and certain mortgage loans 
(qualifying as backing for certain mortgage-backed securities) with 
less than one year to maturity.  Short-term liquid assets currently 
must constitute at least 1% of an association's average daily 
balance of net withdrawable deposit accounts and current 
borrowings.  Penalties may be imposed upon associations for 
violations of liquidity requirements.  At June 30, 1996, Great 
Southern was in compliance with these requirements, with an overall 
liquidity ratio of 9.2% and a short-term liquidity ratio of 7.6%.

The Company has been in various buy-back programs since May 1990.  
During the year ended June 30, 1996, the Company repurchased 
140,598 shares of its common stock at an average price of $23.83 
per share and reissued 43,888 shares of treasury stock at an 
average price of $3.16 per share for stock option exercises.  
During the year ended June 30, 1995, the Company repurchased 
362,090 shares of its common stock at an average price of $16.82 
per share and reissued 65,649 shares of treasury stock at an 
average price of $2.89 per share for stock option exercises.

Management intends to continue its stock buy-back programs as long 
as repurchasing the stock contributes to the overall growth of 
shareholder value.  The number of shares of stock that will be 
repurchased and the price that will be paid is the result of many 
factors, several of which are outside of the control of the 
Company, the primary factors of which are the number of shares 
available in the market from sellers at any given time and the 
price of the stock within the market as determined by the market.




<PAGE>  54

Beginning in September 1996, the Company's Employee Stock Ownership 
Plan (the "ESOP") will be distributing approximately 443,000 shares 
of stock as directed by the participants in the ESOP.  As of the 
distribution, each participant will have full rights of ownership, 
including the right of sale and transfer.  It is anticipated that a 
portion of these shares will be available in the market for 
purchase by investors and the Company.

Management believes that the Company had at June 30, 1996, and 
continues to have, sufficient cash flows and borrowing capacity 
available to meet its commitments and other foreseeable cash needs 
for operations.  At June 30, 1996, the Company had commitments of 
approximately $66.6 million to fund loan originations, issued lines 
of credit, outstanding letters of credit and unadvanced loans.

Accounting

An OTS policy statement clarifies and reemphasizes that the 
investment activities of a savings association must be in 
compliance with approved and documented investment policies and 
strategies, and must be accounted for in accordance with GAAP.  
Under the policy statement, management must support its 
classification of and accounting for loans and securities (i.e., 
whether held for investment, sale or trading) with appropriate 
documentation.  In addition, auditors must document their 
concurrence or lack thereof with management's investment policy and 
strategies, at least annually, and to monitor the association's 
compliance with such strategies.  See "Business -- Investment 
Activities."

Qualified Thrift Lender Test

Savings associations are required to satisfy a qualified thrift 
lender ("QTL") test.  The QTL test currently requires a savings 
association to hold at least 65% of its portfolio assets in 
qualified thrift investments and to continue to maintain such 
percentage holdings for at least nine months of each preceding 
twelve-month period.  Certain temporary and limited exceptions from 
meeting the new test may be granted by the OTS.  Portfolio assets 
are total assets less intangible assets, the value of properties 
used to conduct business and certain liquid assets (up to 20% of 
total assets).  Qualified thrift investments include certain assets 
(generally, residential housing related assets) which are 
includible without limitation and assets which are includible 
subject to percentage limitations.  The Management of Great 
Southern believes it satisfied the QTL test at June 30, 1996.

Any savings association that fails to meet the QTL test must 
convert to a bank charter, unless it requalifies as a QTL. If the 
association does not requalify, and converts to a bank charter, it 
must remain SAIF-insured until the date upon which the FDIC permits 
it to transfer to the Bank Insurance Fund.  If an association that 
fails the test has not yet requalified and has not converted to a 
bank, its new investments and activities are limited to those 
permissible for a national bank, and it is limited to national bank 
branching rights in its home state.  In addition, the association 
is immediately ineligible to receive any new FHLBank advances and 
is subject to national bank limits for payment of dividends.  
<PAGE>  55

If such association has not requalified or converted to a bank 
within three years after the failure, it must divest itself of all 
investments and cease all activities not permissible for a national 
bank.  In addition, it must repay promptly any outstanding FHLBank 
advances.  If any association that fails the QTL test and is 
subject to these restrictions on activities and advances is 
controlled by a holding company, then within one year after the 
failure the holding company must register as a bank holding company 
and become subject to all restrictions applicable to bank holding 
companies.

Transactions with Affiliates

Transactions involving a savings association and its affiliates are 
subject to sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act.  
Generally, these requirements and limits restrict certain of these 
transactions to a percentage of the Bank's capital and require all 
such transactions to be on terms at least as favorable to the Bank 
as are available in transactions with non-affiliates.  In addition, 
a savings association may not lend to any affiliate engaged in 
activities not permissible for a bank holding company or acquire 
shares of most affiliates.  These provisions currently apply to 
transactions between the Bank and the Holding Company or the Bank 
and the Holding  Company's non-savings association subsidiaries.  
Affiliates of Great Southern include, without limitation, any 
company whose management is under a common controlling influence 
with the management of the Bank, any company controlled by 
controlling stockholders of the Bank, any company with a majority 
of interlocking directors with the Bank, and any company sponsored 
and advised on a contractual basis by the Bank or any of its 
affiliates.

Certain of these transactions are also subject to conflict of 
interest regulations enforced by the OTS.  These regulations 
require regulatory approvals for transactions by the Bank with 
affiliated persons involving the sale or purchase of property.  
Affiliated persons include officers, directors and controlling 
stockholders.  These conflict of interest regulations also impose 
restrictions on loans to affiliated persons.  FIRREA also subjects 
loans to directors and executive officers to section 22(h) of the 
Federal Reserve Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder. 
Among other things, such loans must be made on terms substantially 
the same as loans to unaffiliated individuals.


FDICIA

In December, 1991, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation 
Improvements Act of 1991 became law; this statute, and the 
regulations adopted under it, have made extensive changes in 
federal banking law.  Some of these changes are discussed below.







<PAGE>  56

Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action.

FDICIA requires the Federal banking regulators to take prompt 
corrective action if an institution fails to satisfy certain 
minimum capital requirements.  Under the law, capital requirements 
include a leverage limit, a risk-based capital requirement, and a 
core capital requirement.  All institutions, regardless of their 
capital levels, will be restricted from making any capital 
distribution or paying any management fees that would cause the 
institution to fail to satisfy the minimum levels for any of its 
capital requirements.  An institution that fails to meet the 
minimum level for any relevant capital measure (an 
"undercapitalized institution") will be: (i) subject to increased 
monitoring by the appropriate Federal banking regulator; (ii) 
required to submit an acceptable capital restoration plan within 45 
days; (iii) subject to asset growth limits; and (iv) required to 
obtain prior regulatory approval for acquisitions, branching and 
new lines of business.

The capital restoration plan must include a guarantee by the 
institution's holding company that the institution will comply with 
the plan until it has been adequately capitalized on average for 
four consecutive quarters, under which the holding company would be 
liable up to the lesser of 5% of the institution's total assets or 
the amount necessary to bring the institution into capital 
compliance as of the date it failed to comply with its capital 
restoration plan.  Critically undercapitalized institutions, 
defined as those with a ratio of tangible equity to total assets of 
2 percent or less, must be seized and placed in receivership or 
conservatorship within 90 days of becoming critically 
undercapitalized, unless the Federal banking regulators determine 
that other action would better resolve the problems of such insured 
depository institution at the least possible long-term loss to the 
deposit insurance fund.  If the regulator determines that an 
institution is in unsafe or unsound condition, or is engaged in an 
unsafe or unsound practice that it has not corrected, it may 
reclassify an institution from the "well capitalized", "adequately 
capitalized", or "undercapitalized" categories into the next lower 
category.  Great Southern does not expect the prompt corrective 
action provisions to have a significant effect on its operations.

Conservatorship and Receivership Amendments.   FDICIA amended the 
grounds for the appointment of a conservator or receiver for an 
insured depository institution to include the following events: (i) 
consent by the board of directors of the institution; (ii) 
cessation of the institution's status as an insured depository 
institution; (iii) the institution is undercapitalized and has no 
reasonable prospect of becoming adequately capitalized when 
required to do so, fails to submit an acceptable capital plan or 
materially fails to implement an acceptable capital plan; and (iv) 
the institution is critically undercapitalized or otherwise has 
substantially insufficient capital.  FDICIA provides that an 
institution's directors shall not be liable to its stockholders or 
creditors for acquiescing in or consenting to the appointment of 
the FDIC or FTC as receiver or conservator or to a supervisory 
acquisition of the institution.


<PAGE>  57

Standards for Safety and Soundness.

FDICIA required the Federal bank regulatory agencies to prescribe 
standards for all insured depository institutions and depository 
institution holding companies relating to: (i) internal controls, 
information systems and audit systems; (ii) loan documentation; 
(iii) credit underwriting; (iv) interest rate risk exposure; (v) 
asset growth; and (vi) compensation, fees and benefits.  The 
compensation standards prohibit employment contracts, compensation 
or benefit arrangements, stock option plans, fee arrangements or 
other compensatory arrangements that provide excessive 
compensation, fees or benefits or could lead to material financial 
loss.  In addition, the Federal banking regulatory agencies are 
required to prescribe by regulation standards specifying: (i) 
maximum classified assets to capital ratios; (ii) minimum earnings 
sufficient to absorb losses without impairing capital; and (iii) to 
the extent feasible, a minimum ratio of market value to book value 
for publicly traded shares of depository institutions and 
depository institution holding companies.

Other Deposit Insurance Reforms.

FDICIA amended the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to prohibit 
insured depository institutions that are not well-capitalized from 
accepting brokered deposits unless a waiver has been obtained from 
the FDIC; and it limits the rate of interest that institutions 
receiving such waivers may pay on brokered deposits.  Deposit 
brokers are required to register with the FDIC.  FDICIA directed 
the FDIC to establish a risk-based assessment system for deposit 
insurance, as previously discussed.  As required by FDICIA, the 
Federal bank regulatory agencies adopted regulatory guidelines for 
real estate loans that became effective on March 19, 1993.  The 
Federal bank regulatory agencies are required to biannually review 
risk-based capital standards to ensure that they adequately address 
interest rate risk, concentration of credit risk and risks from 
non-traditional activities.

Other Regulatory or Legislative Developments.

The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 
1994 ("Riegle-Neal"), effective September 1995, eliminated certain 
restrictions which have heretofore prevented bank holding companies 
located in states other than those contiguous to the state of 
Missouri from acquiring banks or bank holding companies located 
within the state of Missouri.  As a result of the Act, financial 
institutions located outside the midwest are now permitted, with 
certain limitations, to acquire Missouri banks.  If such 
acquisitions occur, they may present added competition for the 
Bank.

Effective August 28, 1995, the State of Missouri amended certain 
provisions of the Missouri statutes, implementing minimum periods a 
bank must be in existence to be eligible for acquisition by an out-
of-state bank holding company and limiting out-of-state de novo 
charters in the State of Missouri.



<PAGE>  58

The above Act will also, effective June 1, 1997 (unless the 
Missouri Legislature otherwise provides), repeal certain 
restrictions on the establishment of interstate branches located 
within the state of Missouri.  If the Missouri Legislature does not 
take action to prevent such repeal, out-of-state financial 
institutions will, effective on such date, be able to establish 
certain interstate branches within the state of Missouri.  
Management believes that any such actions would likely benefit its 
competitors.  In addition, various legislative proposals relating 
to depository institutions have been or are expected to be 
introduced in the current session of Congress.  Such proposals may 
restrict, regulate or otherwise alter the power or ability of the 
Bank and other depository institutions to sell mutual funds and 
annuities or insurance products.  No prediction can be made as to 
what, if any, legislative action will ultimately be taken, or what 
affect it may have on the Bank.

Certain Transactions

Prior to FIRREA, Great Southern, like many financial institutions, 
followed a policy of granting loans to its officers, directors and 
employees, generally for the financing of their personal residences 
at favorable interest rates. Generally, residential loans were 
granted at interest rates 1% above the Bank's cost of funds, 
subject to annual adjustments.  These loans were made in the 
ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms and 
collateral as those of comparable transactions prevailing at the 
time, and did not involve more than the normal risk of 
collectibility or present other unfavorable features.  All loans by 
Great Southern to its directors and executive officers are subject 
to OTS regulations restricting loans and other transactions with 
affiliated persons of Great Southern.  Effective August 9, 1989, 
FIRREA required that all such transactions be on terms and 
conditions comparable to those for similar transactions with non-
affiliates.  In addition, all loans and other transactions between 
Great Southern and its affiliates will be subject to approval by a 
majority of the directors of Great Southern, including a majority 
of its disinterested directors.

Holding Company Regulation

The Holding Company is a non-diversified unitary savings and loan 
holding company subject to regulatory oversight of the OTS.  As 
such, the Holding Company is required to register and file reports 
with the OTS and is subject to regulation and examination by the 
OTS.  In addition, the OTS has enforcement authority over the 
Holding Company and its non-savings association subsidiaries.  
Among other things, this authority permits the OTS to restrict or  
prohibit activities that are determined to be a serious risk to the 
subsidiary savings association.  The Bank must notify the OTS at 
least 30 days before declaring any dividend to the Holding Company.







<PAGE>  59

As a unitary savings and loan holding company, the Holding Company 
generally is not subject to the regulatory limitations that are 
applicable to the scope of permissible activities of diversified 
multiple holding companies.  If the Holding Company were to acquire 
control of another savings association as a separate subsidiary, it 
would become a multiple savings and loan holding company, and the 
activities of the Holding Company and any of its subsidiaries 
(other than the Bank or any other SAIF-insured savings association) 
would become subject to new restrictions.

If the Bank fails the QTL test, the Holding Company may not 
commence or continue after such failure, directly or through its 
other subsidiaries, any business activity other than (i) furnishing 
or performing management services for a subsidiary savings 
association, (ii) conducting an insurance agency or an escrow 
business, (iii) holding or managing or liquidating assets owned by 
or acquired from a subsidiary savings association, (iv) holding or 
managing properties used or occupied by a subsidiary savings 
association, (v) acting as trustee under deeds of trust, (vi) 
performing other activities authorized by the Board of Governors of 
the Federal Reserve System and not prohibited or limited by 
regulation, or (vii) purchasing, holding or disposing of stock 
acquired in connection with the qualified stock issuance if 
approved as required by law.

The Holding Company must obtain approval from the OTS before 
acquiring control of any other SAIF-insured association.  Such 
acquisitions may sometimes be prohibited if they result in a 
multiple savings and loan holding company controlling savings 
associations in more than one state.  However, such interstate 
acquisitions may be permitted based on specific state authorization 
or in a supervisory acquisition of a failing savings association.

The Holding Company and any of its non-savings association 
subsidiaries may acquire up to 5%, in the aggregate, of the voting 
stock of any non-subsidiary savings association or savings and loan 
holding company.  This 5% limitation does not apply to certain 
types of acquisitions, including acquisitions as a bona fide 
fiduciary, as an underwriter or in an account solely for trading 
purposes.


















<PAGE>  60

Federal Reserve System

The Federal Reserve Board requires all depository institutions to 
maintain reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW 
and Super NOW checking accounts) and non-personal time deposits.  
Reserves of 3% must be maintained against net transaction accounts 
of $52 million or less (subject to adjustment by the Federal 
Reserve Board) and a reserve of 10% (subject to adjustment by the 
Federal Reserve Board to a level between 8% and 14%) must be 
maintained against the portion of total transaction accounts in 
excess of such amount.  In addition, a reserve of between 0% to 9% 
(subject to adjustment by the Federal Reserve Board) must be 
maintained on non-personal time deposits.  Under current 
regulations, this reserve percentage is 0%.  The Bank may elect not 
to maintain reserves against approximately $4.3 million in accounts 
subject to these reserve requirements.  At June 30, 1996, the Bank 
was in compliance with these reserve requirements.  The balances 
maintained to meet the reserve requirements imposed by the Federal 
Reserve Board may be used to satisfy liquidity requirements that 
may be imposed by the OTS.  See "Regulation - Liquidity" above.

Savings associations are authorized to borrow from the Federal 
Reserve Bank "discount window," but Federal Reserve Board 
regulations require associations to exhaust other reasonable 
alternative sources of funds, including FHLBank advances, before 
borrowing from the Federal Reserve Bank.

Federal Home Loan Bank System

The Bank is a member of the FHLBank of Des Moines, which is one of 
12 regional FHLBanks that, prior to the enactment of FIRREA, were 
regulated by the FHLBB.  FIRREA separated the home financing credit 
function of the FHLBanks from the regulation and insurance of 
accounts for savings associations by transferring oversight over 
the FHLBanks to a new federal agency, the Federal Home Financing 
Board (FHFB).  As part of that separation, the savings association 
supervisory and examination function performed by the FHLBanks was 
transferred to the OTS.

As a member, Great Southern is required to purchase and maintain 
stock in the FHLBank of Des Moines in an amount equal to the 
greater of 1% of its aggregate unpaid residential mortgage loans, 
home purchase contracts or similar obligations at the beginning of 
each year (if less than 30% of its assets were so invested, the 
calculation must be made as if 30% of its assets were so invested), 
or 5% (or such greater percentage as established by the FHLBank) of 
its outstanding FHLBank advances.  At June 30, 1996, Great Southern 
had $10 million in FHLBank stock, which was in compliance with this 
requirement.  In past years, the Bank has received substantial 
dividends on its FHLBank stock.  Over the past five years, such 
dividends have averaged 8.1% and were 7.2% for fiscal year 1996.  
Certain provisions of FIRREA require all 12 FHLBanks to provide 
financial assistance for the resolution of troubled savings 
associations and to contribute to affordable housing programs 
through direct loans or interest subsidies on advances targeted for 
community investment and low- and moderate-income housing projects.  


<PAGE>  61

These contributions could cause rates on the FHLBank advances to 
increase and could affect adversely the level of FHLBank dividends 
paid and the value of FHLBank stock in the future.

Each FHLBank serves as a reserve or central bank for its members 
within its assigned region.  It is funded primarily from proceeds 
derived from the sale of consolidated obligations of the FHLBank 
System.  It makes loans to members (i.e., advances) in accordance 
with policies and procedures established by the board of directors 
of the FHLBank. These policies and procedures are subject to the 
regulation and oversight of the FHFB.

FIRREA established collateral requirements for FHLBank advances.  
First, all advances must be fully secured by sufficient collateral 
as determined by the FHLBank.  FIRREA prescribed eligible 
collateral as fully disbursed, whole first mortgage loans not more 
than 90 days delinquent or securities evidencing interests therein, 
securities (including mortgage-backed securities) issued, insured 
or guaranteed by the federal government or any agency thereof, 
FHLBank deposits and, to a limited extent, real estate with readily 
ascertainable value in which a perfected security interest may be 
obtained.  All member's stock in the FHLBank also serves as 
collateral for indebtedness to the FHLBank.  Other forms of 
collateral may be accepted as over collateralization or, under 
certain circumstances, to renew advances outstanding on the date of 
enactment of FIRREA.  All long-term advances are required to be 
used to provide funds for residential home financing.  The FHFB has 
established standards of community service that members must meet 
to maintain access to long-term advances.  FIRREA authorizes the 
FHLBanks to make short-term liquidity advances to solvent 
associations in poor financial condition but with prospects of 
improving, upon the request of the OTS. In addition, pursuant to 
FHFB regulations, each FHLBank is required to establish programs 
for affordable housing that involve interest subsidies from the 
FHLBanks on advances to members engaged in lending at subsidized 
interest rates for low- and moderate-income, owner-occupied housing 
and affordable rental housing, and certain other community 
purposes.


FEDERAL AND STATE TAXATION

The following discussion contains a summary of certain federal and 
state income tax provisions applicable to the Holding Company and 
the Bank.  It is not a comprehensive description of the federal 
income tax laws that may affect the Holding Company and the Bank.  
The following discussion is based upon current provisions of the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the "Code") and Treasury and 
judicial interpretations thereof.









<PAGE>  62

General


The Holding Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated 
federal income tax return using the accrual method of accounting 
for the taxable year ending June 30.  All corporations joining in 
the consolidated federal income tax return are jointly and 
severally liable for taxes due and payable by the consolidated 
group.  The following discussion primarily focuses upon the 
taxation of the Bank, since the federal income tax law contains 
certain special provisions with respect to savings and loan 
associations. 

Thrift associations, such as the Bank, are subject, with certain 
exceptions, to the provisions of the Code generally applicable to 
corporations.



Bad Debt Reserve  -  Fiscal 1996 and prior

A thrift association is permitted to establish a reserve for bad 
debts and to deduct each year a reasonable addition to that reserve 
in computing its taxable income.  Thrift associations that meet 
certain tests relating to the nature of their regulatory 
supervision, business operations, income and assets ("qualifying 
thrifts") are allowed to calculate their allowable bad debt 
deduction under the special rules of section 593 of the Code.  In 
order to be a qualifying thrift, at least 60% of the thrift's 
assets in any year must be qualifying assets (including United 
States government securities, loans secured by an interest in 
residential real property or deposits, cash and certain other 
assets).  The Bank presently is, and in the past has been, a 
qualifying thrift.

The Code provides different methods for computing the additions to 
the bad debt reserve for qualifying real property loans and 
nonqualifying loans.  Generally, a qualifying real property loan 
includes any loan secured by an interest in improved real property 
or real property to be improved out of the proceeds of the loan and 
a regular or residual interest in certain real estate mortgage 
investment conduits.  A nonqualifying loan is any loan which is not 
a qualifying real property loan.  A qualifying thrift may elect 
annually to compute its addition to its reserve for qualifying real 
property loans under the more favorable of (i) a method based on 
the thrift's actual loss experience (the "experience method") or 
(ii) a method based on a specified percentage of the thrift's 
taxable income, as adjusted (the "percentage of taxable income" 
method).  The addition to the reserve for nonqualifying loans must 
be computed under the experience method.








<PAGE>  63

Under the experience method, the deductible annual addition is the 
amount necessary to increase the balance of the reserve at the 
close of the taxable year to the greater of (i) the amount which 
bears the same ratio to loans outstanding at the close of the 
taxable year as the total net bad debts sustained during the 
current and five preceding taxable years bears to the sum of the 
loans outstanding at the close of those six years or (ii) the 
balance in the reserve account at the close of the last taxable 
year beginning before 1988 (the "base year"), subject to further 
limitations in the event total loans outstanding is less than the 
total amount outstanding at the close of the base year.

Under the percentage of taxable income method, a qualifying thrift 
generally is allowed to deduct as an addition to its bad debt 
reserve an amount equal to 8% of such thrift's taxable income 
determined without regard to such deduction and with certain 
adjustments.  The amount thus computed is reduced by the amount 
permitted as a deduction for nonqualifying loans under the 
experience method.  The maximum effective federal income tax rate 
(exclusive of the corporate minimum tax) payable by a thrift using 
the percentage of taxable income method is approximately 31.3% 
compared to a maximum rate of 34% for other corporations.

Although the Bank files a consolidated federal income tax return 
with the Holding Company, the Bank generally is permitted to take 
only its separate taxable income (as adjusted for this purpose) 
into account when computing its allowable bad debt reserve 
deduction under the percentage of taxable income method.  If, 
however, the Holding Company or another member of the consolidated 
group incurs tax losses in activities "functionally related" to the 
Bank's business, those losses will reduce the Bank's taxable income 
for purposes of the bad debt reserve computation.  In addition, 
taxable income will be reduced by net operating loss carryforwards 
of the Bank.

The amount of the addition to the reserve for losses on qualifying 
real property loans under the percentage of taxable income method 
cannot exceed the amount necessary to increase the balance of the 
reserve for losses on qualifying real property loans at the close 
of the taxable year to 6% of the balance of the qualifying real 
property loans outstanding at that time.  In addition, the thrift's 
aggregate addition to its reserve for losses on qualifying real 
property loans cannot exceed the greater of (i) the amount which, 
when added to the addition to the reserve for losses on 
nonqualifying loans, equals the amount by which 12% of the total 
deposits and withdrawable accounts of depositors of the thrift at 
the close of the taxable year exceeds the sum of the thrift's 
surplus, undivided profits and reserves at the beginning of such 
year or (ii) the amount determined under the experience method.  As 
of June 30, 1996, the 6% and 12% limitations did not restrict the 
deduction available to the Bank.







<PAGE>  64

To the extent that a qualifying thrift's reserve for losses on 
qualifying real property loans exceeds the amount that would have 
been allowed under the experience method (the "excess bad debt 
reserve"), and if the thrift makes distributions to stockholders 
that are considered to result in withdrawals from that excess bad 
debt reserve, the amounts withdrawn are to be included in such 
thrift's gross income in the year of withdrawal.  A dividend 
distribution shall be treated as first out of the thrift's current 
or accumulated earnings and profits, as calculated for federal 
income tax purposes.  Dividend distributions in excess of such 
thrift's current or accumulated earnings and profits are considered 
to be from the thrift's excess bad debt reserve, to the extent of 
the excess bad debt reserve, and thus includible in the thrift's 
taxable income.  The amount considered to be withdrawn by such a 
distribution is the amount of the distribution that is deemed to 
have been made from the bad debt reserve plus the amount necessary 
to pay tax with respect to the withdrawal, so the total amount 
included in gross income, when reduced by the income tax 
attributable to the inclusion of such amount in gross income, is 
equal to the amount of  the distribution that is deemed to have 
been made from the bad debt reserve.  Distributions in redemption 
of stock and distributions in partial or complete liquidation of a 
thrift will be considered to be first out of such thrift's excess 
bad debt reserve and then out of the thrift's current or 
accumulated earnings and profits.


Bad Debt Reserves - Beginning Fiscal Year 1997

Legislation recently passed by Congress and signed by the President 
repealed the bad debt reserve method of accounting for bad debts by 
large thrifts for taxable years beginning after 1995 (year ended 
June 30, 1997 for the Bank).  The legislation requires applicable 
excess reserves accumulated after 1987 (year ended June 30, 1988 
for the Bank) be recaptured and restored to income over a six year 
period with the first year beginning after 1995 (year ended June 
30, 1997 for the Bank), and eliminates recapture of the applicable 
excess reserves accumulated prior to 1988 for thrifts converting to 
bank charters.  The post 1987 recapture may be delayed for a one- 
or two-year period if certain residential loan origination 
requirements are met.  The amount of post 1987 recapture for the 
Bank is estimated at $5 million which would create tax of 
approximately $2 million, or $333,000 per year for each of the six 
years.  The $2 million of tax has been accrued by the Bank in 
previous periods and would not be reflected in earnings when paid.

Beginning with the year ending June 30, 1997, the Bank will be 
required to follow the specific charge-off method which only allows 
a bad debt deduction equal to actual charge-offs, net of 
recoveries, experienced during the fiscal year of the deduction.  
In a year where recoveries exceed charge-offs, the Bank would be 
required to include the net recoveries in taxable income.






<PAGE>  65

Interest Deduction

In the case of a financial institution, such as the Bank, no 
deduction is allowed for the pro rata portion of its interest 
expense which is allocable to tax-exempt interest on obligations 
acquired after August 7, 1986.  A limited class of tax-exempt 
obligations acquired after August 7, 1986 will not be subject to 
this complete disallowance rule.  For tax-exempt obligations 
acquired after December 31, 1982 and before August 8, 1986 and for 
obligations acquired after August 7, 1986 that are not subject to 
the complete disallowance rule, 80% of interest incurred to 
purchase or carry such obligations will be deductible.  No portion 
of the interest expense allocable to tax-exempt obligations 
acquired by a financial institution before January 1, 1983 which is 
otherwise deductible will be disallowed.  The interest expense 
disallowance rules cited above do not significantly impact the 
Bank.

Alternative Minimum Tax

Corporations generally are subject to a 20% corporate alternative 
minimum tax ("AMT").  The AMT  must be paid by a corporation to the 
extent it exceeds that corporation's regular federal income tax 
liability.  The AMT is imposed on "alternative minimum taxable 
income," defined as taxable income with certain adjustments and tax 
preference items, less any available exemption.  Such adjustments 
and items include, but are not limited to, (i) net interest 
received on certain tax-exempt bonds issued after August 7, 1986; 
(ii) 75% of the difference between adjusted current earnings and 
alternative minimum taxable income, as otherwise determined with 
certain adjustments; and (iii) the amount by which a financial 
institution's allowable deduction for the taxable year for 
additions to its reserve for bad debts exceeds the deduction that 
would have been allowable if the financial institution had made 
additions to its bad debt reserve for all taxable years on the 
basis of actual experience.  Net operating loss carryovers may be 
utilized, subject to adjustment, to offset up to 90% of the 
alternative minimum taxable income, as otherwise determined.  A 
portion of the AMT paid, if any, may be credited against future 
regular federal income tax liability.  In addition, for taxable 
years beginning after 1986 and before 1996, corporations generally 
are also subject to an environmental tax equal to 0.12% of the 
excess of the alternative minimum taxable income (computed without 
regard to any net operating loss deduction) for a taxable year in 
excess of $2 million.

Missouri Taxation

Missouri based thrift institutions, such as the Bank, are subject 
to a franchise tax which is imposed on the thrift's net income at 
the rate of 7% of the net income.  The net income is determined 
without regard for any net operating losses.  Missouri based thrift 
institutions are entitled to a credit against the franchise tax for 
all other state or local taxes on thrift institutions, except taxes 
on real and tangible personal property owned by the Bank and held 
for lease or rental to others, contributions paid pursuant to the 
Missouri unemployment compensation law, social security taxes and 
sales and use taxes.
<PAGE>  66

The Holding Company and its non-financial subsidiaries are subject 
to an income tax which is imposed on the corporation's net income 
at the rate of 6.25% for fiscal year 1996.  The return is filed on 
a consolidated basis by all members of the consolidated group 
excluding the Bank.

Delaware Taxation

As a Delaware corporation, the Holding Company is required to file 
annual returns with and pay annual fees to the State of Delaware.  
The Holding Company is also subject to an annual franchise tax 
imposed by the State of Delaware based on the number of authorized 
shares of Holding Company common stock.

Examinations

The Holding Company and its consolidated subsidiaries have not been 
audited recently by the Internal Revenue Service with respect to 
consolidated federal income tax returns, and as such, these returns 
have been closed without audit through June 30, 1992.


Item 2. Properties.

The following table sets forth certain information concerning the 
main office and each branch office of the Company at September 1, 
1996.  The aggregate net book value of the Company's premises and 
equipment was $6.7 million at June 30, 1996 and 1995.  See also 
Note 5 and Note 12 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in the Annual Report to Stockholders, which 
portions are incorporated herein by reference.  Substantially all 
buildings owned are free of encumbrances or mortgages.  In the 
opinion of Management, the facilities are adequate and suitable for 
the needs of the Company.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Owned    Lease Expiration
                                                                Year         or      (Including Any
                          Location                             Opened      Leased     Renewal Option)
- -----------------------------------------------------------    ------     -------   -----------------
<S>                               <C>                           <C>       <C>             <C>
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AND MAIN BANK:

1451 E. Battlefield               Springfield, Missouri         1976       Owned           N/A

BRANCH BANKS:

430 South Avenue                  Springfield, Missouri         1983       Owned           N/A
Kearney at Kansas                 Springfield, Missouri         1976      Leased*         2000
2410 N. Glenstone                 Springfield, Missouri         1977      Leased*         2003

1955 S. Campbell                  Springfield, Missouri         1979      Leased*         2030
2631 E. Sunshine                  Springfield, Missouri         1988      Leased*         2017
1580 W. Battlefield               Springfield, Missouri         1985      Leased*         2018

</TABLE>

<PAGE>  67
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Owned    Lease Expiration
                                                                Year         or      (Including Any
                          Location                             Opened      Leased     Renewal Option)
- -----------------------------------------------------------    ------     -------   -----------------
<S>                               <C>                           <C>       <C>             <C>

723 N. Benton                     Springfield, Missouri         1985       Owned           N/A
Highway 14                        Nixa, Missouri                1995      Leased*         2019
1505 S. Elliot                    Aurora, Missouri              1985      Leased          2003

Jefferson & Washington            Ava, Missouri                 1982       Owned           N/A
110 W. Hensley                    Branson, Missouri             1982       Owned           N/A
919 W. Dallas                     Buffalo, Missouri             1976       Owned           N/A

527 Ozark                         Cabool, Missouri              1989      Leased          2004
400 S. Garrison                   Carthage, Missouri            1990       Owned           N/A
1710 E. 32nd Street               Joplin, Missouri              1989      Leased*         2031

Highway 00 and 13                 Kimberling City, Missouri     1984       Owned           N/A
528 S. Jefferson                  Lebanon, Missouri             1978      Leased*         2018
714 S. Neosho Boulevard           Neosho, Missouri              1991       Owned           N/A

Highway 54                        Osage Beach, Missouri         1987       Owned           N/A
1000 W. Jackson                   Ozark, Missouri               1985       Owned           N/A
208 South Street                  Stockton, Missouri            1988      Leased          2005

323 E. Walnut                     Thayer, Missouri              1978      Leased*         2011
1210 Parkway Shopping Center      West Plains, Missouri         1975       Owned           N/A
1729 W. Highway 76                Branson, Missouri             1983       Owned           N/A

TRAVEL OFFICES:

5000 E. Kearney                   Springfield, Missouri         1982      Leased          2000

INSURANCE OFFICES

500 N. Third                      Ozark, Missouri               1988      Leased          1995
_____________________________
*  Building owned with land leased.


The Bank maintains depositor and borrower customer files on an on-
line basis, utilizing a telecommunications network, portions of 
which are leased.  The book value of all data processing and 
computer equipment utilized by the Bank at June 30, 1996 was 
$578,000 compared to $732,000 at June 30, 1995.  Management has a 
disaster recovery plan in place with respect to the data processing 
system.

The Bank maintains a network of Automated Teller Machines ("ATMs").  
The Bank utilizes an external service for operation of the ATMs 
which also allows access to the various national ATM networks.  A 
total of 31 ATMs are located at various branches and primarily 
convenience stores located throughout southwest and central 
Missouri.  The book value of all ATMs utilized by the Bank at June 
30, 1996 was $485,000 compared to $250,000 at June 30, 1995.

<PAGE>  68

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings.

The Registrant and its subsidiaries are involved as plaintiff or 
defendant in various legal actions arising in the normal course of 
their businesses.  While the ultimate outcome of the various legal 
proceedings involving the Registrant and its subsidiaries cannot be 
predicted with certainty, it is the opinion of management, after 
consultation with legal counsel, that these legal actions currently 
are not material to the Registrant.


Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the 
quarter ended June 30, 1996.

Executive Officers of the Registrant.

Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K and Instruction 3 
to Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K, the following list is included as 
an unnumbered item in Part I of this Form 10-K in lieu of being 
included in the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement, which was 
filed on September 18, 1996.

The following information as to the business experience during the 
past five years is supplied with respect to executive officers of 
the Holding Company and its subsidiaries who are not directors of 
the Holding Company and its subsidiaries.  There are no 
arrangements or understandings between the persons named and any 
other person pursuant to which such officers were selected.  The 
executive officers are elected annually and serve at the discretion 
of their respective Boards of Directors with the exception of 
Messrs Gibson and Turner who have three year employment contracts 
with the Bank.

Don M. Gibson.   Mr. Gibson, age 52, is the Executive Vice 
President, Chief Operating Officer and Secretary of the Bank and 
the Holding Company.  He has supervisory responsibilities over the 
Bank's Information Services, Accounting, Staff and Line Operations 
areas.  Mr. Gibson has been with the Holding Company and the Bank 
since 1975.

Richard F. Huff.   Mr. Huff, age 74, is Senior Vice President in 
charge of lending at the Bank.  Mr. Huff rejoined the Bank in 
January 1990 after working as CEO from January 1987 to December 
1989 for Huff Investment, an unaffiliated real estate management 
company that manages the Bank's foreclosed assets.  Mr. Huff was in 
charge of managing the Bank's foreclosed assets during his 
employment with Huff Investment.  Prior to joining Huff Investment, 
Mr. Huff had been with Great Southern since January of 1964, 
serving much of that time as Senior Vice President in charge of 
Real Estate lending.






<PAGE>  69

Joseph W. Turner.   Mr. Turner, age 32, is Executive Vice President 
and General Counsel of the Holding Company and Executive Vice 
President and General Counsel in the commercial lending area at the 
Bank.  Mr. Turner joined the Bank in June 1991 and the Holding 
Company in 1995.  Prior to joining the Bank, Mr. Turner was an 
attorney with the Kansas City, Missouri law firm of Stinson, Mag 
and Fizzell.  His practice was primarily in the areas of banking, 
creditors' rights and securities regulation.  Mr. Turner is the son 
of Mr. William V. Turner and the nephew of Mr. Albert F. Turner.

Steven G. Mitchem.   Mr. Mitchem, age 44, is Vice President and 
Credit Administration Officer of the Bank.  He joined the Bank in 
1990 and is responsible for administration of commercial lending 
policies and banking regulatory matters.  Prior to joining the 
Bank, Mr. Mitchem was a Senior Bank Examiner for the Federal 
Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Richard L. Wilson.   Mr. Wilson, age 38, is Vice President and 
Controller of the Bank.  He joined the Bank in 1986 and is 
responsible for the internal and external financial reporting of 
the Holding Company and its subsidiaries.  Mr. Wilson is a 
Certified Public Accountant.




































<PAGE>  70

PART II

Responses incorporated by reference into the items under Part II of 
this Form 10-K are done so pursuant to Rule 12b-23 and General 
Instruction G(2) for Form 10-K.

Item 5.  Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related 
Stockholder Matters.

Market Information.   The Holding Company's Common Stock is listed 
on the National Market System of the National Association of 
Securities Dealers Automated Quotations ("NASDAQ") System under the 
symbol "GSBC."  The following table sets forth the range of high 
and low bid prices of the Holding Company's Common Stock during 
each fiscal quarter for fiscal years 1996 and 1995, as reported by 
the NASD.  These quotations represent bid prices between dealers 
and do not include retail mark-up, mark-down, or commissions and do 
not necessarily represent actual transactions.

                                                  Dividend
                             High      Low      Declarations
   Fiscal Year 1996
      First Quarter         $22 1/2   $ 18 1/2      $.175
      Second Quarter         24 3/4     21 1/4       .175
      Third Quarter          25 3/8     23 1/4       .175
      Fourth Quarter         27 1/2     24           .175

   Fiscal Year 1995
      First Quarter         $19       $14 3/4       $.15
      Second Quarter         18 1/2    16 1/2        .15
      Third Quarter          17 3/4    16 1/2        .15
      Fourth Quarter         19 1/4    16 1/2        .15

The last inter-dealer bid for the Holding Company's Common Stock on 
June 30, 1996 was $27 1/2.

Holders.   For a discussion of the holders of the Registrant's 
Common Stock and dividends on such stock, see the discussion under 
the headings "Corporate Profile" and "Stock Information" of the 
Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are incorporated 
herein by reference.

















<PAGE>  71

Item 6.  Selected Financial Data.

     The following selected financial data should be read in 
conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements, 
the notes thereto and the accompanying independent accountant's 
opinion included in the Company's Annual Report to Stockholders, 
which portions are incorporated herein by reference, and the 
following information is qualified by reference thereto.


</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       Year Ended June 30,
                                                     ----------------------------------------------------------
                                                       1996      1995      1994      1993      1992      1991
                                                     --------  --------  --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                            (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
<S>                                                  <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
Summary Statement of Condition Information:
  Year-end assets                                    $668,105  $622,380  $534,740  $515,293  $470,672  $468,083
  Year-end loans receivable, net                      546,759   519,255   443,750   419,527   352,016   337,066
  Year-end allowance for loan losses                   14,356    14,601    13,636    10,590     6,029     4,732
  Year-end available-for-sale securities                4,656     3,091        --        --        --        --
  Year-end held-to-maturity securities                 49,182    46,970    48,217    51,218    61,915    82,105
  Year-end foreclosed assets held for sale, net         9,862     7,999     6,070     8,909    12,386    14,230
  Year-end allowance for foreclosed asset losses        1,086       933     1,549     1,192     1,117     1,186
  Year-end intangibles                                  1,102     1,187     1,272     1,356     1,441     1,526
  Year-end deposits                                   397,055   384,327   358,987   326,611   350,346   349,070
  Year-end total borrowings                           197,265   168,270   108,587   130,253    64,994    63,462
  Year-end stockholders' equity (retained
    earnings substantially restricted)                 67,808    62,982    61,462    51,723    49,879    49,229
  Average loans receivable, net                       536,695   486,726   433,638   376,620   340,365   339,027
  Average total assets                                643,885   584,536   527,842   479,261   465,107   462,969
  Average deposits                                    385,734   374,011   340,933   327,647   347,511   352,793
  Average stockholders' equity                         65,355    60,942    57,758    50,618    49,614    48,500
  Year-end number of deposit accounts                            59,461    58,054    53,960    53,251    56,419
  Year-end number of full-service offices                  25        25        25        25        27        27

Summary Income Statement Information:
  Interest income                                     $53,938   $47,110  $ 38,988  $ 37,162  $ 39,023  $ 42,929
  Interest expense                                     28,132    23,411    17,433    16,810    22,136    28,333
  Net interest income                                  25,806    23,699    21,555    20,352    16,887    14,596
  Provision for loan losses                             1,451     1,319     3,023     4,677     2,857     1,864
  Net interest income after provision for loan losses  24,355    22,380    18,532    15,675    14,030    12,732
  Service charge fees                                   2,382     2,273     2,131     1,762     1,623     1,602
  Net realized gains on sales of
    available-for-sale securities                         680        21        --        --        --        --
  Net realized gains on sales of loans                    540        92       565       387       295        61
  Income (expense) on foreclosed assets                   728      (243)      588       352    (1,068)     (647)
  Other non-interest income                             5,994     5,771     5,565     4,692     4,282     3,993
  Non-interest expenses                                16,274    15,293    14,661    13,599    12,826    13,110
  Income before income taxes                           18,405    15,001    12,720     9,269     6,336     4,631
  Provision for income taxes                            7,111     5,513     4,379     4,533     2,544     1,368
  Income before change in accounting principle         11,294     9,488     8,341     4,736     3,792     3,263
  Change in accounting principle                           --        --     3,375        --        --        --
  Net income                                          $11,294  $  9,488  $ 11,716  $  4,736  $  3,792  $  3,263



<PAGE>  72

                                                                         Year Ended June 30,
                                                       ---------------------------------------------------------
                                                         1996      1995      1994      1993      1992      1991
                                                       -------   -------   -------   -------   -------   -------
Per Common Share Data:
  Primary earnings per common share:
    Income before change in accounting principle        $2.46     $2.00     $1.66      $.92      $.68      $.55
    Change in accounting principle                         --        --       .67        --        --        --
    Net Income                                           2.46      2.00      2.33       .92       .68       .55
  Fully diluted earnings per common share:
    Income before change in accounting principle        $2.45     $2.00     $1.66      $.92      $.68      $.55
    Change in accounting principle                         --        --       .67        --        --        --
    Net Income                                           2.45      2.00      2.33       .92       .68       .55
  Cash dividends declared                                 .70       .60       .31       .13       .13       .13
  Book value                                            15.39     13.99     12.84     10.82      9.86      8.40
  Average shares outstanding                            4,463     4,581     4,824     4,899     5,550     5,904
  Year-end actual shares outstanding                    4,406     4,503     4,785     4,779     5,055     5,583
  Year-end fully diluted shares outstanding             4,609     4,739     5,028     5,127     5,550     5,904

Earnings Performance Ratios:
  Return on assets                                       1.75%     1.62%     1.58%     0.99%     0.82%     0.70%
  Return on stockholders' equity                        17.28     15.57     14.44      9.36      7.64      6.73
  Non-interest expense to average total assets           2.53      2.62      2.78      2.77      2.99      2.83
  Average interest rate spread                           3.82      3.86      4.05      4.20      3.55      2.93
  Year-end interest rate spread                          3.72      3.79      3.87      3.71      3.60      3.28
  Net interest margin (1)                                4.21      4.25      4.31      4.51      3.87      3.36
  Adjusted efficiency ratio (excl. foreclosed assets)   45.97     48.01     49.17     50.01     55.56     64.73
  Average interest-earning assets as a percentage
    of average interest-bearing liabilities            108.4     109.3     107.4     108.3     107.5     106.6




                                                                         Year Ended June 30,
                                                       ---------------------------------------------------------
                                                         1996      1995      1994      1993      1992      1991
                                                       -------   -------   -------   -------   -------   -------

Asset Quality Ratios:
  Allowance for loan losses/year-end loans               2.63%     2.81%     3.08%     2.52%    1.71%      1.41%
  Non-performing assets/year-end
    loans and foreclosed assets                          2.83      2.25      3.33      3.40     4.64       5.58
  Allowance for loan losses/non-performing loans       243.03    380.23    186.04    237.50   130.89      88.90
  Net charge-offs/average loans                           .32       .07     (0.01)     0.03     0.46       0.74
  Non-performing assets/average total assets             2.62      2.18      2.83      3.04     3.89       4.48

Capital Ratios:
  Average stockholders' equity to average assets        10.15%    10.43%    10.94%    10.56%    10.67%    10.47%
  Year-end tangible stockholders' equity to assets      10.09      9.93     11.26      9.77     10.28     10.20
  Common dividend pay-out ratio                         28.6      30.0      13.9      13.0      17.6      21.7

<FN>
(1) For further discussion, refer to Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of 
Operations-Average Balances, Interest Rates and Yields in the Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are 
incorporated herein by reference.
</TABLE>


<PAGE>  73

Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial 
Condition and Results of Operation.

See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition 
and Results of Operation" in the Annual Report to Stockholders, 
which portions are incorporated herein by reference.


Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Information.

The financial statements and supplementary data required by this 
Item are set forth in the Annual Report to Stockholders, which 
portions are incorporated herein by reference.  All financial 
statement schedules should be read in conjunction with the 
financial statements the notes thereto and the related report of 
the Company's independent accountants in the Annual Report and are 
qualified by reference thereto.


Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on 
Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

None.


PART III

Responses incorporated by reference into the items under Part III 
of this Form 10-K are done so pursuant to Rule 12b-23 and General 
Instruction G(3) to Form 10-K.  The Registrant's Definitive Proxy 
Statement was electronically filed on September 18, 1996.


Item 10.  Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.

(a)  Directors of the Registrant

        See "Election of Directors" in the Registrant's Definitive
        Proxy Statement for fiscal year 1996, which portion is
        incorporated herein by reference.

(b)  Executive Officers of the Registrant

        Included under Part I of this Form 10-K.

(c)  Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act

        See "Beneficial Ownership Reports of Management" in the
        Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement for the fiscal year
        1996, which portion is incorporated herein by reference.


Item 11.  Executive Compensation.

See "Executive Compensation" in the Registrant's Definitive Proxy 
Statement, which portion is incorporated herein by reference except 
for the "Report on Executive Compensation" and the "Stock 
Performance Graph."
<PAGE>  74

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and 
Management.

(a)  See "Voting" in the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement,
     which portion is incorporated herein by reference.

(b)  See "Stock Ownership of Management" in the Registrant's
     Definitive Proxy Statement, which portion is incorporated
     herein by reference.


Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.

See "Indebtedness of Management and Transactions with Certain 
Related Persons" in the Registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement, 
which portion is incorporated herein by reference.


PART IV

Item 14.  Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on 
Form 8-K.

(a)  List of Documents Filed as Part of This Report

  (1)  Financial Statements

    The financial statements and related notes, together with the
    report of Baird, Kurtz and Dobson dated August 12, 1996, which
    appears on pages 26 through 39 of the Registrant's Annual
    Report to Stockholders, which portion is incorporated herein by
    reference.

  (2)  Financial Statement Schedules

    None.  The financial statement schedules are included in the
    Annual Report to Stockholders, which portions are incorporated
    herein by reference into Item 8 of Part II of this Form 10-K.

    All financial statement schedules should be read in conjunction
    with the financial statements the notes thereto and the related
    report of the Company's independent accountants in the Annual
    Report to Stockholders and are qualified by reference thereto.
    Schedules and exhibits for which provision is made in the
    applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and
    Exchange Commission not included with these financial statement
    schedules have been omitted because they were not applicable,
    significant or the required information is shown in the
    financial statements or note thereto.

  (3)  List of Exhibits

    Exhibits incorporated by reference below are incorporated by
    reference pursuant to Rule 12b-32.

     (2)  Plan of acquisition, reorganization, arrangement,
          liquidation, or succession

<PAGE>  75

            Inapplicable.

     (3)  Articles of incorporation and Bylaws

            (i) The Registrant's Certificate of Incorporation
            previously filed with the Commission (File no. 33-
            30597) as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Registration
            Statement on Form S-1 dated August 18,1989, is
            incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 3.1.

            (ii) The Registrant's Bylaws, as amended, previously
            filed with the Commission (File no. 33-30597) as
            Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form
            10-K for fiscal year ended June 30, 1990, is
            incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 3.2.

     (4)  Instruments defining the rights of security holders,
          including indentures

            Inapplicable.

     (9)  Voting trust agreement

            Inapplicable.

    (10)  Material contracts

            The Registrant's 1989 Stock Option and Incentive Plan
            previously filed with the Commission (File no. 33-
            30597) as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant's Annual
            Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30,
            1990, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit
            10.1.

            An Employment Agreement dated February 1, 1990 between
            the Registrant and William V. Turner previously filed
            with the Commission (File no. 33-30597) as Exhibit 10.3
            to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1
            dated August 18, 1989, is incorporated herein by
            reference as Exhibit 10.2.

            An Employment Agreement dated February 1, 1990 between
            the Registrant and Don M. Gibson previously filed with
            the Commission (File no. 33-30597) as Exhibit 10.3 to
            the Registrant's Registration  Statement on Form S-1
            dated August 18, 1989, is incorporated herein by
            reference as Exhibit 10.3.

            An Employment Agreement dated July 1, 1993 between the
            Registrant and Joseph W. Turner previously filed with
            the Commission (File no. 33-30597) as Exhibit 10.4 to
            the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
            fiscal year ended June 30, 1994, is incorporated herein
            by reference as Exhibit 10.4.

    (11)  Statement re computation of per share earnings

            Inapplicable.
<PAGE>  76

    (12)  Statements re computation of ratios

            Inapplicable.

    (13)  Annual report to security holders, Form 10-Q or quarterly
          report to security holders

            The Annual Report to Stockholders was filed
            electronically on September 18, 1996.

    (16)  Letter re change in certifying accountant

            Inapplicable.

    (18)  Letter re change in accounting principles

            Inapplicable.

    (21)  Subsidiaries of the registrant

            A listing of the Registrant's subsidiaries is attached
            hereto as Exhibit 21.

    (22)  Published report regarding matters submitted to vote of
          security holders

            Inapplicable.

    (23)  Consents of experts and counsel

            The consent of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson to the
            incorporation by reference into the Form S-8 previously
            filed on December 16, 1992 with the Commission (File
            no. 33-55832) of their report on the financial
            statements included in this Form 10-K, is attached
            hereto as Exhibit 23.

    (24)  Power of attorney

            Inapplicable.

    (27)  Financial Data Schedule

            Inapplicable.

    (28)  Information from reports furnished to state insurance
          regulatory authorities

            Inapplicable.

    (99)  Additional Exhibits

            Inapplicable.

(b)  Reports on Form 8-K

        None.

<PAGE>  77

                            SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of  the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused 
this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto 
duly authorized.

                              GREAT SOUTHERN BANCORP, INC.
                                      (Registrant)

                              By /s/ William V. Turner
                              William V. Turner
                              President and Chairman of the Board
                                 (Principal Executive Officer)

Date:  September 18, 1996

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on 
behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the date 
indicated.

   Signature           Capacity in which signed        Date
- ---------------------  ------------------------- ------------------
/s/ William V. Turner   President, Chairman of   September 18, 1996
                        the Board and Director
                         (Principal Executive 
                               Officer)

/s/Don M. Gibson       Executive Vice President, September 18, 1996
                        Secretary and Treasurer
                         (Principal Financial
                         Officer and Principal
                          Accounting Officer)

/s/ William E. Barclay         Director          September 18, 1996

/s/ Larry D. Frazier           Director          September 18, 1996

/s/ William K. Powell          Director          September 18, 1996

/s/ Albert F. Turner           Director          September 18, 1996
















<PAGE>  78

                      Great Southern Bancorp, Inc.
                          Index to Exhibits
 Exhibit
   No.                        Document                    Page No.
- ---------  --------------------------------------------  ----------
   11      Statement Re Computation of Earnings Per Share . . 79
   21      Subsidiaries of the Registrant . . . . . . . . . . 80
   23      Consent of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson,
             Certified Public Accountants . . . . . . . . . . 81
   27      Financial Data Schedule, which is submitted
             electronically to the Securities and Exchange
             Commission for information only and not filed. . 82














































<PAGE>  79

                                                        Exhibit 11
                                                        ----------
Statement Re Computation of Earnings Per Share

                                              Year Ended June 30,
                                            -----------------------
                                               1996         1995
                                            ----------   ----------
Primary:
   Average shares outstanding                4,463,096    4,581,146
   Net effect of dilutive stock options -
     based on the treasury stock method
     using average market price                134,706      153,670
                                             ---------    ---------
Primary Shares                               4,597,802    4,734,816
                                             =========    =========
Net income                                 $11,293,955   $9,487,930
                                            ==========    =========
Per share amount                                 $2.46        $2.00
                                                  ====         ====


Fully diluted:
   Average shares outstanding                4,463,096    4,581,146
   Net effect of dilutive stock options -
     based on the treasury stock method
     using the higher of average market
     price or period end market price          145,979      157,587
                                             ---------    ---------
Fully diluted shares                         4,609,075    4,738,733
                                             =========    =========
Net income                                 $11,293,955   $9,487,930
                                            ==========    =========
Per share amount                                $2.45         $2.00
                                                 ====          ====























<PAGE>  80

                                                         Exhibit 21
                                                         ----------

                   SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT

                                                        State of
                                          Percentage  Incorporation
                                              of            or
     Parent               Subsidiary       Ownership   Organization
- ----------------  ----------------------  ----------  -------------
Great Southern    Great Southern Bank        100%        Missouri
  Bancorp, Inc.

Great Southern    Great Southern             100%        Missouri
  Bancorp, Inc.    Financial Corporation

Great Southern    Great Southern Capital     100%        Missouri
  Bancorp, Inc.    Management, Inc.

Great Southern    Appraisal Services, Inc.   100%        Missouri
  Financial
  Corporation




































<PAGE>  81


     We consent to the incorporation by reference on Registration 
Statement No. 33-55832 on Form S-8 dated December 16, 1992, of our 
report on the consolidated financial statements and schedules 
included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of GREAT SOUTHERN 
BANCORP, INC. for the year ended June 30, 1996.


                                        /s/ Baird, Kurtz & Dobson




August 12, 1996
Springfield, Missouri






<TABLE> <S> <C>

       
<ARTICLE>         9
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from 
the Consolidated Balance Sheet and the Consolidated Statement of 
Income filed as part of the annual report on Form 10-K and is 
qualified in its entirety by reference to such annual report on 
Form 10-K.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER>     1,000
<S>                           <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>             JUN-30-1996
<PERIOD-END>                  JUN-30-1996
<CASH>                              6,661
<INT-BEARING-DEPOSITS>             22,953
<FED-FUNDS-SOLD>                        0
<TRADING-ASSETS>                        0
<INVESTMENTS-HELD-FOR-SALE>         4,656
<INVESTMENTS-CARRYING>             49,182
<INVESTMENTS-MARKET>               49,291
<LOANS>                           546,749
<ALLOWANCE>                        14,356
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                    668,105
<DEPOSITS>                        397,055
<SHORT-TERM>                      137,316
<LIABILITIES-OTHER>                 5,978
<LONG-TERM>                        59,949
                   0
                             0
<COMMON>                               62
<OTHER-SE>                         67,746
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES-AND-EQUITY>    668,105
<INTEREST-LOAN>                    49,884
<INTEREST-INVEST>                   3,850
<INTEREST-OTHER>                      204
<INTEREST-TOTAL>                   53,938
<INTEREST-DEPOSIT>                 17,003
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                 28,132
<INTEREST-INCOME-NET>              25,806
<LOAN-LOSSES>                       1,451
<SECURITIES-GAINS>                    680
<EXPENSE-OTHER>                    16,274
<INCOME-PRETAX>                    18,405
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY>         18,405
<EXTRAORDINARY>                         0
<CHANGES>                               0
<NET-INCOME>                       11,294
<EPS-PRIMARY>                        2.46
<EPS-DILUTED>                        2.45
<YIELD-ACTUAL>                       4.21
<LOANS-NON>                         5,907
<LOANS-PAST>                            0
<LOANS-TROUBLED>                        0
<LOANS-PROBLEM>                     4,725
<ALLOWANCE-OPEN>                   14,601
<CHARGE-OFFS>                       1,993
<RECOVERIES>                          297
<ALLOWANCE-CLOSE>                  14,356
<ALLOWANCE-DOMESTIC>               14,356
<ALLOWANCE-FOREIGN>                     0
<ALLOWANCE-UNALLOCATED>             4,733





</TABLE>


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