“Even Amended, The Hagerty-Alsobrooks Bill Remains The Wrong Answer”
An op-ed by Preston Kennedy and Noah Wilcox, both past chairmen of the ICBA, argues the revised deposit insurance bill would still give credit unions a government-backed opening into business, nonprofit, and municipal accounts, even at a lower coverage cap. Kennedy and Wilcox warn that a permanent increase in coverage would intensify competition for commercial deposits and accelerate credit unions’ expansion into business banking, among other issues.
“Credit Unions Defend Bill And Emphasize Business Banking Benefits”
Credit union advocates pushed back on that critique but highlighted the same underlying dynamic, pointing to the bill’s role in expanding their ability to serve business customers, including payroll accounts. Their response underscores how the proposal could deepen credit unions’ position in commercial banking, reinforcing the competitive implications raised by Kennedy, Wilcox, and other critics.
“Most Expect AI Will Not Impact Bank Staffing Levels”
Most bank execs do not expect artificial intelligence to significantly reduce staffing in the near term, according to IntraFi’s most recent quarterly survey. Cybersecurity and fraud ranked as top concerns, followed by fears of an economic downturn and uncertainty around Fed leadership. At the same time, pressure is building in deposit competition and loan demand.
“Global Uncertainty Has Banks Revisiting Strategy”
Bank leaders are reassessing strategic plans as geopolitical risk, market volatility, and emerging credit concerns create a less predictable environment. Credit quality and capital levels remain solid, but executives are being urged to stress-test liquidity and align long-term strategy with shifting conditions.
“‘We Are a New Banking Desert’: Oregon Bank Group CEO”
Oregon approved a tax credit program to stimulate de novo activity, offering up to $1 million annually for qualifying banks starting in 2027. The state hasn’t chartered a new bank in nearly 20 years, and its base has shrunk significantly. “We’re 10 years away from losing the community banking model in Oregon all together,” Oregon Bankers Association CEO Scott Bruun said.
“How BMO Is Leaning Into Fundamentals to Drive More U.S. Deposits”
BMO is reshaping its U.S. footprint by selling branches in some regions and expanding in core markets like California and Arizona. Its strategy combines physical expansion with digital acquisition efforts, with a focus on improving deposit share as competition for funds remains strong.
“‘That’s Not Over’: Powell’s Final Warning”
In his final presser as Fed chair, Jerome Powell warned the central bank’s ability to set policy without political interference is under pressure, pointing to ongoing legal challenges. He said he will remain on the board until the DOJ probe of building renovations “is well and truly over,” while dissent among Fed officials signals less consensus on the future path of rates.
“How Financial Institutions Can Grow Loans in Uncertain Times”
Consumer debt continues to rise, but elevated delinquencies and financial strain are narrowing lenders’ margin for error. Banks should pursue targeted credit strategies that rely on better data and more precise underwriting over broad loan growth, this article says.
“How Banks Can Win Future Wealth Customers”
Banks are targeting “high earners not rich yet,” or HENRYs, as a long-term strategy, focusing on building relationships early before assets accumulate. Institutions that combine digital tools with advisory access are better positioned to retain these customers as their wealth grows, this article says.
In Other News
Research on top-earning women challenges common assumptions about leadership traits, OpenAI insiders explain how to create your own chief of staff with ChatGPT, and here’s why you should always treat your AI model with respect (yes, really).