ICBA Engages Digital Assets Expert to Inform Solutions and Banker Education

Washington, D.C. (Jan. 7, 2026) — The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) today announced a consulting agreement with Wade Peery, longtime community bank executive and digital assets expert. This strategic relationship underscores ICBA’s commitment to advocacy, education and innovation in community banking as the broader financial services industry and its regulatory environment evolve.

“The community banking sector is fortunate to have Wade as a guiding voice on digital assets,” ICBA Senior Executive Vice President for Innovation Kevin Tweddle said. “This move represents a clear promise to remain at the forefront of the evolving technology landscape and to ensure community banks across the country have a keen understanding of the business implications to better serve their customers.”

Peery will serve as an advisor on matters related to digital asset custody, stablecoins, tokenized deposits, and a variety of digital asset solutions. As part of his engagement, Peery will help shape ICBA’s digital asset education curriculum, provide input on policy matters, and play a significant role in evaluating digital asset providers and investment opportunities for the benefit of ICBA members. Peery, who most recently served as chief innovations officer at FirstBank in Nashville, Tenn., will serve as a guest speaker and subject matter expert at industry events and a contributor to ICBA’s award-winning magazine, Independent Banker.

“I’m excited to get to work on behalf of the nation’s community banks, helping to chart a path forward in the digital asset space,” Peery said. “The rapid pace of change marked by new legislation, technological advancements, and forthcoming rulemaking, requires careful consideration to ensure community banks are well prepared to confront any challenge and seize every opportunity that lies ahead.”

About ICBA

The Independent Community Bankers of America® has one mission: to create and promote an environment where community banks flourish. We power the potential of the nation’s community banks through effective advocacy, education, and innovation.