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Can fintechs enhance your bank’s marketing campaign?
Customized, well-thought-out interactions are integral to wooing new customers and retaining existing ones. We asked several banking leaders how they’ve employed fintech to ramp up their marketing...
Six ways data can boost your community bank's brand
Combining data with customer feedback can help community banks understand what customers think about their services and turn those thoughts into action.
How to build up your Gen Z customer base
Generation Z represents one in four Americans today, and they’re looking for their bank. To attract this new generation of potential customers, community banks must understand what banking means to...
De novos in the time of COVID
The 2008 financial crisis kept the number of de novos low for years but had started to rebound. Then, the pandemic happened. Today, de novos and beginner banks face a unique set of challenges and...
Why community banks are acquiring nonbanks
Acquiring a wealth management firm, fintech, title business or other nonbank organization can unlock new opportunities for community banks. But experts say that finding the right business to...
Why going public is still an option
In recent years, some community banks have made the decision to go public as part of their strategy for growth. In 2020, however, COVID-19 cast uncertainty over the market. But experts say...
Why your bank should be budgeting for the big picture
Your community bank’s strategic plan often takes things like innovation, growth and succession planning into account, but does the budget? How can your bank plan for these often unpredictable...
ICBAs State of Community Banking survey results are in
Our annual State of Community Banking Survey of ICBA member banks reports that you’re planning to grow through creating efficiencies, introducing new technology, and investing in digital marketing....
How to boost creativity at your bank
Large corporations that lack the agility of startups often turn to “intrapreneurship” to make time and space for creative development in the workplace. Should community banks be doing the same?
Q&A: Growth-Related Challenges for the Evolving Community Bank
Whether growing organically or through M&A, even positive change can present challenges. We talked to two community bankers about considerations and issues they’ve noticed as their banks have grown.
Customer Retention Strategies for Community Banks
Looking to improve customer retention? Here’s how community banks strengthen loyalty through appreciation events, feedback programs and community engagement strategies.
Single-Location Community Banks That Thrive
Can community banks succeed with just one location? Four single-branch community banks share how staying small lowers overhead, strengthens customer relationships and supports long-term growth.
How Can Community Banks Best Manage Change?
During a merger or acquisition, success hinges on addressing employee concerns early. We asked bankers and consultants for their best tips for building trust and mitigating uncertainty among staff...
The Key to Winning Over SMBs With Merchant Services
Local businesses appreciate having resources that will give them the boost they need to succeed. With merchant services, community banks can offer those resources and stay competitive.
Adding a New Business Line? Key Bank Tips
Thinking of expanding your bank’s services? Explore expert advice on creating specialty lines, conducting due diligence and ensuring long-term profitability.