Results include
Jan 2, 2024
As CFIs strive to make branches and in-person experiences for customers more appealing, the importance of the sensory experience should not be overlooked. We discuss why factoring in those experiences makes good sense.
Nov 7, 2023
One of the top retail banking trends in 2023 is the evolution of branches. It’s not enough for branches to be spaces in which customers complete transactions. Smart branches integrate with digital offerings and attract current and potential customers in new ways.
Aug 22, 2023
Despite lower foot traffic since the pandemic, there is a renewed focus on branches as FIs find that customers still want human interaction for more complex operations. To complement the digital services they offer, CFIs should focus on transforming their branches from transaction-based sites to advice centers.
Jul 17, 2023
More and more CFIs are leapfrogging into markets far away from their home turf. We detail a few examples of why they are doing this and review some best practices to make sure your far-away branches succeed.
Mar 8, 2023
Branches-on-wheels are not just for disaster recovery anymore. More CFIs are using them for a whole host of purposes — including serving “bank deserts” in both rural and urban areas, hosting financial literacy classes, and marketing their brand along the way. We discuss how to use these mobile branches effectively.
Aug 4, 2022
The pandemic may have driven more people to digital banking channels, but CFIs shouldn’t go overboard overhauling all of their branches to strip away essentials — particularly human staff. Branch design going forward should be a mix of styles, depending on customer makeup and geography, with a “hub and spoke” approach that is flexible to accommodate changing characteristics.
Apr 27, 2023
Localizing the design of your branches can boost customer loyalty, enhance your particular brand, and make new customers walking in the door immediately feel at home. Here are some strategies other CFIs have used to add local flair to their branches that can help inspire your own ideas.
Sep 9, 2022
Pandemic shutdowns accelerated the adoption of self-service technologies. Now, more and more customers at CFIs expect such services in both digital channels and inside branches. We explore some of the most popular DIY technologies.
Jun 2, 2022
Mergers and branch consolidation have accelerated in recent years, leaving an increasing number of rural communities without access to bank branches. Could CFI’s turn these banking deserts into banking opportunities?
Mar 13, 2024
The gig economy is a fast-growing sector that CFIs cannot afford to ignore. We discuss some of the primary ways in which institutions can ensure they meet the needs of these self-employed customers.
Mar 11, 2024
Private equity firms and other private investors are showing more interest in CFI deals. We detail what CFIs should consider in the event a PE offer arrives and how to prepare if your CFI accepts a PE investment.
Jan 11, 2024
Employers have begun swapping conventional executive titles with new, trendy alternatives. But it’s not just about the titles — the roles themselves are changing as well, something younger talent with a yearning for a purpose-driven culture especially craves. We explore why these new executive roles may help you get a leg up on the competition for key talent.
Dec 21, 2023
Offering financial services to unbanked and underbanked consumers can help CFIs grow their customer bases and strengthen their communities. We discuss the most common groups who are not utilizing banking services, the factors behind their financial decisions, and how you can reach them as customers.
Dec 18, 2023
The need for speed has become a central goal for cross-border payments. Smaller businesses stand to benefit from improvements. We discuss how cross-border payments can be used to encourage customer loyalty.
Dec 13, 2023
Business customers are switching financial institutions for a variety of reasons, but the new FI may end up being the same as the old FI — or worse. We detail the pros and cons that business customers weigh when they consider a switch — and what your CFI can do to make sure you’re the winner on either side of the equation.
Nov 16, 2023
Smart contracts offer the promise of cost savings and greater efficiencies, and have already begun to see adoption within the banking industry. But while industry experts predict that smart contracts will eventually become the norm, there are barriers to consider before outright embracing them.
Nov 8, 2023
Using the power of online platforms to offer banking services to customers remotely, video banking can help CFIs retain their competitive advantage and meet customer expectations. We discuss some of the key benefits for CFIs.
Oct 24, 2023
Increased competition from neobanks for small businesses and Gen Z customers, rising tech budgets, and emerging opportunities are just a few of the themes highlighted in Bank Director’s 2023 Technology Survey. We summarize some of the key findings and their relevance to CFIs.
Oct 4, 2023
Emerging technologies and changing work arrangements are increasing the banking industry’s abilities to better serve disabled people — both customers and employees alike. We highlight new inclusive innovations within the industry that CFIs should consider taking advantage of.
Sep 19, 2023
As the number of banks continues to shrink, Fed Gov. Bowman says the US needs to find a way to encourage more startups. While some would-be de novo investors resort to buying existing banks and rebuilding them to circumvent the de novo process, Bowman advocates for revisions to de novo regulations. We discuss the logic behind each solution.