Results include
Nov 29, 2023
A challenging economy hasn’t deterred startups, which continue to be formed at record rates. As CFIs seek to identify the most promising startups seeking lending, there a few key things they should be looking for.
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.
Aug 10, 2023
Sole proprietorships are the fastest-growing demographic in new business startups. They represent an area of opportunity for CFIs willing to tailor service offerings and dedicate staff to micro companies, yielding strong banking relationships that can grow with these tiny businesses.
Mar 21, 2024
Providing added value for business customers can be as simple as sharing existing resources within your organization such as conference room space or wi-fi. We discuss some options of nontraditional benefits you can provide to help your small business customers.
Oct 17, 2023
When we think about credit card rates and perks, we tend to think of retail consumers, but credit cards are a vital tool for small businesses as well. We review the benefits of business credit cards and how those benefits can be used to entice businesses to apply.
Jul 6, 2023
Should your CFI consider acquiring a struggling fintech? As many promising fintechs run up against financial woes and find their stocks underperforming, a number of institutions are looking at the M&A opportunities this situation presents. Here’s what you should know about the risks and benefits of acquiring fintechs and how to determine the prospects of individual fintechs.
May 23, 2023
Thousands of tech workers have been laid off, creating a much bigger pool of available talent. Trouble at neobanks and fintechs can present acquisition or partnership opportunities, as well as laid-off tech workers. CFIs can leverage these trends by scouting newly available workers and exploring acquisitions to alleviate staffing challenges and broaden their customer base.
May 15, 2023
Recent bank failures and subsequent federal rescues can cause customers to wonder about the stability of all financial institutions. CFIs that have sponsored local events and supported local organizations may be able to reap some benefits from the goodwill they’ve accrued in their community. Read on for ideas.
May 11, 2023
Social media and self-service tools that let customers access and move money both played a role in recent bank failures. While these types of technology are important parts of any CFI’s toolkit, they also add risk for organizations. We provide five tips to help manage these risks.
Apr 19, 2023
Loan-to-deposit ratios rose throughout 2022, with average CFI rates nearing 80%. Banks are also borrowing more from alternative sources to make up for lagging deposit growth.
Mar 16, 2023
Who says CFIs can’t innovate? We feature a number of very creative CFIs that are coming up with novel ways to serve their customers. Then we detail some pointers on how to best innovate in a safe and sound manner.
Jan 9, 2023
The latest Fed rate hikes have some challenger banks offering CD rates above 4%. CFIs may be reluctant to compete at that level, even as deposits outflows happen, but there are strategies CFIs can use to help convince good customers to leave deposits where they are.
Oct 26, 2022
Fintechs — once viewed as an existential threat to community financial institutions — are now increasingly seen as offering institutions an opportunity to innovate and thrive. However, fintech partnerships carry risks and the regulators are watching closely. We summarize six key areas from the latest due diligence guidance to ensure a successful and responsible partnership.
Jun 8, 2022
When CFIs create “green niches” that support fast-growing companies with environmental-friendly business models, it can prove to be quite profitable. Then add the bonus of delighting investors and satisfying regulators, well then, the trifecta can bring great dividends indeed. We share several ways that your institution can create a green niche through real industry examples.