December 2025

ICBA Live San Diego

Digital transformation in banking is reshaping how financial institutions operate and engage with customers. However, as digital capabilities expand, so does the attack surface.

When colleagues asked me to lead an AI training a few years ago, I wasn’t an expert. What became clear quickly was that AI would reshape financial services faster than expected. Today, every bank — no matter the size — needs to think seriously about AI strategy and policy.

Deposit competition remains fierce. According to IntraFi’s latest survey of bank executives, 93% say they expect deposit competition to remain at current levels or increase over the next year.

Since we started seeing Halloween decorations in August, I felt it was high time we started thinking about the holiday season. More specifically, as it relates to community banking. And still more specifically, about a checklist for the balance sheet.

ATM jackpotting — a form of cyber-enabled theft in which criminals manipulate ATMs to dispense cash illicitly — has historically been more prevalent internationally.

For 40 years, Richey May has provided assurance and advisory services to clients throughout the United States, helping organizations of all sizes translate complex technical concerns into clear executive decisions.

Nearly 300 attendees laced up their boots and joined us for an unforgettable 52nd Annual Convention this September at The Hythe in Vail, Colorado. ICBC extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored and exhibited. You helped make this year’s gathering one for the camp history books.

For community banks, digital transformation has moved from an industry colloquialism to a punch list reality. While we have always offered exceptional digital services that complement relationship banking, the emergence of artificial intelligence, the demand for integrated experiences and the 24/7 nature of banking have taken our plans to the next level.

Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed an alarming upsurge in the number of nonbank financial technology firms applying for national bank trust charters.