Travillian: Recent Episodes
Travillian
Travillian is a boutique executive search and talent advisory firm exclusively serving the financial services & financial technology industries.
http://www.travilliangroup.com/ http://www.travilliannext.com/
Amber Buker, Chief Research Officer at Travillian, sits down with Alana Levine, Chief Revenue Officer at Fintel Connect, and Melissa Rawl, Director of Product Marketing at Live Oak Bank, to explore the findings from the 2025–2026 Financial Industry Affiliate Marketing Report.
The discussion covers how affiliate marketing drives growth for banks, shifts in consumer demand, he rise of lending products, AI’s role in shaping search, and practical advice for executives considering this channel.00:20 – 03:03 | Setting the Stage: What Is Affiliate Marketing?03:03 – 05:16 | Live Oak’s Expansion and Digital Advantage05:16 – 07:44 | Key Findings from Fintel Connect’s 2025 Report07:44 – 10:13 | Market Insights, Data, and AI’s Role10:13 – 13:14 | Navigating Economic Uncertainty & Product Strategy13:14 – 17:12 | Product Development and Consumer Expectations17:12 – 20:57 | Advice for Bank Leaders Entering Affiliate Marketing20:57 – 22:38 | Where to Find the Report
Host Amber Buker, Chief Research Officer at Travillian, sits down with Rick Geloff, EVP of Bank of North Dakota, to discuss how the only state-owned bank in the U.S. is tackling fintech disruption head-on.Geloff’s role was created to focus on strategic initiatives, including stablecoin, embedded finance, and deposit diversification, all while supporting North Dakota’s community banks. From building a culture of innovation to preparing boards for risk discussions, this conversation offers bankers practical takeaways on navigating emerging technologies without losing sight of mission and community.00:00 – 01:09 | Introduction01:09 – 03:36 | Why Innovation Matters03:36 – 05:01 | Stablecoins and New Payment Rails05:01 – 07:07 | How to Prioritize Innovations07:07 – 09:03 | Three Core Filters for Bank of North Dakota09:03 – 11:16 | Use Cases and Peer Collaboration11:16 – 13:44 | Partnerships and Board Concerns13:44 – 16:24 | Risk Mitigation and Education16:24 – 17:46 | AI and Back-Office Efficiencies17:46 – 20:18 | Leadership Journey
Host Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Zach Boyda, Treasurer at CFG Bank, and Adam Mustafa, CEO and Co-Founder of Invictus Group. Together, they discuss the evolution of stress tests from a regulatory requirement into a proactive tool for capital planning, growth, and strategy. The conversation covers CFG Bank’s journey from $1 billion to $5.5 billion in assets, the role of tailored stress testing in managing healthcare and CRE concentrations, and how banks of all sizes can use capital planning to justify independence and optimize shareholder returns.
Travillian Next host Amber Buker, Chief Strategy Officer at Travillian, sits down with David Robinson, Director of Fintech and Embedded Banking at Academy Bank, to uncover how a family-owned community bank became one of the fastest movers in embedded banking.
From record-breaking onboarding with Treasury Prime to building a fintech partner profile that balances growth with risk, David shares practical lessons for banks and fintechs alike. Whether you’re exploring embedded partnerships or looking to scale responsibly, this conversation delivers real takeaways for fintech leaders.
00:21 | Academy Bank’s Fintech Story02:00 | Standing Up the Embedded Banking Practice03:20 | API Infrastructure & Agility03:53 | Decision-Making at a Family-Owned Bank05:17 | Building a Partner Profile07:01 | Close Collaboration with Fintech Partners07:56 | Deal Flow & Market Reality09:39 | Applying a Bank’s Risk Lens to Fintech11:41 | Advice for Other Banks Entering Embedded Banking12:59 | Vertical Opportunities & Future Focus14:02 | White-Label & Investment Potential15:32 | Lessons from Year One16:55 | Where to Connect with Academy Bank
Host Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Lori Bettinger, President of BancAlliance, and Steve Lundgren, CEO of Denali State Bank, to explore how community banks are navigating growth, competition, and changing interest rate environments. Lori also shares what makes BancAlliance’s network valuable for members across the country.
Lori will be moderating “Jazz Up Your Balance Sheet Management” at the upcoming NEXT Forum, October 8-9 at The Union League of Philadelphia, adding even more context to today’s discussion.
What if your savings account was so secure that even your account number couldn’t be used to steal from you? That’s the kind of question Austin Capital Bank is answering; Not by thinking like a traditional bank, but by operating more like a tech company.
In her debut interview on Travillian Next, Amber Buker, Chief of Research at Travillian, sits down with Erik Beguin, Founder and CEO of Austin Capital Bank, to dig into the launch of their latest innovation: Fort Knox, a high-security savings account engineered to be fraud-resistant by design. Instead of competing in the high-yield arms race, Erik and his team are creating a whole new category, one that prioritizes safety over speed and uses product design to outsmart fraudsters. Backed by a 50-person engineering team and built to withstand quantum-era threats, this conversation rewrites what a “community bank” even means.
All of the banks we talk to, for the most part, live and die by their spread. And I will tell you right now – same bank, same management, same yield curve, same products – 20 years ago kicks its butt on a spread perspective. It’s not even close. The business has been commoditized.”Scott Hildenbrand, Head of Piper Sandler Depository Fixed Income and Chief Balance Sheet Strategist, joins Travillian co-hosts Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech Search, and Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, to talk about why traditional playbooks aren’t working anymore and what kind of leadership banks need going forward.He shares what he's hearing in boardrooms across the country: M&A is stalled, balance sheets are still upside down, and CFOs are under growing pressure to move faster and think more strategically. He also breaks down where AI fits into all of this and why too many board meetings still feel like “dentist appointments”.
Community banks can’t afford to wait.In this Travillian Next episode, Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search, sits down with Allan Rayson, Founder of Finov8r and former Encore Bank CTO, to talk about what’s actually holding banks back from adopting AI.Allan brings a clear, on-the-ground perspective of what’s happening inside bank C-suites right now and what’s missing. From core tech limitations to cultural resistance, this episode lays out the real stuff that determines whether a bank is just surviving or truly evolving.
(00:00) Intro – Less Than 100 Banks Are Truly Engaged with AI
(00:36) Meet Allan Rayson – Career Background + Finov8r Origin
(01:58) Consulting Focus – Why Banks Are Calling Him Now
(03:34) What Banks Are Asking: Use Cases + Monetizing Tech
(06:06) The Elephant in the Room: AI’s Impact on Employment
(09:06) Why Mass Layoffs in Banking Are Unlikely
(10:30) How AI Will Reshape Bank Organizational Structure
(13:03) AI Call Center Use Case: Credit Unions vs. Banks
(15:08) Where Banks Are Starting with AI – Jog, Not Sprint
(17:19) Use Case Deep Dive – SBA Policy Interpretation
(19:20) Inside vs. Outside the Bank: AI Vendor Strategy
(21:02) Will Banks Hire Chief AI Officers?
(22:05) Why Community Bank C-Suites Need Modernizing
(23:22) Tech Mentality vs. Traditional Banking – Product Mindset
(24:45) Building Tech Muscle Memory in Banks
(26:05) AI Today Is Like the Internet in 1995
(27:09) Treasury Onboarding: Another AI Agent Opportunity
(28:34) What Makes a Bank Future-Proof (and What Doesn’t)
(30:15) Final Thoughts – Core Systems Will Make or Break You
(32:02) Call to Action – Start Somewhere
Travillian’s Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, and Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, reunite in this informative Talent Talk episode to unpack what’s really going on in banking leadership this year. From the “Trump bump” aftermath to why CFOs and CEOs are the hottest seats in town. They share fresh updates from across the country, including new leadership placements in Sacramento and Scranton, and break down what’s happening in banking talent right now. Relocation’s tougher, candidates are sharper, and the race for top execs is anything but business as usual.
Tying it all together is a nod to The Breakfast Club, as the hosts compare today’s innovation-hungry banks to teens in Saturday detention. Learning, evolving, and preparing to graduate to a better, bolder future.
What happens when a cannabis banking lawyer and a fintech recruiter sit down to talk shop? You get a candid conversation packed with strategy, clarity, and a few laughs along the way.
In this Travillian Next episode, Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian chats with Chris Van Dyck, Partner at Cogent Law, about what banks need to know before entering the cannabis space. They dig into the real risks (hint: it’s not legal trouble), why the SAFE Banking Act remains a long shot, and how savvy cannabis businesses are reshaping financial services.
In this episode of Travillian Next Trailblazers, host Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Kim Snyder, the founder and CEO of KlariVis, whose journey from CFO of a small community bank to leading a fast-growing data company is anything but typical.
With a clear passion for solving real problems in banking, Kim shares how lived experience, not just vision, shaped the creation of KlariVis. From launching just before the pandemic to scaling through grit and trust, she talks candidly about the highs, lows, and lessons of building a company that’s helping community banks compete with the big players.
When the dust settled on 2024's late-year burst of bank M&A, it left many wondering: was that a one-off or the beginning of something more?
In this episode of Travillian Next, Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy at Travillian, brings together two seasoned investment bankers, Josh Nolan of D.A. Davidson and Jason Hach of Piper Sandler, for a sharp and grounded discussion on what's fueling (and still hindering) depository M&A in 2025.
With humor, candor, and years of experience, they unpack the realities behind the optimism, the regulatory friction, and why "fortitude" might be the word of the year in banking.
“Don’t get too high with the highs or too low with the lows”.
Starting and scaling a bank in today’s world isn’t for the faint of heart, but Chuck Williams has done it with clarity, confidence, and more than four decades of experience guiding his hand.
In this episode of Travillian Next, hosted by Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy at Travillian, Chuck shares how Northpointe Bank pulled off the largest bank IPO in nearly eight years, navigated pandemic-era uncertainty, and continues to grow by staying true to client relationships and a tech-forward approach. From balancing risk and reward to building a mortgage and warehouse lending engine, this candid conversation offers lessons for any leader in financial services.
Starting a bank from scratch might sound like a wild idea in today’s world, but for Lori Maley, CEO of Bank of Bird-in-Hand (Est. 2013) and Keith Costello, CEO of Locality Bank (Est. 2022), it was a calling. In this episode of Travillian Next, host Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, sits down with two De Novo bank CEOs who defied the odds to build something truly needed. From horse-and-buggy banking in Amish country to digital-first tools for South Florida entrepreneurs, their stories are wildly different but driven by the same thing: a deep belief in serving their communities better than anyone else could.
Curiosity, mentorship, and sushi…three things that might not seem connected, until you meet Lee Easton.
In this episode of Travillian Next Trailblazers, host Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Lee Easton, Founder of iDENTIFY, to talk about how a childhood mentor and a love for solving complex problems led Lee into the heart of one of banking’s biggest challenges: data.
From building a unified data hub for community banks to navigating the industry’s slow shift to the cloud, Lee shares the ups, downs, and the driving force behind it all—genuine care for the people he serves. Whether you're a founder, a banker, or just someone who enjoys hearing how innovation actually happens, this one’s worth a listen!
In the latest episode of Travillian Next, Keith Daly, Principal of Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Caleb Stevens, Vice President - Marketing Manager of Capital Markets & Correspondent Banking at SouthState Bank, to discuss a topic often overlooked in the banking industry—marketing—and its crucial role in community banking. Together, they explore how community banks can leverage modern marketing strategies to stay competitive, from digital marketing to aligning sales and marketing teams.
In Part 2 of this Travillian Next conversation, we build on the lessons learned from Silvergate Bank’s rise and fall to explore how stablecoins and tokenized deposits could reshape the banking industry.
What you'll learn in this conversation:
- How Silvergate’s experience informs the potential risks and rewards of digital assets in banking
- What stablecoins and tokenized deposits mean for banks and payments systems
- Why banks need to adapt now to stay competitive in the world of digital finance
- How BitGo’s MD Ben Reynolds (former President of Silvergate Bank) and Michael Perito, Travillian’s Head of Bank Strategy, break down what comes next for the industry
This conversation is a must-watch for anyone in banking or fintech who wants to understand the future of digital assets, payments, and what banks must do to remain relevant.
What you’ll learn in this conversation:
In part 1 of this two-part series, we sit down with Ben Reynolds, Managing Partner and Head of Stablecoins at BitGo (Former President and Chief Strategy Officer at Silvergate Bank) and Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy at Travillian, taking a journey back in time to the early days of Silvergate Bank. A look back at Silvergate’s growth in crypto, its attempts at launching a global stablecoin, and its eventual wind-down, left many important lessons learned around novel banking activities which should help build a stronger foundation for innovation in the future.
Don’t miss Part 2 next week, with a deeper focus on the recent revival of crypto banking activities, and the significant possible disruption from stablecoins and tokenized deposits in the banking sector—subscribe to our mailing list for exclusive early access.
“This business is still people-driven.”
In this episode of Travillian Next, Travillian’s Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, and Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, sit down with Bob White, 1st Colonial Community Bank CEO, for a no-nonsense look at what’s shaping the banking industry today. From the battle for top commercial banking talent to the evolving role of technology, the conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities facing financial institutions.
Bob shares what he looks for when hiring, why internal training programs matter, and how mergers can be a smart talent play. Plus, they tackle deposit gathering, operational risk, and the future of branch banking.
Welcome back for episode 2 of Travillian Next Trailblazers! In this episode, host Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Kalyani Ramadurgam, CEO and Co-Founder of Kobalt Labs, to explore her transition from AI researcher at Stanford University to fintech entrepreneur.
Join Keith and Kalyani as they discuss how Kobalt Labs is using AI to streamline compliance, the pivotal role of customer feedback in shaping the platform, and the unexpected challenges that led to major pivots. Kalyani also shares insights from engaging with 200+ compliance officers and her vision for the future of fintech and community banking.
In this episode of Travillian Next, Travillian host Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search, and Gene Yoshida, an Independent Risk and Compliance Consultant who advises Banks and Fintechs, dive into the fast-moving world of stablecoins and what they mean for banks and fintechs. With regulation still taking shape, can community banks afford to sit this one out?
Gene breaks down where stablecoins are headed, why risk management is non-negotiable, and how digital asset firms are eyeing partnerships with traditional banks. If you want to understand the future of money movement, this one’s worth a listen.
MidWestOne Bank is a $6.2 billion in assets community bank with a footprint spanning from Denver to Minnesota to its home base in Iowa. As the bank's technology needs evolved, it became clear that the bank had outgrown its existing talent structure. But when is the right time to bring in a CIO—and how do you find the right leader to drive meaningful change?
In this conversation, hosted by Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, MOFG leaders share their journey from recognizing the need for a CIO to executing an executive search that led them to the right fit. Join MidWestOne's Chief Executive Officer, Chip Reeves, and new Chief Information Officer, Paul Ho-Sing-Loy, as they discuss the challenges of hiring at the executive level, why they chose to work with a recruiter, and what set their final candidate apart. Also, hear from the recruiter at Travillian, Patrick Cooney, who found Paul and helped him get excited about an opportunity that would see him relocate from New Jersey to Iowa.
For banks facing similar growing pains, this conversation offers key takeaways on knowing when to expand your leadership team—and how to make the right hire when you do.
Introducing Travillian Next Trailblazers: The Story Behind the Journey! The Trailblazer Series will dive deeper into the personal story of fintech founders, detailing how they started & grew their company in the face of rejection, resistance, and constant challenges. The life of an entrepreneur can be thrilling, disappointing, risky, rewarding, fulfilling, and of course stressful. The Trailblazer series will focus on the peaks and valleys of the journey with insights and advice for the listeners.
In our first episode, host Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Nikhil Lakhanpal, co-founder of Narmi, to explore what it really takes to build a game-changing fintech company. From shaking up the status quo in banking to navigating the chaos of COVID-19, Nikhil shares his journey—full of challenges, innovation, and lessons for aspiring founders.
- How do you know when it's time to start your own company?
- What do banks really think about new technology?
- Why is integration the key to better banking?
Don’t miss this deep dive into the entrepreneurial mindset, the future of digital banking, and the unexpected hurdles along the way. Listen now!
In one of our final Travillian Next episodes of 2024, join our Head of Bank Strategy, Michael Perito, for this can’t-miss conversation with one of the original architects of Banking-as-a-Service, the “Godfather” Brad Hanson. Brad’s career in banking and payments is vast, beginning at BankFirst, which later became The Bancorp, Inc. (TBBK), where he started a mortgage division and later a payment card division that became one of the largest in the country. He also was a key architect of building out a similar BaaS platform at Meta Financial Group, now Pathward Financial (CASH), where he lastly served as President and Chief Executive Officer.Brad more recently has started a bank venture in Mexico and serves on various Boards, including as Chair of the Audit Committee at MoneyLion (ML). In this episode, we start at the beginning, discussing why the BaaS business was built out initially and what value proposition it was looking to solve. We also cover the current state of the regulatory regime for innovative banks, what the future of banking could look like, and how the BaaS niche has changed in the last twenty-plus years. Brad has a unique and independent perspective of the current environment, and bankers across the country looking for motivation to innovate take Brad’s advice and “run where others aren’t.”
In this episode of Travillian Next, Travillian's Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search, and Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, break down what’s ahead for banking and fintech in 2025. With their sharp expertise and lively personalities, they make the tough topics—like succession planning, tech-driven leadership, and the demand for top-tier CFOs—sound anything but boring.
The trio breaks down why community banks need to balance big-picture vision with real-world execution, while also stressing the need for fresh strategies in risk management. Packed with insights and a few laughs, this episode shows how banks need to stay on their toes and adapt to a world that's changing faster than ever.
Earlier this year, Newsweek named DFCU Financial one of America’s Top Credit Unions. In this episode of Travillian Next, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, was lucky enough to sit down with DFCU’s President & CEO, Ryan Goldberg, to uncover the story behind the bank’s success and what some would consider “his bold career moves.” What drives a leader to leave a memorable career in community banking and take on the unique challenges of the credit union world?
They discuss DFCU’s strategic growth through M&A, the approach to leadership and mentorship, and how they’re shaping the next generation of talent. Ryan also shares his perspective on the very nuanced task of navigating industry transitions.
Chapters
00:00 | Introduction to DFCU Financial and Ryan Goldberg
07:38 | Transition from Community Banking to Credit Unions
14:39 | Navigating Criticism in Credit Union Acquisitions
19:41 | Retention and Integration Post-Acquisition
27:39 | The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth
Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, chats with Tom Ogaard, CEO of Native American Bank, about their efforts to boost economic opportunities in Native American communities.
Native American Bank partners with other native loan banks and non-bank native CDFIs to bring financial services to reservation-based communities. They focus on projects such as healthcare facilities, housing, and economic development, aiming to create new jobs and improve the economic opportunities for tribes and tribal communities.
Learn more about how Native American Bank is driving change through these strategic partnerships and innovative projects.
Topics Discussed:
- Native American Bank's Mission and Access to Capital
- Projects and Partnerships with Native Loan Banks and CDFIs
- Addressing Housing, Health Care, and Economic Development Needs
- Key Issues in Native American Communities
- Optimism for the Future
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ.
Day of Education – Session #8
Headliner: Johnny Allison, Chairman, CEO & Co-Founder of Home Bancshares Inc - The always colorful, passionate and genuine Johnny talks about the interesting journey of Home Bancshares, provides market commentary and shares stories that shaped his career and life.
This conversation is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Speaker:
Johnny Allison - Chairman/CEO/Co-Founder, Home Bancshares, Inc.
Moderators:
Joe Fenech, Founder and CIO, GenOpp Capital Management
Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, Travillian
Join us for this can’t miss episode of Travillian Next with Scott Studwell, Stephens' Head of U.S. Depositories and Co-Head of Equity Capital Markets, and Frank Sorrentino, Managing Director at Stephens, as they join our own Michael Perito, Travillian’s Head of Bank Strategy, to discuss what the current outlook for bank M&A and capital issuing looks like post election. The political red wave that took over Washington D.C. over the past week leaves bank investors clearly optimistic about the outlook for the banking industry, although what does this mean for bank M&A and capital raising efforts, which have been at historic lows for about two years at this point. Key Points Covered:
- What drove the slight up-tick in M&A and capital raising efforts in the 2-3 months leading up to the election; and what has investor feedback been.
- How has the M&A pipeline and conversations shifted post the election outcome for bank executives?
- Are bank IPO’s finally coming back, and what does that mean for less liquid, smaller community banks.
- Investor positioning in bank stocks after the recent rally – are we still underweight?
- Biggest surprise on the horizon for banks in 2025; because nobody ever gets its 100% right.
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ.
Day of Education – Session #7
Shhh...Talking Politics in a Speakeasy - Tip a glass to the upcoming election, and gain invaluable insights about how the banking industry should prepare for either outcome.
Panelists:
Trey Maust, Executive Chairman, Lewis & Clark Bancorp
Pat Ryan, President & Chief Executive Officer, First Bank
Mary Kissel, EVP and Senior Policy Advisor, Stephens, Inc
Moderator:
Mike Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, Travillian
In the latest episode of Travillian Next, Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, speaks with Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council. From Atlantic City to Utah to NYC to DC to Vegas – you never know exactly where he will be, but one thing is for sure, Phil is fighting tirelessly in the trenches for his members. Travillian is proud to be a Strategic Partner with the AFC to help educate and advocate for responsible and sound public policy so innovation at small banks and fintechs will not be stifled.
In this chat, Phil gives his insights on the vibe and trending topics of the many conferences he has attended and moderated over the past few months culminating with the much anticipated AFC Policy Summit on November 19th in Washington DC. The AFC Summit will bring together the top minds in government, technology & banking for an intimate and dynamic discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry heading into 2025.
In this episode of the Travillian Next, host Michael Perito, Head of Bank Strategy at Travillian, speaks with Isaac Wheeler, Managing Director, Head of Balance Sheet Strategy at Derivative Path, about the current state of interest rate hedging strategies in the banking sector. At a time of heightened rate uncertainty, it’s important to understand all the tools available to help reduce rate risk and free up human and financial capital to focus on growing the bank in a challenging competitive environment.
This conversation is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Key points covered:
- Implications of recent interest rate cuts.
- Challenges posed by market uncertainty, particularly the forward curve.
- Importance of effective hedging solutions, especially for smaller banks.
- Emphasis on the need for banks to adapt their strategies in response to evolving market conditions.
- The significance of acknowledging the unpredictability of interest rates.
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
Day of Education – Session #6
Double Down on Your Balance Sheet Strategy - Two of the foremost experts in community bank balance sheet management reveal their perspectives and strategies for navigating risk and staying financially sound in today's volatile market.
Panelists:
Scott Hildenbrand, Head of Depository Fixed Income, Piper Sandler
Brian Leibfried, Head of Bank Insights, Performance Trust Capital Partners
Moderators:
Mike Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, Travillian
Isaac Wheeler - Managing Director, Head of Balance Sheet Strategy, Derivative Path
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
Day of Education – Session #5 Go Back Three Spaces: Reflecting on the State of Embedded Finance - A discussion covering the risks, rewards and current opportunities for community banks pursuing an embedded finance strategy.
This conversation is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Panelists:
- Robert Keil, Chief Fintech Officer, FinWise Bank
- Stanley Orszula, Partner, Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP
- Emily Reisig, SVP, Emprise Embedded Strategic Relationship Leader, Emprise Bank
Moderators:
- Jeff Nowicki, Chief Banking Officer, Treasury Prime
- Keith Daly, Principal, Travillian
Join Michael Perito, Travillian’s Head of Bank Strategy, and Catherine Mealor, Managing Director at KBW and on of their senior research analysts covering the regional banking sector, as they dissect investor’s sentiment and expectations ahead of third-quarter bank earnings.
KBW has recently published a couple differentiated research reports looking at how the bank industry could be impacted by lower short-term rates and earnings expectations for the third quarter. This episode digs deep on the current state of the bank market, including highlighting the biggest upside and risks to forward earnings growth. Catherine also explains the delicate balance with institutional investors’ focus between near-term earnings performance and longer-term growth and importantly provides some of her top picks looking ahead to 2025.
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
Day of Education - Session #4
Bank Empire: M&A and Capital Pursuits - Perspectives from industry experts on M&A and Capital considerations for banks and credit unions.
This session is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Panelists:
Frank Sorrentino, Managing Director of Investment Banking, Stephens, Inc.
Jeff Cardone, Partner, Luse Gorman
Jake Dalaya, Chief Strategy Officer, Capital Bank
Moderators:
Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, Travillian
Paul Davis, Founder, The Bank Slate
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ
Day of Education - Session #3
Running with the High Rollers - Hearing from notable public and private bank investors in the space will help banks understand how to best story tell and develop strategies that are relevant and proven
Panelists:
Joe Fenech, Founder and CIO, GenOpp Capital Management
Sundeep Rana, Managing Principal, Castle Creek Capital
David Honold, Principal, Patriot Financial Partners
Moderator:
Mike Perito, Head of Bank Strategy, Travillian
In the latest episode of Travillian Next, host Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, sits down with community bankers from North Carolina and Tennessee to discuss the profound impact of Hurricane Helene.
The storm has left a trail of devastation, affecting countless families and businesses in its wake. At the time of this release, the death toll has reached over 230 individuals with hundreds more still unaccounted. Financial costs could total over $30 billion and the rebuilding of these communities will take years.
Our guests, Lynn Johnson, Chief Operating Officer, EVP at North Carolina Banker’s Association, Billy Carroll, President & CEO at SmartBank, and John Hunter, Senior Vice President and Tri-Cities Community President at Trio South Bank, share accounts of the challenges their communities are facing and the vital role local banks are playing in the recovery process. Summed up very well by Billy on the long road ahead for folks affected by Hurricane Helene, he said, “Don’t forget about it….Stay plugged into what’s going on in all of these communities…Look for opportunities to help.”
While relief efforts are underway, there is still much to be done to help rebuild these communities. Your support can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disaster. By donating to trusted organizations, you can help provide essential resources and long-term aid.
Here are four organizations you can support today:
- North Carolina Bankers Association
- Mountain Ways
- Tennessee Bankers Association
- Region Ahead
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ
Day of Education - Session #1
Talent Management Monopoly - Join Compensation experts in a lively session on the lifeblood of every bank…its people. Recruiting, Topics will include retention, succession and compensation.
This session is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Moderator:
Paul Davis, Founder, The Bank Slate
Panelists:
Flynt Gallagher, President, Compensation Advisors, Newcleus
Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech, Travillian
Keith Daly, Principal, Travillian
The 2024 NEXT Forum, hosted by Travillian and Newcleus LLC at the Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ
Day of Education - Session #2
All-In on Tech Efficiencies - Bankers reflect on how embracing technology can lead to efficiencies and increased revenue.
Panelists:
Jesse Honigberg, EVP, Productsand Platforms, Customers Bank
Barb MacLean, SVP, Head of Technology Operations & Implementation, Coastal Community Bank
Courtney Sacchetti, EVP, Chief Financial Officer, BankwellFinancial Group, Inc
Moderators:
Kim Snyder, Founder & CEO, KlariVis
Phil Goldfeder, CEO, American Fintech Council
Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Ian Moloney, SVP and Head of Policy & Regulatory Affairs at the American FinTech Council (AFC), to dive into the evolving regulatory landscape for banks and fintechs. Together, they explore the potential impact of the upcoming election on financial regulations, including the differing approaches of the two major candidates.
This conversation is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Key topics include:
- The Dodd-Frank 1033 rule
- Third-party arrangements
- Broker deposits
- The role of AI oversight in the financial industry
This conversation emphasizes the need for clear, tailored legislation and the critical role of talent development in risk management and compliance.
Don’t miss out on these timely insights—watch the episode today!
Join Michael Perito, Travillian’s Head of Bank Strategy, and Brian Gardner, Chief Washington Strategist at Stifel Financial Corp., as they discuss the current state of the Presidential election, and what the eventual outcome could mean for the Banking industry.
This conversation is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
It has been an unusual summer of political headlines, but just how close does the Presidential race stand today? The conversation with Brian covers many topics, ranging from debate takeaways, specific elements of Trump’s 2016 policies which turned out to be pro-bank, the FDIC brokered deposit proposal, and how Bank Lobbying efforts could be more effective over time.
Brian gets specific as to why the Presidential race might be closer than some believe, while also providing Travillian listeners significant context on how the election might play out based on the prior two races (2016 and 2020).
Are you curious about how community banks are staying ahead in the fintech game? Chris Stanley and Christian Ruppe, co-chairs of the Innovation Committee for the Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA of Georgia), are at the forefront of this mission. They’re driving tech adoption among local banks, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving financial landscape. From monthly fintech updates to partnerships with key organizations like Advanced Technology Department Center (ATDC) and the Georgia Fintech Academy, they’re making sure no bank is left behind.Tune into this Travillian Next episode for an in-depth conversation where Chris and Christian discuss the vital role of innovation in community banking. The conversation is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Hosted by: Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian
In his Travillian Next debut, Michael Perito, Travillian’s Head of Bank Strategy, discusses second-quarter bank earnings with David Feaster, Senior Analyst of Raymond James. Bank stocks have rallied over the past couple of weeks, and optimism around NIM inflection and accelerating M&A pipelines seem to be building as we look towards the second half of 2024.
The conversation with David covers many topics, notably bank investor’s expectations pre-quarter, commercial real estate credit trends and the impact forward rate expectations can have on earnings revisions and valuations. David notes that improving sentiment amongst bank investors could help sustain increased deal flow and capital raising activity, while he also provides his top two investment ideas currently.
In this Travillian Next episode, Chris Nichols, Director of Capital Markets at SouthState Bank highlights the crucial role of product managers in community banks.
Chris points out that a lack of focus on product development and customer experience leads to underperformance. He stresses the need for hiring skilled individuals in marketing and finance and encourages banks to collaborate with core providers on new products and technologies. The discussion ends by emphasizing the importance of training and talent development for successful product management.
Travillian Host: Keith Daly, Principal - Banking & Fintech Search
Key Takeaways
- Banks that focus on product development and customer experience tend to outperform their competitors.
- Hiring individuals with proficiency in marketing and finance can be a step in the right direction for community banks.
- Working with core providers to explore new products and technologies can help community banks stay competitive.
- Training and developing talent in product management is crucial for driving success in community banks.
In Part 2, John Maxfield, the Founder of Maxfield on Banks and Senior Banking Specialist at The Motley Fool is joined by special guest, Jim Reuter, Board of Directors at FirstBank Colorado.
The conversation features discussions on leadership, succession planning, banking performance, innovation, and talent development. Jim Reuter shares his journey from teller to CEO, emphasizing the importance of humility, integrity, and continuous learning in leadership. Key strategies for managing a bank, incorporating younger talent, and balancing innovation with conservative practices are explored. Additionally, the episode offers insights into the value of diverse experiences, the role of entertainment in education, and the impact of the pandemic on the banking industry.
Get ready for a lively and informative conversation with these industry experts!
Join us for Part 1 of a Travillian Next special featuring John Maxfield, the Founder of Maxfield on Banks. Maxfield on Banks is a well-regarded substack where John shares his expertise to help others master the principles of exceptional banking. John brings a wealth of experience from his roles at Bank Director, the Wilmers Integrity Prize, and The Motley Fool, where he currently serves as the Senior Banking Specialist.
The conversation explores the unique dynamics of the banking industry and the exceptional leaders within it, emphasizing the importance of resiliency, commitment to fiduciary duty, and the ability to learn and grow as key elements of effective leadership in banking. John dives into the importance of the ability to learn, grow, and be reprogrammed for leaders in the banking industry, noting that exceptional leaders often emerge from modest backgrounds or have experienced hardship early in life.
…and that's not all! This is just the beginning—be sure to watch until the end to build anticipation for the exciting guest coming in part two next week!
Hint: The mystery guest - a recently retired CEO - is an old friend of John's, has appeared on stage with him at AOBA, and just finished a stellar 37-year tenure at his bank.
Name That Bank! A show for bank geeks, made by bank geeks...
Join us for an exclusive premiere of the Travillian-hosted game show—NAME! THAT! BANK! —featuring contestants Mandi Simpson, Partner at Crowe and Chris Mihok, Managing Director at KBW, who both have extensive networks with Southeastern US institutions, which is this week's focus region.
How Does It Work?
This game draws inspiration from the classic "Name That Tune," but with a twist: instead of tunes, it's all about naming banks! Brian Love, the charismatic host and Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, presents a series of clues to the contestants, pitting them against each other to guess the bank correctly.
Expect plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and insightful commentary along the way. It's a short but fun episode that you won't want to miss! Can you guess all five banks?
In this Travillian Next episode, Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory at Travillian, and James Stevens, Partner and Co-lead of Financial Institutions Group at Troutman Pepper, discuss effective board governance and board evolution in the banking industry. They highlight the key functions of a board, such as establishing purpose and strategy, selecting and evaluating management, determining risk appetite, ensuring compliance, and serving as ambassadors for the bank.
With the evolving landscape, the demands on board oversight have increased significantly, making board engagement in risk management and compliance crucial, especially in today's regulatory environment. They highlight how boards can be strategic assets for banks, offering valuable insights into enhancing board governance and dynamics in this Bank Board Insights series.
In this episode of Travillian Next, Zane Smith, Chief Banking Officer at American Bank, discusses the Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) industry and stresses banks' need for in-house expertise. He advocates for a shift towards banks assuming responsibility for risk and compliance, rather than relying on middleware providers. Smith also addresses talent needs in the BaaS space, emphasizing strategic planning for growth. He highlights the importance of banks innovating within safety and soundness frameworks, urging a return to basics.
Travillian Host: Keith Daly, Head of Tech & Innovation
Key Takeaways
- Banks need to shift their thinking and take responsibility for risk and compliance in the banking as a service (BaaS) industry.
- In-house expertise is crucial for banks in the BaaS space, from the board level to the analyst level.
- Banks should focus on strategy and planning, considering the impact on their balance sheet, capital, and infrastructure.
- It is important for banks to get back to basics and innovate within the framework of safety and soundness.
Attorney Michael Bell and Past Chairman of the Independent Bankers of America, Brad Bolton, have separately disagreed in the press about their views on credit union purchasing community banks. Bell has been a CU legal advisor on almost every deal announced since 2008. Bolton has been very critical of these transactions as the ICBA believes they have unfair advantages, namely around their tax exemption. In their very first appearance together, Brad and Mike engage in a congenial debate – which uncovered more agreements than disagreements.
We cover hot topics related to these unique mergers, including:
- A deeper dive into the tax exemption “advantage”
- How states are taking their own stances
- CRA requirements
- Cybersecurity risks
- Publicizing deal costs
Keith Daly, Head of Tech and Innovation at Travillian, sits down with Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American FinTech Council (AFC), to delve into the challenges and opportunities within the banking & fintech industries. Phil has been in the top seat at AFC for a little over a year now and has traveled countless miles to many state houses to advocate for his members and their customers. Phil’s passion for the job is visible and he loves the mission of the AFC. Topics Discussed- Regulation- Innovation and Financial Future- Compliance- Collaboration Between Fintechs and Community Banks
Join us for the latest episode of Travillian Next, where Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, dives into the hot topic of credit unions acquiring community banks.
In this discussion, Brian sits down with Jeffrey Cardone, Partner and Attorney at Luse Gorman, PC, and Michael Bell, Partner at Honigman LLP, to explore the dynamics of these acquisitions. They shed light on the roles played by all parties involved and the hurdles they encounter along the way.
But that’s not all – they also zoom out to examine the broader landscape of mergers and acquisitions in the banking sector. From succession planning to regulatory challenges, they unpack the complexities driving M&A activity.
Don’t miss out on this deep dive into the future of banking mergers!
Join Ron Shevlin, Chief Research Officer at Cornerstone Advisors, and Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech at Travillian, as they navigate the critical challenge of talent acquisition in the banking industry. Highlighting the demand for fresh skills, especially in technology and innovation, amidst industry evolution, Ron underscores the vital role of strategic alignment and innovation in fostering growth. He also explores the intriguing possibility of Chief Information or Chief Innovation Officers ascending to CEO roles, offering a glimpse into the future of banking leadership.
When Lincoln Savings Bank and its Chairwoman, Sally Hollis, began their CEO search in the summer of 2023, they embarked on a journey to find someone who could blend the past, present, and future of the organization. With assistance from Travillian, Sean Willett was tapped to be the bank's new CEO. In this candid conversation with Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, Sean and Sally reflect on:- How to preserve culture when adding a new Chief Executive Officer- The bank's Board dynamics, best practices on succession planning and executive search- How an "outsider" can be beneficial to a company's transformation- How to properly integrate and socialize a new executive onto a pre-existing team- Thoughts on Lincoln's continuing Banking-as-a-Service efforts
Moderators:
- Patrick Cooney, Lead GRC Search Consultant Travillian
- Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory at Travillian
- Konrad Alt, Co-Founder of Klaros Group
- Michele Alt, Co-Founder of Klaros Group
Travillian Next is excited to announce our latest episode with Klaros Group’s Co-Founders, Konrad and Michele Alt, for an in-depth discussion on the regulatory landscape anticipated for 2024 within banking, fintech, and their governing boards. With extensive expertise in the financial services sector as legal professionals, regulators, advisors, and more, Konrad and Michele bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Travillian hosts Patrick Cooney, Lead GRC Search Consultant, and Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory, come together with Konrad and Michele to delve into a range of topics within their expertise. These include future state regulatory awareness, talent considerations across all GRC functionalities, assessing Board composition, and understanding the dynamics of fintech-bank partnerships.
Guests:
In the latest Travillian Next episode, Travillian hosts Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, and Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory, sat down with Ted Rosinus, Managing Director at Stephens for a thought-provoking discussion. Ted shares M&A insights from the intersection of investment banking and his banking background. Explore the latest deal trends, outlooks, M&A process, and the strategic utilization of M&A for a competitive edge. Gain valuable perspectives on talent strategies, succession planning, and PE trends through the M&A Lens.
3:56 Top Priorities for Banks in M&A
7:24 Outlook for Banking M&A in 2024 and Beyond
10:55 Incorporating Capital Market Capabilities in M&A
13:30 Impact of M&A on Talent Strategy
22:26 Private Equity Investments
28:45 Current Concerns of Community Bank Boards
30:58 Factors Affecting the Length of the M&A Process
33:45 Favorite Movie
Join us for a compelling discussion hosted by Indra Elangovan, Travillian’s Head of Strategic Advisory, on bank board expertise, featuring a panel of experts sharing their perspectives on regulatory dynamics, risk management, cybersecurity, AI and offering invaluable advice to elevate your board to new heights during this transformative era in banking.Panelists- Julie Stackhouse, Former St. Louis Fed Regulator and Board Director at Simmons Bank- Caroline Stapleton, Partner at Orrick- Randy Lariar, Practice Director at Optiv- Peter Moenickheim, CRO at Evolve Bank & TrustVideo Index00:16 | Welcome to Board Insights Board Talent Conversation01:16 | Introduction of Panelists03:47 | Bank Boards – Are They Risky Enough?04:44 | Why Board Expertise is Crucial and What resonated about this article?13:12 | In a Transformational Period Board Talent Gaps in Risk Management, Regulatory, Cybersecurity and IT Pose a Real Concern28:55 | Sourcing Crucial Board Talent34:23 | Former St. Louis Fed Regulator Perspective34:45 | Potential liability for banks with talent gaps40:32 | Cybersecurity and AI threats and Board talent48:15 | CRO Perspective on Board Talent49:32 | Conclusion
2023 was a tumultuous year in the banking industry to say the least. Unexpected events early in the year forced bank executives to change course and focus on foundational issues such as liquidity and balance sheet management. However, strategic plans for digital upgrades and technology innovation are still mission critical issues.
In this Travillian Next episode, Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Paul Davis, Director of Market Intelligence at Strategic Resource Management and Founder/CEO of the Bank Slate LLC. Paul has decades of experience analyzing and studying trends in community banking and his insights are invaluable for banking and fintech executives across the country. Keith and Paul discuss the year that was and try to predict the coming challenges and opportunities for banks and their tech partners in 2024.
Introducing the latest episode of Travillian Next, featuring Dimitris Malisianos, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, and Simone Lagomarsino, President and CEO at Luther Burbank Savings Bank. Acquire invaluable perspectives into Simone's journey to leadership and explore the intricacies of Luther Burbank Savings Bank's Success story.At Luther Burbank Savings Bank, success is driven by people. The bank is committed to delivering a straightforward, human-centered banking experience through genuine relationships built on trust, respect, and personalized expertise.Introduction of Simone Lagomarsino 01:00 - 17:00Culture: 17:00 - 20:32Talent 21:27 - 31:49Diversity and Inclusion: 30:54-35:44California Banking 35:44 - 41:00Insights on the current economic landscape and community banking: 41:00 - 50:05
Introducing the latest episode of Travillian Next, featuring Dimitris Malisianos, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, and Simone Lagomarsino, President and CEO at Luther Burbank Savings Bank. Acquire invaluable perspectives into Simone's journey to leadership and explore the intricacies of Luther Burbank Savings Bank's Success story.At Luther Burbank Savings Bank, success is driven by people. The bank is committed to delivering a straightforward, human-centered banking experience through genuine relationships built on trust, respect, and personalized expertise.Introduction of Simone Lagomarsino 01:00 - 17:00Culture: 17:00 - 20:32Talent 21:27 - 31:49Diversity and Inclusion: 30:54-35:44California Banking 35:44 - 41:00Insights on the current economic landscape and community banking: 41:00 - 50:05
The saying goes, “if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” This has been a major struggle for community banks over the years regarding tapping into the massive amount of customer data they have in their systems. In the digital age, it has become even more critical to have timely data and a deep understanding of your customers and business trends. Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search, sits down with Kim Snyder, CEO and Founder at KlariVis, a data platform that allows all team members, from the CEO to junior accountants, to dive deeply into the details and trends so they can spend more time managing strategy over data gathering. KlariVis was developed by a team of banking professionals, including Kim, who served as the CFO at a community bank in Virginia for more than a decade. This extensive experience provides KlariVis with an in-depth comprehension of the requirements and difficulties faced by banks. The platform is experiencing rapid growth, boasting a user base of over 100 banks. One of KlariVis's key strengths lies in its seamless integration with any core banking system, ensuring a straightforward implementation process. This integration facilitates the establishment of a single source of truth, updated every night to provide real-time information.
In our latest Travillian Next episode, Charles Potts, EVP and Chief Innovation Officer at ICBA, joined our host, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, , for a lively chat and some entertaining banter about tech's impact on banking efficiency.
This was a fun one with tons of "bank geek" banter, talk of flying cars and the hard-hitting facts! Use the guide below to read more about the topics discussed or use the time stamps next to the header to jump to which part interests you most.
(02:13) Technology's Role in Banking Efficiency
Brian and Charles dove into the tech-driven evolution of banking operations. Charles stressed tech isn't about replacing bank talent but supercharging their skills. It's about changing the hiring game and upgrading operations. Brian shared examples of simple bots being used to automate tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more valuable work. Charles added that technology allows sales process to handle more volume, enabling officers to see more prospects and loans. Bottom line: Max out tech for max efficiency in banking ops.
(10:34) Community Banks Embracing Technology
Charles and Brian dug into tech's pandemic impact on banks. Charles highlighted a shift from manual labor to the adoption of RPA and machine learning, revolutionizing loan processing efficiency. Brian connected the dots, emphasizing the direct link between streamlined back-office operations and heightened frontline productivity. Their conversation featured success stories from Kimberly Kirk, Chief Operations Officer, Queensborough National Bank and Jay Tuli, President & Director, Leader Bank.
(15:10) Innovation and Succession Planning in Banks
Brian and Charles discussed the pivotal connection between innovation and succession planning in banks, expressing concerns about potential talent loss like Kim and Jake, fearing a hit to innovative vision. They emphasized the need for a clear leader successor and integrating innovation into the organization's culture beyond a specific department, recognizing the importance of attracting younger, innovation-minded talent. Charles illustrated this with an example of creatively combining existing products and services for improved outcomes.
(22:35) Data's Rising Impact on Banking
Charles emphasized the increasing importance of data in the banking industry, envisioning a future where hiring priorities will favor those proficient in data analysis and strategic alignment. He noted universities' response to this trend by expanding their data analytics curricula. In response to Brian's query about potential paths to the CEO role, Charles confirmed that positions like Chief Technology Officer or Chief Data Officer could indeed pave the way. Emphasizing the critical role of data in banking success, Charles acknowledged the challenges of data volume, speed, and precision. He advocated for enhanced data analytics tools and a stronger strategic approach to boost operational efficiency. Brian agreed, adding that future industry leaders will likely emerge from diverse backgrounds and skillsets.
The next exclusive Travillian Next episode features John Sotoodeh, Chief Operating Officer of Banc of California, in a one-on-one conversation with Travillian’s Dimitris Malisianos of our Banking & Fintech team. We threw everything but the kitchen sink at John in this topical, far-reaching conversation covering topics such as:- Banc of California/PacWest Merger- Deposit Generation- Attracting Top Talent,- Importance of Bank Culture- M&A- Market Outlook- And More! Video Index00:20 | Introduction of John Sotoodeh02:12 | Things You Oversee As A COO03:01 | Banc of California and PacWest04:09 | What Kind of Talent Banc of California Is Focused On05:42| Is De-prioritizing Lenders and Production Talent A Trend for Banc of California?08:43 | How Is Banc of California Attracting Deposits?11:11 | Best Practices to Avoid Deposit Generation Amidst High Rate Environment13:12 | Talent Acquisition and Development17:01 | Developing the Right Culture19:36 | Are Banks Hiring Right Now?22:07 | Q3 Earning and In What Direction Banks Are Headed In The Next 6-12 Months24:22 | Economic Climate For Community Banks26:47 | Production Lines and How They Will Evolve In The Coming years28:48 | M&A Activity Trends We Should Look Out For30:43 | Banking Space in California
Discover insights from industry expert Matt Resch, Founder of RT Partners, in our latest Travillian Next conversation with host Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian.
Answers to key banking questions, including:
- Talent: What does the Banking Executive of the Future look like?
- M&A Dynamics: What are the consolidation trends now and in the near future?
- Balance Sheet Strategies: How can banks think proactively to set themselves up for success?
- Earnings Outlook: What are the early takeaways from Q3 bank performance?
Learn about the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the banking sector. Don't miss this engaging conversation!
Commercial Real Estate (CRE) has been a frequent topic in recent headlines, with concerns about navigating potential issues related to CRE loans taking center stage. However, is it all doom and gloom, especially in the Office sector, which has been heavily impacted by the pandemic?
During a discussion with Michael Denis, Head of Private Capital Group at Cushman & Wakefield, Mark Hesser, President & CEO of Pinnacle Bancorp, which has $18.5 billion in assets, and Jack Hopkins, the President & CEO of CorTrust Bank, which has $1.6 billion in assets, explored important issues in the world of commercial real estate. Their goal was to discover valuable insights on today's most urgent topics in this field.
In this exchange, the bank CEOs held a meaningful dialogue with Michael Denis, the Head of Private Capital Group at Cushman & Wakefield. Together, they posed pertinent questions that cut to the heart of latest trends in Commercial Real Estate, spanning various sectors such as Office, Retail, Multi-Family, and Industrial, while also diving into regional dynamics. Cushman & Wakefield, a leading authority in the field, generously shared valuable insights. These included perspectives on vacancy rates, innovative ways to repurpose vacant properties, cap rates, the challenges posed by rising construction costs, and a host of other crucial factors that are currently shaping the CRE landscape.
Chapter Index
00:41 | Introduction of panelists
02:34 | Office Sector National Trends and Fundamentals
09:42 | Retail Sector trends
30:02 | Multi-Family National Trends and Fundamentals
44:48 | Industrial Trends
49:23 | General CRE Trends Q/A
54:30 | CEO Talent Views
Jill Castilla, President and CEO at Citizens Bank of Edmond ($375M in Assets / Edmond, OK) is a Veteran, military mom and military spouse. Besides her role as CEO at a flourishing community bank, she also is an entrepreneur at heart and saw a gap in the marketplace providing banking products and services to new enlistments in our military.
But how to go from idea to execution? This is where Jeffery Kendall, Chairman and CEO at Nymbus enters the story. The technology products and teams at Nymbus partnered with Jill and her teams to launch Roger, a digital bank with a mission that will help in many ways, including new deposits at Citizens Bank, which is critical in this market.
Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Jill and Jeffery to discuss the road to Roger and advice for other community bank CEOs looking to expand into new markets digitally.
Exploring the Resilience of Community Banks Amid Macroeconomic Pressures we had an enlightening discourse with ICBA Panelists. We welcomed ICBA (Independent Community Bankers of America) - Ardent Advocates for Community Banks for a Perspectives-Sharing Session.
Brad Bolton, President & CEO of Community Spirit Bank, Sarah Getzlaff, CEO of Security First Bank of North Dakota and Jim Sills, President & CEO of Mechanics and Farmers Bank exchanged their perspectives on the evolving trends in deposit and lending pricing, regulations, GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance), cybersecurity, M&A and initiatives related to talent development.
Travillian Hosts: Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory, Dale Henderson, Principal Banking & Fintech, Patrick Cooney, GRC Search Lead and Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech
With an incredibly diverse past in investment banking, private equity, and bank regulation, InterBank’s President and COO, C.K. Lee, is one of the industry’s most well-rounded executives. He joined InterBank three years ago, which has a distinct strategy around loan pricing and funding which is so simple yet so atypical in the bank space.
In an expansive dialogue, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, asked Lee about his own career trajectory, what it’s like to land on Main St. from Wall St., how he manages his talent and succession planning, his thoughts on M&A, and his favorite movie.
01:02 | C.K. Lee's Transition from Wall Street to Main Street
04:31 | About InterBank & It's Process (Adjustable Rate Loans)
08:05 | What Does the Funding Look Like?
11:33 | Talent
16:52 | How Have C.K. Lee & InterBank Stayed Ahead in the Talent & Succession Planning Game?
22:02 | M&A
30:21 | C.K. Lee's Take on M&A & Where Its Headed
33:44 | Favorite Movie!
It’s been a while since our last additions, but we are thrilled to introduce three new visionary banks to the Travillian Tech-Forward Bank Index by hosting an engaging group discussion with a C-level executive from each bank. These institutions epitomize the spirit of innovation and stand poised to be meaningful participants in an era of banking that is reshaping existing paradigms.
Chris Black, President & CEO of Thread Bank, Wade Peery, Chief Innovations Officer of FirstBank in TN, and Jimmy Stallings, President of Payments of Stride Bank shared their distinctive innovation journeys and vision for their banks, elaborated on talent strategies within an innovative and digital culture, described how they foresee success in bank-fintech collaborations, and even filled us in on their favorite movies of all time.
Travillian Hosts: Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, and Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory.
Also, on the Index page, click each bank’s drop down to see a video from these gentleman providing a brief summary of their bank.
Gone are the days when a few pens and local newspaper ads suffice for marketing in the banking industry. In today's digital era, analytics and technology have become the backbone of retaining existing customers and attracting new ones for community banks and credit unions.
Join Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search, at Travillian, as he hosts a dynamic discussion featuring industry experts Alana Levine, Chief Revenue Officer at Fintel Connect, and Micah Davis, Chief Marketing Officer at Live Oak Bank. Together, they delve into the strategies necessary to compete in the relentless battle for deposits and customer retention.
Discover how Fintel Connect's cutting-edge solutions assist clients like Live Oak Bank in leveraging their marketing efforts. Learn some useful techniques and tips for reaching new potential customers in a crowded digital landscape. Evaluate the effectiveness of your marketing plan and gain insights into the crucial analytics required to drive and track success.
If you are ready to stay ahead in the ever-changing world of banking marketing, look no further than the latest Travillian Next chat. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the future of marketing for community banks and credit unions.
On July 19, Travillian Next hosted a live webinar where we discussed critical issues facing community banks and credit unions, including fintech partnerships, vendor optimization, risk vs innovation, and building a culture of growth mindset and talent. Travillian's Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech Search, and Keith Daly, Principal – Banking & Fintech Search, spoke with some of the brightest minds and experts in the industry for this dynamic chat.
Panelists:
Patrick Sells – Co-Founder True Digital
Matthew Smith – Chief Digital Banking Officer; Head of Enterprise Product, Marketing, & Transformation at Webster Bank ($75B in Assets)
Danielle Doyle – Chief Innovation Officer at Atlantic Union Bank ($20B in Assets)
Kari Rappe – Chief Information Officer at Prevail Bank ($1B in Assets)
Video Index:
01:43 | Background from Panelists / What are you working on now?
14:47 | Vendors and Vendor Optimization
26:59 | Risk & Compliance
39:20 | Culture of Innovation
52:10 | Talent
1:03:53 | Conclusion
Recent developments in the bank sector have led to confusion and uncertainty about the road ahead. In this wide-ranging and timely discussion with Travillian’s Head of Banking and Fintech, Brian Love, our panelists, including Bob Toma from Raymond James, John Reichert from Reinhart, and Joe Fenech from GenOpp Capital Management share their insights on the current state of bank fundamentals, thoughts on the outlook for M&A, the changing investment and regulatory landscape, and the outlook for regional and community bank stocks.
Scott Mills, the President of the highly renowned William Mills Agency, stands at the helm of one of the most prominent public relations and marketing firms specializing in the financial services industry. Recently, Scott engaged in a conversation with Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, shedding light on how reputational risk is alive and well, as evidenced from bank failures earlier this year.
As the landscape of the banking sector evolves, it becomes increasingly crucial for banks to proactively address potential crises and prioritize the cultivation of unwavering loyalty among their customers in times when confidence begins to falter.
Are you ready to redefine talent acquisition and unleash the power within your organization?
Step into the world of banking, where the pursuit of talent consumes the thoughts of all. It's a constant quest to find exceptional individuals, to hold onto those vital team members, and to nurture the rise of future leaders. In the heart of North Dakota, at Choice Bank, Samantha Berg serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer, tackling these substantial challenges with unwavering confidence and an innovative approach.
Join us on this episode of Travillian Next as Berg takes us on a journey through Choice Bank's triumph in the talent war, revealing their secret weapon—an unwavering embrace of "uncomfortability" in their culture and an audacious hiring process that defies the boundaries of their size.
In this conversation, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, and Berg delve into the ever-shifting landscape of hiring trends, exploring the coveted skill sets that define the very essence of hot talent.
In his Travillian Next debut, Dimitris Malisianos, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search, engages with two recognized influencers and advocates of payments, innovation, and fintech: Jason Mikula, Publisher of Fintech Business Weekly and Managing Director of 312 Global Strategies BV and Panagiotis Kriaris, Commercial Director, and Head of Business Development at Unzer.
Their discussion focuses primarily on cross-border payments, which are essential in international trade, investments, and remittance. Although there are advancements being made, the pace of progress varies depending on the country. Additionally, further challenges arise around regulation, risk management, fees, currency fluctuations, and processing time.
Kriaris and Mikula also discuss Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and how they may change the traditional way of banking to better enable real-time transactions worldwide, eliminating delays, fees and intermediate banks involved.
Alexander Rolfe, a former FDIC Official and current Managing Director at JCSmithAdvisors, recently joined Travillian’s Head of Banking & Fintech, Brian Love, and Head of Strategic Advisory, Indra Elangovan, to discuss the failure of Silicon Valley Bank. Drawing on his experience as a bank examiner, Rolfe provides valuable insights into the regulatory environment and the risk landscape of banking, as well as potential impacts on banks from FDIC insurance and deposit flows. He also offers his thoughts on the future talent and skill requirements for the banking industry.
SouthState’s John Corbett is among the most respected CEOs in the banking industry today. In this discussion with Travillian’s Head of Banking and Fintech, Brian Love and GenOpp Capital Management’s CIO, Joe Fenech, Corbett recounts the story of his career, growing a de novo community bank in central Florida two decades ago to the southeast regional force that SouthState Bank is today. Along the way, we gain insight into a managerial style that prioritizes innovative and creative thinking, teamwork, the importance of culture, the value of humility, “thinking big” while “acting small”, and how to manage through a crisis and create opportunity, a particularly relevant topic in the current environment. See below for a video index, outlining the topics discussed by our moderators and featured guest.
The turmoil in the banking system over the past month will certainly lead to new legislation & regulatory oversight. It is crucial to have advocates in Washington to ensure your story and preferences are heard, especially for smaller firms such as fintechs and BaaS Community Banks.
Phil Goldfeder took over as CEO of the American Fintech Council less than a month ago and was thrown right into the fire. Phil has a unique and impressive background to handle such a volatile time in the markets. He has been on the government side, working for both Michael Bloomberg and Chuck Schumer as well as a member of the New York State Assembly for over 5 years. He has also been on the banking side, working for a pioneer BaaS Bank, Cross River, as SVP Global Public affairs for almost 6 years before taking over at the AFC. Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Phil to discuss the current regulatory environment, and how the American Fintech Council can help promote responsible innovation and inclusivity within financial technology services.
00:16 | Intro
04:07 | The future of regulatory agencies with BaaS banks, community banks and fintechs
10:05 | What makes a fintech focused bank great?
12:42 | Opportunity for fintech banks
14:51 | Leadership
16:00 | Outlooks for the future
17:50 | Benefits/Advise for BaaS banks
Continuing with Travillian Next's video series highlighting the nation’s highest-valued publicly traded banks, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, and Joe Fenech, Chief Investment Officer at GenOpp Capital Management, speak to Stock Yards Bank & Trust CEO, Ja Hillebrand and Lake City Bank CEO, David Findlay.
Recorded just prior to recent events impacting the banking industry, this insightful discussion touches on the consistent, disciplined approach employed by each bank, enabling them to thrive through the business and economic cycle. As our nation’s banks navigate through an increasingly challenging operating environment, this is a timely discussion with two of the sector’s very best and most well-respected operators.
To watch part one with Community Bank System’s Mark Tryniski and ServisFirst Bancshares’ Tom Broughton, please click here.
Chapters:
00:16 | Introduction
16:01 | Entrenchment in markets; Metro vs. Non-Metro Markets
32:56 | Culture / Talent
48:22 | Liquidity
52:08 | Asset Quality
1:05:58 | Where is Banking Headed/Competitors You Respect
1:11:01 | Conclusion
From the lens of an astute and forward-thinking balance sheet strategist, the root cause of the crisis goes beyond interest rate risk. This observation comes from none other than Scott Hildenbrand, Chief Balance Sheet Strategist at Piper Sandler, who engaged in an electrifying discussion with Travillian's Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech, and Indra Elangovan, Head of Strategic Advisory. Scott revealed the intricacies of the balance sheet that work for today’s world of banking, addressing changes in customer behavior and products. Scott shares his insightful perspectives on large banks versus small banks and the government’s mode of operation for uninsured deposits. How has the CFO role changed and adapted to meet the new challenges? As a strategic thinker, he notes the CFO role should look very different from the banking world we grew up in. Scott shares his short-term and long-term perspectives on the M&A environment, the challenges from a regulatory standpoint and his expectations for greater scrutiny on liquidity from examiners.Discover compelling insights that surfaced from this engaging conversation!
Andy Borrmann is a truly strategic CFO, having come from a non-traditional upbringing (in investment banking and sell-side analysis) before finding a home as a CFO in community banking, at Southcrest Bank and Colony Bank. Andy sat with Brian Love, Head of Banking & FIntech at Travillian, to talk through the evolution of the CFO role since the 2008-09 financial collapse and how the role continues to evolve, especially given the backdrop of the liability-induced bank failures of SVB and SBNY.
With the credible perspective very few possess, Hernan Hernandez sheds light on this past weekend’s wild events which shockingly led to Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank failing. Joined by Travillian hosts, Brian Love and Indra Elangovan, Hernan tries to piece together what the FDIC may have missed and gives gives a behind-the-scenes view of the fair auction, bidding process and how this event may change banking sector fundamentals like deposit flows and liquidity risks. Also tune in to hear Hernan’s hot takes on potential changes to the FDIC’s insurance policy.
Video Index
0:20 | Intro and What Was Missed
12:09 | Auction Process/Changes to Banking Fundamentals
14:30 | Potential Changes to FDIC’s Insurance Policy
Hernan Hernandez - Background Snapshot:
Hernan started at the FDIC in Los Angeles, CA in 1990 as a Commissioned Bank Examiner – Capital Markets Specialist, primarily monitoring West Coast banks of $100M to $50B in assets. He then joined Comerica Bancorp, as First Vice President and Manager of Finance for the bank’s Western Division. There, he managed a 15-person staff in charge of budgeting, strategic planning, forecasting earnings, measuring and analyzing divisional performance, asset/liability hedging strategies, and customer profitability management. Hernan was the key strategic analyst in the Comerica/Imperial merger that recognized $785 million gain on the $1.3 billion transaction (2.4x TBV). He moved to City National Bank, Los Angeles, CA, in 2004 as Senior Vice President and Manager – Financial Planning, Corporate Development, Strategy and Special Projects, directly reporting to the CEO and Board of Directors. Hernan was an important part of the executive strategic team that grew the bank from $12 billion to over $90 billion. He managed the team in charge of strategy and merger and acquisitions (including equity partnerships and direct investments in fintech ventures) and led the Strategic Project Management Group which consists of 23 colleagues managing regulatory, efficiency and productivity projects throughout the organization. Hernan is now an FIG investment banker, primarily covering community and regional banks on the West Coast.
With the credible perspective very few possess, Hernan Hernandez sheds light on this past weekend’s wild events which shockingly led to Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank failing. He gives a behind-the-scenes view of the fair auction, bidding process and how this event may change banking sector fundamentals like deposit flows and liquidity risks. Also tune in to hear Hernan’s hot takes on potential changes to the FDIC’s insurance policy.
Hernan Hernandez – Background Snapshot:
Hernan started at the FDIC in Los Angeles, CA in 1990 as a Commissioned Bank Examiner – Capital Markets Specialist, primarily monitoring West Coast banks of $100M to $50B in assets. He joined Comerica Bancorp for six plus years, as First Vice President and Manager of Finance for the bank’s Western Division. There, he managed a 15 person staff in charge of budgeting, strategic planning, forecasting earnings, measuring and analyzing divisional performance, asset/liability hedging strategies, and customer profitability management. Among a host of accomplishments, Hernan was the key strategic analyst in the Comerica/Imperial merger that recognized $785 million gain on the $1.3 billion transaction (2.4x TBV). Hernan moved to City National Bank, Los Angeles, CA, in 2004 as Senior Vice President and Manager – Financial Planning, Corporate Development, Strategy and Special Projects, directly reporting to the CEO and Board of Directors. Hernan was an important part of the executive strategic team that grew the bank from $12 billion to over $90 billion. He managed the team in charge of strategy and merger and acquisitions (including equity partnerships and direct investments in fintech ventures) and led the Strategic Project Management Group that consists of 23 colleagues managing regulatory, efficiency and productivity projects throughout the organization. Hernan’s reach extended to almost every corner of the bank. A sampling of accomplishments include, leading the successful acquisition of 5 banks (4 of which were failed institutions utilizing the FDIC loss share program), 4 business lines, 1 leasing company, and 3 fintech SaaS companies, totaling over $5 billion in assets, raising $1.3 billion in common, preferred, sub debt, and senior debt capital instruments, acting as lead senior officer on the sale of the bank to Royal Bank of Canada (Highlights; $5.4 billion transaction, 2.6x TBV, P/E multiple of 22x), and developing systems/processes used for DFAST Stress Testing (Balances Sheet, PPNR, Aggregation, Submission) while maintaining close relationships with Fed, OCC and FDIC regulators. Hernan is now an FIG investment banker, primarily covering community and regional banks on the West Coast.
As the fight for fee income intensifies, community banks are looking for new ways to compete in an ever-changing landscape. Larger banks are eliminating overdraft, ATM, and other fees that will drastically hurt the bottom lines of community banks. Moreover, government agencies have suggested it may be cracking down even more on fee income.
Keith Daly, Principal of Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, sat down with Damon Magnuski, Founder and CEO of Acceleron Bank, to delve deeper into these topics. Acceleron Bank is a digital firm that partners with community banks and credit unions to offer FX payment services, which can help turn losses into a profit-generating service while keeping customers engaged with their local financial institutions. As business becomes even more global, community banks and credit unions need a way to produce revenue from international transactions and Damon discusses the potential of new streams of income.
In the dynamic world of banking and fintech partnerships, collaboration is key to achieving success and growth. Similar to the importance of building strong relationships in your personal life, BaaS Bank and Fintech partners must align on major strategic decisions to establish a solid foundation for their partnership.
Join Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, as he sits down with two industry leaders, Adam Watts, President & COO at Save and Chris Rigoni, Senior Managing Director, Head of Enterprise Payments, BaaS Sales & Implementation at Webster Bank, to explore why their partnership has been flourishing and to gain valuable insights on how to navigate the complex world of bank-fintech partnerships.
Through their extensive experience in the industry, Adam and Chris highlight the importance of clear communication, shared values, and foundational principles to build a successful partnership that benefits both parties. Their advice is invaluable for fellow fintechs and banks looking to embark on a journey together and achieve mutual success in the competitive world of banking and fintech.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and learn from the best in the industry! Join Keith, Adam, and Chris in this thought-provoking conversation on the critical elements of successful bank-fintech partnerships.
SmartBank's exceptional track record as a premier financial institution for over a decade has positioned it as an exemplary model for community banks seeking to nurture and invest in their own workforce. With a strong focus on talent development and employee retention, SmartBank has implemented a variety of internal mentorship and leadership initiatives to develop and empower emerging leaders. Further, their unique focus on acquisitive and organic growth in the southeast (namely their home state of Tennessee) has proven quite successful.
Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech at Travillian, joined SmartBank's Billy Carroll, President & Chief Executive Officer and Nate Strall, Director of Strategy & Corporate Development, for an insightful conversation about SmartBank and how they plan to move forward with a clear strategy and a talented team.
Key topics discussed:
- Billy and Nate’s Approach to Recruitment, Retention, and Employee Development
- Impact of M&A on SmartBank's Growth Strategy
- Current Outlook on the Market and Credit
As the legal cannabis market continues to grow, many community banks and credit unions are looking for ways to support this thriving industry. Banking cannabis brings its own set of challenges and regulations, but with the right partners, it can be a lucrative opportunity for financial institutions. Cannabis is now legal for recreational use in 21 states, and DC. Furthermore, it is approved for medical use in 37 states.
Green Check Verified, works with numerous banks and credit unions all over the country to help them navigate the complexities of cannabis banking. The team of experts has years of experience in the industry, including Senior Vice President, Peter Su, who we sat down with to discuss the topic further. Peter is an expert is Cannabis banking with many years of experience on the banking side including stints with East West Bank and Dime Community Bank. Peter understands risk, the intense regulatory scrutiny banks are under, and how to work with regulators to ensure cannabis banking is in line with state and federals laws. In the end, cannabis is a legal business in 37 states and will continue to scale. Community banks need to take a hard look at the potential upside & risk and decide to partner with the right companies in the industry.
Tune into our latest conversation where Peter and Keith Daly, Principal, Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian, discuss tips for banks on how to enter the cannabis market and where to start.
Nate Mittag and Frank Sorrentino, Managing Directors of FIG at Stephens, joined Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech at Travillian, in a conversation about the state of the community banking space in 2023. Economic uncertainties around AOCI, credit and equity have altered some banks’ strategies but Nate and Frank share their thinking on opportunities for banks to plant seeds, think introspectively, and stand out among their peers. The discussion also covers timely topics like M&A, capital raising, share repurchases, tech investments and talent.
Travillian is excited to welcome industry-veteran Tom Bell, CEO of Maast, to discuss the payments ecosystem in a new episode of Travillian Next. Bell’s accomplished career spans decades and includes influential roles like EVP, Corporate Strategy at First Data and CEO of Bank of America’s Merchant Services division. Bell introduces Maast and how the Synovus Bank-backed “Money-as-a-Service” initiative marks a new, innovative player in embedded finance. We also get Bell’s take on what an idea like Maast takes from a talent, skillset, and strategy perspective.
Two of the most well-respected CEO’s in the banking industry – Community Bank System’s Mark Tryniski and ServisFirst Bancshares’ Tom Broughton – join Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, and Joe Fenech, Managing Principal of SMBT Consulting, LLC, for an insightful discussion on the approach employed by each bank on their path to success and other observable traits of the nation’s highest valued public banks.
This wide-ranging conversation touched on a number of topics, including the value of core funding, operating in metro vs. non-metro markets, the importance of maintaining discipline, thoughts on M&A, culture, the “sweet spot” for asset size, fintech, and prognostications for the upcoming year.
With the banking industry navigating through a challenging operating environment, this is a timely discussion with two of the industry’s best operators.
0:00 - 3:47 Introduction of Webinar
3:47 - 9:14 Introduction of CEO’s & Companies
9:14 - 16:00 Core Funding Importance/Metro vs. Non-Metro Markets:
16:00 - 19:15 Importance of Discipline
9:15 - 29:00 M&A Strategy
29:00 - 35:45 Culture/Management
35:45 - 39:30 Missteps Along the Way
39:30 - 42:24 SFBS and CBU: More Alike Than Different?
42:24 - 53:48 $10 Bil. Asset Threshold; Optimal Size
53:48 - 1:01:35 Fintech
1:01:35 - 1:07:03 Prognostications for 2023
1:07:03 - 1:07:29 Conclusion
Travillian is excited to welcome industry veteran Tom Bell, CEO of Maast, to discuss the payments ecosystem in a new episode of Travillian Next. Bell's accomplished career spans decades and includes influential roles like EVP, Corporate Strategy at First Data, and CEO of Bank of America’s Merchant Services division. Tom introduces Maast and how the Synovus Bank-backed “money-as-a-service” initiative marks a new, innovative player in embedded finance. We also get Bell's take on what an idea like Maast takes from a talent, skillset, and strategy perspective.
Embedded Banking. Banking-as-a-Service. Embedded Finance. Whatever you want to call it, banks are both excited and skeptical about the recent upsurge in the adoption of this initiative. BaaS can lead to reaching underserved markets, increased deposit growth and fee revenue, and entering new geographies and hyper-specific communities. But it comes with risks and entering this space needs to be done cautiously and carefully.
Infinant, a Charlotte, N.C.-based technology company, offers a unique platform that is purpose-built for banks trying to pivot into BaaS. Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, sat down with Sarah Howell, SVP Partner Programs at Infinant, to discuss their platform and other BaaS-related topics including:
- A Strategy for Pivoting to BaaS
- Risk & Regulatory Scrutiny
- Talent Need for Embedded Finance
- Recent Layoffs in the Industry
Brian Love, Head of Banking and Fintech at Travillian, is joined by Todd Weiden, Principal and Founder of Saltee Co. Weiden has nearly 20 years of experience as a rising star, most recently as Synovus' Director of Strategic and Business Transformation and previously as SunTrust's EVP of Branch Transformation. Todd recently established his consulting firm, Saltee Co, “that exists to BRING TO LIFE ideas + strategies that will permeate + preserve your organization, driving an incredible experience + growth for your team.”
As with the Alamo, the opposition is coming from all angles these days for community banks: fintech’s, Mega Banks, Wall Street, Walmart, Big Tech, etc.…Innovation, BaaS, Fintech Partnerships & Technology will help community banks compete in a rapidly changing industry where mega banks have the advantage of investing billions into new products and tech.
Matthew Smith is a community banker at heart, having spent his entire career working in various high-level roles at community banks including Happy State Bank and First United Bank. Matthew is also a big fan of digital transformation, BaaS, Data Analytics, Embedded Finance, and advanced technology, so when the opportunity came along for his “dream job” of working with Initiatives for Independent Banks Association of Texas (IBAT) to assist community banks evolve in the digital era, he jumped at the chance.
Through partnerships with FedFis, Bankers helping Bankers, and other channels, Matthew is helping educate and advise community banks not only in Texas but across the nation. Keith Daly, Director – Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian sits down with Matthew to discuss his dedication to community banks and what’s next for IBAT as we quickly head towards 2023.
Risk and Compliance has always been a critical function for community banks, especially so today when tech-forward banks are involved in complicated BaaS and embedded finance partnerships with fintechs and other vendors. An integral part of this foundation is recruiting and retaining top talent for the team.
Keith Daly, Director – Banking & Fintech at Travillian is joined by Coastal Financial Corporation’s President, Curt Queyrouze and Chief Risk Officer, Andrew Stines. As a leader & pioneer in BaaS with over 30 fintech partnerships, Coastal is at the forefront of innovation and technology advancements. With this success comes more scrutiny from the regulators, so it is essential to have top talent in the risk, audit, and compliance departments. Curt and Andrew discuss the critical attributes and skill sets for members of the team to succeed in a fast-changing industry.
Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, and Jeff Cardone, Partner at Luse Gorman, chat primarily about how community banks should be thinking about their succession planning. Still an extraordinarily hot button issue, Cardone explains how the lack of succession is a key driver of M&A.
Topics discussed:
- How succession planning drives community bank M&A.
- Key decision makers and achieving buy-in during the process.
- How banks are attracting diversity and ESG talent at the bank and on the board.
- Jeff’s take on regulatory hot topics.
Tune into our latest video where The Fintech Cowboys, Dave Mayo and Tanner Mayo, are lassoed into a compelling discussion with Travillian’s Keith Daly and Brian Love. They discussed:
- The Bankers Helping Bankers (BHB) BaaS Association, launched by FedFis & Travillian earlier this year.
- Talent needed at Tech-Forward banks to compete and grow in the current market
- The Fintech Roundup Conference hosted by FedFis in early November
On Thursday, July 7th, Travillian had the opportunity to speak with a trio of bank executives, each at different stages of their tech-forward journey. In a nod to their innovation accomplishments, Communities First Financial Corporation and Central Payments are also members of the Travillian NEXT Tech Forward Bank Index. And spoiler alert, it’s very likely First Fed will also join this select group in the near future.
Hosts Brian Love, Travillian’s Head of Banking & Fintech, and Joe Fenech, Chief Investment Officer at GenOpp Capital Management, led a stimulating discussion with First Fed President and CEO Matt Deines, Communities First Financial Corporation President and CEO Steven Miller, and Central Payments President and Founder Trent Sorbe on the evolution of becoming a tech-forward bank and what it means for the bottom line.
John Allison, Chairman and CEO of Home Bancshares, is one of the great value creators in the bank sector over the past 3+ decades. Through the lens of his experience, Mr. Allison speaks to the issues confronting the banking sector today and discusses with our moderators the key attributes that have driven the success of Home Bancshares, one of the nation’s top-performing and highest valued publicly traded banks. See below for an index, outlining the topics discussed by our moderators, Brian Love, Head of Banking & Fintech at Travillian, and Joe Fenech, Chief Investment Officer at GenOpp Capital Management, and our guest, Mr. John Allison.
Index Start to 3:15: Introduction
3:15 – 9:00: The Makings of a Successful M&A Transaction
9:00 – 13:17: Growing Geographic Markets Through M&A
13:17 – 16:33: The Merits of Private vs. Public M&A Transactions
16:33 – 20:04: The Makings of a Successful M&A Transaction
20:04 – 25:00: Is The Current Macro Backdrop An Opportunity Or A Time To Be Cautious?
25:00 – 28:55: The Changing Banking Landscape
28:55 – 33:04: The Importance of Culture
33:04 – 35:36: M&A Transactions In Challenging Market Environments
35:36 – 40:17: Are Credit Fears For Banks Overblown?
40:17 – 43:17: What Are The Opportunities From Here?
43:17 – 47:16: Building In A Strong Market
47:16 – End: Who Do You Admire?
Horicon Bank, a 125-year-old bank based in Wisconsin, made a unique decision to acquire a fintech, Monotto, thereby acquiring its’ founder, Christian Ruppe, to become the bank’s innovation lightning rod. Travillian's Head of Banking & Fintech, spoke with Christian, now the VP of Digital Banking at Horicon Bank, to discuss the importance of fostering innovation and diversity within organizations and laying the foundation for success as a young entrepreneur.
Fintech has only scratched the surface in terms of its capabilities, so it’s not surprising that the number of startups dedicated to this burgeoning space is growing. Travillian's Keith Daly, Director – Banking & Fintech Search, spent some time with Cameron Peake, Partner at Financial Venture Studio, to discuss how she is helping entrepreneurs to navigate the fintech startup terrain.
As the co-founder of digital banking app Azlo before making the leap to VC, Peake is uniquely suited for the task. She possesses an uncanny ability to approach a fintech startup from both sides of the industry fence.
Fintech is a tricky beast, and if entrepreneurs are not careful, they can spend their time worrying about vendor stats and regulations instead of focusing on building. This is where Financial Venture Studio comes in, starting with a $250K check and lending their operational expertise to help their portfolio companies launch and grow more quickly.
If it ever did, fintech no longer fits into a box. Crypto and Web3 are hot to trot, comprising 10% of the pitches Financial Venture Studio was intentional about in Q1. And with the emergence of new verticals getting into fintech, no vertical, including education, is off-limits. Keith and Cameron discuss the three most requested roles in fintech (here’s a hint: blockchain) as well as the role that community banks play in putting the “financial” in fintech. You do not want to miss this one!
Scott Hildenbrand, Managing Director and Chief Balance Sheet Strategist at Piper Sandler, discusses the economic moment and what it means for community banks and their balance sheets. Scott gives his thoughts on better-run ALCO meetings, how to think through a high loan-to-deposit ratio, and the transformation of the CFO position over time.
Banking-as-a-Service has exploded over the past few years and will continue to grow at a rapid pace going forward. In honor of International Women's Day, Keith Daly, Director of Banking and Fintech Search at Travillian, sat down with Kate Drew, Director of Research for CCG Catalyst and one of the Top 100 Women in Fintech in 2021, for a dynamic chat on the current trends and future needs for community banks as they embark on their BaaS journey.
From talent to technology, community banks offering BaaS services will benefit greatly from investing in the future. Currently, there are less than 70 banks providing the infrastructure and platform for fintech’s to provide their services to customers. However, with the demand only increasing for BaaS partners, projections see close to 300 banks entering the arena by 2026 with potential revenue close to $25B. Enjoy the chat!
Bank technology and operations innovator, Corey LeBlanc, has taken his talents to South Florida as co-founder, COO/CTO of Locality Bank, a De Novo community bank. Locality’s focus is to “reinvent” small business banking by marrying personal relationships with cutting-edge, digital native technology to solely focus on customer service and experience. From white-board to charter in less than a year, Corey, along with his co-founders, Keith Costello and Drew Saito, are avid fans of tech, community banking, and helping local small businesses thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
Travillian NEXT proudly welcomes:
Adam Aspes – General Partner at JAM Special Opportunity Ventures, LLC
Matthew Kelley – Director at JAM FINTOP Bank Network
Ryan Zacharia – General Partner at JAM Special Opportunity Ventures, LLC
What technology should community banks be focused on in 2022 and beyond? How will talent adapt to new technology? JAM FINTOP is helping financial institutions proactively identify, invest in, and implement the right technology so they can more effectively compete and serve their customers. JAM FINTOP’s Banktech & Blockchain fund partners include 79 community banks with a combined asset value of $1 trillion. The funds invest in banktech and blockchain companies that develop products and solutions that will enable community banks to compete in the digital age.
Keith Daly, Director Banking & Fintech Search at Travillian throws on the cowboy hat and sits down with Bobby Button, SVP, FinTegration Strategy & Sales at FEDFIS. FedFis is a financial institutions data analytics and strategy system which tracks Financial, M&A, and Vendor data (including technology vendors) on every bank and credit union in the United States. Dave Mayo and Tanner Mayo are CEO and President of FedFis and are known as the FinTech Cowboys. Tanner & Dave also founded the FI FinTech Movement and the FI FinTech Roundup, where innovative community bankers gather to save community banking by creating better hard data decision making processes and identifying and creating new technology products. Great conversation about the changing landscape in community banking and fintech.
Keith Daly, Director - Banking and Fintech Search at Travillian, sits down with Wenni Wu, Head of Customer Experience & Marketing at Piermont Bank. Speaking from Piermont's headquarters in Midtown Manhattan, topics include:
- BaaS & Credit Banking
- Fintech Partnerships
- Technology
- 2022 trends
In mid-2019, Piermont Bank exploded onto the banking scene as a de novo, digital commercial bank. Showcasing an innovative culture and the agile technology to scale & adapt within the rapidly changing fintech sector, they have grown to $350M+ in assets and now have over 30 fintech partner clients.
Keith Daly, Director – Banking & Fintech at Travillian, sits down virtually with Peter Hazlehurst, Co-Founder & CEO at Synctera & Kevin Herrington, President, CEO and Chairman at Lineage Bank.
The topics discussed include:
- Synctera’s BaaS technology to assist community banks & fintechs partner quicker and efficiently.
- The keys to a successful partnership such as Lineage Bank & Synctera.
- How community banks can streamline compliance, operations, & risk with fintech partners.
- Industry trends as we quickly head towards 2022.
Travillian hosted a webinar with two executive leaders in the evolution of banking on November 10, 2021.
Panelists:
• Brian Johnson – President, CEO, & Director, Choice Financial Bank
• Nikhil Lakhanpal – Co-Founder, Narmi
Choice Financial Group
• Headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, Choice Financial Group is a $3.2B community bank and the #1 Ag bank in North Dakota. Since 2017, Choice has invested heavily in their BaaS Division, Choice Fin, and have partnerships with well-known fintechs such as: Current, Lively, and Lili.
Narmi
• Founded in 2016 with HQ in NYC, Narmi partners with financial institutions to deliver superior digital experiences to end-users. The Narmi platform helps grow deposits, increase satisfaction and automate processes. Recently, Narmi was named Best Solution for Customer Experience and Best of FinXTech Connect in Bank Director’s 2021 Best of FinXTech Awards.
Topics of discussion Included:
• The key to driving customer satisfaction and loyalty in a digital world
• First steps community banks can take for digital transformation
• Critical future roles at Community Banks (i.e: Chief Digital Officer, Director of Blockchain)
The Travillian Tech-Forward Bank Index was created to identify a select group of banks that are best positioned at the convergence of traditional banking and fintech. We are producing a series of reports highlighting banks on the index that will help provide a better understanding of the unique culture, value system, leadership, and decision-making processes that have positioned these institutions as the thriving industry leaders.
This is the story of Everett, WA headquartered Coastal Financial Corp.
Hard to believe, but It has been close to a year since Covid completely disrupted the lives of almost everyone on the planet. Over this period, new challenges have forced companies to adapt and find new ways to provide services to their customers and employees. In this episode of Travillian NEXT, Keith Daly of The Travillian Group sits down with Casey to discuss how Quontic Bank has adapted – From recruitment & retention to mental health, Casey has found new ways to keep employees engaged and morale high. Also, Quontic made news late last year as the first FDIC insured financial institution to provide a Bitcoin Rewards Checking program for their customers. Casey gives an update on this product and partnership with NYDIG.
For the last several years, Boston-based Radius Bank had been a popular name in banking, due to their transformation from sleepy community bank to an innovative player committed to mobile-centric banking and unique fintech partnerships. They became even more prominent when it was announced in early 2020 that well-known fintech LendingClub was to acquire them, a game-changing transaction that has recently closed. For Chris Tremont, Radius’ EVP of Virtual Banking, and his team, a new era has begun. In this episode, Keith and Chris discuss the bank’s evolution, transforming the bank into an innovative leader and pioneer in community banking.”
Jeffery Kendall, Chief Executive Officer at NYMBUS, joins Keith Daly, Executive Recruiter, at The Travillian Group, for dynamic chat on the current trends in banking & fintech and what the future holds as banking rapidly evolves in the digital age. NYMBUS is a cloud-based ecosystem that helps banks and credit unions transform their capabilities and drive value in today’s digital marketplace. A revolutionary alternative to the legacy business model, NYMBUS has disrupted the financial services market by enabling risk-free solutions for digital innovation and growth.
Travillian NEXT proudly hosts a true FinTech innovator: Nathaniel Harley, the CEO & Co-Founder of MANTL, a fast-growth FinTech that partners with community banks for omni-channel account opening products. They offer a customer-centric outer core ecosystem that gives banks and credit unions the flexibility to innovate using modern technology, while owning their brand throughout the entire customer lifecycle.
In our conversation, we covered:
- Critical strategies that banks should be investing in to stay successful.
- The future of bank branch networks.
- The relationship between physical and digital channels.
- Should your bank consider a solution like MANTL?
The Travillian Group hosted three top Northeast and Mid-Atlantic focused depository investment bankers in a discussion about how they’re advising their bank clients today. Topics included M&A, strategies around operational efficiencies, and resourcefully deploying capital in these uncertain times. Please click on the link to the right to view the entire webinar.
Panelists:
Scott Clark, Managing Director, Co-Head of Financial Services Investment Banking,Piper Sandler
Dan Flaherty, Managing Director, Financial Institutions Group,Janney Montgomery
Frank Sorrentino, Managing Director, Financial Institutions Group,Stephens Inc.
The Travillian Group was proud to host four industry innovators in a discussion about their experience solving the “digital riddle”. We spoke about how to successfully implement a digital strategy by repositioning your bank’s culture, integrating current team members and recruiting dynamic talent.
Panelists:
Patrick Sells, Chief Innovation Officer,Quontic Bank
Jill Castilla, President and CEO,Citizens Bank of Edmond
Jason Henrichs, Chief Executive Officer, Alloy Labs
Rahm McDaniel, VP of Strategic Solutions,Q2 Open
Three trailblazing bank executives, Larry Mazza (CEO, MVB Financial), Eric Sprink (CEO, Coastal Financial Corporation) and Chuck Shaffer (CEO and Director, Seacoast Banking Corporation of Florida) have been ahead of the pack in their banks’ progressive utilization of technology, data and FinTech partnerships.
The Travillian Group’s Brian Love and co-moderator Joe Fenech examined the origin of innovation at these institutions, as well as the tools they already possessed, the resources they added, and how their bottom lines were positively impacted.
Bitcoin has been in the news lately with the rapid increase in price and institutional investors starting to jump in. There are still many questions about Bitcoin and how it will become a mainstream investment and product offering for community banks and financial institutions.
Yan Zhao, President at NYDIG& Patrick Sells, Head of Bank Solutions at NYDIG joinKeith Daly, Executive Search Consultant at The Travillian Group, for a lively and informative chat on the benefits of Bitcoin and how you can incorporate this asset into your personal life and your firm.
The Travillian Group hosted three top Southwestern-focused depository investment bankers. They discussed trends within the Southwest and the community banking landscape nationally. Our panelists covered topics including:
M&A / Industry Consolidation Capital Markets – Sub-debt / Equity Issuance “New Normal” Post-COVID Talent Southwest Regional Outlook Regulation FinTech Succession Planning
Panelists: Kade Machen, Managing Director, Financial Institutions Group, Stephens Christopher Murray, Managing Director, Financial Institutions Group, Piper Sandler Dan Bass, Managing Director & Head of the Southwest Region of Investment Banking, Performance Trust Capital Partners