The Essential Guide to Email Authentication for Community Banks
By Heather Diaz As a community bank, your reputation is your most valuable asset. In the digital age, this reputation is intrinsically tied to your domain reputation and the security of your communications. Email authentication using SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, is no longer optional—it’s a critical layer of defense against phishing, spoofing, and other email-based…
Why Generic BI Tools Fall Short for Financial Institutions
By: Ashley Fiore Twenty-five years into the 21st century, most financial institutions recognize the value of business intelligence (BI). The ability to turn complex data into actionable insights promises smarter decisions, stronger performance, and sustainable growth. Many already invest in BI tools, often those included within broader platforms like Microsoft 365 or Google Cloud, hoping…
Six Strategies to Transform Account Holders into Advocates
By Cindy Draper With mobile banking on the rise, account holders are more transactional—and less loyal—than ever. The Financial Brand recently reported that 76% of consumers considered themselves likely to switch primary financial institutions. Meanwhile, the average account holder has multiple financial relationships, including traditional financial institutions and fintechs. Choice is everywhere, and consumers aren’t…
First Commonwealth Names Joseph V. DiVito Jr. to Board
INDIANA, Pa.,—First Commonwealth Financial Corporation has appointed of Joseph V. DiVito Jr. to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. DiVito brings a wealth of experience in information technology, cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, data privacy, and governance, having served clients across a broad range of industries during his distinguished career. “We are pleased to welcome Joe to…
Associated Names Jay Sodey Madison Market President
MADISON, Wis.,—Associated Banc-Corp announced that effective January 1, 2026, Jay Sodey, regional executive – Consumer & Business Banking, will succeed Dave Stein, former head of Consumer & Business Banking, as Madison market president. Stein previously announced his plan to retire at the end of 2025. With 22 years of banking experience, Sodey joined Associated Bank…
Wayne Bank Hires Fred Malloy as SVP and Controller
HONESDALE, Pa.,—Wayne Bank has named Fred Malloy Senior Vice President and Controller. “I am very excited to welcome Fred to Wayne Bank. With over three decades of community banking experience and a strong background in accounting operations, he brings a wealth of knowledge that will greatly benefit our organization,” said Wayne Bank President and Chief…
Banker’s Bank Advances Stablecoin and Digital Asset Strategy
MADISON, Wis.,—Bankers’ Bank, has formed an Asset Tokenization Committee, a strategic initiative designed to help community banks navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of digital payments, stablecoins, and deposit tokens. As a payments partner processing nearly $1 trillion annually and operating the largest Fed-connected payments system in Chicago, Bankers’ Bank is uniquely positioned to deliver secure,…
Huron Valley Promotes Melissa Herron to VP
MILFORD, Mich.,—Huron Valley State Bank has promoted Melissa Herron to Vice President of Treasury Management. In her role, Herron will continue to build strong partnerships between the bank’s operations, retail, and commercial lending teams while serving as a trusted advisor for business customers. She will oversee all aspects of treasury and cash management services, including…
Bank of Luxemburg Hires Whitney Banker as Assistant VP
LUXEMBURG, Wis.,— Whitney Banker has joined the Bank of Luxemburg as Assistant Vice President of Cash Management. Whitney graduated from St. Norbert College in 2019 with a bachelor of business administration, majoring in international business and Spanish. She previously worked with a regional bank in foreign exchange. From there, Whitney went on to work for…
In Remembrance of Dennis Rae Koons
Dennis Koons, age 72, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025. Born on April 27, 1953, in Houghton Lake, Michigan, to Russell and Elaine, Dennis was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a supportive brother, and a fun and caring uncle. He dedicated his life to his family, his distinguished…