Florida Banking June/July 2026

THE MAGAZINE OF THE FLORIDA BANKERS ASSOCIATION WWW.FLORIDABANKERS.COM JUNE | JULY 2026 FLORIDA B ANK I NG

Former Florida Senator Garrett Richter Becomes 2026-27 FBA Chairman Learn, Earn and Return

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Congratulations Garrett Richter for becoming Chairman of the FBA Board of Directors!

Garrett Richter Regional President, Florida Sunflower Bank

We proudly congratulate Garrett on his new role with the Florida Bankers Association, a well-deserved recognition of his continued impact and influence within the Florida Banking community, and the respect he has earned across the industry. Sunflower Bank also welcomes Garrett to an exciting new chapter in his career. Following the April 1 merger in which Sunflower Bank, N.A. acquired First Foundation Bank, he now serves as Regional President of the Florida region for Sunflower Bank. In this role, he continues to lead with the same commitment to clients, communities, and colleagues that defined his tenure at First Foundation Bank. The merger brings together strong regional expertise with expanded resources, delivering enhanced products, deeper lending capabilities, and long-term stability. With this foundation in place, Garrett is uniquely positioned to continue driving meaningful impact across Florida’s banking landscape. We are proud to celebrate this milestone and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make, both within Sunflower Bank and throughout the industry. Join us in congratulating Garrett on this outstanding and distinguished accomplishment.

SunflowerBank.com FirstFoundationInc.com Creating Possibility is what we do.

Scan the QR code to learn more about Sunflower Bank, and the merger with First Foundation Bank.

Sunflower Bank, N.A. dba First Foundation Bank | Member FDIC

FLORIDA B ANK I NG

CONTENTS

JUNE | JULY 2026 VOLUME 41 | NUMBER 3

Editorial & Executive Offices 1001 Thomasville Road, Suite 201 Tallahassee, FL 32303 850-224-2265 www.floridabankers.com

ON THE COVER

Learn, Earn and Return Former Florida Senator Garrett Richter Becomes 2026-27 FBA Chairman

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Kathy Kraninger President & Chief Executive Officer kkraninger@floridabankers.com Suellen Wilkins Director of Marketing & Communications swilkins@floridabankers.com Keith Costello Chair Garrett Richter Chair-Elect Fabiola Brumley Immediate Past Chair Advertising & Production Offices NFR Communications, Inc. 250 Prairie Center Dr., Ste. 300 Eden Prairie, MN 55344 952-835-2275 www.nfrcom.com For advertising information, contact Erica Nelson Advertising Sales Executive 763-497-1778 Erica@NFRcom.com Statements of fact and opinion are made on the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion or endorsement on the part of the officers or members of FBA. Florida Banking is published six times annually. Subscription price is $50 per year for nonmembers. Postmaster, send address changes to Florida Bankers Association, P.O. Box 1360, Tallahassee, FL 32302. Copyright 2026 For reprints or single issues, contact 800-336-1120

President's Perspective Driving the Future Chair’s Message Gratitude, Progress and What Comes Next Government Relations FBA Continues Efforts to Combat Fraud SHAZAM The Fraud You Don’t See Coming Women in Leadership Conference Recap ICBA Getting to the Core of Innovation Washington Update: Banking Can Bridge the Political Divide FBA Thanks Outgoing and Incoming Board Members Consumer Compliance Conference Recap Bank on Your Future Spring Recap Personal Transactions Kudos Upcoming Events

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Driving the Future PRESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE

KATHY KRANINGER

widely—with customers, partners and your communities. The more we amplify this message to truly reach consumers, the more we can help prevent them from becoming victims of fraud. At the same time, we are taking a hard look at fraud information-sharing and reporting. More than two decades ago, FBA led the way with Fraud-Net, a national platform connecting financial institutions and law enforcement. Today, the need for timely, effective information sharing has returned as a clear pain point. Working with the Kentucky Bankers Association, we are exploring solutions to modernize this capability and better equip banks to respond. Your input is critical—if you have experience with Fraud-Net or ideas on current gaps, we want to hear from you. The future of Fraud-Net will also dovetail with our legislative proposal for a Florida financial crimes intelligence center, a state level entity to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. In addition to processing reporting from financial institutions, this entity will be the glue between local police reports by seemingly single victims and the national security interest in fighting transnational criminal organizations. FBA is working on other exciting efforts that will be shared during Annual Meeting and in the months ahead, to ensure banks of all sizes are positioned well to leverage innovation. In the final year of our strategic plan, that is the task in front of us: not simply to withstand or respond to change, but to drive the future ahead.

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” — attributed to Abraham Lincoln As we enter the third and final year of our strategic plan, that sentiment isn’t just aspirational—it’s a call to action. It also aligns directly with this year’s Annual Meeting theme, Succeeding Through Disruption and Leveraging Innovation, and with the reality facing our industry and our world: change is constant, the pace is accelerating, and the institutions that lead will be those that act with purpose. FBA is blazing the trail ahead to help you lead in that environment, including leveraging technology to do it. In the coming fiscal year, FBA is working to modernize our IT infrastructure. We are pursuing our public policy initiatives holistically, including getting you involved in grassroots outreach. All of our efforts are designed with one goal in mind: equipping you to better serve your customers and communities in a rapidly evolving landscape. In this column, I want to highlight one effort that brings these themes together—countering fraud. FBA advocates for a national strategy that ensures telecommunications, social media and tech companies are doing their part as financial institutions continue doing ours. Educating the public is a shared responsibility. This month, in partnership with the Florida Attorney General’s Office and stakeholders across the state, we launched “Spot the Signs, Stop the Scams,” a statewide campaign to raise consumer awareness. We encourage every member to use and share these materials

FBA PRESIDENT & CEO “

All of our efforts are designed to equip you to better serve your customers and communities.”

Upcoming Event Trust & Wealth Management Conference Sept. 29-30, 2026 The Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld Learn more: www.floridabankers.com/ trust-wealth-management conference.html

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Gratitude, Progress and What Comes Next CHAIR’S MESSAGE

CTO, Corey LeBlanc. This recognition reflects not only Corey’s exceptional professional achievement, but also a deep commitment to community, leadership and the values that define our industry. I look forward to celebrating him and the many contributions he has made. As we look ahead, one of the most important initiatives we are undertaking as an association is our continued effort to combat financial fraud. In partnership with the Florida Attorney General’s Office, the FBA is launching a new statewide public awareness campaign designed to equip both banks and consumers with the tools they need to recognize, prevent and report fraud. This campaign reflects the reality that fraud prevention requires a unified, proactive approach. The campaign includes a comprehensive toolkit — including social media graphics, educational videos and ready-to-use customer resources — to help amplify this message across your communities. I strongly encourage every institution to take part in this effort. By working together, we can extend our reach and better protect the customers who place their trust in us. Serving as your Chair has been one of the great privileges of my career. While my time in this role is coming to an end, my confidence in the future of Florida’s banking industry has never been stronger. Thank you for the opportunity to serve, for your leadership and for all that you do each day to strengthen our communities. It has truly been an honor.

As my term as Chair of the Florida Bankers Association comes to a close, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on the past year and on the strength of the industry we are privileged to serve. It has been an honor to represent Florida’s banking community — an industry defined not only by its resilience and innovation, but by its unwavering commitment to the customers and communities who rely on us every day. This role has given me a unique vantage point to witness the dedication of bankers across our state. From supporting small businesses and first-time homebuyers to navigating economic uncertainty and rapid technological change, Florida’s banks continue to lead with purpose. I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together and the meaningful impact our industry makes in every corner of our state. I want to extend my sincere thanks to my fellow board members, committee volunteers and the outstanding FBA team for their partnership and leadership. Your commitment to advocacy, education and engagement ensures our association remains a powerful voice for Florida banking. I am also grateful to each of you — our members — whose involvement and support make this work possible. As I conclude my tenure, I would like to take a moment to recognize one of the highest honors in our industry. Please join me in congratulating the 2026 Banker of the Year – Locality Bank’s own Co-Founder, COO and

KEITH COSTELLO FBA CHAIR

“

While my time in this role is coming to an end, my confidence in the future of Florida’s banking industry has never been stronger.”

Upcoming Event Florida School of Banking August 2-8, 2026 University of Florida Gainesville, Florida Learn more: www.floridabankers.com/ school-of-banking.html

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FBA Continues Efforts to Combat Fraud GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Education remains another important pillar of the FBA’s fraud mitigation efforts. Throughout the year, the Association offers webinars, programs and training opportunities focused on fraud prevention and response strategies. In addition, the FBA partners with the Kentucky Bankers Association on its annual Fraud Academy, scheduled for Aug. 18-20, 2026, in Lexington, Ky., and virtually. The Fraud Academy is designed to equip bankers at all levels with tools to detect, prevent and mitigate fraud. Led by experts from the U.S. Secret Service, law enforcement and fraud prevention specialists, the program addresses a wide range of topics, including check fraud, elder fraud, cybercrime and prevention strategies. I’ve attended myself and strongly encourage others to participate. Advocacy also remains central to the FBA’s efforts. In Washington, D.C., the FBA has hosted discussions with members of Florida’s congressional delegation and federal regulators to address strategies for combating fraud and protecting consumers. In Tallahassee, the FBA has supported several important legislative initiatives in recent years, including protections for vulnerable adults, criminal penalties for mail theft and efforts to regulate virtual currency kiosks often used in scams. The Association is also continuing work on legislation to establish a Financial Crimes Intelligence Center within the Attorney General’s Office to improve statewide coordination on financial fraud investigations. Together, through education, collaboration, advocacy and public awareness, we can continue strengthening the industry’s response to fraud.

Fraud continues to impact financial institutions and consumers at every level, and bankers are often the last line of defense. Whether helping customers recover stolen funds, preventing fraudulent withdrawals or identifying suspicious activity before losses occur, your role is critical. That’s why the FBA continues to prioritize fraud mitigation through advocacy, education collaboration and public awareness initiatives. One of the FBA’s most visible efforts this year is a statewide fraud prevention awareness campaign in partnership with Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. We appreciate the Attorney General’s collaboration on this important initiative and encourage all member banks to participate. Campaign materials have already been distributed to members and include social media graphics, educational videos and one page consumer resources that can be used in branches, newsletters, websites and other communication channels. The success of this effort depends on broad participation across the industry. By sharing these resources consistently and visibly, we can help educate consumers and reduce the success of fraud attempts targeting Floridians. The FBA is also continuing to strengthen industry collaboration through the Fraud Mitigation Peer Group. This forum allows members to exchange information, discuss emerging threats and learn practical strategies from industry experts and peers. Recent sessions have focused on the growing sophistication of AI-driven fraud schemes, including phishing and smishing attacks that challenge traditional detection methods. These discussions help banks stay informed and better prepared to respond to evolving risks.

ANTHONY DIMARCO FBA EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS “ The Fraud Academy is designed to equip bankers

at all levels with tools to detect, prevent and mitigate fraud. ”

Upcoming Event BSA/AML Symposium

Learn more: https://www.floridabankers.com/ fba-bsa-aml-symposium.html October 27-29, 2026 Orlando Marriott Lake Mary Lake Mary, Florida

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Learn, Earn and Return Former Florida Senator Garrett Richter Becomes 2026-27 FBA Chairman

G arrett Richter’s path to the chairmanship of the Florida Bankers Association has been anything but conventional. From his early days at Mellon Bank to military service in Vietnam, to founding one of Florida’s most successful community banks and serving in the Florida Legislature, Richter has built a career defined by leadership, resilience and a deep commitment to service. As he steps into his role as FBA Chair for 2026 27, he brings a unique perspective shaped by decades in banking, public policy and community engagement. In this conversation, Richter reflects on the experiences that shaped him, the challenges and opportunities Florida’s banking industry faces, and the priorities guiding his year ahead. Q. Your career spans military service, founding a bank, serving in the Florida House and Senate, including as President pro tempore and now as Florida Market President for Sunflower Bank. How have those experiences prepared you to serve as FBA chair? A. I started my banking career as a janitor at Mellon Bank in Pittsburgh in 1969. During my time with Mellon, I received a job offer I couldn’t refuse that provided training and travel – from the U.S. Army. They trained me and sent me to Vietnam, where I served on a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol with the 75th Rangers. When I returned home, I went back to work immediately with Mellon Bank as a bill collector. Seventeen years later, in 1987 Mellon transferred me to Naples to start a financial services company. In 1988, I left Mellon to join Gary Tice as we started a community bank—First National Bank of Naples. We grew that bank to become one of the largest community banks headquartered in Florida, with 77 branch locations, a trust company and an insurance agency. In 2005, Fifth Third bought our bank, and I entered politics. I was fortunate to be elected to the Florida Senate twice, both times unopposed. Having no opposition permitted me to focus on policy rather than politics. My banking career has included aiding in the establishment of three de novo banks, the acquisition of 13 banks in Florida

and being acquired four times. My military, banking and political careers have given me many different perspectives, the greatest of which I believe is a focus on the Golden Rule – you treat people the way you want them to treat you. I believe that’s one of the most critical ingredients of good leadership. Q. You chaired the Senate banking and insurance committee during your time in office. How does that experience shape your perspective on today’s regulatory and policy environment for Florida banks? A. When I was in the Florida Senate, I was honored to chair the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee for four years. Having worked in the banking industry for so long, I’ve seen it go from under regulated to over regulated, to deregulated, to re-regulated, and now to way over regulated. Dodd Frank resulted in a huge bureaucracy, creating unreasonable and unnecessary regulations that reduced banks’ ability to best serve our communities. Tailoring regulations to address the strategic risks banks take on, rather than an extensive one-size-fits-all approach, is the right and best regulatory path. Q. Having served on the legislative side, what do you think lawmakers most need to understand about the role banks play in strengthening Florida’s economy and communities? A. Lawmakers need to understand that banks act as vital engines for local economic cycles and community stability. Our role extends far beyond transactions, fueling growth through targeted lending and partnerships with community organizations. Banks typically embrace and meet commitments to four groups—their customers, communities, employees and shareholders. These commitments drive our success. Frequent communication with our lawmakers is vital. If we don’t influence the recipe, we can’t complain about the cake. When we do influence the recipe, we can be proud of the results. One tool to help FBA members influence the recipe and become strong participants is the FBA’s Advocacy in Action Learn, Earn and Return, Continued on page 10

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that’s focused on the risk profile of the bank they are examining. Bankers and regulators have the same goal— safe and sound banks. There should be a partnership approach, rather than an adversarial approach. Banks and bankers must be nimble and responsive regarding customer and community needs. We also need to be nimble regarding technological changes that impact our products and services and the ways we deliver them. Q. Advocacy is central to the FBA’s mission. From your experience as a legislator, what advice would you give bankers who want to become more effective advocates? A. To be effective advocates, bankers must move beyond simply explaining what banks do, and become clear, credible and relatable voices for the industry’s role in supporting households, small businesses and the broader community. Successful advocates know the issues and speak in simple terms. Lead with stories, not spreadsheets. Be a partner, not just a lobbyist. Position your bank as a problem solver. Build relationships – maintain ongoing touch with local chambers, city councils, economic development boards and associations, rather than reaching out only when a crisis hits. I mentioned the Advocacy in Action Toolkit…it provides good direction. Q. When your year as chair concludes, what would success look like both for the FBA and for Florida’s banking industry? A. The FBA has earned an excellent reputation in both Washington and Tallahassee. My goal is to build on that reputation and increase our members’ involvement in our advocacy efforts. As I said, my theme is Learn, Earn and Return—at the end of my year, I hope we have more bankers who better understand our issues, have engaged with local lawmakers and have increased their participation in our Florida BankPac. similar values. It’s just been a great industry for me over 55 years. Q. You’re a U.S. Army and Air Force veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. How has your military service shaped your leadership philosophy? A. The military grew me up. As I mentioned, I flunked chemistry, and so I didn’t graduate from

Learn, Earn and Return, Continued from page 8

Toolkit. The toolkit is an easy guide to effective and personal interactions with our elected officials. Q. As you begin your year as our FBA chair, what are your top priorities for the FBA? A. My priorities for the FBA are to encourage effective advocacy—and increase participation—among our banks and bankers. The theme I’m adopting for my year as chairman is Learn, Earn and Return. The Florida Chamber recognized this priority of mine when I served in the Senate and engraved it on a baseball bat that they presented me. As experienced bankers we must learn the issues impacting our industry and our communities; earn our reputation and become credible advocates; and return these skills, passion and knowledge to others in our industry who can carry on our mission and provide financial support to our Florida BankPac. The FBA has earned the respect of lawmakers in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. Kathy Kraninger is a highly experienced and respected leader who has tremendous contacts with our lawmakers and our regulators. She has earned a great reputation. My goal is to join her as we educate our lawmakers and Florida bankers, enabling all banks to maximize their positive impact on our state. An issue that’s front and center today is FDIC deposit insurance. There is unanimous agreement within our industry that there is a need for FDIC insurance reform; there is not unanimous agreement on what that reform should look like. I hope the FBA can be a constructive intermediary as we endeavor to present an effective resolution that provides our depositors and banks with an appropriate level of coverage. Q. Community and regional banks face increasing regulatory and competitive challenges. What is essential to ensure they remain strong and viable in the years ahead? A. I believe examiners need to establish exam criteria On Leadership and Life Q. What originally drew you to banking, and what has kept you passionate about the industry? A. I love banking. I love the people. I love what we do in our communities. I love making loans to companies that start out small and became successful. I love the bankers I work with — we have

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high school on time with the rest of my class. My father made me get a job, and I got a job as a janitor at Mellon Bank. In less than a year I was drafted, and when I entered the military I was a punk. The military forced me to interact with many different personalities. I experienced many different leadership styles that I could draw from. It gave me a sense of pride to serve with the 75th Ranger Company, but I didn’t know how proud I would be until years later. In 1996 my teenage son and I were cleaning the garage and he found a box of military memorabilia containing my Bronze Star. We hadn’t talked a lot about my military experience, and his eyes just lit up — he was so proud that his dad had received a Bronze Star. It accelerated my pride, and today I wear it as a lapel pin. The memories and the lessons I learned from my military experience serve as a foundation for who I am today — but not nearly as much as the foundation my wife, Diana, created. She’s the one who motivated me to be successful, and she’s the one I go to for guidance. We’ll celebrate our 52nd wedding anniversary this October. Q. Outside of work, how do you recharge? A. People are busy, our colleagues and friends find themselves juggling many balls in the air every day. Of all the balls you’re juggling every day, most of them are rubber but one is glass. If you’re going to drop a ball, don’t drop the glass ball. If you drop a rubber ball, it’ll bounce, but if you drop the glass ball, it’ll shatter, and the glass ball is your family. Don’t drop the glass ball. I recharge with family. Diana and I have been blessed with three wonderful children. I am tremendously proud of each of them and they’ve been blessed with terrific spouses and with seven children of their own who give us great pride. We all get together often. My recharge is family! Rock and Roll

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The Fraud You Don’t See Coming How AI is changing risk, and what a proactive approach means for community banks SHAZAM

SHAZAM “

behavior, emerging patterns and how those patterns affect each institution’s unique customer base. For community banks, the challenge— and the opportunity—is to strengthen fraud strategies in ways that keep pace with change while preserving the relationship driven experience accountholders expect. AI-powered fraud is the top risk community banks face In 2026, industry research has reached a sobering consensus: cyber-enabled fraud has surpassed every other operational risk facing financial institutions. According to the FBI’s 2025 Internet Crime Report, U.S. consumers and businesses lost $20.8 billion to cyber enabled fraud in a single year, a 26% increase over 2024. For the first time in the report’s history, AI-facilitated scams were tracked as a distinct category, accounting for more than $893 million in losses. Community banks are not insulated from these trends. In fact, they’re more exposed. The 2025 CSBS Annual Survey of Community Banks identified cybersecurity—including debit card fraud and AI-driven scams—as the most pressing internal risk reported by community bankers nationwide. At the executive level, concern is equally high. The World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 found that cyber-enabled fraud overtook ransomware as the leading concern among global CEOs, with nearly three-quarters of organizations directly affected in 2025 alone. Fraud today is faster, cheaper and more convincing than ever. Criminals use

Fraud is no longer a distant or abstract risk aimed only at global financial institutions. It’s personal, local and accelerating. From deepfake voice scams to AI-generated phishing messages that convincingly mimic trusted community members, fraudsters are using technology to bypass legacy controls and exploit human trust at scale. For community banks, this shift is reshaping the risk environment. While they remain the first line of defense for their accountholders, staying ahead of AI-driven threats now requires more advanced, adaptive protection to keep everyday transactions secure. Effective fraud prevention is no longer just about responding when something goes wrong. It’s about understanding how fraud behavior evolves and building defenses that can evolve just as quickly. Understanding the changing nature of fraud Fraud today rarely looks like the obvious threats of the past. It’s increasingly automated, coordinated and designed to blend in with legitimate activity. Artificial intelligence allows fraudsters to scale highly convincing scams, generate synthetic identities and continuously test controls until they uncover weak spots. These efforts are persistent and adaptive, shifting tactics as soon as defenses respond. As a result, fraudulent transactions can move through traditional, rules based systems without triggering alarms. Addressing this challenge requires more than isolated tools or static thresholds. It demands ongoing insight into transaction

In 2026, industry research has reached a sobering consensus: cyber enabled fraud has surpassed every other operational risk facing financial institutions.”

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There’s a common misconception that only global institutions have access to top-tier fraud intelligence. SHAZAM® Fraud Advisors™ helps level the playing field. • Through SHAZAM, community banks gain access to: • Enterprise-grade, AI-driven fraud detection • Expert analysis tailored to their institution Peer intelligence shared through trusted user forums In an era shaped by autonomous fraud tools and increasingly invisible attacks, Fraud Advisors ensures there’s a human shield in place, focused not just on stopping fraud, but on protecting communities. Backed by 50 years of payments expertise and a reputation for exceptional service, SHAZAM delivers innovative solutions designed to strengthen community banks. As a member-owned organization, we listen and collaborate with our clients to develop the tools they need to grow and serve their accountholders. Learn more at shazam.net.

generative AI to automate attacks, clone voices, fabricate documents and manipulate legitimate customers into authorizing transactions themselves, often making the activity appear “all green” to traditional systems. For community banks, the stakes are especially high. Every incident carries a human cost measured not only in dollars, but in trust. Why technology alone isn’t enough Many fraud strategies still focus on what happens after fraud occurs: disputed transactions, card replacements, customer apologies and loss recovery. In an AI-driven threat environment, that reactive model no longer holds up. Modern debit fraud unfolds in milliseconds. When detection, decisioning and response are spread across disconnected systems, institutions are already at a disadvantage. Even the most advanced technology, however, requires informed human oversight to be effective. Community banks often face an expertise gap, relying on generic support models that lack institutional context and

make it harder to keep pace with evolving tactics. The result is a familiar posture: identify and stop the fraud, absorb the loss and hope the next attack looks like the last one. From first-dollar protection to sustainable performance By stopping fraud before the first dollar leaves an account, financial institutions protect accountholders while reducing write-offs, operational costs and regulatory exposure. Stronger controls lead to fewer disputes, lower loss ratios and less staff time spent on remediation. Just as importantly, proactive fraud management strengthens accountholder relationships. When local families know their bank is staying ahead of evolving threats, trust—the foundation of community banking—deepens. Industry research continues to link stronger fraud controls to higher customer satisfaction and retention, particularly as awareness of AI-driven scams grows. Scaling “mega-bank” intelligence without losing the local difference

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Empowerment & Connections Drive Women in Leadership Conference

and relatability that really resonated. In particular, hearing from someone who opened her own bank was powerful. It reinforces what’s possible and gives a lot of hope and encouragement to women navigating leadership in traditionally male-dominated spaces.” Many thanks to our 2026 Planning Committee, Chair Laura Gilvary; to our excellent presenters and esteemed panelists; and to our generous sponsors, for their continued support. And thank you to our attendees for their enthusiasm and shared camaraderie, making this an exceptional event!

Leaders—established and up-and-coming—from Florida’s financial institutions and partner professional groups gathered in April at the FBA’s annual Women in Leadership Conference. Attendees shared their expertise, examined common challenges, and encouraged and inspired colleagues to continue to pursue leadership roles. “One of the most impactful parts of the event and my favorite was the leadership panel,” an attendee said. “Hearing the personal stories of how these women grew into their roles, navigated challenges and built their careers was incredibly inspiring. It brought a level of authenticity

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Getting to the Core of Innovation ICBA

REBECA ROMERO RAINEY PRESIDENT AND CEO, ICBA “

sought input on the challenges community banks face, how those concerns affect competitive positioning and ways the OCC can play a role. Community banks now must ensure that regulatory agencies and core providers both provide the elements they need to innovate. As we shared in our response to the OCC, any development that allows for innovation on a quicker, more creative basis is a win. Specifically, clear and faster regulatory guidance that does more to clarify expectations will help ease the burden on community banks. Regulatory sandboxes and pilot programs also create a way for community banks to test new solutions and offer an environment for experimentation. Core providers can also continue opening access via APIs and make those connections seamless and functional for community banks. There’s clearly a lot at play as we continue in this era of innovation, and ICBA is committed to supporting community banks with actionable choices to embrace opportunities. Whether it be by researching and identifying potential partners through ICBA Preferred Service Providers, corporate members or the ThinkTECH Accelerator, or better connecting with peers via ICBA Community to learn from their experiences, we are here to support your journeys. Community banks will continue to flourish by offering the distinct solutions that they know will uniquely support their customers and communities.

As community banks embrace innovation, they do so with the knowledge that each new solution becomes a product in their portfolio. With every integration comes the reliance on existing systems to support regulatory compliance, operational requirements and customer facing usability. That generally means core integrations or top-layer API enablement to ensure functionality that delivers an optimal user experience. Quite often, that’s much easier said than done. It comes as no surprise that community banks, by and large, are dependent upon their cores. As the innovation landscape evolves, so, too, do those relationships. Community banks remain focused on determining the right mix of integrations and layers to ensure a seamless experience for their teams and their customers, while seeking to collaborate with their cores for a more efficient outcome. However, while the innovation environment continues to shift, community banks’ underlying dependency on core providers remains constant. What are the new compliance requirements for core providers? At the same time, today’s innovation landscape requires novel approaches to infrastructure that introduce new compliance requirements, and agencies are aware of this dynamic. For instance, late last year, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) issued a request for information on community bank engagement with core providers that

Today’s innovation landscape requires novel approaches to infrastructure that introduce new compliance requirements, and agencies are aware of this dynamic.”

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Banking Can Bridge the Political Divide WASHINGTON UPDATE

reasonable steps to identify and remove fraudulent ads from their platforms since we know that’s where so many scams start. The support for this bill from both sides of the aisle is a clear indication that lawmakers recognize the need to respond to the fraud crisis facing Americans. The SCAM Act is a commonsense solution that will protect American consumers, and we’re working hard to ensure it becomes law. Please support this effort by visiting aba.com/TakeAction and urge your lawmakers to cosponsor the bill today. Members of Congress in both parties have also come together in recent days on housing reform legislation, as well as bills that would make it easier for banks to access Federal Home Loan Bank resources to help fund community development projects, increase asset thresholds to make it easier for banks to qualify for an 18-month exam cycle, and crack down on credit repair scams. I say it often: the intermediation of capital, improving access to housing, as well as the protection of Americans from growing threats like fraud and scams, aren’t Democratic issues, or Republican issues. They’re American issues. At ABA, our longstanding approach to advocacy has always been—and will remain—militantly bipartisan, and throughout much of our nation’s history, banking issues remained above the political fray. I don’t know if we can ever return to that, but we will continue to work with anyone in Washington—regardless of party—who appreciates the critical role America’s banks play in the country and shares our view that all Americans benefit from a clear, consistent bank policy environment that promotes economic growth and prosperity for all.

We all recognize the political divisions in this country, and the difficulty in getting Republicans and Democrats to agree on the time of day much less substantive policy issues. But as bankers who attended ABA’s recent Washington Summit in the nation’s capital learned, once you drill down past the headlines and the noise on cable news shows, you’ll find that not only is bipartisan cooperation still possible when it comes to banking—it’s happening. During the Summit, bankers had the opportunity to hear from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, and what came across consistently was a commitment to ensuring that we have a strong, resilient banking sector that encourages economic growth and helps consumers and businesses thrive and prosper. As freshman Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.)—who has emerged as a bipartisan dealmaker in her first several months on the job—observed on the Summit stage: “Our varying backgrounds often color how we see things, but that doesn’t mean we can’t come together and do great things.” At ABA, we agree with this statement – in fact, it’s been the bedrock of our approach to advocacy over the years. And if you look at the current session of Congress, you’ll see several examples of bipartisan cooperation on banking issues. One great example is the SCAM Act that is currently moving through both chambers of Congress, co-sponsored by Sens. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) in the Senate and Reps. Lou Correa (D-Calif.) and Dan Meuser (R-Pa.) in the House. This bill, which has strong support from both ABA and the state associations, takes aim at the widespread problem of fraud perpetrated through social media. The bill requires companies like Meta to take

ROB NICHOLS PRESIDENT AND CEO, ABA

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FBA Thanks Outgoing and Incoming Board Members

The Florida Bankers Association extends its sincere gratitude to our outgoing Board of Directors members for their outstanding service, leadership and dedication over the past year. Your guidance has played an important role in advancing our mission and strengthening Florida’s banking industry during a time of continued growth and opportunity. Outgoing Board Members • Jose Cueto, Grove Bank & Trust, Miami • Ryan James , Surety Bank, Deland • Dana Kilborne , Cypress Bank & Trust, Palm Beach • Corey Neil , The Bank of Tampa, Tampa • Harlan Parrish , FineMark National Bank & Trust, Bonita Springs • Chuck Shaffer , Seacoast Bank, Stuart

We are also proud to welcome our incoming Board members. Your experience, insight and commitment to our shared goals will help shape the future of the FBA and the industry we represent. We look forward to another successful year of collaboration, innovation and advocacy under your leadership. Incoming Board Members • Paula O’Neil , First National Bank of Pasco • Shaun Williams , First National Bank Coastal Community, Wellington • Ken Schoeni , Banesco USA, Miami • Gaby Cioli , INB Bank, Miami • Gwynn Davey , ServisFirst Bank, Tampa • Beth DeSimone , SouthState Bank, Winter Haven

18 | FLORIDA BANKING

Consumer Compliance Conference: Officers Focus on Strengthening Skills and Connections

assistance during the year, to be able to talk to someone who is in your shoes. I think the regulator panel is an absolute must and the networking is invaluable.” The FBA thanks Sarah Oliver, Director of Financial Institutions at Saltmarsh, and Carolina Otalvaro, SVP at Cypress Bank & Trust for their invaluable assistance in curating and organizing the program. We also offer a special thank you to our generous sponsors who make it possible for FBA to continue to deliver excellent educational content. Above all, many thanks to our attendees for their mutual fellowship and collaboration with colleagues, making this a remarkable event!

FBA’s 2026 Annual Consumer Compliance Conference delivered timely insights on rule changes, enforcement trends and practical strategies in consumer lending, deposits, risk, audit, and performance. Equally important were peer exchanges and opportunities to network and discuss compliance strategies. The interactive Tool Sharing Workshop was exceptionally well received, as was the beginners’ track and strategic track, to meet attendees’ evolving education needs. “I enjoyed getting to know people and getting a feel for the challenges others face and how they are dealing with them — meeting other compliance professionals and the regulators,” one attendee said. “This helps when we need

WWW.FLORIDABANKERS.COM JUNE/JULY 26 | 19

BANCSERV ENDORSED PARTNERS

BANCSERV ENDORSED PARTNERS BANCSERV ENDORSED PARTNERS

Provides community bankers with quality investment products, services and education at competitive prices through their exclusively endorsed broker Stifel. Provides community bankers with quality investment products, services and education at competitive prices through their exclusively endorsed broker Stifel. Jim Reber, (800) 422-6442 jreber@icbasecurities.com Supports financial institutions by providing core processing assessments, vendor evaluations, contract negotiation and conversion services. Keith Hagen, (850) 640-2244 keith.hagen@ici-consulting.com Supports financial institutions by providing core processing assessments, vendor evaluations, contract negotiation and conversion services. Keith Hagen, (850) 640-2244 keith.hagen@ici-consulting.com Hold core deposits, attract new customers, and increase share-of-wallet with a top-rated, cobranded HSA solution. Hold core deposits, attract new customers, and increase share-of-wallet with a top-rated, cobranded HSA solution. Jim Reber, (800) 422-6442 jreber@icbasecurities.com Jim Reber, (800) 422-6442 jreber@icbasecurities.com

Provides FL banks access to competitive benefits while enjoying greater flexibility, reduced financial risk, & technology that eases administrative burden. Stephanie Boomgaarden, (407) 515 2467 sboomgaarden@selectsourceone.com Provides FL banks access to competitive benefits while enjoying greater flexibility, reduced financial risk, & technology that eases administrative burden. Stephanie Boomgaarden, (407) 515 2467 sboomgaarden@selectsourceone.com A high-quality agent credit card program that will enhance the payment relationships of banks with their customers. A high-quality agent credit card program that will enhance the payment relationships of banks with their customers. Karen Grahn, (205) 949-0302 kgrahn@servisfirstbank.com The only nationwide independent, member-owned debit network, processor and core provider supporting community banks. Alex Jernigan, (229) 861-3802 jjernig@shazam.net The only nationwide independent, member-owned debit network, processor and core provider supporting community banks. Alex Jernigan, (229) 861-3802 jjernig@shazam.net Leading provider of bank security services and branch automation equipment in the southeast. Adam Stephens, (256) 957-8018 adams@stsgrp.com Leading provider of bank security services and branch automation equipment in the southeast. Adam Stephens, (256) 957-8018 adams@stsgrp.com Vericast helps banks grow relationships, boost deposits, and drive smarter marketing through data-powered, customer-first solutions. Vericast helps banks grow relationships, boost deposits, and drive smarter marketing through data-powered, customer-first solutions. Bill Lopez, (305) 609-2757 william.lopez@vericast.com Bill Lopez, (305) 609-2757 william.lopez@vericast.com Karen Grahn, (205) 949-0302 kgrahn@servisfirstbank.com

Primary and Excess Insurance Solutions for Banks of All Sizes Patricia Williams, (800) 274-5222 pwilliams@abais.com Primary and Excess Insurance Solutions for Banks of All Sizes Patricia Williams, (800) 274-5222 pwilliams@abais.com Web-based platform, designed to streamline the marketing production process for banks of all sizes. Neal Reynolds, (678) 528-6688 nreynolds@bankmarketingcenter.com Primary and Excess Insurance Solutions for Banks of All Sizes Patricia Williams, (800) 274-5222 pwilliams@abais.com Web-based platform, designed to streamline the marketing production process for banks of all sizes. Neal Reynolds, (678) 528-6688 nreynolds@bankmarketingcenter.com Web-based platform, designed to streamline the marketing production process for banks of all sizes. Neal Reynolds, (678) 528-6688 nreynolds@bankmarketingcenter.com Earn interest income effortlessly — buy fully amortizing, fixed-rate loans from top-tier borrowers without the cost or hassle of originations. Melissa Whelan, (315) 559-7641 melissa@bhg-inc.com Earn interest income effortlessly — buy fully amortizing, fixed-rate loans from top-tier borrowers without the cost or hassle of originations. Melissa Whelan, (315) 559-7641 melissa@bhg-inc.com Earn interest income effortlessly — buy fully amortizing, fixed-rate loans from top-tier borrowers without the cost or hassle of originations. Melissa Whelan, (315) 559-7641 melissa@bhg-inc.com Offers a comprehensive suite of services including: Compliance Hub, Virtual Partners, and Tailored Solutions. (888) 353-3933 info@compliancealliance.com Offers a comprehensive suite of services including: Compliance Hub, Virtual Partners, and Tailored Solutions. (888) 353-3933 info@compliancealliance.com Offers a comprehensive suite of services including: Compliance Hub, Virtual Partners, and Tailored Solutions. (888) 353-3933 info@compliancealliance.com Provides a full line of insurance products targeted specifically to meet the wide ranging needs of financial institutions. Brandon Maggard, (502) 736-1298 bmaggard@fbains.com Provides a full line of insurance products targeted specifically to meet the wide ranging needs of financial institutions. Brandon Maggard, (502) 736-1298 bmaggard@fbains.com Provides a full line of insurance products targeted specifically to meet the wide ranging needs of financial institutions. Brandon Maggard, (502) 736-1298 bmaggard@fbains.com Offers CRA Education & Training, CRA Support Services, the CRA Collaborative Peer Group, and CRA qualified loans, investments and services. Kristine LaVigna, (901) 529-4781 kristine.lavigna@icba.org Offers CRA Education & Training, CRA Support Services, the CRA Collaborative Peer Group, and CRA qualified loans, investments and services. Kristine LaVigna, (901) 529-4781 kristine.lavigna@icba.org Offers CRA Education & Training, CRA Support Services, the CRA Collaborative Peer Group, and CRA qualified loans, investments and services. Kristine LaVigna, (901) 529-4781 kristine.lavigna@icba.org

Provides community bankers with quality investment products, services and education at competitive prices through their exclusively endorsed broker Stifel.

Provides FL banks access to competitive benefits while enjoying greater flexibility, reduced financial risk, & technology that eases administrative burden. Stephanie Boomgaarden, (407) 515 2467 sboomgaarden@selectsourceone.com

Supports financial institutions by providing core processing assessments, vendor evaluations, contract negotiation and conversion services. Keith Hagen, (850) 640-2244 keith.hagen@ici-consulting.com

A high-quality agent credit card program that will enhance the payment relationships of banks with their customers.

Karen Grahn, (205) 949-0302 kgrahn@servisfirstbank.com

The only nationwide independent, member-owned debit network, processor and core provider supporting community banks. Alex Jernigan, (229) 861-3802 jjernig@shazam.net

Adam Berry, (208) 724-0309 adam.berry@livelyme.com Adam Berry, (208) 724-0309 adam.berry@livelyme.com Hold core deposits, attract new customers, and increase share-of-wallet with a top-rated, cobranded HSA solution. Adam Berry, (208) 724-0309 adam.berry@livelyme.com

Connects enterprise risk, compliance, vendor oversight, business continuity, and more, in one platform. Corey Polom, (413) 374-5467 corey.polom@ncontracts.com Connects enterprise risk, compliance, vendor oversight, business continuity, and more, in one platform.

Connects enterprise risk, compliance, vendor oversight, business continuity, and more, in one platform. Corey Polom, (413) 374-5467 corey.polom@ncontracts.com

Leading provider of bank security services and branch automation equipment in the southeast. Adam Stephens, (256) 957-8018 adams@stsgrp.com

Corey Polom, (413) 374-5467 corey.polom@ncontracts.com

Assists with benefits administration and planning. Our BOLI expertise help banks offer enticing executive benefits tailored to financial institutions. Joe Schaefer, (786) 566-9423 joe.schaefer@nfp.com Assists with benefits administration and planning. Our BOLI expertise help banks offer enticing executive benefits tailored to financial institutions. Joe Schaefer, (786) 566-9423 joe.schaefer@nfp.com

Assists with benefits administration and planning. Our BOLI expertise help banks offer enticing executive benefits tailored to financial institutions. Joe Schaefer, (786) 566-9423 joe.schaefer@nfp.com

Vericast helps banks grow relationships, boost deposits, and drive smarter marketing through data-powered, customer-first solutions.

Bill Lopez, (305) 609-2757 william.lopez@vericast.com

Provides significant discounts on office and banking supplies, furniture, print and copy services, promotional products, break room provisions and more. Larry Reinker, (815) 479-9226 larry.reinker@odpbusiness.com Provides significant discounts on office and banking supplies, furniture, print and copy services, promotional products, break room provisions and more. Larry Reinker, (815) 479-9226 larry.reinker@odpbusiness.com Larry Reinker, (815) 479-9226 larry.reinker@odpbusiness.com

Provides significant discounts on office and banking supplies, furniture, print and copy services, promotional products, break room provisions and more.

Offers insurance solutions for the financial services industry, including a proprietary package policy that combines tailored property and liability coverages. Trey Martino, (203) 921-9089 t.martino@zurichna.com Offers insurance solutions for the financial services industry, including a proprietary package policy that combines tailored property and liability coverages. Trey Martino, (203) 921-9089 t.martino@zurichna.com

Offers insurance solutions for the financial services industry, including a proprietary package policy that combines tailored property and liability coverages. Trey Martino, (203) 921-9089 t.martino@zurichna.com

Payments-related innovation, education, and advocacy to help community banks navigate the payments ecosystem. Payments-related innovation, education, and advocacy to help community banks navigate the payments ecosystem. Client Relations, (800) 242-4770 payments@icba.org

Client Relations, (800) 242-4770 payments@icba.org Client Relations, (800) Payments-related innovation, education, and advocacy to help community banks navigate the payments ecosystem.

Client Relations, (800) 242-4770 payments@icba.org

Created by the Florida Bankers Association, BancServ Inc., provides quality products & services at a discounted rate, saving Florida banks time and money. Contact: Annie Coldstream | acoldstream@floridabankers.com Created by the Florida Bankers Association, BancServ Inc., provides quality products & services at a discounted rate, saving Florida banks time and money. Contact: Annie Coldstream | acoldstream@floridabankers.com Created by the Florida Bankers Association, BancServ Inc., provides quality products & services at a discounted rate, saving Florida banks time and money. Contact: Annie Coldstream | acoldstream@floridabankers.com