November/December 2023 Wisconsin Banker

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

WISCONSIN BANKERS ASSOCIATION

FOUNDED 1892

The Rise of Instant Payments The Federal Reserve Launches FedNow® Service

By Hannah Flanders In 2022, research by the Pew Research Center found that over 75% of U.S. adults have utilized PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App at least once to send and receive payments.

Of these users, ease is cited as the main reason for their adoption.

What is FedNow?

As banks look to further engage their customers, remain competitive in a quickly advancing society, and provide a safe and trusted alternative to popular payment apps, the Federal Reserve has launched its long-awaited FedNow instant payment service.

Launched in July 2023, FedNow allows financial institutions of all sizes to provide safe and efficient instant payment services to customers nationwide. Already, over 100 financial institutions across the U.S. have begun offering FedNow

to customers. Of these institutions, First Citizens State Bank in Whitewater is currently one of the few in Wisconsin.

“As early adopters of the service, our team believes that FedNow, and other real-time payment systems, (continued on pg. 14)

Farmers Are Cautious but Optimistic for 2024 Ag bankers reflect on 2023; prepare for the year ahead

By Hannah Flanders Agricultural bankers in Wisconsin described 2023 as a year of highs and lows. As expected, it was difficult for Wisconsin farmers to beat the success of the last several years.

In 2021, farmers in Wisconsin were well-positioned for success. Ideal (continued on pg. 18)

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER |2023

Inspiring Resilience and Prosperity Upcoming events empower bankers in their service to Wisconsin

By Donna J. Hoppenjan As the last several years have demonstrated, the future is becoming increasingly difficult to predict. Yet, individuals, families, and businesses across Wisconsin look to their local bankers as experts and beacons of stability to lead them through uncertainty.

Standing ready to assist its members in serving their communities, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) remains committed not only to providing the resources and support necessary to navigate the challenging times, but also to illustrating the opportunities on the horizon.

The last several years have seen rising interest rates and ongoing reces-

Message from the Chair Donna J. Hoppenjan

sionary fears, bringing the health of our economy to the forefront of our collective consciousness. For many, these challenges underscored the key role that bankers play in guiding their communities towards financial stability and growth. Looking ahead to the new year, our neighbors will turn to us for our interpretation of economic data and guidance on trends that we will likely see. Along the way, WBA will continue to empower bankers with resources and opportunities to inspire resilience.

One way in which the membership can be sure to remain abreast of our unique economic environment is by attending the Association’s Midwest Economic Forecast Forum. The Forum, which will be held in January 2024, is presented in partnership with several other Midwestern banking associations and is focused specifically on providing an opportunity for bankers across the Midwest to hear from nationally renowned experts on what opportunities and challenges are expected in the next 12 months.

The 2024 Forum will again be held virtually, and banks are encouraged to invite staff, business customers, directors, and

any others interested.

More information — including individual and group rates — will be available at wisbank.com/ econ.

Additionally, Wisconsin’s largest gathering of bank leaders — the WBA Bank Executives Conference — is right around the corner, February 7–9, 2024. This premier event, which will once again be held at the Kalahari Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells, will feature several general and breakout sessions, banker-only peer groups and other networking opportunities, an extensive exhibit hall, and two award ceremonies. (continued on pg. 5)

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER |2023

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

A Review of RESPA’s Section 8

By Scott Birrenkott The Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) has recently received multiple inquiries regarding RESPA’s prohibition against kickbacks and unearned fees. While RESPA’s rules have not changed, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has been active recently in taking enforcement actions against Section 8 violations. As such, banks should be mindful of any referrals or offers and review such opportunities diligently with a conservative eye.

RESPA Section 8 prohibits certain actions related to federally related mortgage loans — including a prohibition against giving or accepting a fee, kickback, or thing of value pursuant to an agreement or understanding (oral or otherwise) — for referrals of business incident to or part of a settlement service. It also prohibits unearned fee arrangements, except for services actually performed. Both prohibitions apply to settlement services involving a federally related mortgage loan.

Additionally, Section 8 identifies certain payments that are not prohibited.

Legal Column Scott Birrenkott

A “fee, kickback, or thing of value” is defined broadly, and can include several arrangements.

RESPA provides a long list of examples, including, without limitation: “monies, things, discounts, salaries. . .” and many more.

It is also important to note that this can be pursuant to a written or oral agreement and can be an agreement or understanding.

Meaning, it may not even be verbalized at all. For example, if a thing of value is received, and connected to business referred, that can be evidence enough of an agreement or understanding. Because of this broad definition, it is recommended that banks take a careful look at any situation that might be considered a violation.

“Settlement service,” which is also defined broadly, includes any service provided in connection with a real estate settlement. Referrals include oral or written action di-

rected to a person that has the effect of affirmatively influencing a person’s selection of a provider of a settlement service or business incident to or part of a settlement service. For example, if a settlement service provider gives referral sources tickets to attend professional sporting events in exchange for referrals as part of an agreement or understanding, such conduct violates RESPA Section 8.

Section 8 also provides a list of payments and arrangements that are not prohibited. Some examples include fees paid to attorneys for services actually rendered, fees paid by a title company to agents for services actually performed in the issuance of a title insurance policy, and fees paid by a lender to its agent for services actually performed in the making of the loan, among others. Additionally, certain arrangements, such as affiliated business arrangements and marketing services agreements are not violations of RESPA Section 8. Such determinations are fact-specific, however, and may require discussion with bank’s legal counsel.

Lastly, Appendix B to Regulation X provides examples to illustrate the application of RESPA to particular fact patterns, including fact patterns for all of the concepts discussed above, indicating whether or not a violation occurred.

CFPB has also published an FAQ on RESPA Section 8 considerations at https:// files.consumerfinance.gov/f/ documents/cfpb_respa_ frequently_asked_questions. pdf If you have any questions on this topic or other matters of compliance, contact WBA Legal at 608441-1200 or wbalegal@ wisbank.com.

Birrenkott is WBA director – legal. For legal questions, please email wbalegal@ wisbank.com.

Note: The above information is not intended to provide legal advice; rather, it is intended to provide general information about banking issues. Consult your institution’s attorney for specific legal advice or assistance.

Inspiring (continued from pg. 2)

progress and prosperity in the lives of those they The unifying theme of the serve. During this year’s 2024 event — “Inspire” — event, I am excited to underscores the dedication not only celebrate our and commitment of the achievements throughout over 30,000 bankers the last year, but also across the state to to join my peers in Wisconsinites. Serving as harnessing the power of trusted financial advisors inspiration to navigate and community builders, the evolving banking bankers in Wisconsin landscape, lead with continually inspire resilience, and ignite

positive change in our communities.

These annual events are not just an opportunity to gain knowledge and connections; they are a reminder to each of us of the profound impact banking has on the people and places we call home.

I hope that you will join me at either — or both —

of these upcoming events to enhance your team’s knowledge for the benefit of Wisconsin's banking industry.

Hoppenjan is president/CEO of Mound City Bank in Platteville and Chair of the 2023– 2024 WBA Board of Directors.

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

Taking the Lead on Advocacy for their industries. With many more ing points and legislative priorities that we wish handouts to have Advocacy to accomplish, including guardimpactful conThe Wisconsin Bankers AsLorenzo ing against credit card swipe fees versations with sociation’s (WBA) mission Cruz their legislators. and pushing for financial instituto support our members is The relationships tion modernization and elder fraud rooted in advocacy. Howformed between protection, it’s important that we do ever, the advocacy we do bankers and their the same! on behalf of the banking representatives industry is not successful without continue to be critical in reinforcing With so much at stake, an even larger your active participation in partnerthe impact legislative proposals will turnout is warranted for the 2024 ship with WBA. In addition to reevent. Our team is hoping to see at have on local banks and communisponding to grassroots email alerts least 300 bankers in Madison for ties, as well as the industry. asking you to contact your state or WBA Capitol Day. Your voice unfederal elected officials, we need you equivocally matters to our advocacy Why Does it Matter? to participate in our annual Capitol success so if you would like to help Day in Madison to directly share with In 2023, the membership shattered legislators the positive impact banks WBA’s Capitol Day attendance record shape the issues affecting the success of the banking industry, I highly have on Wisconsin’s economy. Since with nearly 200 bankers in attenencourage you to mark your calenthe state legislature only meets in dance for the annual event. Almost dars for February 22. It is well worth the spring in an election year, WBA’s half of those present in 2023 were your time and effort.

Capitol Day is just around the corner, first-time attendees. It is vital that

By Lorenzo Cruz

bankers not only continue to voice Taking the Next Step their opinion on policies impacting them, but also encourage othWhat is Capitol Day? Equally important to our grassroots ers to provide new perspectives that initiatives are our political fundraisThe one-day event is held annuaugment the voices of our seasoned ing efforts from an advocacy standally in Madison and features updates advocates. point. While it is never easy asking from WBA staff on key issues imfor monetary support, the political pacting banks in Wisconsin as well as By meeting with 75% of the legisla- reality is that in order to maintain a legislative panel and guest speaker. tors in our state, our presence at the existing allies and garner future These morning sessions provide the State Capitol this past May unified ones, we need to provide financial perfect opportunity to gain insight the voice of Wisconsin’s banksupport to elected officials and caninto the political and policy landing community and resulted in the didates who will aid us in safeguardscape of the state, along with the historic tax parity relief and personal ing the banking industry. specific legislation affecting the property tax repeal wins we saw banking industry prior to heading passed in the budget this summer.

If we neglect this task, we run the to small group meetings with state Legislators and staff sincerely value risk of a competitor or adversary legislators. hearing directly from their local gaining the advantage to pass legbankers (YOU!) on the issues impact- islation or an administrative rule In the afternoon, WBA schedules ing their district. that harms our industry. Legislative meetings for each banker attending issues WBA is defending against, with their elected state legislators However, WBA isn’t the only busiincluding a change in lien priority, determined by Assembly and Senate ness association to host a governadditional regulatory burden in the district. Bankers from all areas of the ment day to educate and lobby form of new privacy rules or ESG/fair bank are encouraged to participate legislators on the policy matters that access concerns, or losing revenue in in Capitol Day and make their voices impact their industry. In the past the form of interchange fees, indiheard. While it may seem daunting, several years, credit union activists vidually or in combination, would our team works diligently to ensure and realtors have shown up in larger be detrimental to the success of the each attendee is prepared with talknumbers to represent and advocate banking industry if enacted into law. scheduled for February 22, 2024.

Save the Date Thursday, February 22, 2024 Madison, Wisconsin WBA Capitol Day

With the 2024 election season quickly approaching, and campaign spending expected to break even

(continued on pg. 24) Learn more about WBA’s recognition levels for fundraising on pg. 7.

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

Invest in the Future Prosperity of the Banking Industry As part of the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s (WBA) mission to support bankers in Wisconsin, advocacy — at both the state and federal level — plays an important role in the work the team does each day. In order to continue advocating for the strength and well-being of our industry, the WBA membership is encouraged to help make political contributions to WBA’s political accounts: Wisbankpac, the Alliance of Bankers Conduit (ABW), and the WBA

issue advocacy fund. These donations play a vital role in supporting our elected officials who support banking and business initiatives.

Through the Association’s political action funds, individuals have the ability to pool their personal contributions with that from other bankers for even greater impact and visibility for the industry. Here’s how your bank can make a difference:

Individual Recognition

Bank-wide Recognition

Silver Triangle Club

Leadership Circle

Hall of Fame

Gold Triangle Club

Silver Triangle is earned by individual bankers who make a minimum contribution of $1,000 to any combination of the Alliance of Bankers for Wisconsin (ABW) political conduit, Wisbankpac, or the WBA issue advocacy fund.

WBA’s Leadership Circle recognition requires individual bankers to make a minimum contribution of $3,000 to any combination of the Alliance of Bankers for Wisconsin (ABW) political conduit or Wisbankpac.

WBA’s Hall of Fame recognition requires individual bankers to contribute a minimum aggregate lifetime investment of $25,000 to any combination of the Alliance of Bankers for Wisconsin (ABW) political conduit or Wisbankpac.

Gold Triangle recognition is achieved by banks whose officers, directors, and employees aggregately contribute a minimum amount (based on bank asset size) to the Alliance of Bankers for Wisconsin (ABW) political conduit or Wisbankpac.

Not Sure Where to Start?

More information regarding the Association’s yearly priorities and ways to get involved is available at wisbank. com/advocacy. WBA staff are also available to give virtual or in-person presentations to WBA-member bankers and/ or a bank’s board of directors. These informative updates help illustrate the legislative environment we work in and detail the Association’s priority issues.

Visit wisbank.com/donate to make an advocacy contribution.

Bank Assets $0–100 Million $100–250 M

Total Banker Contribution $1,500 $2,000

$250–500 M $500–750 M $750 M–$1 Billion $1 B+

$3,000 $4,000 $5,000 $7,000

To receive the 2023 Gold Triangle Club recognition, WBA member bankers must contribute, at minimum, the above amount based on bank asset size.

Advocacy In Action Thank you for your recent grassroots efforts!

Ladysmith Federal Savings & Loan Association hosted Sen. Cory Tomczyk (R–Mosinee). Pictured (left to right) are: Lorenzo Cruz, WBA vice president – Government Relations; Dr. Steve Reisner, bank director; Bill Dyson, president and CEO; Sen. Cory Tomczyk; Rick Steckel, bank director; and Dr. Jena Donohue, bank director.

Premier Community Bank in Premier Community Bank, Marion Winneconne hosted Sen. Dan Feyen hosted Sen. Joan Ballweg (R– (R–Fond du Lac). Pictured (left Markesan). Pictured (left to right) are: to right) are: Margaret Donato, Dave Raether, former bank director, Winneconne Branch customer service Bill Zeinert, bank director; Jeff representative; Robin Christian, Brady, VP – chief lending officer; Jill senior vice president – retail services; Breitrick, SVP – operations; Vicki Sen. Dan Feyen (R– Fond du Lac); Riska, Premier Insurance Services Sandra Su, vice president – mortgage manager; Sen. Joan Ballweg; Morgan loan officer; Thomas Pamperin, Mielke, chief financial officer; and president; and Lorenzo Cruz, WBA Lorenzo Cruz, WBA vice president – vice president –Government Relations. Government Relations.

Plan a Take Your Legislator to Work event by contacting WBA Vice President – Government Relations Lorenzo Cruz at lcruz@wisbank.com or Director – Government Relations Tyler Foti at tfoti@wisbank.com. WBA staff can assist in arranging the visit, offering talking points, and coordinating advocacy efforts for the meeting.

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

WBA Hosts Annual Fall Regulatory Trip Thank you to the bankers who continue to advocate for our industry!

Every October, WBA staff and bankers from Wisconsin travel to Washington, D.C. to advocate on regulatory issues impacting banks. This annual trip — which provides bankers in Wisconsin with the opportunity to meet with senior officials from several regulatory agencies and share their perspective on federal regulation — is now in its twelfth year.

Thank you to the bankers who attended this year’s fall regulatory trip: • Adam Bellmer, Johnson Financial Group, Racine • Dave Feldhaus, Federal Home Loan Bank, Chicago, Ill. • Kristen Gagliano, North Shore Bank, Brookfield • Donna Hoppenjan, Mound City Bank, Platteville • Corey Hoze, Associated Bank, Milwaukee • Caryn Langolf, Bank First, Manitowoc • Tom Mews, First National Community Bank, New Richmond • Ryan Kamphuis, Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield • Greg Ogren, Security Bank Shares, Inc., Iron River • Dan Peterson, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette • John Udvare, The Equitable Bank, S.S.B., Wauwatosa • Theresa Wiese, First Business Bank, Madison

This year, 12 bankers from across Wisconsin joined WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels and Vice President – Legal Heather MacKinnon from October 16–17 in meetings with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), Federal Reserve Bank (FRB), Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

A group of bankers and WBA staff meet with Acting Comptroller of the Currency Michael Hsu on the 2023 WBA Fall Regulatory trip.

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

Class of 2023: Honorees Celebrated at Leaders in Banking Excellence Ceremony Three individuals were recently honored by the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) for their leadership in banking, community service, and civic involvement. A celebration was held on Friday, August 25 at the WBA headquarters in Madison, where a Leaders in Banking Excellence Wall installation displays a tribute to outstanding current and former bankers. The wall — which was established in 2020 — now displays a total of 24 honorees from the Classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Business Bank, Sauk City (and others), who was unable to attend the Class of 2022 celebration.

Read the full biographies of the honorees at wisbank. com/excellence2023 or stop by WBA’s office in Madison to see the Wall of Excellence in person.

WBA Chair Donna Hoppenjan, president and CEO of Mound City Banking in Platteville, began the event with opening remarks on

WBA’s Wall of Excellence now recognizes 24 bankers for their leadership in banking, community service, and civic involvement.

The honorees in the 2023 Leaders in Banking Excellence Class are: Michael Bock, Dairy State Bank, Rice Lake, and the late John Kujawa, Farmers & Merchants Bank, Berlin.

Also honored at the event was Debra Lins of the former Community

Debra Lins (center) accepts the 2022 Leaders in Banking Excellence award from WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels (left) and WBA Board Chair Donna Hoppenjan (right).

Paul Kujawa (left), Catherine Kujawa (center), and Elizabeth Kujawa (second from right) accept the 2023 Leaders in Banking Excellence award on behalf of their late father, John Kujawa, from WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels (second from left) and WBA Board Chair Donna John Kujawa Hoppenjan (right).

(above) DFI Secretary-designee Cheryll Olson-Collins. (left) Michael Bock (left) accepts the 2023 Leaders in Banking Excellence award from WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels (right).

the lasting legacy of the individuals. Rep. Glenn Grothman, U.S. Representative from Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District, and Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Secretary-designee Cheryll Olson-Collins offered congratulatory remarks to the honorees.

The family, friends, and colleagues shared heartfelt stories of the honorees’ contributions to the banking industry and to their communities, making the event memorable.

It was also a pleasure to welcome back five honorees from the previous classes who attended the event: Jon Bernander (Class of 2021), Robert (Bob) Gorsuch (Class of 2021), Robert Just, Jr. (Class of 2022), Richard (Dick) Pamperin (Class of 2020), and John (Gof) Thomson (Class of 2021).

2024 Class nominations are being accepted at wisbank.com/ excellence.

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

September 20–21 | Middleton

Bank Leaders Benefit from Education and Networking Annual conference brings together bank management teams statewide In September, 130 bankers from over 50 banks in Wisconsin convened at Madison Marriot West in Middleton for WBA’s annual Management Conference. The event included a pre-conference golf outing at University Ridge Golf Course in Madison, a dinner reception, and over eight hours of education and networking opportunities.

session on building and maintaining resilient and supportive teams. The discussion focused on the ways in which banks in Wisconsin are able to strive for culture they are proud of. Additionally, Martin discussed how bank leaders should communicate their value proposition to attract both customers and prospective team members.

Annually, the full-day event focuses on topics critical to bank management teams by offering attendees valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance decision-making and operational success. This year, bankers expanded their knowledge on topics including credit and lending risk, financial management, and cultivating a positive organizational culture.

In the second general session, Dr. Ed Seifried provided attendees with an ever-important update on the state of the U.S. economy. Dr. Seifried, an economist with a background working alongside community banks, demonstrated to attendees the techniques to monitor the local and global economy, forecast a recession, and prepare resources that will assist the bank in navigating inflation, interest rates, and the recent banking crisis.

The event officially kicked off in the evening of September 20 with a reception and dinner program. During the program, WBA honored four bankers with WBA Lifetime Service Awards in recognition of their tenure in the banking industry.

Each individual presented with an award (see pg. 11) recently achieved between 30 and 49 years of service.

The following morning, Dave Martin of bankmechanics welcomed attendees to the conference during his keynote

Throughout the day, bankers also attended breakout sessions and enjoyed several opportunities to connect with their bank management peers, share ideas, and explore the innovative solutions displayed in the event exhibit hall.

Thank you to all event sponsors and attendees who helped make this year’s event a success!

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WBA Recognizes Bankers for Service and Dedication During an evening reception at the WBA Management Conference at Madison Marriott West, the Association recognized four Wisconsin banking professionals with 2023 Lifetime Service Awards in thanks for their dedication to the banking industry.

Additionally, throughout the year, WBA recognizes bankers for their tenure in the banking industry in separate ceremonies statewide. To learn more about WBA’s Lifetime of Service Award, or to recognize a banker, please visit wisbank.com/serviceawards.

MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE

Pictured (left to right) are: Michelle Haslam (33), Bank of Prairie du Sac; Phyllis Dresser (40), Bank of Prairie du Sac; WBA Executive Vice President – Chief of Staff Daryll Lund; WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels; Mary Bomkamp (40), Highland State Bank, and Kathy Digman (30), Mound City Bank, Platteville.

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

CONGRATULATIONS

Educating Professionals, Creating Leaders

2023 GRADUATES FROM WISCONSIN We congratulate you on completing the rigorous 25-month program and joining the more than 23,000 alumni who have gone on to leadership positions in their organizations, associations and the financial services industry. Best wishes for continued success!

Jon Bauer Johnson Bank Racine

Greg Berken Bank First, N.A. Manitowoc Rebecca Biebert Citizens State Bank of Loyal Loyal

Joel Frier Oostburg State Bank

Sarah Oberthaler Citizens Bank Mukwonago

Mindy Halverson Bank of Deerfield Deerfield

Kevin Raisbeck Community First Bank Lancaster

Kate Hanson The Bank of New Glarus New Glarus

Brett Roth Lake Ridge Bank Monona

Ryan Boebel Community First Bank Baraboo

Brian Hoskens Nicolet National Bank DePere

Chris Rozeske Royal Bank Viroqua

Karl Brinkmeier Department of Financial Institutions

Lowell LaGue DMB Community Bank

Jayne Sandine Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Madison

Dan Carroll Wipfli LLP Milwaukee

Laima Lohman Byline Bank Madison

Steve Schnering Northland Securities, Inc. Verona

Elise Constantini The Bank of New Glarus New Glarus

Matt Longmeyer Bank First, N.A. Manitowoc

Peggy Stebbins Premier Bank Fort Atkinson

Alma Cullen Byline Bank Madison

Maria Machtemes Citizens State Bank Hudson

Tim Stone Citizens State Bank Cadott

Kelly Dvorak Bank First, N.A. Manitowoc

Keith McCormick The First National Bank and Trust Company Monroe

DeAnna Tittel Bank of Luxemburg Luxemburg

Leann Eddingsaas First Federal Bank of Wisconsin Waukesha

Erin McCormick Peoples State Bank Rhinelander

Kyle Ellefson Northern State Bank Ashland

Travis Frazier First Business Bank Brookfield

Nicole Miller-Speich Bank of Deerfield Deerfield

Melissa Torres Oak Bank Fitchburg

Jeff Vohs SENB Bank Beloit

Ami Myrland Capitol Bank Madison

Sponsored by:

GSB.ORG GSB_GradAd_Wisc_0923.indd 1

9/12/23 2:34 PM

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

Five Financial Marketing Tactics to Focus on in 2024

By Loni Meiborg The community banking industry is evolving at a pace faster than ever before and staying ahead in the highly competitive landscape requires strategic marketing tactics. As we address our 2024 strategic plans, financial institutions must adapt to shifting consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. Here are five financial marketing tactics to focus on in 2024 to remain competitive and relevant.

1. Personalization and data-driven marketing is quickly becoming the cornerstone of effective financial marketing. Consumers have come to expect personalized experiences, and financial institutions must rise to the occasion. Utilize customer data to understand individual preferences, behaviors, and needs.

Segment your audience and tailor your marketing messages accordingly. Implement advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms to provide personalized product recommendations, investment strategies, or savings plans. Personalization not only enhances customer engagement but also increases conversion rates and fosters loyalty.

2. With continued reliance on digital channels, financial institutions must maintain a strong online presence while also catering to customers who prefer traditional channels. Omnichannel marketing ensures a seamless and consistent experience across all touchpoints, including websites, mobile apps, social media, email, and physical branches.

Offer ESG-focused investment products and communicate the positive impact of these investments on society and the environment. Highlight your institution's ESG initiatives, such as reducing your carbon footprint or supporting social causes. ESG marketing not only attracts socially conscious investors but also demonstrates your institution's commitment to responsible finance.

5. In an era of increasing cyber threats and data breaches, cybersecurity is a paramount concern for both financial institutions and their customers. Community banks should invest heavily in advanced cybersecurity measures to protect customer data and build trust.

Implement multi-factor authentication, encryption technologies, and continuous monitoring systems to safeguard sensitive information. Proactively educate customers about the security measures in place, assuring them of the safety of their financial data. A robust cybersecurity infrastructure is not only a marketing tactic, but also a critical element of customer trust and loyalty.

While not new ideas, these tactics often fall to the backburner because of limited budgets and resources. However, investing in strategic marketing initiatives help our institutions remain competitive. 2024 is the year; let’s keep community banking relevant and meet the consumer where their needs are.

Meiborg is senior vice president – organizational development at Fortifi Bank in Berlin and a member of the 2023–2024 WBA Marketing Committee.

If you haven’t yet invested in user-friendly websites and mobile apps, take this as your sign to upgrade and offer a frictionless experience. Employ marketing automation tools to orchestrate campaigns across channels, delivering the right message at the right time to the right audience. An omnichannel approach ensures that customers can interact with your institution wherever and whenever they choose.

3. Educational content marketing will continue to be a key strategy for financial institutions in 2024. Consumers seek valuable information to make informed financial decisions. Create compelling content that addresses common financial questions, offers practical tips, and provides insights into market trends.

Pressures and expectations have never been higher. We help you remain fully staffed so you can thrive.

Visit wipfli.com/banks.

Maintain a blog, produce informative videos, and offer webinars or podcasts on relevant financial topics. Establish your institution as a thought leader in the industry by sharing expert opinions and market analyses. Quality content builds trust with your audience, attracts organic traffic, and positions your institution as a go-to resource.

4. Sustainability and ethical considerations are gaining prominence in financial decision-making. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) marketing focuses on investments that align with ESG principles.

In 2024, financial institutions should emphasize their commitment to ESG criteria.

Perspective changes everything.

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FedNow (continued from pg. 1) are the future of payments,” states Nate Parrish, First Citizens State Bank president. “We want to ensure our bank is on the cutting edge and not left behind when this technology really takes off.”

The release of the FedNow Service includes baseline functionality including core clearing and settlement capabilities. Currently, FedNow not only facilitates the peerto-peer (P2P) functionalities many customers are familiar with, but also has the capabilities to facilitate payments between businesses or between businesses and consumers.

Further developments are expected to launch in phases as industry demand evolves.

FedNow, however, is not the first service to provide real-time payments to banks. In 2017, The Clearing House launched its Real Time Payments® (RTP) service to all federally insured U.S. depository institutions. As of mid-2023, over 350 banks and credit unions were listed as participants in RTP.

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

as Fedwire and FedACH, which are only available during certain windows, will always have a place. FedNow is the next step in remaining competitive and providing our customers the services they expect.”

For banks in deposit-gathering mode, the implementation of FedNow will help increase cash flow by allowing customers to move funds directly from one bank account to another, rather than storing funds within third-party apps. These capabilities to move money instantly can be found on the certified bank’s website or mobile app.

Getting Started Unlike previous real-time systems, FedNow is generally seen as more accessible to mid-size and smaller banks. In this, smaller banks utilizing FedNow will now have the ability to access real-time payments without having to pay their larger competitors for the service.

Both First Citizens State Bank and Lake Ridge Bank, which is currently in the implementation process, are connecting to FedNow’s receiving With several banks in Wisconsin rail (i.e., the bank cannot initiate signed on as RTP participants, the customer payments) via integramost significant difference banktion of their core system. However, ers will notice with FedNow is the participation in the FedNow service is development of a new rail. The rail, flexible, meaning that banks may opt which runs concurrent to already to both send and receive payments, existing credit card and Automated support liquidity management transClearing House (ACH) payment fers, or access settlement services rails, is overseen by the Federal between correspondents and responReserve Bank. Addents. Additionditionally, beginally, banks may also "'Instant' is the next ning in 2024, cerchoose to connect modernization of 'faster' in tified institutions to the rail network will pay a monthly the payments landscape." through partnerparticipation fee – Julie Redfern, Lake Ridge ship with a FinTech of $25. On the company.

Bank, Monona customer end, “FedNow has been varying transacslow out of the gate mainly due to tion limits (only $500,000 for Fedbottlenecking on the core’s end,” Now) and clearing times occurring says Redfern.

“If an institution is in just a matter of seconds may be considering going through a Finthe most obvious difference.

Tech, it’s important to make sure “‘Instant’ is the next modernizathat they are already Fed approved tion of ‘faster’ in the payments rather than having to face additionlandscape,” says Julie Redfern, al delays.” chief banking officer at Lake Ridge Parrish also emphasized the imporBank in Monona. “Services such

tance of getting ahead of the instant payment movement. “Especially with core providers being slow to adopt the idea of instantaneous movement, it may take several years for interested institutions to get on the rail. Even if 900 institutions are able to join in the next year, it could still take another nine or 10 years before FedNow is fully implemented across the country.”

To begin the process of implementation, banks are encouraged to consider their overarching payments plan and examine their operating processes to determine if the institution has the capabilities to support real-time payments.

This process may require meeting with third party service providers or enhancing in-house technology.

From there, banks must undergo onboarding and testing.

Certification, according to the Fed, is the final stage which entails the completion of an operational readiness test and network experience checklist. The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) has emphasized that this process is not meant to be difficult, but rather to ensure that institutions are prepared to support instant payments.

The Future of FedNow With just over 100 providers across the U.S. connected to FedNow’s rail as of October 2023, the main issue currently certified institutions are facing is the lack of transactions.

“Aside from conducting P2P payments, many customers are not entirely aware of the possibilities of FedNow,” says Parrish. “As bankers, it is our role to help inform our customers and small business clients of the possibilities of instant payments. From payroll to recurring bill payments or emergency disbursements, the ability to immediately move money will impact the way many operate.”

Though the Fed expects usage to increase as more institutions go live, banks that have incorporated

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

FedNow into their payment offerings play an important role in emphasizing the key use cases and sharing with customers the possibilities of real-time payments.

risk mitigation and security is a significant consideration for many banks. While many theorize that the use of FedNow’s instant payment service will significantly cut down the number of uninsured, Parrish also adds that the prospect fraudulent payments that occur on of conducting Government-tothird party apps as well as reduce Consumer (G2C), check fraud Customer-toscams across the "As bankers, it is Government country, it is vital our role to help inform (C2G), and that participating Business-toour customers and small institutions Government business clients of the have up-to-date (B2G) payments strategies and possibilites of instant on FedNow to be a payments." – Nate Parrish, procedures to significant factor mitigate risk. as to why banks First Citizens State Bank, should become Through Whitewater participants.

FedNow, key risk Already, the U.S. management and Department of the Treasury's information security solutions, Bureau of the Fiscal Service is such as accepting payments ready with instant payment without posting, the ability to capabilities via FedNow. request more information from the sending or receiving institution, Of course, as fraud continues to data encryption and tokenization, evolve, especially as increasingly as well as several authentication more services become digitalized, and authorization measures, are

available to participants. These tools, too, are expected to evolve and expand as the service grows.

However, as the first line of defense against fraud, the Fed emphasizes that all participating institutions ensure that their overall fraud management strategy is consistent with the evolving payments landscape, communicated with vendors and customers, and regularly reviewed.

As ‘instant’ becomes the status quo for payments, FedNow can help drive commerce in new sectors, increase cash flow throughout communities, and offer financial institutions of all sizes innovative solutions to meeting the everevolving expectations of customers.

To learn more about FedNow, and what its services may offer your bank and its customers, please visit frbservices.org/financial-services/ fednow.

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16

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

BULLETIN BOARD

News about people working in Wisconsin's financial institutions Promotions and New Hires Little Chute BLC Community Bank proudly announces the appointment of Adam Lange (pictured) as president of the bank.

Luxemburg Bank of Luxemburg is thrilled to announce the newest addition to its community banking family, Dennis Tienor (pictured), who joins the bank as vice president – commercial lending.

Manitowoc Bank First is excited to announce that Caryn Langolf (pictured) has recently joined the bank as vice president – compliance/BSA officer.

Middleton Starion Bank has promoted Peter Moskal (pictured) to vice president – business banking officer.

New Glarus The Bank of New Glarus is pleased to announce the promotion of Brianna Wethal (pictured) to senior vice president – commercial lending manager.

Lange

Neis

Tienor

Gage

Langolf

Stuewer

Oregon One Community Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of Nona Havey (pictured) to vice president – retail banking manager and Kelly Hill (pictured) to senior assistant vice president – mortgage loan officer.

Waukesha Waukesha State Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Tina Neis (pictured) to senior vice president – chief credit officer.

Wauwatosa William Bruss has been elected to serve as the next CEO of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and WaterStone Bank effective January 1, 2024.

Moskal

Myrland

Wethal

Davidson

Congratulations Fond du Lac Linda Gage (pictured), operations officer at National Exchange Bank & Trust’s Montello office, recently celebrated 45 years at the bank. Additionally, Sandy Stuewer (pictured), loan services documentation review representative in Fond du Lac, recently celebrated 25 years of service.

Madison Ami Myrland (pictured), executive vice president & chief financial officer of Capitol Bank, was presented the Small Business CFO of the Year Award by InBusiness Magazine.

Paper City Savings Association, Wisconsin Rapids Celebrates Centennial During a week-long celebration that took place August 14–18, Paper City Savings Association celebrated its 100-year anniversary of serving southern Wood County. WBA’s Executive Vice President – Chief of Staff Daryll Lund (left) is pictured presenting Paper City Savings Association’s President and CEO Fred Siemers (right) a plaque commemorating the bank’s milestone anniversary. To learn more about other upcoming milestone bank anniversaries, please see pg. 23 of this issue.

Havey

Hill

Retirements Madison Kirby Davidson (pictured), president & CEO of the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (GSB) and its supporting organization the Prochnow Educational Foundation (PEF), recently announced his retirement effective December 31, 2024.

Wauwatosa Effective December 31, 2023, Douglas Gordon will retire as CEO of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and WaterStone Bank.

Announcements Green Bay In July, Associated Bank hosted its first company wide Volunteer Day of Service. Over 50% of colleagues from across the organization helped make a difference in over 120 communities.

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BULLETIN BOARD

News about people working in Wisconsin's financial institutions Lifetime Service Awards Port Washington On August 18, WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels recognized four Port Washington State Bank employees with the Association’s Lifetime Service Award. Congratulations to Christine King, 43 years; Sharon Niesing, 42 years; Sally Savatski, 40 years; and Jay Schreurs, 30 years.

Pictured (left to right) are: James Schowalter, PWSB president/COO; Sharon Niesing; Christine King; Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO; Sally Savatski; Jay Schreurs; and Steve Schowalter, PWSB chair/CEO.

Nekoosa On September 19, Nekoosa Port Edwards State Bank’s President and CEO Robb Sigler, 35 years, and Senior Vice President – Cashier Patricia Heeg, 45 years, were presented WBA Lifetime Service Awards for their tenure in the banking industry by WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels.

Have good news?

To submit a notice, please email

bulletinboard@wisbank.com. Or mail entries to WBA Bulletin Board, 4721 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718. Send photos as JPEG files. Questions? Contact WBA’s Hannah Flanders at 608-441-1237 or hflanders@wisbank.com.

Pictured (left to right) are: Robb Sigler; Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO; and Patricia Heeg.

Community State Bank Recognizes 2023 Frank Lamping Community Service Award In September, Gerry Hancock, a retired Union Grove pharmacist and avid community volunteer, was recognized as the recipient of the 2023 Frank Lamping Community Service Award. This award, presented by Community State Bank, acknowledges and celebrates a community member who exemplifies positivity, selflessness, leadership, and inspires others to give back to the community.

Gerry Hancock (center) was awarded the 2023 Frank Lamping Community Service Award. The award presentation had opening remarks from Community State Bank President and CEO Scott Huedepohl (left) and CSB Market President David Moyer (right).

Visit wisbank.com/Bulletin for more good news in Wisconsin’s banking industry, including recent hires, staff achievements, and community involvement.

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Remain Flexible in Today’s Fast-Paced Banking World

WBA’s FLEX Retail and Marketing Summit kicks off November 15 The Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is proud to announce that, now in its tenth year, the LEAD360 Conference has been rebranded to FLEX Retail and Marketing Summit. With its new name, the Summit will continue to provide valuable professional development and networking opportunities to retail, sales, marketing, and financial literacy banking peers from across Wisconsin.

This year’s event will kick off on November 15 in Wisconsin Dells at the Glacier Canyon Conference Center with opening keynote speaker Eric Cook. As society becomes increasingly more digitalfocused, relevancy is dependent on the bank’s online presence.

Cook, a “recovering” banker and chief digital strategist at WSI, will welcome attendees to the two-day event and highlight how their teams can understand and leverage an effective digital strategy.

the power of the bank’s brand, and embracing diversity. Overall, WBA’s FLEX Summit is a great opportunity for bankers in Wisconsin to expand their networks, exchange ideas, and deepen their understanding of various industry trends and innovations.

During a breakfast program hosted on November 16, WBF will recognize the recipients of the Foundation’s annual Excellence in Financial Education Awards. These awards celebrate the outstanding efforts of bankers involved with financial education in Wisconsin communities from June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023. In addition, the inaugural WBA Marketing Award will be presented to one bank that demonstrated an innovative marketing campaign between August 1, 2022 and July 31, 2023.

At noon, following a keynote presentation by Tim Bergstrom of Neenah-based Bergstrom Automotive, the annual Summit will The Summit, planned with input from the members of the WBA adjourn. As always, retail, sales, marketing, and financial literacy Marketing and Retail Committees and the Wisconsin Bankers bankers, no matter their level of experience, will return to the bank Foundation (WBF) Financial Literacy Advisory Board, will feature inspired with timely and relevant ideas to put into action. To learn over eight hours of general sessions and position-focused tracks, more about the upcoming event or to register, please visit wisbank. various networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall. Attendees will com/FLEX. benefit from hearing from experts in areas such as digital evolution,

(continued from pg. 1) conditions for growing, increased receipts across the board, and lower expenditures than the national average set the stage for record profits in 2022. However, as 2023 unfolded, so too did a number of challenges causing farmers across the state to feel the pressure.

“There were times earlier in the year that I was certainly feeling more like a therapist than a banker,” notes Kevin Konkol,

vice president – are followed by several agricultural/business years of headwinds; that’s banking at First State Bank where we’re at right now.” in New London. “However, Across the state, ag agriculture runs in cycles. bankers are still seeing Farmers are aware that every one or two good years the strength carried over from the last several years, but deterioration is "Farmers are expected into the new year aware that every one as farmers slowly begin or two good years are pulling back.

followed by several years of headwinds; that’s where we're at right now." – Kevin Konkol, First State Bank, New London

One of the primary challenges that loomed large was the surge in interest rates, which reached over 500 basis points. Though relatively close to the historic average of between 6% and

FLEX

WBA

Farmers

7%, ag bankers note that many younger-generation farmers are experiencing sticker shock.

“Much of the older generation of farmers have seen rates hit 18% or 19%,” highlights Konkol. “This generation, on the other hand, has never seen prices so high.”

Jenny Jereczek, Security Financial Bank – Durand market president and director of ag banking, notes that while local farmers are cautious but (continued on pg. 19)

Retail and Marketing Summit

November 15–16, 2023 » Visit wisbank.com/FLEX to see the complete agenda and to register.

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

optimistic for the year ahead, how rates will continue into the new year is the question on everyone’s mind. “When the U.S. dollar rises in value, our commodity prices and exports decrease. Coming off several great years, farmers still have relatively strong balance sheets but are seeking new ways to optimize and retain their margins in times of uncertainty.”

19

Commercial Lending Adam educated decision possible this year,” notes Jereczek.

Sommer. for their specific operation. “However, final yields for the fall harvest are yet to be Cody Kirschbaum, vice “One size doesn’t determined.” president – ag relationship necessarily fit all, so the manager at Peoples State playbook may look a With the ongoing conflict Bank, Prairie du Chien, bit different from farm in Ukraine — a major elaborates, “As term loans to farm depending on grain exporter — and the and operating lines of the operation,” states probability of droughts credit come upon renewal, Kirschbaum. across the U.S. impacting many are experiencing crop yields, lower supplies Unlike many areas where the cost to borrow nearly are expected to impact the farmers are experiencing a doubling compared to availability and cost of feed decrease in returns, experts 2022. This is expected to as well as exports abroad. significantly affect the cash point out that farmland values throughout the Like most sectors, flow of an operation.”

Midwest — including the ag community The U.S. Department of Wisconsin — have is also concerned It’s up in the air whether Agriculture forecasts remained robust.

According with consolidation, current rates are here to that net farm income will to the Federal Reserve rapid innovation, and stay. . . at least for the decrease by nearly 23% Bank of Chicago, farmland generational transitions. foreseeable future. In from the year prior.

This values in Wisconsin September 2023, the New “For many, this last year alarming projection comes increased by 8% since York Times reported that 2022, reflecting the strong has really emphasized Fed officials believed that just as the cost to borrow financial conditions of the what variables we should rate hikes were close to the increases and production be paying attention to end and that the economy expenses are forecasted to past few years. moving forward, alongside surpass a staggering has seemed to settle into the importance of risk $458 Billion. its long-term trajectory. mitigation and margin "For many, this In an effort for Wisconsin management,” highlights Whatever the prediction, last year has really farmers to sustain the Kirschbaum. “In a quickly ag bankers note that longevity of their farms, ag emphasized what evolving economy and commodity prices remain bankers each suggest that society, ag bankers need variables we should a top concern for many farmers, in partnership to be prepared. As trusted farmers looking ahead. be paying attention with their lenders, should advisors and confidants, to moving forward, closely monitor trends in This year, milk prices our role is to help our alongside the dropped from near-record foreign trade and input clients prepare for both costs that often dictate U.S. importance of risk levels to below $14 per the expected and the market movements. hundredweight but have mitigation and margin unexpected.” slightly rebounded since “In the last several years, management."

The last several years have the summer. Compared farmers have gotten been a rollercoaster for – Cody Kirschbaum to last year’s average of better at budgeting and Wisconsin’s agricultural nearly $7 per bushel of Peoples State Bank, understanding how they sector, but experts agree corn, farmers saw prices Prairie du Chien are able to mitigate risk that farmers throughout the hovering around the $5 to retain their margin. By state are well-prepared to mark. following current events, tackle the uncertainties and Of course, being in farmers are able to create However, a recordopportunities that lie ahead.

Wisconsin, weather a gameplan, and with the breaking 18% increase in conditions also played a “They’re a resilient cattle and beef prices from help of their lender, stick pivotal role for farmers bunch,” emphasized to it. In a volatile market, the year prior is expected this year. More than 80% Sommer. opportunities — whether to offset some of the of Wisconsin experienced it be diversifying or risk headache. moderate to severe drought Photo on cover taken in Darlington, mitigations tools — are Wis., by Christina Benson, conditions right at the “The main concern I’m still available,” notes Woodford State Bank. start of the 2023 growing hearing from farmers Jereczek. season. is cash flow; they’re all However, it is important wondering where it will “Farms in the area are that producers utilize come from,” says Bank doing well considering the available resources and of Brodhead’s Assistant spotty rain we encountered tools to help make the best Vice President – Ag and

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Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Year in Review Scholarships Encouraging financial planning for higher ed and future careers

Agricultural Banking Scholarship Two scholarships of $1,500 each were awarded to outstanding Wisconsin students pursuing careers in agricultural banking.

Grants

Supporting the work of nonprofit orgs whose missions align with ours

EconomicsWisconsin This grant will help to expand the success of the Stock Market Game for middle and high school students.

2022–2023

Spring Scholarship

Four scholarships of $2,000 each were awarded to Wisconsin students who demonstrate excellent academic achievement, career preparation, and financial literacy.

Asset Builders

Research

This was the second in a three-year commitment to the Finance and Investment Challenge Bowl for high school students.

Providing free access to data

Money Smart Wisconsin Big Read for Kids Through a partnership with the Governor’s Council on Financial Literacy, story books featuring the fundamentals of money management were distributed for events at public libraries statewide.

Quarterly banking reports on seven Midwest states, compiled by UFS Tech, were published on banconomics.com.

Financial Education Building knowledge and skills

Reading Raises Interest Kits In conjunction with Teach Children to Save Day in April, 64 banks utilized the kits for presentations in classrooms around the state. This year’s lessons centered around the book ‘Curious George Saves His Pennies,’ and 2,800 copies of the book were donated to children and schools.

WBF was honored with a 2022 Governor’s Financial Literacy Award in the Legacy category for the Reading Raises Interest Kit program.

Excellence in Financial Education Awards Our dedicated volunteers promote financial literacy to audiences of all ages in every corner of the state. This year, we celebrate the individual and collective efforts of 365 bankers who made a total of over 700 presentations reaching more than 25,500 community members.

Our mission is to empower financial decisions through education, scholarships, grants, and research.

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Fourth Annual Agricultural Banking Scholarship Application Period Now Open Applications are due November 15, 2023 As part of its mission to empower Wisconsin communities to make responsible financial decisions, the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF) — the non-profit arm of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) — offers scholarships to students who demonstrate financial literacy and responsibility.

Through the Agricultural Banking Scholarship, WBF aims to support students and promote the talent pipeline for the banking industry, particularly in rural areas.

The Agricultural Banking Scholarship is open to currently enrolled students attending an accredited Wisconsin college, university, or technical college. As the cost of college continues to rise, the Foundation is offering two scholarships, $1,500 each, to qualified applicants who are interested in pursuing a career related to agricultural banking and submit a completed application by November 15, 2023.

Please share this exciting opportunity with any current or former agricultural banking interns or students you think may qualify, as well as local educators who can help spread the word. We look forward to hearing from students pursuing careers so important to Wisconsin’s economy.

Visit wisbankfoundation.org/scholarships to access the online application. Please contact Wisconsin Bankers Foundation Coordinator Hannah Flanders at hflanders@wisbank.com with any questions related to this year’s scholarship.

College students pursuing a career in agricultural banking are encouraged to apply now by visiting wisbankfoundation.org/ scholarships.

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22

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

BankWork$ Milwaukee Training Program for Bankers Congratulations, Graduates!

The August BankWork$ class has graduated! The Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is proud to partner with Employ Milwaukee to bring this nationwide program to Wisconsin. BankWork$ is a free, eightweek training program to prepare participants in primarily underserved neighborhoods for retail banking careers.

This graduating class of seven included JaQuiondia Banks, Canaan Henry, TeRina McKinzy, Zantaisha Miller, Isha Underwood, Sharifah Warren, and Clarence Williams. WBA’s Rose Oswald Poels attended the ceremony and congratulated the graduates on their achievement.

Over the eight weeks, these students learned the hard and soft skills necessary for entry-level retail and operations positions. The program began in 2019 and has so far provided more than over 130 graduates in the Milwaukee area the opportunity to begin a banking career.

BankWork$® is a public-private partnership that primarily trains participants from underserved neighborhoods for careers in retail banking. Learn more about the BankWork$® program at employmilwaukee. org/BankWorks.htm.

Seated, pictured (left to right) are: JaQuiondia Banks; Adriene Wright, BankWork$ instructor; Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. Standing, pictured (left to right) are: Canaan Henry, Isha Underwood, Clarence Williams, Zantaisha Miller, Sharifah Warren, TeRina McKinzy, and Jovo Potkonjak, BankWork$ program manager.

Learn more about BankWork$, how your bank can get involved, and the lasting impact of the program on pg. 23.

The Possibility of Unprofitability Looms for Over a Quarter of Banks

By Brian Leibfried, CFA Earnings pressures have been mounting over the past two quarters for nearly every bank. As the Fed moves, media attention and aggressive competition have combined to push the cost of funds higher. For many, asset repricing hasn’t yet been able to keep pace with rising deposit costs.

But worse may be yet to come.

Based on a study of historical rate relationships in banking, the logic of market dynamics, and now trends already in evidence, Performance Trust’s analytical screening strongly suggests that the cost of funds response to the Fed’s historically rapid tightening regime is far from complete across the industry. And some banks are more vulnerable than others.

We began voicing concerns in the summer of 2022 and as of October 2023, projections show that this earnings deterioration will continue over coming quarters, even if the Fed takes a pause. Indeed, even if they ease modestly.

Based on these observable forces and call report data, banks in Wisconsin, which in Q2 2023 posted a median pre-tax, pre-provision Return on Average Assets

(ROAA) of 1.16%, could potentially be reporting a median ROAA closer to 0.25% in Q2 2024. That is if rates merely stay where they currently are.

This may come as a surprise to many, because most ALM systems will not show this, but think about it.

No matter what beta you use, the base case of no rate change will return no increase in your cost of funds.

However, mountains of real-world evidence say otherwise. ALM requirements weren’t designed for this situation.

In fact, our work suggests that if rates do not fall precipitously, and soon, the Q2 2024 call reporting cycle will show that a possibility of more than a quarter of banks in Wisconsin will post negative, or near-negative (less than 0.25%), PTPP ROAAs. The beam of light is that — unlike in 2008 when the U.S. last faced such a prospect, then from credit provisioning needs — for many there are potential solutions to avert unfavorable outcomes. But the first step towards pursuing those is to learn exactly where your vulnerability to the rising cost of funds really stands.

Leibfried is a partner and Managing Director of Insights at Performance Trust Capital Partners, a WBA Associate Member.

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Seeking Partners to Create Equitable Hiring Solutions in Banking

the path to achieving her dream: “I always had this goal of wanting to work at a bank, but I thought it would require a college degree, but it turns out I was wrong. After I applied for BankWork$, I got a call, and the next thing I knew, I was there doing assessments and an interview,” recalls Delgado.

By Chytania Brown

For Delgado, BankWork$ was nothing short of life changing. After completing the program, Delgado was hired by BMO as a retail relationship banker, where she loves helping customers and impacting her community.

When asked what drew her to the banking industry, Delgado stated, “I’m passionate about helping the Hispanic community develop financial skills. I love that I get the opportunity to help customers and be involved with my community. It’s not just a job for me — it’s a passion.”

As you know, the current labor shortage and looming silver tsunami are making it increasingly difficult for businesses to hire, and keep, skilled workers. In the past year, over 4,000 job listings were posted for bank tellers across Wisconsin, showing the immense need employers have to find, screen, and train professionals who are interested in a career in the financial industry.

As the Workforce Development Board serving Milwaukee County, Employ Milwaukee has been working to fill this demand through BankWork$. BankWork$ is an innovative Stories like Delgado’s are common with BankWork$ program designed to successfully prepare low-income graduates. Employ Milwaukee is always looking to expand and minority talent for the retail banking industry, our BankWork$ employer partners, who can contribute building a more equitable, prepared, and sustainable to the expansion and efficacy of BankWork$ through financial workforce of tomorrow. monetary investments or in-kind donations including facilitating mock interviews with students, providing BankWork$ was created to open doors for populations presentations, or assisting with curriculum. This is an who are underrepresented in the prosperous finance investment that returns to employer partners, who industry to help them find and succeed in well-paying receive exclusive access to interviewing and hiring our jobs that lead to a lasting career. BankWork$ students are often those who would otherwise not be considered a graduating classes. qualified candidate for positions in financial services but are passionate about stepping into the field. Participants in BankWork$ must be 18 or older, have a high school diploma, have basic computer skills, and previous cash handling and customer service experience.

Since its genesis in 2019, BankWork$ has mentored and trained over 130 graduates in financial services, with over 80% obtaining gainful employment at our partner banking institutions and credit unions upon graduation.

One such student is Yesenia Delgado, a 2022 BankWork$ graduate.

If you are interested in partnering with BankWork$ and making the financial industry a more equitable place, please reach out to Jovo Potkonjak, BankWork$ program manager, directly at 414-270-1703 or at jovo.potkonjak@ employmilwaukee.org.

Brown is president & CEO of Employ Milwaukee. (far left) Chytania Brown, (left) Yesenia Delgado

After graduating from high school in Milwaukee, Yesenia Delgado was going through a difficult time in her personal life. She had a desire to work in financial services but struggled to find opportunities. After discovering an ad for BankWork$ on Facebook, Delgado knew she was on

Give the gift of financial literacy!

Please consider including the Wisconsin Bankers Foundation in your year-end giving.

Your donation will help the Foundation continue to offer Reading Raises Interest Kits for Teach Children to Save Day, scholarships for Wisconsin students, banking industry data on banconomics.com, and grants to support financial education programs.

wisbankfoundation.org/donate The Wisconsin Bankers Foundation (WBF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (FEIN 46-3791061).

Payments to WBF may be deducted as a charitable contribution to the extent allowed by IRS rules.

24

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

Problem Solved ShareFi is here to protect you and your customers and Practices (UDAAP) by not properly disclosing This year, banks how and when fees would experienced the return of be collected each time a onsite examinations by return item is presented for their primary regulators payment. To this day, there and several faced challenges is substantial emphasis as they navigated by the three agencies on through the regulatory how the bank handles this process. For some, it practice and the steps they was a matter of dealing take to mitigate future with a new emphasis on infractions. In almost old regulations, underall cases, refunds were experienced compliance necessary, putting the officers or internal auditors, bank's reputation at risk. or simply not having well-documented or We have also learned implemented processes to the impact of crossmitigate consumer harm or collateralization when financial risk. it applies to Home Mortgage Disclosure Act Some banks across the state and complying with Flood have found themselves Disaster Protection Act. in violation of Unfair, While these regulations Deceptive, or Abusive Acts

By Jeffery Schmid

Our team of professionals offer consulting and shared service solutions: • Compliance and risk management • Operational efficiency and tactical planning • Ongoing monitoring of regulatory disclosures

Contact FIPCO’s Jeff Schmid to get started. jschmid@fipco.com 608-441-1220 www.FIPCO.com

are not new and crosscollateral has been around for a long time, new emphasis has put banks at higher regulatory and financial risk considering the civil money penalties that could be assessed.

various support and riskbased services offered through ShareFI services of FIPCO.

Increased asset growth since their last Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) exam has propelled several banks into the Intermediate Small Bank (ISB) category in which Community Development loans, investments, and service are now playing a major factor in their overall CRA rating. Without early planning, tracking, and reporting, these banks have found themselves scrambling to tell their CRA story.

Advocacy

Recently, I was asked by a local banker, “What does ShareFI do?” I simply replied, “We solve In 2023, we also saw the problems.” If you are final implementation of interested in learning more Current Expected Credit about recent trends in bank Losses (CECL) and the examinations or looking for migration from LIBOR as an further assistance with your approved index for various exam experience, please adjustable-rate loans. While contact me at jschmid@ banks were provided ample fipco.com or call me at 608implementation time for 441-1220. Really, it’s no this new guidance, they problem. are now learning through examinations if their efforts Schmid is director – compliance and management were sufficient, accurate, and appropriate. If not, that services at FIPCO, a WBA Gold may become an issue down Associate Member. the road.

(continued from pg. 6) more records, WBA set a goal of raising $300,000 in personal contributions to either Wisbankpac or the Alliance for Bankers Conduit (ABW) in 2023.

As of this writing, we are at nearly 65% of this goal.

With your help, we can replenish our political fundraising campaign coffers and support the elected officials and candidates who support you!

Your contributions — both While I could go on with a list of complex observations monetary and grassroots from recent examinations, support — make a tremendous difference. To learn the real problem is how more about all the ways banks are able to keep up you can help be a strong with and stay ahead of the advocate for your bank and risks that are inherent to the industry, please visit our industry, including wisbank.com/advocacy.

Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), internal controls, and loan review. These answers can be found through the

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

What Borrowers Need to Know About Student Loan Repayment • Check if you qualify The U.S. Department of for a type of targeted Education and its partners This article went to press on loan forgiveness will never ask for a October 20, 2023. Political at StudentAid.gov/ borrower’s StudentAid.gov and legal challenges to forgiveness. username and password over student loan forgiveness the phone, and loan servicers programs may result in will work with borrowers on Options Available to changes to the information repayment options without Borrowers below. charging a fee.

Depending on a borrower’s Following a Supreme Court individual situation, decision halting the Biden Where to Start several options for Administration’s plan to income-driven repayment forgive some or all federal If they have not already, borrowers are encouraged or forgiveness may be student loan debt for tens available. by the U.S. Department of millions of borrowers, of Education to take the the pause on student loan The SAVE Plan is an following steps to get on payments ended with income-driven repayment track with student loan interest resuming on plan that calculates the repayment: September 1, 2023 and borrower’s monthly payments due in October payment amount based on • Update your contact 2023. Many borrowers are information with your their income and family resuming payments for the size. The new SAVE Plan loan servicer(s) and first time since the onset of replaces the Revised Pay As on StudentAid.gov, and the COVID-19 pandemic in make sure you have an You Earn (REPAYE) Plan.

March 2020 or are making online account set up Borrowers who are payments for the first on each website. Find employed full-time by a time ever. Some borrowers your servicer(s) by qualifying government had never accessed their visiting your Dashboard or not-for-profit student loan online on StudentAid.gov. organization may be account and may not have eligible for the Public • Explore affordable been aware of how much Service Loan Forgiveness repayment plans and their monthly payments (PSLF) Program after paths to forgiveness. would be or who their loan Check out details of the making the equivalent of servicer is.

120 qualifying monthly new repayment plan payments under an called the Saving on Beware of Scams accepted repayment a Valuable Education plan. This could include (SAVE) Plan at The changes have led to teachers, nurses, doctors, StudentAid.gov/save. widespread confusion and and other medical Compare repayment mistrust of information. professionals. Learn more plans with the Loan Scammers have been quick at StudentAid.gov/pslf.

Simulator at StudentAid. to exploit the situation gov/loan-simulator.

Disabled borrowers may by contacting borrowers qualify for Total and via phone calls, texts, or • Enroll (or reenroll) permanent Disability emails urging them to in auto pay on (TPD) discharge of federal act quickly to qualify for your loan servicer’s student loans. Learn more website, which will false forgiveness offers — at DisabilityDischarge.com. ensure your payment pressuring the borrower

By Cassandra Krause

to divulge passwords and personal information or pay fictitious fees up front.

It is important for borrowers to know that the right place to go for information is StudentAid.gov.

is automatically Borrowers whose school processed every month, closed or who were so you don’t miss a defrauded by their school payment. Auto pay is may also qualify for optional, but if you discharge of their federal choose auto pay, you’ll student loans. save 0.25% on your interest rate.

More Information Borrowers with additional questions may call the confidential, free hotline offered by the Wisconsin Coalition on Student Debt.

The hotline is staffed 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday and can be reached toll free at 833-589-0750.

Update your contact information with your loan servicer(s) and on StudentAid.gov. Your servicers(s) may have changed recently.

Explore affordable repayment plans and paths to forgiveness.

Check out details of the new repayment plan called the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan at StudentAid.gov/save.

Compare repayment plans with the Loan Simulator at StudentAid. gov/loan-simulator.

Enroll (or reenroll) in auto pay on your loan servicer’s website, which will ensure your payment is automatically processed every month, so you don’t miss a payment. Auto pay is optional, but if you choose auto pay, you’ll save 0.25% on your interest rate.

Check if you qualify for a type of targeted loan forgiveness at StudentAid.gov/ forgiveness.

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Thank You to WBA’s Gold Associate Members WBA extends our gratitude to our Gold Associate Member companies for standing by and supporting the banking industry and the Association. The companies not only provide services, information, and products to assist banks across Wisconsin in serving their customers and communities, they also support WBA in offering our member banks the highest quality resources and education. Thank you.

Correspondent Banking WBA INSURANCE SERVICES

Learn more about WBA’s Associate Member Program by visiting wisbank.com/ associates or by contacting Nick Loppnow at nloppnow@wisbank.com or 608-441-1259.

WBA Employee Benefits Corporation Midwest Bankers Insurance Services

™

WBA INSURANCE SERVICES WBA Employee Benefits Corporation Midwest Bankers Insurance Services

Who is the 2022 Banker of the Year? You Tell Us! Nominations are due December 8, 2023 WBA is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Banker of the Year Award! This award recognizes someone who has made an outstanding effort in service to their bank, to their community, and to the banking profession.

To qualify, nominees must be an employee of a Wisconsin bank and a member of the WBA. In addition, the individual should be a bank president/ CEO, or have held this role in the recent past.

Nominations may be submitted by an individual who can describe the banker’s civic and professional accomplishments.

Greg Lundberg, president and CEO of Fortifi Bank in Berlin, was honored as the Wisconsin Bankers Association Banker of the Year for 2022, recognizing

his innovation, service, and leadership. Lundberg was recognized during the 2023 Bank Executives Conference by 2021 Banker of the Year Steve Burgess, president and CEO of National Bank of Commerce in Superior. This year’s award will be presented at the Bank Executives Conference, February 7–9, 2024, in Wisconsin Dells.

To nominate yourself or another banker for this prestigious award, please visit wisbank.com/bankernomination to complete the form by December 8, 2023.

Questions about the award or the nomination and selection process may be directed to WBA Executive Vice President – Chief of Staff Daryll Lund at dlund@ wisbank.com or 608-441-1203.

Honoring Wisconsin Bankers for a Lifetime of Service Nominations are due December 8, 2023 Every year, WBA presents awards recognizing bankers for their long service to our industry and their community, and the tradition will continue this year.

in Wisconsin Dells. If your bank has individuals who should be recognized, please nominate them by completing the form found at wisbank.com/ ServiceAwards.

The 50-Year and 60-Year Clubs recognize bankers who have served in the banking industry for 50 and 60 years, If the nominated individual is unable to attend the respectively. These awards will be presented at the WBA conference, WBA staff will work with you to plan an Bank Executives Conference, February 7–9, 2024, event at your bank in honor of the individual.

Eligibility Rules for 50- and 60-Year Club Memberships Any Wisconsin banker who is an active or retired officer, director, or employee and has completed 50–59 or 60-plus years of service. (U.S. Military service counts in the 50-year or 60-year span if the proposed recipient was in banking both before and after time spent in the military.)

Bankers enrolled in past WBA 50-Year Clubs are not eligible to be honored again in that specific award category but may make an application to be honored for 60 or 70 years of service to the financial services industry. Before nominating an individual, we strongly suggest checking with the person or your institution’s records to confirm dates of service as well as to determine whether they have received the honor in a past year.

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Inspiring a Generation of Future Bankers WBA also organizes Careers in Banking presentations at universities around the state with a goal of creating dialog and connections between students and banking professionals. Additionally, students are able to learn more about the the wide variety of banking careers available to them and why the banking industry might be a good fit for them.

In a discussion moderated by Dr. Mohammad Jafarinejad, associate professor of finance at UW–Whitewater, students heard from a panel about the career opportunities available in the banking industry.

Like our members, the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is dedicated to ensuring a bright future for the industry. In September, WBA and member bankers participated in Finance Day at UW–Whitewater to provide students with an opportunity to explore careers in the banking industry.

Talent recruitment is top of mind for many Wisconsin banks, and WBA is working to organize events throughout the academic year at Marquette University, UW–Eau Claire, UW–Green Bay, UW–La Crosse, UW–Madison, UW–Stout, and UW–Whitewater, with the possibility of more locations being added.

Like our members, WBA is dedicated to ensuring a bright future for the industry. With your help, we can demonstrate the diverse and rewarding career paths available within the banking sector, foster relationships with students eager to explore these opportunities, and provide the necessary support for them to thrive in our industry.

Thank you to the following bankers who volunteered their time to connect with students at UW–Whitewater: Melissa Torres, Oak Bank, Fitchburg (seated left) | Jeff Vohs, SENB Bank, Beloit (seated second from left) | Travis Frazier, First Business Bank, Brookfield (seated third from left) | Bob Bastien, First Citizen State Bank, Whitewater (seated second from right) | Adam Mannetter, PNC Bank, Milwaukee (seated right)

Bank Anniversaries The banking industry has a long and storied history in Wisconsin. From being an outlawed practice in the 1840s to today’s diverse industry, banks have helped Wisconsin consumers buy their first homes, finance their vehicles, and achieve their business dreams. Remarkably, nearly half of Wisconsin’s banks have been serving their communities for over a century!

2023 Anniversaries Congratulations to the following WBA-member banks, which celebrated a milestone anniversary in 2023: 100-Year Anniversary:

• North Shore Bank, Brookfield • Paper City Savings Association, Wisconsin Rapids

2024 Anniversaries Congratulations to the following WBA-member banks, which will celebrate a milestone anniversary in 2024: 100-Year Anniversary:

• Columbia Savings and Loan Association, Milwaukee • Superior Savings Bank, Superior 125-Year Anniversary:

• Bank of Cashton • Port Washington State Bank 150-Year Anniversary:

• Associated Bank, Green Bay • The Stephenson National Bank and Trust, Marinette • WNB Financial, Winona, Minn.

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Unique Benefit Available for Wisconsin’s Banking Leaders Membership in WBA’s CEOnly/CFOnly Networks begins in January

By Daryll J. Lund As our industry continues to feel economic and regulatory strain, establishing and maintaining banker networks is one significant way in which the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) helps to inspire success throughout the industry for generations to come. Through membership in WBA’s CEOnly/ CFOnly Networks, Wisconsin CEOs and CFOs have the ability to gain relevant insights, best practices, and recommendations by forming connections with their peers from across the state.

The CEOnly/CFOnly Networks, which were founded on the benefits of knowledge and idea sharing, provide access to a confidential Q&A service and registration to three networking events throughout the year.

Association Update Daryll J. Lund

Many members — including WBA’s 2023–2024 Board of Directors Chair Donna Hoppenjan — agree that by fostering a collaborative environment, bankers are better positioned to stay a step ahead of challenges faced both locally and throughout the industry.

For several years, hundreds of Wisconsin bank leaders have found their CEOnly/CFOnly Network membership, and the positive connections formed, to be of unequivocal value both personally and professionally.

In just the last year, members

shared over 100 questions and answers amongst the two networks.

Bankers looking to renew or begin their membership for the 2024 CEOnly/CFOnly Networks can expect the same excellent value — three annual networking meetings and the continued Q&A service — all for only $300 a year. Banks registering both their CEO and CFO will also receive the discounted price of $500.

As a reminder, WBA’s CEOnly/ CFOnly Networks run on a calendar-year basis starting

January 1, and with the 2024 calendar year right around the corner, membership renewal is quickly approaching. All CEOs and CFOs serving a Wisconsinchartered bank are encouraged join the exclusive network for the greatest opportunity to stay informed and connected.

Interested in joining the exclusive network or learning more about what the CEOnly and CFOnly programs can offer for your bank? Please contact me at dlund@wisbank.com or visit wisbank.com/ceonly.

Save the Dates! Three CEOnly/ CFOnly Network excusive events.

Breakfast, Lunch + Guest Speaker March 8, 2024 | Wausau June 14, 2024 | Wisconsin Dells October 18, 2024 | Madison

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER | 2023

Community Advocate Spotlight Wisconsin’s bankers are the definition of “community advocates” in all that you do every day to improve your local economy through your bank’s products and services, as well as through your generous philanthropy of time and money. This column shares and celebrates the diverse backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and innovation of some of the extraordinary bankers in this state.

Q&A

Rose Oswald Poels

The following is a brief interview between WBA President and CEO Rose Oswald Poels and Bank of Prairie du Sac President Steve Ploetz.

Rose: How did you first get into the banking industry?

Steve: My father, Charlie Ploetz, was an attorney in Prairie du Sac. He had been practicing law since 1945 and when my mother passed away in 1968, he began Steve Ploetz thinking about a career change.

He had made the decision to move out West in 1970. However, Edward Gruber, the Bank of Prairie du Sac’s president at that time, heard of my dad’s plan and approached him about buying his shares and taking over at the bank. As a result, Dad became a banker.

In 1976, I graduated from the University of Wisconsin– Madison and joined my dad at the bank in 1977. I am proud to say that I am still here today.

What is your favorite aspect of your role at your bank?

Like other community bankers, I really enjoy working with people to help them be successful. Whether it’s employees or customers, helping them achieve their goals is especially rewarding.

What do you wish the general public understood about the banking industry?

The role we play in supporting our communities and the differences between banks and credit unions. I’m not sure the general public understands that their deposits are what fund the loans we make back out in our communities. I also don’t believe they understand the tax advantages credit unions enjoy.

Where do you believe the industry’s greatest challenges are in the next 3–5 years?

Margins, growth, credit quality, and cyber criminals are sure to be significant challenges our industry will face. Cyber is what scares me the most; technology is changing so fast, and the bad guys are really smart.

Keeping our banks and our customers safe from cybercrime will be one of our greatest challenges.

Every day, bankers serve their local communities by helping their customers achieve their financial dreams as well as provide significant charitable support. Please describe your current role at your bank and share with us one of your more rewarding experiences (e.g., A time you had to go above and beyond to help a customer, a memorable customer interaction, stepping in to help the local community after a disaster, or something more personal, etc.).

After 40 plus years, there have been so many special people, businesses, charities, and community events.

But it’s all the little things that keep me going.

Recently, a customer I hadn’t talked to in years came to thank me for the loan I gave her 30 years ago to help start her business. She came in to share that she had just sold her business and was retiring. As she left my office, I told her she had just made my day, which made us both smile. You cannot put a price tag on lasting relationships with customers, businesses, and employees, and it is wonderful to hear you have made an impact on people’s lives.

Do you know a banker who should be recognized as a Community Advocate for the work that they do? Nominate them today by emailing Rose at ropoels@wisbank.com!

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Bankers’ Marketplace H E L P WA N T E D

Commercial Loan Officer

Universal Banker

Starion Bank is expanding!

The Portage County Bank has Are you looking for a been a proud member of the community since 1901. We are rewarding banking career with an organization that is a locally owned, full service expanding in the Madison area? bank in central Wisconsin How about working for an seeking a commercial loan organization that prides itself officer to join our team.

The commercial loan officer in being a stable, financially secure banking organization (CLO) serves as a financial started in 1969, with banking professional who assesses roots that began as far back as and processes business loan 1886? Starion Bank is a familyapplications. This position owned, supercommunity bank is responsible for soliciting, and a member of the Madisonnegotiating, underwriting, area business community that and coordinating the closing has been recognized as “Best of commercial building and of the Best” by Independent business loans. The CLO will Banker magazine and as the “50 maintain a robust referral Best Places to Work” by Prairie network in the local banking Business magazine! community with builders, real We are seeking fullestate agents, and other related time or part-time universal businesses. bankers in Sun Prairie and Must be a highly selfMonona. This position may motivated individual with need to travel throughout excellent interpersonal, the Madison branches, if customer service, and sales skills. Strong ability to establish needed. Responsibilities include opening personal and and maintain customer business deposit accounts; relationships. Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and cross-selling bank products and services; processing local levels of loan processing laws and regulations. Bachelor's regular teller transactions in an efficient, friendly, and accurate degree in finance, business manner; developing long-term administration, economics, relationships with consumer or related field is required. and business customers as Two to three years of lending well as maintaining existing experience is preferred. customer relationships.

The Portage County Bank This position requires offers competitive wage, leadership abilities and selfhealth, life, disability, 401k, vacation, sick pay, and holiday motivation and prefers that individuals possess two to pay. Contact Lori Carlson at loricarlson@portagecountybank. three years of experience in customer service, sales, and com to learn more and apply. cash handling Join our team! Apply online at starionbank.com/careers. Call Erin Jacobson, retail manager, with any questions at 608-8294578.

Post Open Intern Positions for Free WBA member banks can post open internship positions in the Bankers Marketplace, free of charge. If you have questions, email bankersmarketplace@wisbank.com or visit wisbank.com/classifieds.

Advertise Your Next Job Opening with WBA in Wisconsin Banker Are you looking to get the word out about a career working at your bank? The best way to attract dedicated and highly skilled employees is to post in Wisconsin Banker!

Wisconsin Banker goes out to an estimated readership of over 5,500 people bimonthly, and each published advertisement includes a digital posting on WBA’s website as well.

WBA makes it easy to advertise your new job opening along with its responsibilities, requirements, and location, so you can find the perfect candidate for every new position at your bank.

To find out more about advertising career opportunities at your bank, email bankersmarketplace@wisbank.com or go to wisbank.com/classifieds.

W ISC ONSIN WBA Mission Statement

BA NK ER

We actively advocate for, educate, and support our members to help them positively impact the Wisconsin communities they serve.

Association Officers:

Donna J. Hoppenjan (Chair), President/CEO, Mound City Bank, Platteville Alvaro (Al) Araque (Chair-Elect), Senior Vice President, Director of Consumer, Private, and Small Business Banking, Johnson Financial Group, Racine Paul J. Northway (Vice Chair), President/CEO, American National Bank Fox Cities, Appleton Daniel J. Peterson (Past Chair), President/CEO, The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, Marinette Rose Oswald Poels, President/CEO, Wisconsin Bankers Association, Madison Association Board of Directors: Kelly Heroux, President/CEO Peshtigo National Bank Paul A. Hoffmann, President Lake Ridge Bank, Middleton Shay Horton, President/CEO Cumberland Federal Bank, F.S.B. Ryan T. Kamphuis, President/CEO Bristol Morgan Bank, Oakfield Greg Lundberg, President/CEO Fortifi Bank, Berlin Jay C. Mack, President/CEO Town Bank, N.A., Hartland Thomas Mews, President First National Community Bank, New Richmond

Anthony (Tony) Nguyen Eastern Minnesota/Wisconsin/Chicago Regional Bank Director, Senior Vice President Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Milwaukee Greg A. Ogren, President/CEO Security Bank Shares, Inc., Iron River Joe Peikert, President/CEO Wolf River Community Bank, Hortonville Daniel J. Ravenscroft, President/CEO Royal Bank, Elroy William (Bill) Sennholz, CEO Forward Bank, Marshfield

Wisconsin Banker is published by Wisconsin Bankers Association, 4721 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718; Telephone: 608-441-1200; wisbank.com.

Cassandra Krause, Editor 608-441-1216 ckrause@wisbank.com

Advertising: sales@wisbank.com

To report a change of address, email us at requests@wisbank.com.

The publication of advertisements does not necessarily represent endorsement of those products or services by the Wisconsin Bankers Association. The editor reserves the right to reject any advertising or editorial copy deemed unsuitable for publication for any reason. Copy deadline is eight business days before publication date.

Visit wisbank.com/classifieds to view a full listing of job postings or for more information on placing or responding to an ad.

Disclaimer: With the exception of official announcements, the Wisconsin Bankers Association disclaims all responsibility for opinions expressed and statements made in printed articles and advertisements in the Wisconsin Banker. This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If legal or accounting advice or expert assistance is required, the services of a qualified professional should be sought.

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Your

EDUCATION Calendar

Conferences I Summits

Schools I Boot Camps

Seminars I Workshops

WBA Webinars

Other Events

NOVEMBER 2023

•FIPCO Software & Compliance Forum: Deposits

•IRA Essentials Workshop

6–7

1

•Loan Compliance School

Madison or Virtual – $245/attendee

Virtual Half-Days – $250/attendee

•Advanced IRA Workshop

11–15 Madison or Virtual – $1,295/attendee

2

•Real Estate Compliance School

Madison or Virtual – $245/attendee

•Internal Audit Workshop

13–15 Madison or Virtual – $795/attendee

2

•Call Report Workshop

Madison – $245/attendee

•Compliance Forum: Session 2

14–15 Virtual Half-Days – $245/attendee

7

•WBA/ABA Washington Conference

Wisconsin Dells – annual membership/pricing varies

•BOLT Winter Leadership Summit

18–20 Washington, D.C.

8

•Introduction to Commercial Lending School

Wisconsin Dells – $150/attendee

•Personal Banker School

19–21 Madison – $895/attendee

14–15 Madison – $495/attendee

•Security Officer Workshop

•FLEX Retail & Marketing Summit (formerly known

20

as LEAD360)

•Residential Mortgage Lending School

15–16 Wisconsin Dells - $350/attendee

25–28 Madison – $1,045/attendee

JANUARY 2024

APRIL 2024

•Midwest Economic Forecast Forum

•Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon

TBD

10

Virtual

•2024 Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) – Session I 23–24 Virtual Half-Days – membership/pricing varies

FEBRUARY 2024 •Bank Executives Conference 7–9

Wisconsin Dells

•Compliance Forum: Session 3 20

Wisconsin Dells – annual membership/pricing varies

•Capitol Day 22

Madison

MARCH 2024 •Advanced IRA Workshop 5

Madison or Virtual – $245/attendee

•Health Savings Account Workshop 6

Madison or Virtual – $245/attendee

Wisconsin Dells or Virtual – $245/attendee

Madison

•Agricultural Bankers Conference 11–12 Wisconsin Dells – $300/ag section member or $350/nonsection member attendee

•Power of Community Week 15–20 wisbank.com/BanksPowerWI

•Women in Banking Conference 17

Wisconsin Dells or Virtual – team pricing available

•School of Bank Management 22–26 Madison – $1,395/attendee

•Community Bankers for Compliance (CBC) – Session II 23

Wisconsin Dells or Virtual – membership/pricing varies » Visit www.wisbank.com/education for more information and online registration. » Or email WBA Education at wbaeducation@ wisbank.com or call 608-441-1252.