October 6, 2023

Mark Laune, President and CEO of People Saving Bank, recently started a year-long term as the 2023‑2024 MIBA President. In his own words, he has “big shoes” to fill as he follows in the footsteps of those who have held this position before him. He is ready to jump in and fight the good fight to ensure that the future of community banking is secure.

With the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technology, businesses around the world are considering how they can use AI to improve efficiency and advance business goals. Financial institutions are no exception. While AI can bring many efficiencies and advancements to the way business is conducted, in the highly regulated financial services industry, there are many considerations that need to be addressed by financial institutions seeking to use AI.

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Community bankers have long been community changers. Through their service to small businesses and local economies, their impact on the lives of their customers and neighbors is undoubtedly far-reaching. Nevertheless, the community of community bankers and changers is, in and of itself, changing rapidly — enough for some to declare it under attack. Why is that?

With Veto Session in the books, the first regular session of the Missouri General Assembly is officially over. The Missouri House overrode 14 of Governor Parson’s vetoes, but the Senate did not take any of them up, so the Governor’s vetoes stand.

The court losses for the CFPB are stacking up. The latest came on September 8, when a federal judge in Texas issued a final judgment against the CFPB for unlawfully expanding its authority when updating the UDAAP manual. In the manual, the Bureau attempted to redefine “unfair,” allowing itself to use the term liberally and take punitive action against supposed perpetrators.

I’ve never been prouder to be a community banker than I have this year. As ICBA Chairman, I have had the opportunity to tour the country, meeting community bankers from all over. I have consistently heard stories of how we support those who need us: our communities. Everything I have believed about community banking is proving true this year.

Navigating the regulatory landscape is like getting on a roller coaster. There are ups and downs, and you’re never sure what’s around the next turn or when you’re going to get thrown for a loop. Right now, that wild ride comes courtesy of Silicon Valley Bank and other bank failures, and we’re looking at potential rule writing as a result.

Another MIBA Annual Convention is in the books and what a great way to start my tenure as the newly elected MIBA President than to reflect on this annual tradition.