Since 1990, 65%+ of FDIC-insured depositories have disappeared. Many of these institutions lost their independence because they accidentally misallocated capital to poor risk/rewards on both sides of the balance sheet. During this session, Matt Forgotson, an award-winning equity research analyst and industry thought leader, will argue that many of these institutions may have been victims of the problem that has long plagued the banking industry, namely a reliance on faulty frameworks and single-scenario snapshot metrics. Against this backdrop, the most recent banking crisis and years of constrained NIMs, ROAs, and ROEs that followed in its wake are simply the most recent manifestation of this persistent, pervasive, and powerful problem. Once the problem is defined, Matt will then propose a remedy: a comprehensive, objective process and framework that empowers managers to make prospective capital allocation decisions with clarity and confidence. Those willing to embrace a more complete analytical view can help protect and potentially even accelerate their missions. 

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand that bank balance sheets are loaded with unlike cash flows. Bankers must choose among these unlike things in rapidly evolving markets. 
• Appreciate that conventional methods, tools, and metrics are accurate but incomplete. Incomplete evaluation oftentimes leads bankers to seek risk when their objective is to mitigate it. 
• Demonstrate that current challenges – ranging from constrained profitability to succession planning – all trace back to capital allocation. 
• Introduce the Capital Level Playing Field® & the concept of asymmetric returns. 
• Evaluate prospective risk and regulatory positions

In this session, we will explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on the banking sector, uncovering both opportunities and challenges. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of AI technologies and how they are being applied to enhance customer experience, improve risk management, and streamline operations. We will delve into real-world case studies to illustrate successful AI implementations and discuss the strategic considerations for Banking leaders in adopting AI. Additionally, we will address the associated risks, including data privacy and regulatory challenges, while providing insights into future trends shaping the industry. Join us to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in banking and discover actionable strategies for leveraging this powerful technology.

Learning Outcomes:

• Participants will gain a foundational understanding of AI technologies and how they are transforming various aspects of the banking industry, including customer service, risk management, and operational efficiency.
• Attendees will learn about the strategic benefits of AI adoption in banking, as well as the potential risks and challenges, such as data privacy concerns and regulatory compliance, enabling them to make informed decisions about AI initiatives.
• Participants will examine case studies of successful AI implementations in leading banks and gain insights into emerging trends and future developments, preparing them to strategically leverage AI for competitive advantage.

In an era marked by economic volatility, digital disruption, and evolving regulatory landscapes, financial institutions are under unprecedented pressure to adapt and lead. This high-level CEO panel brings together successful industry leaders to explore how the industry is redefining resilience, accelerating innovation, maintaining trust with stakeholders and upskilling the next generation of bankers. Attendees will gain exclusive insights into the strategic priorities shaping the future of finance—from AI adoption and cybersecurity to risk management and customer-centric transformation. 

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand how industry CEOs are balancing innovation with risk management  
• Explore strategic approaches to maintaining stakeholder trust 
• Gain insight into leadership priorities and organizational transformation models that enable financial institutions to remain competitive and resilient  

Join Kathy Herbig, Cherry Bekaert’s Financial Institutions Tax Leader, for an insightful presentation unpacking the latest tax legislative updates, curated specifically for financial institutions. Together, we will discuss the latest developments in federal tax legislation affecting banks and credit unions following the inauguration of the Trump administration and the passing of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” tax package. This session will equip you and your financial institution with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding recent tax legislative developments and identify potential strategic opportunities. 

Learning Outcomes:

• Discuss the passing of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” and specific provisions directly impacting financial institutions  
• Uncover potential strategic tax opportunities for financial institutions to consider  
• Learn about the predicted future implications of the current tax landscape  

The average age of current banking CEOs is 58 and nearly 25% of banking C-level executives are 65 or older. This demographic data suggests a "potential looming retirement cliff" or leadership vacuum within the financial industry. This session will present the essential mind-set shifts needed for effective succession planning through an asset-based strategic approach to leadership development that ensures the financial institution’s long-term success by preparing the next generation of leaders.

Learning Outcomes:

• Participants will analyze their current mindset in relation to evidence-based research on essential mindsets for change leadership. 
• Participants will evaluate their institution’s readiness for leadership succession in the areas of purpose, people, and products. 
• Participants will identify their next step area of focus for leadership succession.