How Associations Adapt to Fewer Banks

We look at how revenue enhancements and cost controls are reducing reliance on dues. Plus, we examine the pros and cons of banks' sports sponsorships.

Good morning, Bank Slaters!

Enjoying a cup of coffee as I start game-planning the next few weeks. Making one final push for survey responses before beginning the writing phase of our upcoming report on 2025 budgeting expectations. There’s still time to carve out five minutes to complete the survey and secure three free months of our premium subscription.

I recently joined the Pioneers in Payments podcast, hosted by Donna Blum and BHMI, to discuss the intersection of banking and fintech and my approach to advising financial institutions looking to become more innovative.

You might recall that I recently hosted two panels for the NEXT Forum in Atlantic City, N.J., co-hosted by Travillian and Newcleus. Here’s the link to the panel on executive recruitment and compensation. I’ll share the video from the M&A session once it’s available.

Let’s talk about state banking associations.

I recently co-authored a report with Rob O’Halloran at Yarmouth & Choate that examines the strategies associations are employing as ongoing consolidation continues to reduce the number of banks in the market.

Since 1995, the number of U.S. banks has decreased by 60%, leaving 4,539 in operation as of June 30, with only two new banks opening this year.