Reading The Regulatory Tea Leaves

Finance is, appropriately, a highly regulated industry. Unfortunately, political and ideological forces shaped much of the regulatory agenda over the years, and thousands of unintended consequences occurred.  The new administration brought with it the storms of change, and a somewhat euphoric reaction by many banks and other institutions impacted by the commitment to reduce regulatory burden and complexity. At the same time, safety and soundness remain non-negotiable foundational elements to our regulatory infrastructure, as well…

New Marketing Trends for Banks in 2025

Traditional banking delivery models are being challenged by digital advancements, changing customer expectations, and increasing competition from fintech companies. To keep up, banks must embrace innovative marketing strategies that not only attract new customers but also deepen relationships with existing ones. Among the hottest marketing trends in 2025 are: 1. Hyper-Personalization Through AI and Data Analytics Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all marketing. AI has opened new possibilities heretofore unimaginable. Marketing mavens are leveraging these…

Updated 2025 Outlook from Robert Albertson

My outlook for banks and financials in 2025 can be summed up as one of cautious optimism.  While the market has expressed premature ebullience over Trump’s election, which definitely included strength in financial stocks, there are many loose and important ends still buried in uncertainties.  A sea change in variables is likely to unfold. Regulatory Relief:  Banks and financials will clearly benefit from a shift in tone and substance on the regulatory front.  Capital requirements…