The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) is a 1977 U.S. statute granting the President sweeping authority to regulate foreign commerce and impose economic sanctions. In February 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a 6–3 decision that IEEPA does not authorize the executive branch to unilaterally impose import tariffs without explicit congressional approval. This...

For much of the past year, some loud and persistent voice(s) had insisted that interest rates are headed lower, and a surprising number of market participants have arranged their balance sheets as though that outcome were a certainty. The evidence does not point that way. Inflation remains stubbornly above target, the Federal Reserve has held...

There is an explosion of entities waiting to become banks. In the last 60 days for example, no less than six bank applications were filed (including the formidable Revolut Bank). Behind that, there are a rash of new competitors coming to include banks by Affirm, PayPal, World Liberty, Mercury, NuBank and UKG. Most will create...

Less competitive markets can boost returns for community banks. Specialized lending refers to customized financing tailored to specific industries, asset classes, or complex business transactions. Unlike standard commercial loans that rely on simple financial ratios, specialized lending requires expertise to evaluate unique collateral and cash flow structures. There are some specialized lending opportunities that fit...

In this episode, Chris Nichols is joined by Samer Saab of Alloy Labs to explore the growing tension between a traditional “debt mindset” and a more forward-looking “equity mindset” in banking. While banks are built to minimize risk and protect principal, that same instinct can limit innovation, partnerships, and long-term growth. Samer shares practical ways...

In this episode, Chris Nichols sits down with Jack Henry’s Lee Wetherington to unpack the biggest strategic shifts facing community banks today. From deposit pressures and the rise of small business banking to the growing importance of data strategy and payments, the conversation highlights how banks must rethink their approach to growth. The discussion makes...

In this episode, Caleb Stevens talks with Eva Daniel, founder of The Speak Shop, about why effective communication is a critical leadership skill. Eva shares why every professional should have a signature message, common mistakes leaders make when presenting, and how thoughtful storytelling and structure can dramatically increase clarity and credibility. Tune in to learn...

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Udell, a former community banker turned AI advisor, to break down what AI actually means for banks today and how to start using it in practical ways. Ben shares how bankers can use AI to save time, sharpen decision-making, and enhance relationships. From turning voice notes into...