ADVOCACY

Cofield, other State Bankers Association Executives Advocate at RSLC Events

GBA President and CEO Tripp Cofield joined fellow state bankers association executives this week to advocate for Georgia’s banking industry during Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) events held in conjunction with the Iowa State Fair.

On Tuesday, Cofield, joined Adam Gregg, President and CEO of the Iowa Bankers Association, and Doug Wareham, President and CEO of the Kansas Bankers Association, in delivering a banking industry update to the RSLC Ag America caucus. The audience included Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, who serves as caucus chair and many of his counterparts from across the nation. The group also emphasized the need to update the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s (NASDA) credit policy guidelines to include banks—pointing out that the current guidelines exclusively support the Farm Credit System.

On Wednesday, Cofield, Gregg, and Wareham met with U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) and Congressman Zach Nunn (R-IA), a member of the House Financial Services Committee, to discuss banking industry legislative and regulatory priorities.
Special thanks to Adam Gregg and the Iowa Bankers Association for sponsoring these events and inviting GBA to participate.

GBA Joins Push to Strengthen Stablecoin Law

The Georgia Bankers Association joined 51 other state bankers associations and the American Bankers Association in a joint letter to the House Financial Services Committee urging lawmakers to address key gaps in the recently enacted GENIUS Act. While the law establishes a framework for stablecoin regulation, the groups warn that certain provisions could let issuers sidestep strong state oversight, potentially undermining consumer protections and creating regulatory inconsistencies. The letter calls for clarifying state supervisory authority, closing loopholes that could allow unregulated entities to issue stablecoins, and ensuring a level playing field between banks and nonbanks. Read the letter here.

Related: Learn more about this at the concurrent President and CEO, Bank Counsel and Bank Accountant conferences Sept. 28-30 in Savannah. ABA’s Brooke Ybarra will do a full session about stablecoins and the GENIUS Act. Get details and register here

ABA Task Force Releases 10 Recommendations for Deposit Insurance Reform

We’re digging in to an ABA report released this week recommending 10 things to improve deposit insurance, and there are some good ideas worth your attention. The report comes from the ABA Task Force on Deposit Insurance Modernization. 

The 10 recommendations are specific and fall into broad categories including emergency actions, deposit insurance coverage amounts, fund structure and assessments, and bank resolutions. Some ideas would require congressional action — including granting the FDIC pre-approval authority to temporarily enhance deposit insurance coverage in emergencies, raising the standard maximum deposit insurance amount above $250,000, and tying future maximum coverage increases to inflation. The task force included bankers from institutions of all sizes, charters and business models, ensuring a broad range of perspectives.

We encourage all members to read the full report, then share feedback with GBA’s Government Relations team — Tripp Cofield, Elizabeth Chandler and Bo Brannen — to help guide our advocacy on this important issue.

2025 Georgia BankPAC Update

The 2025 BankPAC campaign is going strong, and we hope that you will consider contributing! Access contribution forms along with all BankPAC information on the advocacy page of gabankers.com with instructions and options for making these contributions. As a reminder, state-chartered banks or national bank holding companies may contribute to the StatePAC, while eligible individuals may do so to the FedPAC. If you have questions, contact Elizabeth Chandler at 404.372.7893 or Bo Brannen at 404.731.9886.

Contributing to the GBA StatePAC recently are:

• Pinnacle Bank, Elberton, Jackson McConnell, CEO
• Southeastern Bank, Darien, Jay Torbert, president & CEO
• West Central Georgia Bank, Thomaston, Bill Bazemore, CEO.

 And, contributing recently to the GBA FedPAC are those eligible employees, officers and directors of the following banks:

• Ameris Bank, Atlanta, Palmer Proctor, CEO
• Citizens Bank of Georgia, Cumming, Tim Perry, president & CEO
• Pinnacle Bank, Elberton, Jackson McConnell, CEO
• Planters First Bank, Cordele, Eli Tinsley, president & CEO
• The Citizens Bank of Americus, Rick Whaley, president & CEO
• United Bank, Griffin, Jim Edwards, CEO
• West Central Georgia Bank, Thomaston, Bill Bazemore, CEO.

INDUSTRY NEWS

FTC Warns Consumers About Social Media Check Fraud Scam

The Federal Trade Commission is warning consumers about a check fraud scam spreading on social media. Posts claim to share a “hack” to get extra money, but the scheme could lead to major financial losses and legal trouble.

The scam instructs people to write a check for more than they have, deposit it into someone else’s account and withdraw the funds before it clears. What the posts don’t mention is that this could leave you repaying all the money, losing your bank account and facing bank fraud charges. The FTC advises researching questionable financial tips, checking multiple trusted sources and being cautious about advice from unknown accounts.

For bankers who want to help fight check fraud, check out the #PracticeSafeChecks consumer education campaign.

GBA NEWS

Women in Banking Conference Underway

The attendee-favorite event focused on leadership and development for Georgia's women bankers kicked off Thursday. We’re excited to be hosting a record crowd for the two-day GBA Women in Banking Conference. Here are some quick pics of Thursday’s action. We’ll do a full debrief in next week’s issue.

GBA Resource: 2025 Georgia Banking Compensation Survey is Now Available

GBA, in partnership with Pearl Meyer, is pleased to announce the release of the 2025 Georgia Banking Compensation Survey results. Thank you to all participants for making the 2025 Georgia Bankers Association Compensation Survey a success. This comprehensive survey offers reliable benchmarking data, helping you make informed business decisions by comparing information relevant to your institution’s asset size, industry standards, and competitors in the banking sector.

This year's survey reports include:

• 69 Georgia institutions
• Over 5,200 incumbents reporting in Georgia
• 177 positions reporting in Georgia
• Policies and Practices Report with data on base salary programs and incentive plans
  

The effective date of the data for this survey is April 1, 2025.

Report prices are $650 – Participants; $1,495 – Non-Participants.

Pearl Meyer emailed all participants with instructions for purchasing the 2025 survey results. If your organization did not participate and would like to purchase the survey, or if you have not received your purchase email, please contact Rhonda Snyder at rhonda.snyder@pearlmeyer.com.

Bank Counsel Board Tackles Key Issues, Plans Fall Conference

The Bank Counsel Section Board of Directors, led by Chair Neil Kinnebrew of Synovus Bank, met this week to share a variety of issues they’re seeing in their markets and practices. The meeting included a strategic issues discussion recapping key takeaways from the GBA Annual Meeting, followed by an update from Senior Deputy Commissioner Bo Fears of the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance on potential items for its upcoming housekeeping bill in the 2026 Georgia General Assembly session. Members also heard a review of state and federal legislative developments from GBA’s advocacy team. The group then turned to planning for the Bank Counsel Conference, set for Sept. 28-30 at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside. CLE-credit sessions for Bank Counsel attendees will address fraud-related legal issues, including elder abuse, and include participation in the CEO Conference general session program about stablecoins and the GENIUS Act. The board also discussed Georgia BankPAC participation and section membership recruitment efforts. Get all the conference details and register here.

Compliance School Board Maps Out 2026 School Term

The GBA Compliance School Board met last week to begin preparations for the 2026 school term, which will be April 26 - May 1, 2026, in Athens. The board reviewed feedback about the 2025 coursework and faculty, fine-tuned the curriculum for 2026 and agreed to continue offering Year 1, Year 2 and the Alumni Continuing Education (ACE) tracks. Thomas Williams of United Bank, who serves as school board chair, led the meeting and guided the discussions. New to the board this year is Beth Hamilton of First National Bank, Bainbridge. The team’s work sets the stage for another year of strong programming for compliance professionals across Georgia. Start making plans to attend or to invest in sending others from your team to strengthen their skills. Look for school registration details soon. With questions, contact Aimee Corcoran.

Marketing Committee Gathers to Share Insights, Plan Spring Conference

The GBA Marketing Committee met this week at Great Oaks Bank in Eastman, charting a course for the year ahead with a focus on innovation, connection and leadership growth. The meeting, led by 2025-2026 Chair Emily Doherty, Great Oaks Bank, and Vice Chair Beth James, Queensborough National Bank & Trust Company, welcomed new members Heather Bryant, Colony Bank, and Raquel Cobb, CoastalStates Bank. The discussion covered market updates, social media management for employees, new tools for campaign coordination and product promotion priorities.

The committee also focused on planning the 2026 Marketing Conference, March 25-27 at The DeSoto in Savannah. Ideas included a customer panel and focus group workshop, sessions on social media best practices, bridging sales and marketing, sparking creativity, and leveraging analytics for leadership buy-in. A leadership panel, joint keynote with GBA’s HR community, and evening networking events are also in the works. We'll also have a Marketing Peer Group meeting before the end of this calendar year. Look for details when we nail down a date.

Our thanks to Emily Doherty and Great Oaks Bank for hosting this productive session!

TRAINING & EVENTS

NEW HUMAN RESOURCES PROGRAM Aug. 26, Macon

HR 101: Welcome to Human Resources

Are you new to HR or looking to build a stronger foundation in human resources? Don’t miss HR 101: Welcome to Human Resources, a new workshop specifically for HR administrators and support staff.

Hosted and designed by the GBA Human Resources Committee, this interactive workshop will equip attendees with practical tools, expert guidance and actionable best practices covering HR compliance essentials, payroll operations, benefits administration and more! Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to reinforce your HR fundamentals, HR 101 is the perfect opportunity to grow your skills and connect with peers. Register today and invest in your HR success!

Upcoming Lending Seminars – Sign Up Today!

• Personal Cash Flow Analysis Seminar - Aug. 26
  Join Shannon Fortson, EVP, Chief Credit Officer of Pinnacle Bank, for an in-depth, comprehensive understanding on how to analyze personal cash flow and personal tax returns. Learn how to calculate sources and uses of personal cash flow to support a borrower’s loan request to ensure a strong and healthy loan portfolio. Get all the details and register here.
  
  
• Loan Structuring and Documentation for Loss Prevention Seminar - Aug. 27
  Fortson also leads our popular Loan Documentation Seminar. Prevention of loan losses is crucial and begins with proper loan structuring and documentation techniques. Connect with peers and walk away with all the best tips and tools. Commercial loan officers, commercial loan personnel, loan assistants and closing specialists will benefit from this program. Get all the details and register here.

Mark Your Calendars!

2026 Georgia Banking School
& GBA Compliance School
April 26 - May 1, 2026
UGA, Athens

Online Enrollment Opens in September!

More Events and Training Opportunities Coming up

• BankPAC Inaugural Pickleball Tournament - Aug. 21, Rhythm & Rally, Macon
• President/CEO, Bank Accountant & Bank Counsel Conferences - Sept. 28-30 at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District

• South Georgia Community Bank Symposium - Oct. 8, Valdosta State University

• New Account Documentation & Compliance Bootcamp - Oct. 8, Middle Georgia State University, Macon

• BankPAC Golf Classic - Oct. 15, River Forest Golf Club, Forsyth

• Compliance Conference - Oct. 20-22, The Westin Jekyll Island

• Succession Planning Online Workshop Series - Nov. 3 & 17, Virtual

• Financial Risk Management Conference - Nov. 6-7, The DeSoto, Savannah

• Credit Conference - Dec. 4-5, University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens

Do’s and Don’ts on Checks, Bank Accounting Boot Camp, Cyber Security 101 and More

Here’s a sampling of upcoming webinars.

• Do's and Don'ts on Checks – Aug. 19
• Managing a Successful Call Center – Aug. 20
• BSA/AML Summer Update – Aug. 26
• Bank Accounting: Boot Camp on the Basics - 5 Part Series – Aug. 28
• ACH Rules Update: Navigating Nacha's New Rules – Sept. 5
• Loan Documentation 101 Part 1: The Basics – Sept. 11
• Cyber Security 101 – Sept. 18
• Do We Have a Generation Gap: A Sales Workshop – Sept. 24
• Accounting Basics/Refresher for Financial Professionals – Sept. 29
• Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity – Oct. 1

 Want to see the full webinar schedule?

PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

GBA ASSOCIATE MEMBER ALLURE SECURITY

How to Protect Your Customers and Brand from Zelle Fraud

Want to better protect your customers and your brand from Zelle scams? A recent blog post from Associate Member Allure Security outlines the most common types of Zelle fraud, including spoofed business accounts, impersonation schemes, fake websites and malicious apps. It also shares clear recommendations for banks to take, such as proactive takedowns of fraudulent sites, social media monitoring and global domain-blocking measures. Read the full post to strengthen your bank’s fraud prevention strategy.

GBA ASSOCIATE MEMBER ENGAGE FI

Why Now Might Be the Moment to Explore a NextGen Core

A recent article, “Is It Time for a NextGen Core?” submitted by Associate Member Engage Fi, explores how rapid changes in customer expectations, fintech innovation and cloud-native technology are reshaping core banking. It emphasizes that while NextGen core platforms promise real-time processing, API-first design, and modular scalability, cost, complexity and vendor readiness remain barriers. The article encourages banks to start with a clear strategy, use sandbox testing and push vendors for transparency before committing to full conversion. Read the article here and visit www.engagefi.com to learn more.

COMPLIANCE CORNER

Compliance Alliance Introduces Certified Cybersecurity Training for Banks

The GBA co-owned Compliance Alliance has partnered with Dr. Kevin Streff to launch The Cyber Institute, offering certified cybersecurity training designed specifically for bankers and bank directors. This new program provides unique, tailored courses aimed at improving information security awareness, fulfilling regulatory requirements and safeguarding customer data. Developed by experts in both banking operations and cybersecurity, the training offers practical, real-world education suitable for institutions of all sizes.

Participants can earn Cybersecurity Awareness Credits by covering essential topics such as secure network practices, data breach prevention and incident response. Courses are offered in various formats and can be customized to fit each bank’s size, complexity and structure. Learn more and explore course options at The Cyber Institute.

NEWSMAKERS

Atlanta - BankSouth Mortgage

Luiggi Amoretti has joined the bank’s Gwinnett office as a processor.

Bainbridge - First Port City Bank

The bank has received a 5-Star Rating from Bauer Financial. Additionally, Nancy Murphy, assistant vice president and main branch manager, has been appointed to the board of directors at Oak House.

Milledgeville - Century Bank and Trust

Kaleigh Wiggins has been promoted to loan assistant.

Peachtree City - Embassy National Bank

Kamontorn “Kook” Kroapong has graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. Read more.

Cochran - The Citizens Bank of Cochran / Community Bank of Dublin-Laurens County

Dawson Chapman has joined the bank as a credit analyst.

Dacula - Synovus

Obie Nelson has been promoted to retail market manager at the bank’s Hamilton Mill branch.

Perry - Planters First Bank

Michelle Britt has joined the bank as risk officer and senior vice president, based at the Perry banking center. Read more.

Watkinsville - Oconee State Bank

The following bankers have joined the bank's Middle Georgia team: Andy Flowers, senior vice president and community president of Middle Georgia. Baxter James, vice president, commercial lending. Daryl Cohen, vice president, commercial lending. Lisa Marie Pierce, assistant vice president and financial center manager. Read more.

Austell - Cash Transactions

Cash Transactions LLC has entered into a strategic business combination with BEVYTEC LLC. The combined entity will focus on scalable growth, product innovation and expanded market reach while maintaining a service-first culture. Read more.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Bainbridge - First Port City Bank

The bank provided snacks for Bainbridge teachers and faculty for orientation.

Calhoun - North Georgia National Bank

The bank sponsored the Little Black Dress event benefiting the Northwest Georgia Family Crisis Center. The evening raised funds to support victims of domestic violence in Gordon, Whitfield and Murray counties.

Cordele - Planters First Bank

• The bank served as a Legacy Sponsor for State of Agriculture: Harvesting the Future at the Georgia National Fairgrounds.
• Bank team members served lunch and handed out gift bags at Irwin County’s New Teacher Luncheon.
• Bank team members shared supplies and financial literacy materials at Pulaski County’s School Resource Event.

Dublin - Bank of Dudley

The bank surprised local teachers with Dilly Bars during pre-planning for the new school year.

Dublin - Morris Bank

The bank served as a Fan Club Sponsor for the Taste of Local Cuisine event at the Museum of Aviation.

Milledgeville - Century Bank & Trust

Bank team members participated in the Georgia Military College Orientation, meeting new students and sharing how the bank can support them during their college journey.

Perry - SunMark Community Bank

• Bank team members raised $350 for Christmas for Kids through July’s Casual Cause, benefiting Houston County families in need during the holidays.
• The bank sponsored the Perry Area Chamber Youth Leadership Program.
• The bank sponsored the Houston County Family Connection Back to School Bash, which provided backpacks, health screenings and other support services to local families.

Read All About It: Send Us Your News

We want to share your news with your colleagues across the state. Please forward your announcements and photos to GBA's David Oliver and Katina Weiss.

Recruit, Retain and Develop the Best Bankers with GBA's Job Bank

GBA will post open positions, free of charge, for GBA members. See the open positions in Georgia here. We will also post professional summaries for bank-job seekers on our Bankers Available page. Contact Katina Weiss, 404.420.2021, with questions or needs.