ADVOCACY

GBA Backs Effort to Uphold Prohibition on Stablecoin Interest Payments

GBA joined 51 other state bankers associations and ABA this week in urging the U.S. Treasury Department to protect the flow of deposits that support community lending as it develops rules for payment stablecoins under the GENIUS Act. The joint letter called on Treasury to maintain the act’s ban on paying any kind of interest or yield to stablecoin holders, a move designed to ensure the digital tokens serve as a tool for payments as opposed to a store of value or investment. “When stablecoin issuers or other market participants offer returns, they disrupt the traditional banking model by drawing deposits away from banks and into digital assets,” the letter said. “This disintermediation reduces funds available for lending and disproportionately harms community banks, which lack the scale to compete with large, tech-affiliated issuers.” The letter included three specific recommendations. Read all the details here. With questions, contact Tripp Cofield, Elizabeth Chandler or Bo Brannen.

Georgia Voters Choose State and Local Leaders in Low Turnout Election

Voters across the state went to the polls earlier this week to elect leaders for statewide and municipal offices. In the only statewide contests, Democrats Alicia Johnson and Peter Hubbard defeated Republican incumbents to be elected to the Georgia Public Service Commission. At the municipal level, Andre Dickens won re-election for mayor of Atlanta, defeating three challengers to secure a second term. Other local races in many counties included city council seats, mayoral posts and local referendums.

These outcomes will influence future discussions on infrastructure, energy oversight, and economic growth. GBA closely monitors state and local developments that affect the banking industry and the communities our members serve. Full election results can be found here on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website. With questions, contact GBA’s Tripp Cofield, Elizabeth Chandler or Bo Brannen.

The Georgia BankPAC campaign is still going strong, and we invite you to join this effort by making a contribution that helps ensure Georgia’s banking industry maintains a strong voice in public policy discussions. All contribution forms and details are available on the Advocacy page of gabankers.com, including instructions and options for giving. State-chartered banks and national bank holding companies may contribute to the StatePAC. Eligible individuals may contribute 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:

• Bank of America, Atlanta, Al McRae, Atlanta president
• The Citizens Bank of Swainsboro, Zach Frye, president & CEO.

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

• The Citizens Bank of Swainsboro, Zach Frye, president & CEO
• United Bancshares, Peachtree Corners, Monty Watson, regional president.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Ongoing Resources: Penny Production Phase-Out

We’re sharing an expanded resource that builds on penny phase-out materials we circulated recently. This update explores emerging state-level implications of the federal decision to end penny production, including potential coin shortages, effects on local businesses and opportunities for coordination among banks, merchants and policymakers. We encourage members to let us know of any local impacts or trends you’re seeing as the phase-out progresses. Your insights will help inform ongoing discussions and resource development. Please contact Tripp Cofield, Elizabeth Chandler or Bo Brannen with questions or to share feedback or examples from your community.

Scam Alert: Fake “Repo Auction” Websites Using Bank Names

Thanks to Sam Drennen, EVP & COO at First American Bank & Trust and chair of GBA’s Operations & Technology Committee, for alerting us to a growing online scam involving fake vehicle repossession auction websites posing as major banks.

The fraudulent sites impersonate institutions such as Wells Fargo, Bank of America and Chase, advertising repossessed cars for sale and requiring payment by wire transfer only. They also ask users to upload a driver’s license, a selfie and other personal data, which scammers later use for identity theft or unauthorized transactions.

Red flags include:

• Website titles such as “Site – cars, vehicles, boats and more auctions.”
• Hosting via Cloudflare and domain registration with NICENIC International Group Co., Limited.
• Fake U.S. office addresses and VOIP contact numbers.
• WordPress-based sites featuring an “Our Partners” section with stolen bank logos.

GBA urges members to share this warning with staff and customers and to verify any auction site before wiring funds or submitting personal information. See more details here.

Small Business Owners Feeling Good About Their Banks

Some good news about small businesses and their banking relationships caught our attention this week. Small business confidence and satisfaction with their banks is on the rise. The J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Small Business Banking Satisfaction Study reports a three-year high in overall satisfaction, reflecting stronger relationships and better communication between business owners and their bankers.

• Advice matters: 61% of small businesses received guidance from their bank this year, and 94% said it improved their financial habits.
  
• Personal ties count: 84% of owners also bank personally where they do business, and they’re much more satisfied as a result.
  
  
• Problems resolved: 9 in 10 customers said their last issue was handled successfully.
  
  
• Top concerns: inflation, tariffs and borrowing costs remain on the radar.

For Georgia bankers, the takeaway is clear: steady communication and genuine financial advice go a long way toward building trust and deepening those all-important business relationships.

CSBS Survey and Sentiment Index Highlight Community Bank Trends

The Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) recently released two reports offering insights into the outlook and challenges facing community banks nationwide.

Community Bank Survey Results

The twelfth-annual CSBS National Community Bank Survey, based on responses from 268 banks under $10 billion in assets, shows shifting priorities in risk management and operations.

• Net interest margin ranked as the top external risk, followed by core deposit growth, economic conditions, cost of technology and cost of funds.
• Regulatory burden, last year’s leading concern, dropped to sixth place.
• On internal risks, cybersecurity remains the top issue, outpacing all other categories, while technology implementation and credit ranked second and third, respectively.

Community Bank Sentiment Index (CBSI)

In a separate release, the third-quarter Community Bank Sentiment Index rose to 133, up seven points from the previous quarter, indicating a generally positive outlook among community bankers. The CBSI measures bankers’ expectations for future business conditions, with readings above 100 signaling optimism.

ATTENTION ATTORNEYS!

Status of Important Cases for November 2025

The latest ABA Newsbytes Banking Docket is now available. Read about the status of important cases here. Each article contains a “Read more” link with access to additional details on the issues, case summaries and links to related documents.

MEMBER NEWS

Chad Hargrove on Mentorship and “Whatever It Takes” Banking

For Chad Hargrove, CFO and COO at Classic City Bank in Athens, lessons in work ethic and creativity came early. His first job was cutting grass at age 12 at Salem Methodist Campground. “I was so light I couldn’t keep the mower’s automatic shutoff engaged, so I used bungee straps to hold the seat down,” he said. Later, working at a dry cleaner taught him customer service and problem-solving skills that still guide him today.

The vice chair of GBA’s Asset/Liability Management Committee credits much of his career growth to mentors, including longtime Georgia banker Dick Cheatham, whose practical approach to decision-making left a lasting impression. “Dick had what I call the ‘Cheatham Law,’ a simple, logical way to solve problems. His influence shaped how I lead and stay grounded in community banking values.”

He recalls one moment that cemented his commitment to the profession. During a 2001 snowstorm, he delivered a cash order to a local grocery store so it could stay open. “It was a ‘whatever it takes’ moment that reminded me what community banking is all about,” he said. Read more in his GBA Member Profile.

GBA NEWS

Big Crowd Gathers for FRM Conference

CFOs and finance professionals from banks across Georgia have gathered in Savannah this week for the annual GBA Financial Risk Management Conference. Organized by the GBA Asset/Liability Management Committee, the event covers a comprehensive range of finance topics critical to running profitable banks. Here are some highlights from Thursday's sessions. Stay tuned for a full recap and more photos next week.

TRAINING & EVENTS

Peer Group Meetings for Bank Auditors and Marketing Pros Coming Up

Two GBA peer group meetings are coming up soon. Each are designed to help bank professionals exchange ideas, explore new strategies and strengthen their networks.

• Internal Audit Peer Group Meeting – Nov. 18, Macon
  Internal auditors are invited to join this forum at Idle Hour Golf & Country Club from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. The agenda features an educational session with Rhonda Norris, Symphona, and a peer-led roundtable facilitated by David Attaway, Symphona. Participants can submit discussion topics during registration to shape the conversation. Register here.
  
  
• Marketing Peer Group Meeting – Dec. 9, Macon
  Bank marketing professionals will gather at the Methodist Home for Children & Youth for a full day of collaboration and learning. The program includes an interactive roundtable and a session with Eric Cook, WSI, on applying artificial intelligence in financial marketing. Attendees will exchange ideas, discuss trends, and share best practices. Register here.

Almost Time for 2025 GBA Credit Conference

There's still time to join the crowd at the next GBA Credit Conference, Dec. 4-5 at the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel in Athens. Planned by the GBA Credit Committee, here's a look at some of the agenda highlights:

• Economic Update – Roger Tutterow, Henssler Financial Endowed Chair, Kennesaw State University
• Why AI Should Be on Everyone’s To-Do List – Roman Nazarewycz, Director, Client Engagement, Zest AI
• Agricultural Economy Update – Will Secor, Assistant Professor & Extension Livestock Economist, University of Georgia
• Clarity and Credit: Navigating Uncertain Waters – Cal Evans, Senior Director, Market Intelligence & Analytics, Synovus Bank
• Fireside Chat with State Rep. Houston Gaines and GBA’s Tripp Cofield.

Peer-led panels and roundtable discussions will also provide opportunities to exchange strategies and best practices with colleagues from across the state.

A huge thank you to our sponsors!

• Platinum Sponsor: Steve H. Powell & Company
• Silver Sponsors: Carr, Riggs & Ingram; CRS Data; Mauldin & Jenkins; Point To Point Environmental; and Wipfli.

Sign Up Today!

Legislative and Economic Forum & Reception
Jan. 28, 2026
The Ritz Carlton, Downtown Atlanta

Register Here

More Events and Training Opportunities Coming up

• The BSA Summit - Jan. 12-15, Lanier Islands Resort, Buford

• IRA Academy - Feb. 3-5, Middle Georgia State University, Macon

• Georgia BankPAC Sporting Clays Tournament - Feb. 5, Old Hudson Plantation, Sparta

• Operations and Technology Conference - Feb. 25-27, The DeSoto, Savannah

• Georgia Banking School - April 26 - May 1, University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens

• GBA Compliance School - April 26 - May 1, University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens

ONLINE LEARNING – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING

Bank Accounting Workshop, Most Common TRID Issues, Deposit Year-End Wrap-Up, and More 

Take a look at online training opportunities available to GBA members from OnCourse Learning and the American Bankers Association:

• Bank Accounting: Interest Earning Assets - 2 Part Workshop - Nov. 12

• 2025 Call Report: Common Exam Issues - Nov. 14

• BSA Critical Issues and Updates - Nov. 18

• Analyzing Financial Statements - Dec. 1-March 27

• BSA Reporting and Training for the Board - Dec. 2

• Most Common TRID Issues - Dec. 3

• Deposit Year-End Wrap-Up - Dec. 11

PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Now Available: 7th Edition Bank Record Retention Quick Notes

The GBA, in partnership with the Massachusetts Bankers Association, is pleased to announce the availability of the 7th Edition Bank Record Retention Quick Notes, authored by Carl Pry. This edition is designed to be a fast and easy-to-use reference on the most common types of record questions that bankers encounter in a completely digital format.

Highlights of the 7th Edition:

This streamlined reference covers six key areas (General; Deposits & Operations; Loans; Securities; Human Resources; and Tax) and incorporates the latest guidance from FinCEN, CFPB, OCC, NACHA, IRS, SEC, FDIC, FRB, and more. The 7th edition contains numerous changes to retention requirements, and other notable rule revisions include:

• New records added to better protect banks over appropriate time periods in case of potential regulatory enforcement and/or litigation.
• Updates to retention-related federal laws and regulations since the last edition, particularly in light of the dynamic regulatory environment over the past few years.
• Numerous 'best practice' suggestions are now included in the guide.

How can we order?

Visit this page.

1. Log in, or register on the platform if you have not done so already.
2. Select the number of licenses you wish to purchase ($165 each). For orders of 5 or more licenses, please contact Bo Brannen, bbrannen@gabankers.com, before placing your order.
3. Go to ‘Your Cart’ and check out using a credit card.
4. Access credentials will be sent to the email address associated with the order within 3 business days of processing. If multiple licenses are purchased, the credentials will allow for simultaneous logins equal to the number of licenses.

Note: Banks that purchased the 6th Edition in 2025 will automatically receive free access to the 7th Edition.

This article highlights how, in banking, complaints are more than customer service issues; they’re early indicators of operational weaknesses, compliance gaps and emerging risks. Yet many banks still treat them as isolated events rather than strategic intelligence. A strong complaint management program doesn’t just resolve individual problems; it finds vulnerabilities across systems, strengthens internal controls and extends oversight into third-party relationships. Click here to read more.

FREE RELATED WEBINAR

From Risk Signal to Action: Turning Complaints into Your Competitive Advantage, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m.

In this webinar, the experts at NContracts will show you how to build a complaint management program that doesn't just meet regulatory expectations, it actively protects customer relationships, reduces attrition, and gives you actionable intelligence your competitors are missing. Click here to register.

Has your bank’s debit card program been on autopilot for too long? VISA and MasterCard will likely fight to keep your business, but Discover Debit wants to invest in your bank, your customers and your community. Valuable cardholder benefits like credit monitoring and dark web monitoring backed by Experian® mean customers can feel more secure with their new debit card. Discover® Debit is the only program that delivers superior economics, simplified rules, fee transparency and unmatched program flexibility. To find out more, contact Brian Harbin, brianharbin@discover.com, 678.325.9910.

Your bank processes large volumes of sensitive customer and financial information every day. The Shred-It program, available exclusively from GBA to member banks and associate members, offers significant savings to support compliance and data security needs.

Members can receive:

• A 30% discount on document destruction services and media/hard-drive destruction.
• A 35% discount for organizing Community Shred Days.

Services include regularly scheduled document shredding, on-demand clear-outs, hard-drive/media destruction, locked containers, mobile on-site shredding, bar-code tracking, secure recycling, certificate of destruction and an annual environmental sustainability certificate. To setup or inquire about Shred-it service, please fill out the contact form or contact Kevin Kroboth at 704.299.1623 or Kevin.Kroboth@Stericycle.com.

COMPLIANCE CORNER

Nov. 18–20, 9 a.m – 1 p.m. | Virtual

Join fellow banking leaders, regulators, and fintech innovators for the 2025 Virtual Stablecoin Conference, hosted by Compliance Alliance in partnership with the Bankers Institute and 38 state bankers associations. Over three days, attendees will gain insights into the evolving stablecoin landscape. From regulatory updates to real-world applications in banking infrastructure and compliance, you’ll hear directly from influential voices such as U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (SD) and U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty (TN), Caitlin Long of Custodia Bank, and leading compliance and technology experts shaping digital asset policy and innovation. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, connected, and ready for what’s next. Register now to secure your virtual seat.

NEWSMAKERS

Aiken – Security Federal Bank

SVP–Financial Services Officer Joe Lewis was recognized as a 2025 ACCT Regional Award recipient by the Association of Community College Trustees – Southern Region for his leadership and commitment to Aiken Technical College and the broader community.

Atlanta – First Horizon Bank

The bank will host an Affordable Housing Symposium Dec. 3 at the Buckhead Club, featuring keynote speaker Roger Tutterow, Chief Economic Advisor at Henssler Financial and Professor of Economics at Kennesaw State University, along with a panel of local experts. Read more.

Atlanta – SouthState Bank

The bank has opened its new regional headquarters in Buckhead at the Prominence building. More than 175 employees will be based in the new space.

Bainbridge – First Port City Bank

Shea Campbell has joined the bank as AVP, mortgage and retail lender at the main branch.

Columbus – Synovus Bank

Lead Relationship Banker Asia Cladd was named a 2025 Member of the Year by the Urban League of the River Valley Young Professionals. Additionally, the bank earned Datos Insights’ 2025 Impact Award (Gold) for innovation in digital channel capabilities through its Accelerate Trade finance portal.

Greensboro – BankSouth

The bank has appointed John Phillips to its board of directors. Read more.

The bank also launched a suite of fraud education initiatives, including its new Fraud Center, the Fraudcast podcast and video series, and its “Stop. Think. Call.” campaign to help customers recognize and respond to scams.

Mandy Chang and Kailynn Summers

Kit Lam

Johns Creek – Loyal Trust Bank

The bank announced several new hires: Mandy Chang as SBA processor; Kailynn Summers as SVP, SBA growth leader; and Kit Lam as VP and loan operations supervisor.

Milledgeville – Exchange Bank

Jeremy Cook has been promoted to assistant vice president – security officer, IT specialist and facilities/maintenance manager. Read more.

Sandy Springs – Signature Bank of Georgia

The bank announced its Q3 “Mover & Shaker” award recipients: Lawanna Saxon, managing director of marketing & client experience; Nadia Perrmann, credit & compliance coordinator; and Samantha Cross, teller support & services specialist. Read more.

Waynesboro – Southern Bank

The bank and its parent company, Southern Financial Corp., have agreed to sell four Georgia branches to Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union of Columbia, South Carolina. The deal, expected to close in the first half of 2026, includes $83 million in deposits and $20 million in loans. .

Atlanta – Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta announced plans to distribute more than $50 million to support nearly 50 affordable housing projects across the Southeast, including six in Georgia and three in metro Atlanta. Read more.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Aiken, SC – Security Federal Bank

Bank team members volunteered at this year’s Halloween with a Heart event, helping create a memorable experience for children with special needs.

Atlanta – Citizens Trust Bank

The bank participated in The 100-Year Wealth Plan: Partner Service Day at Imhotep Academy. Bank representatives led a “Needs vs. Wants” workshop, helping students learn about budgeting, financial empowerment and the basics of homeownership.

Bainbridge – First National Bank

The bank was a Gold Sponsor of the Hospital Foundation Gala hosted by Memorial Hospital and Manor, supporting efforts to advance local healthcare.

Bainbridge – First Port City Bank

Bank team members delivered a two-day financial education program for middle and high school students at Grace Christian School, covering banking and financial literacy topics.

Cairo – United National Bank

The bank was a Platinum Sponsor of the Farm-to-Table event at Collins Place, celebrating community partnerships, local food and farm families in Whigham.

Louisville – Queensborough National Bank & Trust Co.

Local branches held Jeans Day for United Way of the CSRA, raising funds to benefit community programs for families and schools.

Metter – Metter Bank, a division of Durden Banking Company

Bank team members Danton Crooms and Michelle Mercer-Millsaps visited the Metter College and Career Academy to discuss career opportunities in banking and share lessons on budgeting, saving and building credit.

Milledgeville – Exchange Bank

The bank presented a $1,000 donation to the Chard Wray Food Pantry to help address increased demand for food assistance across the community.

Ocilla – Planters First Bank

The bank supported the 2025 Farmer’s Appreciation Luncheon hosted by the Ocilla-Irwin Chamber of Commerce, celebrating local farmers and their contributions.

Perry – SunMark Community Bank

The bank partnered with Skipper Farms for the Christmas Trees for Troops initiative, donating three Christmas trees to military families in the community.

Rome – River City Bank

The bank supported Bloom Our Youth, a nonprofit serving foster children and families, through the Fostering Success Act and Tax Credit Program. The contribution will help unadopted youth transition successfully into adulthood.

Thomasville – TC Federal Bank

Bank team members volunteered during Hands On Thomas County Volunteer Day, assisting at The Vashti Center for Children & Families to prepare a new clubhouse space.

Warner Robins – Planters First Bank

Commercial Lender and Club President-Elect Davis Potts addressed the Kiwanis Club of Warner Robins, sharing insights on financial transaction fraud and ways to help community members safeguard their finances.

Watkinsville – BankSouth

Bank team members hosted a tailgate dinner for Lydia’s Place as part of United Way’s Days of Caring, bringing together volunteers and community partners for food and fellowship.

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.