Georgia Deposits Rise Over the Past Year
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The FDIC released its annual Summary of Deposits data late last week. GBA’s analysis shows deposits in Georgia reached $365.9 billion as of June 30, up $11.7 billion, or 3.3%, from a year earlier. Some other trends of note:
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Long-term growth continues. Deposits have risen 62% over the past decade and have more than doubled since 2006.
- Banking offices increased slightly. Georgia had 2,044 offices, up 21 from a year earlier.
- GA-based banks with the highest market shares: Ameris Bank, Vallant Bank, Metro City Bank, Georgia Banking Company and Colony Bank.
- Largest gains in statewide market share for GA-based banks: Georgia Banking Company, American Pride Bank, Ameris Bank, Thomasville National Bank and First Century Bank.
- GBA adjusted this comparison for mergers and acquisitions.
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CSBS Releases AI Supervisory Framework
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes up in every meeting we have with a committee, board or group of bankers these days. Some banks are diving in, while others are just beginning to explore where it might help. Wherever a bank is in that process, a new resource from the Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) is worth a look from the standpoint of examiner expectations.
The CSBS AI Supervisory Framework helps state examiners assess how financial institutions use AI and manage its risks. It also gives banks a sense of the questions examiners may ask about AI tools, products and services. Banks can use it to review their own governance and risk management practices. The framework considers each institution’s size, complexity, risk profile and use of AI. Each state banking agency will decide whether and how to use it in examinations.
Related: Special Access to ABA AI Readiness Training
For banks looking to build staff knowledge, the American Bankers Association’s new AI Readiness Suite offers six self-paced courses about AI basics, banking uses, safe-use practices, prompting and AI agents. All GBA members are eligible to participate at the member price of $195.
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Georgia Ranked No. 1 for Business for 13th Year in a Row
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For the 13th consecutive year, Georgia has been named the No. 1 state for doing business in Area Development magazine’s annual Top States for Doing Business survey.
The 2026 rankings are based on input from about 50 leading site selection consultants. In addition to ranking No. 1 overall, Georgia took the top spot for access to skilled manufacturing labor, cooperative and responsive government and overall speed to market.
The recognition reflects Georgia’s continued strength in workforce development, infrastructure and collaboration among state and local partners, factors that help attract business investment and support economic growth in communities across the state. Read more.
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Webinar Helps Banks Prepare to Use New Transaction Hold Law
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GBA and the Georgia Department of Banking & Finance hosted a well-attended webinar last week to help bankers understand and begin using Georgia’s new financial institution transaction hold authority.
Kevin Vaughn of the Department and GBA President and CEO Tripp Cofield outlined how the new law came about, why it was a priority and how it gives banks a strong tool to help prevent elder financial exploitation. They also shared practical guidance on what banks should have in place before using the new authority, including employee training, policies and procedures, notifications and recordkeeping. You may view the recording here with passcode: 5j&R1tRG
GBA’s Aimee Corcoran developed a detailed implementation toolkit banks can tailor to their needs, including an overview of the new authority, sample policies and procedures, and training materials. Access the toolkit here.
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Update on Georgia BankPAC Campaign
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We’re grateful for the continued support of the 2026 BankPAC campaign. Contribution forms along with all BankPAC information may be accessed on the advocacy page of our website with easy-to-follow options for making these contributions.
This week, contributions to the GBA FedPAC have come from eligible employees, officers and directors of The Citizens Bank of Georgia, Cumming, Tim Perry, president & CEO.
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Bank Security Committee Talks Fraud Trends, Looks Ahead to 2027 Conference
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The GBA Bank Security Committee met Sept. 23 in Macon, with Chair Vance Green, Planters and Citizens Bank, leading the session. Green also welcomed Vice Chair Chris Acker, First City Bank, and new committee members Chase Brown, Bank of Hazlehurst; Todd Calhoun, Bank of Dudley; and Sutton Reece, First National Bank.
A roundtable discussion gave members a chance to compare notes on security trends they’re seeing in their banks and communities. Check fraud and elder financial exploitation remain common concerns, with members also reporting more sophisticated social engineering and online credential-theft attempts. The conversation underscored how important customer education and strong local relationships can be in stopping fraud before losses occur. Members also discussed security technology, including advances in video systems and facial recognition, as well as the need for clear, consistent security standards.
The committee also reviewed feedback from this year’s Bank Security Conference and began shaping the 2027 program, discussing potential speakers, topics and conference structure. The 2027 Bank Security Conference is set for April 12-14 at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island. Look for details and for conference registration to open soon. With questions, contact Mary Frances Miller.
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Compliance Conference 2026: Last Chance for Discounted Hotel Rates!
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Bank compliance professionals, join us Oct. 21-23 at Sea Palms Resort on St. Simons Island for GBA’s 2026 Compliance Conference! This year’s program is packed with practical, timely content designed to help compliance professionals navigate the issues facing Georgia banks.
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From a Year in Review and a Fraud Panel to an interactive AI Tabletop Exercise, legal updates, and our always-popular roundtable discussion, the conference will give you plenty of opportunities to learn, ask questions, and connect with fellow compliance professionals.
The GBA room block deadline is approaching, so be sure to reserve your room at Sea Palms Resort by Monday, Sept. 28, at 11:00 a.m. to take advantage of the GBA room rate.
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Thank you to our sponsors!
Platinum Sponsor
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Secure Your Seat Now for the 2027 GBA Compliance School
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The GBA Compliance School Board is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2027 Compliance School, April 25-30 at the UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel in Athens. This premier two-year program equips new and experienced banking professionals with the tools they need to build, oversee and maintain a strong compliance management program—all while sharpening leadership and team-building skills.
Program Options Available in 2027:
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Year 1 – Building the Base: Learn the fundamentals of compliance and strengthen your bank’s compliance foundation across all departments.
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Year 2 – Applying the Knowledge: Take a deeper dive into practical applications for lending, deposit, and operational regulations while advancing your proactive compliance strategies.
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ACE Track – Exclusively for Alumni: Continue your learning journey through flexible, customizable coursework and earn credits toward a GBA Compliance School Master’s.
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Both Year 1 and Year 2 include housing in the registration fee. Students in all tracks will also benefit from peer networking, leadership development and the opportunity to form lasting professional connections that strengthen their compliance management programs.
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Stablecoins & Tokenized Deposits: What Banks Need to Know
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Stablecoins and tokenized deposits are quickly becoming part of the financial services conversation. But what are they, how are they being used, and what could they mean for community banks? Two upcoming GBA webinars hosted by attorneys from Alston & Bird will answer these questions and more.
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Nov. 3 – Stablecoins and Tokenized Deposits Fundamentals
Get up to speed on the basics of stablecoins, tokenized deposits and the evolving digital asset landscape. This 90-minute webinar will cover current uses, the regulatory environment, compliance considerations and what banks should be watching over the next 12–24 months. No prior knowledge is required.
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Nov. 17 – Getting Started with Stablecoins and Tokenized Deposits (and Why)
Take the conversation from theory to practical application. This 90-minute moderated panel will explore real-world use cases for community banks, potential partnership models, compliance and risk considerations, vendor diligence, customer demand and practical steps banks can take as they evaluate this emerging area.
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Whether you're just getting familiar with the terminology or starting to consider what these developments could mean for your bank, these webinars will provide timely insight into an area that is evolving quickly.
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GBA Fall Advocacy Play Day:
Two Great Events, One Important Cause
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More Upcoming Events and Training Opportunities
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ONLINE LEARNING – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING
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AI for Compliance Officers, Presenting Powerfully, Avoiding Check Fraud and More
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Take a look at online training opportunities available to GBA members from OnCourse Learning and the American Bankers Association.
Upcoming hot topic webinars:
Self-paced courses, certificates and reference guides:
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PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
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ASSOCIATE MEMBER FITZGERALD MSI
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Where Do You Look for Leadership?
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Leadership isn’t just for executives or those with impressive titles. In a recent article, GBA Associate Member and speaker Mike Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald MSI challenges bankers to recognize that leadership is a responsibility shared by everyone in an organization, regardless of position or experience. The article encourages readers to look beyond traditional role models and focus on developing their own leadership abilities. Practical suggestions include reading and listening to leadership resources, learning directly from admired leaders, making time for personal growth and using AI to expand industry knowledge. Read Fitzgerald's full article here. Visit www.mfitzgerald.com for more helpful leadership ideas.
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Tips for Spotting Fraud in Small-Business Acquisition Lending
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With updated SBA lending requirements under SOP 50 10 8.1, quality-of-earnings reviews and cash-flow verification have become even more important. When financing a business acquisition, lenders need to look beyond the seller’s financial statements to verify that reported earnings tell the full story. In a recent article, GBA Associate Member KNAV outlines common warning signs, including inflated revenue, personal funds disguised as sales, unrecorded expenses and undisclosed customer losses. The article emphasizes that simply matching bank deposits to reported revenue isn’t enough. Lenders should verify the source of deposits, reconcile tax records and carefully examine customer concentrations. Read the full article and visit us.knavcpa.com for additional guidance.
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Why Choose Compliance Alliance in 2026?
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Comprehensive Compliance Tools – Access 1,800+ downloadable, editable tools covering regulations across all bank functions.
- Expert Guidance On Demand – Document reviews plus a live compliance hotline via chat, email or phone.
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Training & Education – 70+ new training videos annually, live webinars with reference manuals and role-specific resources. Webinars can be used annually to meet CRCM continuing education requirements for all employees.
- Always Up to Date – Daily regulatory news, weekly newsletters, FAQs, easy-to-read summaries and a monthly magazine.
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Built-In Convenience – Regulatory calendar, compliance minutes and segmented tools to streamline oversight and exams.
- Bank-Wide Coverage – Support for every department, from tellers to executive leadership and the boardroom.
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Security Federal Bank / Touchmark National Bank / BankSouth
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Security Federal Bank, Touchmark National Bank and BankSouth were named finalists in the 2026 ABA Bank Marketing Excellence Awards. Security Federal and BankSouth were recognized in the Product Launch category, while Touchmark was recognized in the Employee Engagement category.
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Cochran – State Bank of Cochran, a division of BankSouth
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Tracy Dykes has rejoined the bank team as a relationship manager. Read more.
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Duluth – Loyal Trust Bank
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The bank celebrated the grand opening of its newest branch in Duluth on Sept. 16.
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Colony Bankcorp Inc., the holding company for Colony Bank, has received regulatory approvals for its proposed acquisition of First Reliance Bancshares Inc. The approximately $163 million stock-and-cash transaction is expected to close in November, subject to shareholder approvals and other customary closing conditions. The combined company is expected to have approximately $5 billion in assets, $4 billion in deposits and $3.2 billion in loans.
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Macon – American Pride Bank
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Christal Adkins joined the bank as head of Treasury, Payments & Digital Experience, SVP.
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Watkinsville – Oconee State Bank
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The bank recognized Director of Treasury Services Kevin Jones as its Q2 Golden Cupola Award recipient.
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| Perry – SunMark Community Bank
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Ashley McPhail joined the bank as a customer service representative at its Perry branch.
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Virginia/North Fulton – Highlands Community Bank/Georgia Skyline Bank
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Highlands Community Bank and Georgia Skyline Bank have completed a transaction combining Georgia Skyline’s executive leadership team, board of directors and staff with the bank. Georgia Skyline had been pursuing formation as a new bank in North Fulton before joining the established 24-year charter.
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Devin Cunningham has been promoted to marketing banker.
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Atlanta – Mauldin & Jenkins
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Washington, D.C. – American Bankers Association
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Jonathan Blum rejoined the association as executive vice president, Congressional Relations and Legislative Affairs.
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Bremen – American Commerce Bank, N.A.
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The bank sponsored the 10th Annual Haralson County Fried Pie Festival, with Bremen Branch Manager Kristy Harper representing the bank and connecting with festivalgoers.
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Cairo – First National Bank
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The bank served as a Bronze Sponsor of the First Option Care Annual Fundraising Banquet, supporting the organization’s work in the community.
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| Cornelia/Clarkesville – Traditions Bank
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Bank employees participated in a Circle of Hope fundraiser in support of the organization’s work in the community.
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The bank sponsored the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank’s Second Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon, supporting efforts to fight food insecurity across the organization’s 24-county service area.
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| Hawkinsville – Planters First Bank
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The bank is serving as an official flag purchase location for the Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce Veterans Day Program. Community members can sponsor flags displayed at Veterans Memorial Park, with proceeds benefiting the HHS Marching Machine Band Boosters.
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Soperton – Georgia First Bank
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The bank received the 2025-2026 Bronze Award for its donations to Heart of Georgia United Way. The bank also recognized Melissa Chamness, who serves as treasurer of the organization’s board.
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Statesboro – Bulloch First
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Bank team members participated in Stocking the Pantry for the Boro, donating items to the Statesboro Food Bank to help address local food needs.
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The bank donated $130,000 to Wills Memorial Hospital through the Georgia HEART Program, bringing the bank’s total contributions through the program to more than $1 million. The program supports rural hospitals and access to health care across Georgia.
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Warner Robins – Planters First Bank
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The bank’s Warner Robins team donated items and packed emergency bags for foster children through Priss & Frank Family Service Center, providing essential items and comfort to children entering care.
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Warner Robins – SunMark Community Bank
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Bank team members volunteered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace for a Warner Robins Build Day, helping build beds for local children in need of a safe and comfortable place to sleep.
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Read All About It: Send Us Your News
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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.
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Recruit, Retain and Develop the Best Bankers with GBA's Job Bank
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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.
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