GBA Joins Industry Letter Calling for Practical CRA Rule Changes
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GBA joined the American Bankers Association and 44 other state bankers associations in an Oct. 13 letter urging federal regulators to update Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rules to reduce regulatory burden while maintaining a focus on community credit needs.
Key recommendations include raising the small bank asset threshold to $1 billion and the intermediate bank threshold to $10 billion, preserving flexible examination options and providing greater clarity on qualifying community development activities. The associations also called for streamlined data requirements and sufficient implementation time.
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Crypto Kiosk Operator With Georgia Locations Reaches $2.5 Million Settlement
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Cryptocurrency exchange Coinme, which operates virtual currency kiosks in Georgia through Coinstar, has agreed to a $2.5 million settlement with regulators in 34 states over alleged Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering violations. Under the settlement, Coinme must shut down its kiosks in participating states or face an additional $4 million penalty. The action comes amid ongoing concerns about cryptocurrency kiosks facilitating financial scams. GBA worked with lawmakers to support HB 945 establishing consumer protections and regulatory oversight for virtual currency kiosks in Georgia, which passed in this year's General Assembly session and was signed into law by Gov. Kemp.
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OCC Report Alleges Debanking Practices
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The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) released a report Wednesday that says reputational risk policies at the nation’s nine largest banks contributed to customers being denied financial services based on political or religious beliefs or lawful business activities. The review identified policies restricting services to industries including oil and gas, firearms manufacturing and digital assets, as well as customers across the political spectrum.
The OCC attributed many of these practices to broad reputational risk policies that allowed outside pressures and subjective judgments to influence banking decisions. Federal banking regulators have since moved to eliminate reputational risk as a factor in bank supervision.
GBA has advocated for preserving banks' ability to make individualized, risk-based decisions about customer relationships without political interference or unnecessary regulatory mandates. Read the OCC report.
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50th-Annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week Starts Oct. 19
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GBA members in communities across the state will soon celebrate Georgia peanuts during the annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week, co-sponsored by GBA and the Georgia Peanut Commission. To mark the 50th-Annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week, our friends at the Georgia Peanut Commission are offering a variety of print and digital resources for participating banks.
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The official poster, recipe card, peanut fact sheet, press release template and children’s activity sheets are available on the Peanut Bank Week page. Please be sure to share your bank’s activities and participation in this fun annual tradition. Send photos and details to Katina Weiss at kweiss@gabankers.com for a chance to be featured in upcoming GBA bulletins.
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Beige Book: Southeast Economy Grows Modestly as Consumer Pressures Persist
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The Southeast economy expanded modestly, with steady employment and moderate cost increases, according to the Federal Reserve’s latest Beige Book. Consumer spending rose slightly, though higher food and gas prices continued to pressure lower- and moderate-income households. Banking contacts reported increased use of buy-now, pay-later financing for groceries and dining out. Five bank mergers were announced in the Sixth District, with more expected before year-end. Housing remained mixed, with more homes selling below asking price. Manufacturing was generally stable, while agricultural contacts reported shifting demand for poultry.
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Get Smart About Credit Day: New Resources for Banks
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Today, Oct. 15, marks the 24th-annual Get Smart About Credit Day, highlighting bankers’ efforts to help teens and young adults build financial knowledge. New resources include interactive fraud prevention lessons developed with Cashy, a gamified learning platform, along with lessons on credit and customizable materials exploring banking careers. These ready-to-use tools make it easier for bankers to engage young people in their communities. All resources are free to banks, regardless of ABA membership. Learn more and access the resources here.
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Golf and Mahjong Bring GBA Members Together for BankPAC
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Golfers and mahjong players gathered Oct. 14 at River Forest Golf Club in Forsyth for a day of friendly competition, fellowship and support for GBA's State BankPAC. Hosted by Leadership GBA, the annual BankPAC Golf Classic returned alongside the inaugural BankPAC Mahjong Mingle, giving members and guests two ways to participate in an important fundraising effort supporting GBA's statewide advocacy initiatives.
On the golf course, teams competed in a two-person scramble, with prizes awarded to the top three low-net teams and winners of special contests. Meanwhile, the first-ever Mahjong Mingle welcomed players of all skill levels for an afternoon of games and camaraderie. Beginners had the opportunity to learn from certified instructor Candice Nanney of Red Mahj Mama.
Congratulations to this year's winners!
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All winners are pictured with Leadership GBA Chair
Zach Giddens, SunMark Community Bank.
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First place: Tom Redding (not pictured) and Tony Ussery, United Bank
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Second place: Chris Wright and Erik Bagwell (not pictured), SouthState Bank
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Third place: Ken Austin and Tripp Sheppard, Bank of Newington
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| Putting contest: Daniel Rolf, Lee
& Mason Financial Services
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Longest drive: Browning Benton, Farmers & Merchants Bank, Eatonton
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| Closest to the pin: Ryan Floyd, Georgia Skyline Bank
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All winners are pictured with Leadership GBA Board members Rachel Thompson, Bank of Newington, and Blair Blackburn, AB&T, as well as mahjong instructor Candace Nanney, Peach State Bank & Trust.
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First place: Candice McNeal, Bank of Dudley
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| Second place: Jessica Elliott, Exchange Bank
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Third place: August Shearhouse,
Bank of Newington
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A special thanks to our sponsors for making both events possible: AB&T, BancCard of America, Bank of Madison, Bank of Monticello, BEVY+, Burke Stelling Group, Colony Bank, CRS Data, CSRA Business Lending, FHLBank Atlanta, First American Bank & Trust Company, First National Bank, Lee & Mason Financial Services, One Source, Partners Benefit Group, Payroc, Planters and Citizens Bank, Point To Point Environmental, PointeNorth Insurance, PrimeSouth Bank, ServisFirst Bank, Steve H. Powell & Company, STS Group, SunMark Community Bank, The Citizens Bank of Georgia, The Citizens Bank of the South and West Central Georgia Bank.
We appreciate everyone who played, sponsored and helped make the day a success. Your participation strengthens GBA's advocacy efforts on behalf of Georgia's banking industry.
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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, a contribution to the GBA StatePAC came from:
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And contributions to the GBA FedPAC came from eligible employees, officers and directors of:
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Leadership GBA Board Discusses Banking Trends, Plans for 2027
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The Leadership GBA Board of Directors met Thursday, Oct. 15, in Macon led by Leadership GBA Chair Zach Giddens, SunMark Community Bank. A highlight of the meeting was a roundtable discussion of bank performance, operational challenges and market conditions. Board members exchanged insights on fraud trends, protecting deposits from nonbank competition, credit quality, implementation of Georgia's new transaction hold law to help protect older customers from financial fraud, and how banks are incorporating artificial intelligence into their operations.
The board also reviewed recent fundraising activities supporting the Georgia BankPAC, including the Golf Tournament, Mahjong Mingle, Clay Shoot and Pickleball Tournament, and discussed plans for future events. Members also began planning for the 2027 Leadership GBA Conference, July 12-14 at Amelia Island, reviewing attendee feedback and potential topics.
Members also welcomed Cristi Donahue, EVP, chief administrative officer, Oconee State Bank, as a North Group representative fulfilling an unexpired term through June 30, 2027.
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Spotlight on GBA's Newest Associate Members
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Over the next few weeks, we want to give a warm welcome to several new GBA Associate Members. They all offer diverse solutions for your bank and provide invaluable support to GBA programs through sponsorships, exhibits and shared expertise. Be sure to get to know these folks and thank them for supporting GBA. You can get information about any of GBA's Associate Members by using the Associate Member search function on our website. This week, we want to highlight the following:
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360factors
Mr. Kenneth Proctor, kenneth.proctor@360factors.com
Austin, TX
www.360factors.com
360factors provides AI-powered risk and compliance management solutions that help financial institutions improve efficiency, reduce risk and simplify regulatory compliance. Its Predict360 platform integrates compliance, risk management, audits, policies, training and analytics into a single cloud-based solution, providing actionable insights that strengthen governance, streamline operations and support informed decision-making across the enterprise.
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Agora Eversole
Mr. Chris Bates, Chris@AgoraEversole.com
Jackson, MS
www.agoraeversole.com
Agora Eversole provides full-service marketing strategies to more than 65 banks across 17 states through customized and comprehensive marketing services, website design and management, AI marketing, SEO+GEO services, digital advertising and social media marketing. The firm partners with banks to drive growth through differentiation and targeted market growth strategies.
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| Acumen Technology
Mr. Craig Cooper, ccooper@acumentechnology.com
Nashville, TN
www.acumentechnology.com
An engineering-driven company founded on the principles of a highly respected IT services provider, Acumen Technology delivers the highest level of technology support through a team of IT professionals with years of vertical-specific knowledge, strong relationships with industry-leading vendors and a broad range of managed services.
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AWR Agency
Ms. Ashley Rice, ashley@awragency.com
Evans, GA
www.awragency.com
AWR Agency provides tailored marketing support to businesses and nonprofits, offering a full suite of services including social media management, event support, fundraising assistance and content design. The agency helps organizations turn their goals into impactful results through customized marketing and communications solutions.
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Bring Lending Trends, Risk and Opportunity into Focus at 2026 GBA Credit Conference
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The GBA Credit Committee has put together a packed agenda for this year’s GBA Credit Conference giving bankers timely insight into the trends shaping lending and credit decisions. The conference Dec. 3-4 in Savannah also provides an opportunity to exchange ideas with peers and hear from industry experts.
Agenda highlights include:
- Ag Update – Optional preconference session
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Riding the Wave of AI Risk-Reward – Jimmy Sawyers, Sawyers & Jacobs
- Legal Update – Jonathan Hightower, Fenimore Kay Harrison
- Roundtable Discussion – Moderated by Shannon Fortson, Vallant Bank
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Hot Topics and Recurring Themes from the GBA Roundtables – Stewart Thigpen, Steve H. Powell & Company; Mike Allen, Three B’s Advisors; and Brad Serff, Providence Strategy
- Savannah and Surrounding Areas Update – Dorie Bacon, Georgia Economic Development
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Regulatory Discussion – Tripp Cofield, Georgia Bankers Association, and Melissa Sneed, Department of Banking and Finance
- Commercial Real Estate in Georgia – Cal Evans, Synovus
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Economic Update – Roger Tutterow, Kennesaw State University.
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Thank you to our sponsors!
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Prepare Your Bank’s Next Generation of Leaders and Experts
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Two of GBA’s signature banker education programs return to Athens April 25-30, 2027. Secure your spot by enrolling now for the Georgia Banking School and GBA Compliance School, both held at the UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel. Whether developing future bank leaders or strengthening compliance expertise, these programs provide focused education, peer connections and practical knowledge bankers can put to work.
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GEORGIA BANKING SCHOOL
For more than 65 years, this school has developed generations of leaders who have shaped banking across the state. The program prepares emerging leaders for greater responsibility while helping banks build their management-level talent. Students learn from industry experts, expand their understanding of the banking business and build relationships with fellow bankers from across Georgia. The Georgia Banking School Board, led by Peter Faser of The Profitability Coach, is planning another strong session for 2027.
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GBA COMPLIANCE SCHOOL
The two-year GBA Compliance School equips new and experienced compliance professionals with the knowledge and tools to build, oversee and maintain an effective compliance management program. Year 1 focuses on building a strong foundation across bank departments, while Year 2 takes a deeper dive into the practical application of lending, deposit and operational regulations. Alumni can continue their education through the flexible ACE Track, earning credits toward a GBA Compliance School Master’s.
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More Upcoming Events and Training Opportunities
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ONLINE LEARNING – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING
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Coaching Teller Excellence, ACH Rules Update, FedNow Risk Assessments Workshop 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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NEW 8TH EDITION RECORD RETENTION GUIDE FROM CARL PRY
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Product Review Webinar Available for GBA Members Nov. 12 at 10 a.m.
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As retention requirements evolve and banks increasingly rely on digital records, compliance officers must balance regulatory requirements, examiner expectations, operational needs and litigation considerations. To help banks navigate these issues, compliance expert Carl Pry is releasing the 8th Edition Record Retention Quick Notes Guide (RRQN) and will host a comprehensive webinar on Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. - noon reviewing the updated guide and highlighting significant changes. Webinar registration includes a digital copy of the new edition. Many GBA members know Pry from his longstanding involvement as an instructor at the GBA Compliance School. The webinar will address key questions including:
- What constitutes a record that should be retained?
- Where do retention requirements originate?
- What best practices should banks follow?
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How can a bank strengthen its records management program?
- What risks are associated with records retention?
- How should records be organized and managed?
- How do litigation holds affect retention practices?
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When and how should records be destroyed?
For GBA members, banks can receive substantial savings on the guide and webinar package. By using discount code RRQN26 at registration, the price is $375. Click here to register. (Note: You will be directed to the Mass Bankers website for registration). Contact GBA’s Bo Brannen with questions at bbrannen@gabankers.com.
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STRATEGIC PARTNER S&P GLOBAL
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See AI-Powered Credit Monitoring in Action Oct. 20 at 11 a.m.
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AI continues to reshape how banks analyze data, identify risks and improve decision-making. GBA Strategic Partner S&P Global Market Intelligence is offering a complimentary webinar that demonstrates a practical, real-world application of AI for credit and market analysis on Oct. 20 at 11 a.m. During this 30-minute session, attendees will see how AI can be combined with trusted S&P Global data to accelerate research, identify emerging risks and create repeatable analytical workflows. The webinar will include a live demonstration of an end-to-end early warning system designed to help users:
- Create an early warning dashboard
- Detect signs of financial deterioration
- Identify key developments that could affect credit quality
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Monitor analyst estimate warnings
- Analyze earnings sentiment and management tone commentary.
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STRATEGIC PARTNER NCONTRACTS
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Resources to Help Banks Stay Ahead of Vendor Risk and Compliance Challenges
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As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, having access to timely guidance and practical tools is critical. GBA Strategic Partner Ncontracts is offering several valuable resources designed to help banks strengthen vendor management, third-party risk oversight, and compliance programs. Check them out below.
Live Webinar Oct. 20 at 2 p.m. - Finding Hidden Third Parties
This live webinar will look at a common challenge for banks: identifying service providers that may not be captured in vendor management processes. The presentation will cover practical steps for developing a complete third-party inventory and establishing accountability for ongoing oversight. Register here.
On-Demand Webinar: New Third-Party Risk Management Guidance
Federal banking agencies have proposed updated interagency guidance addressing third-party risk management. In this on-demand webinar, experts from NContracts will explain what the proposal means for banks, how it differs from current guidance and what to consider as they assess vendor risk programs. Watch the recording here.
Participate in the 2027 State of TPRM Survey
Ncontracts has opened its tenth annual State of Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM) Survey. The survey examines how banks structure and manage their third-party risk programs, where organizations are investing resources, and the challenges they continue to face. Participants will receive early access to the survey results, with the full report scheduled for publication in March 2027. Take the survey here.
For more information on these resources and other educational opportunities available through GBA Strategic Partner Ncontracts, visit www.ncontracts.com.
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2026 Annual Cybersecurity Report Now Available
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GBA Associate Member Tandem has released its annual cybersecurity report, which is a timely benchmarking resource based on survey responses from 310 cybersecurity professionals across the financial services sector. The report analyzes current cybersecurity practices and highlights emerging trends and best practices shaping the industry. The report provides insights into several key areas, including:
- Oversight of cybersecurity by boards, senior management and examiners
- Staffing levels, resource allocation and budget priorities
- Security awareness training and cybersecurity culture
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Operational risk management, including vendor management, incident response and business continuity planning
- The impact of emerging technologies on cybersecurity strategy.
The report is available at no cost and can be downloaded after completing a brief registration form. Download the report. Visit www.tandem.app for more helpful resources.
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Albany - Georgia Community Bank
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The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta has appointed Lucie Beeley to its Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council for a three-year term ending in 2029. Beeley is chief executive officer and board chair of Georgia Community Bank and Georgia Community Bancorp, Inc. Read more.
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Scott Seigel has joined the bank as chief banking officer.
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| Louisville - Queensborough National Bank & Trust Company
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The bank is hosting free fraud prevention workshops and community shred events in October for Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Read more.
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Macon - American Pride Bank
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Gary Moore has joined the bank as director of information technology and senior vice president.
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Sandy Springs - Coastal States Bank
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Michelle Gibson has joined the bank as vice president, Sandy Springs branch manager. Read more.
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As part of its ongoing breast cancer awareness fundraiser, the bank contributed $64,501.88 to the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer as of Oct. 8. The fundraising campaign continues through Oct. 31.
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Bainbridge – First National Bank
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The bank continues its longtime support of the Bainbridge High School Bearcats, donating $50 to the local Touchdown Club for every touchdown scored. This season's contributions have reached $1,050. Bainbridge Market President Bert Hines also helps bring the coach's talk to local radio station LIVE 101.9.
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Cordele – Planters First Bank
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The bank donated to Concerned Citizens That Care of Cordele to help provide food for local families in need during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
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| Hawkinsville – Planters First Bank
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Bank team members Kay, Bobbie and Scott celebrated Georgia Pre-K Week by reading to students at Little Children Growing Pre-K. The bank also donated to the Hawkinsville High School SkillsUSA Club to support its activities during the 2026-2027 school year.
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Perry – SunMark Community Bank
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Team members from SunMark Community Bank's Alamo branch participated in Wheeler County Elementary School's Career Day, sharing insights about banking with students.
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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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