Annual Survey Reinforces Consumers’ Trust in Banks
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The latest annual survey from Morning Consult for the American Bankers Association continues to show strong consumer confidence in banks. The national findings offer useful facts for GBA’s advocacy efforts and banks’ conversations with customers:
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Banks lead on fraud protection. Banks were consumers’ top choice for protection from fraud, with 83% of bank customers saying their bank takes proactive steps to protect them from fraud and scams.
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Customer satisfaction remains strong. Among Americans with bank accounts, 85% were satisfied with their primary bank and 96% gave its customer service positive ratings.
- Consumers recognize banks’ economic value. Some 73% viewed banks as a strength for the U.S. economy, while 93% rated their access to banking services positively.
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Americans want broader action against scams. Some 79% supported requiring social media companies to identify and remove fraudulent content, while 82% backed stronger caller authentication requirements for telecommunications providers.
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Georgia banks can pair these findings with local examples to highlight their work protecting customers and supporting communities. Read the full survey update.
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Last Day for Early Voting is
Oct. 30, General Election is Tuesday
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Tomorrow, Oct. 30, is the last day for early voting in the Georgia's general election, and Tuesday, Nov. 3, is Election Day.
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We encourage members to make a plan to vote. Visit the Georgia secretary of state’s My Voter Page to check your registration status, find early voting and Election Day voting locations and hours and review your sample ballot.
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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 StatePAC came from:
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Ameris Bank, Atlanta, Palmer Proctor, CEO.
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Georgia Banks Celebrate 50 Years of Peanut Bank Week
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Georgia banks went nuts for a good cause last week as nearly 150 branches across the state participated in the 50th annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week, culminating in Peanut Bank Day on Friday, Oct. 23.
From peanut giveaways and contests to creative social media posts and community activities, participating banks celebrated Georgia's peanut farmers and the industry's important contributions to the state's economy.
Thanks to our friends at the Georgia Peanut Commission and all the participating banks for making this golden anniversary a success! Check out a few more highlights below and see the full list of participating bank branches here.
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Fraud Alert: Georgia Banks Urged to Watch for Check Fraud Scheme
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South Georgia Banking Company has alerted GBA to an active check-fraud scheme that may be affecting other Georgia financial institutions. Fraudulent checks are being presented by individuals often operating outside customers' usual market areas.
Key red flags include mismatched account and customer information, identification from outside the market area, unusual explanations for a check's purpose and transactions inconsistent with normal customer activity.
The bank also identified 229.379.8240 as a phone number associated with a suspect in the scheme. Ameris Bank has confirmed the number was used in similar fraudulent activity at its institution.
GBA encourages member banks to share this alert with their fraud prevention and frontline teams and remain vigilant for similar activity.
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FDIC Warns Banks to Watch for Customers Targeted by Fake Website Scam
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The FDIC Office of Inspector General (OIG) is warning banks about fraudsters impersonating federal officials and directing customers to transfer funds to fake FDIC-managed accounts through fraudulent websites.
Bank employees should watch for customers who arrive at a branch while on the phone and request unusual transactions. Scammers may be coaching customers on what to say and warning them not to trust bank personnel.
The OIG urges banks to explain the scam and encourage customers to contact the OIG directly before moving funds. Banks should also consider alerting security personnel and law enforcement.
Suspected fraud can be reported through the FDIC OIG Hotline.
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401(k) Plan Design - Time is Running Out for Decisions for 2027
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Is your bank considering a plan change in 2027, such as a matching change, compensation definition change, or automatic enrollment change? If so, time is running short to approve those changes prior to January 1. If your Plan is a Safe Harbor plan, many types of changes that impact features such as your matching level, automatic enrollment, and vesting can only be updated at the beginning of a Plan year. If you are in the GBA 401(k) Master Trust and are considering changes for 2027, please reach out to us as soon as possible to allow time for amendment preparation and Safe Harbor Notices that are required to be distributed to plan participants by the end of November.
If your plan is not Safe Harbor, is 401(k) testing limiting what your bank officers can contribute to your 401(k) Plan? Plans that guarantee a 100% match up to 4% of compensation or a 3% non-elective contribution (similar to a profit sharing contribution) can be exempt from ADP/ACP discrimination testing and even exempt from top-heavy testing depending on different factors. Employees must become immediately 100% vested in all safe harbor contributions.
In addition, there is another Safe Harbor design that ends up with a 3.5% maximum annual match for participants, but has automatic enrollment features built in, and allows for a two-year vesting schedule. The Master 401(k) Plan offered under GBA Retirement Services, Inc., is already set up to accommodate traditional and automatic enrollment Safe Harbor plans. Anyone electing Safe Harbor options for 2027 must amend their plan by early November to allow sufficient time for amendment and participant notice preparation.
Benefits of the 401(k) plans offered through GBA Retirement Services include: competitive fees due to size of Master Trust, customized service from GBA staff, personalized managed account solution available for all participants, flexibility and performance of investments, and added oversight by having Ascensus, (formerly American Trust) as a Discretionary Trustee of each Plan in the Trust. Let us help you review your current plan and compare to what GBA Retirement Services can do for you! Please contact Mandy Richards at 404.420.2025 for more information on plan design options or for assistance in doing a periodic review and comparison of your retirement plan.
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GBA Retirement Services Annual 401(k) Training Seminar
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The dates for the GBA Retirement Services Annual 401(k) Training Seminar are Dec. 8 in Duluth and Dec. 9 in Macon. HR administrators of banks or Associate Members in the 401(k) Trust may attend either session at no cost. Members were notified several weeks ago, and it’s not too late to sign up. We will cover plan administration, plan design, website demos, testing review, compliance updates, overview of investments, financial wellness tools and participant education. In addition, we will discuss the upcoming transition to the Ascensus platform, including technology enhancements to come in 2027.
Is your plan not a part of our Master Trust? We invite you to also come and learn more about our services. Give us a call to find out how our program is helping thousands of Georgia bankers be fully prepared for retirement. We promise you won’t be disappointed. Have questions? Contact Mandy Richards at 678.549.4167 for more information. Please visit these links to register for the Duluth or Macon sessions.
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GBA's 2026 Ag Farm Tour took place Oct. 28-29 in Valdosta. Tune in next week for a full rundown of tour visits and highlights.
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Compliance Conference Combines Practical Updates With Interactive Learning
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GBA compliance professionals gathered last week on St. Simons Island for regulatory updates, practical guidance and plenty of networking and hands-on learning at the annual Compliance Conference.
Compliance Committee Chair Beth Hamilton, First National Bank, and Vice Chair Michelle Britt, Planters First Bank, helped lead a program that kept members engaged. A compliance telephone game, charades and Compliance Family Feud brought some fun to the learning, while an interactive AI prompting workshop gave participants practice using AI for compliance tasks.
Session highlights included:
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Regulatory developments: Chris Willis, Troutman Pepper Locke, reviewed significant regulatory, legislative and litigation developments affecting banks and their compliance programs.
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Fraud prevention: Moderator Thomas Williams, United Bank, led a discussion with Thomas Plumley, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, security consultant Pete Stuart and Julia Fisher Strauss, Georgia Division of Aging Services. They explored evolving fraud threats and ways banks can strengthen prevention and response.
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Managing compliance challenges: Beth Hamilton, First National Bank, shared ways to maintain a positive outlook amid competing demands. She also facilitated the AI workshop, with groups exploring report writing, policy development and risk assessments while evaluating AI’s opportunities and limitations.
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Learning from peers: Michelle Britt, Planters First Bank, and Sandra Chastain, Compliance Alliance, led a roundtable built around attendees’ questions and hot topics, giving members time to exchange experiences and practical solutions.
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Legal issues and enforcement: Brad Rustin, Nelson Mullins, covered everyday legal matters such as garnishments, subpoenas, powers of attorney and estates, along with lessons from recent enforcement actions.
- Review findings: James Moore, Steve H. Powell & Company, and Emily Dent, Mauldin & Jenkins, discussed recurring compliance findings, higher-risk issues and their root causes.
- GBA’s Tripp Cofield and David Oliver also provided an industry and advocacy update covering Georgia banking trends, strategic challenges and compliance-related priorities.
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Special thanks to Hamilton, Britt and the Compliance Committee for their leadership and work shaping the conference. We also appreciate our sponsors and exhibitors for their support: 360factors, Abrigo, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, Compliance Alliance, CrossCheck Compliance, Mauldin & Jenkins, Ncontracts, Steve H. Powell & Company, Symphona and Troutman Pepper Locke.
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Spotlight on GBA's Newest Associate Members
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Over the past few weeks, we have been welcoming 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're wrapping up the new Associate Member welcomes by highlighting the following:
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FinLucidity
Mr. Hart Raley, hart@finlucidity.com
Athens, GA
www.finlucidity.com
FinLucidity is a harnessed, AI-powered financial intelligence platform built specifically for community banks. It transforms complex regulatory, financial, market and bank-specific data into actionable insights. It delivers sophisticated analytics, peer benchmarking, market intelligence, M&A analysis and specialized services such as CECL model validation more quickly and cost-effectively than traditional consulting.
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OSC Insurance
Mr. Michael Randall, mrandall@oscis.com
Kennesaw, GA
www.oscis.com
Insurance and escrow tracking services, Lender-Placed and Blanket Insurance protection policies designed to cover bank collateral/loan insurance exposures. OSC also provides escrow processing, escrow disbursement services, claims administration and loss draft services.
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LedgerBridge
Mr. Doug Baird, doug@ledgerbridge.co
Vidalia, GA
www.ledgerbridge.co
LedgerBridge provides cryptocurrency custody and stablecoin solutions for the banking industry, designed to support compliance with the requirements of the GENIUS Act.
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Southern Cash Solutions
Mr. Adam Stephens, adams@stsgrp.com
Cullman, AL
www.southerncashsolutions.com
Southern Cash Solutions provides secure cash logistics and cash management services to financial institutions throughout the Southeast. The company offers ATM and ITM replenishment, cash transportation, vault cash management, coin operations, smart safes and customized cash handling solutions designed to improve efficiency, enhance security and ensure reliable cash operations.
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Last Call for These GBA Events Next Week
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Don't miss these opportunities to build practical skills, explore emerging banking trends and connect with industry peers. Three GBA programs are happening next week, and there's still time to register.
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- Nov. 3 – Stablecoins and Tokenized Deposits Fundamentals
Get a clear introduction to stablecoins, tokenized deposits and what they could mean for community banks. Attorneys from Alston & Bird will cover current uses, regulatory and compliance considerations and developments to watch over the next 12-24 months. No prior knowledge is needed. This 90-minute webinar is the first in a two-part series, with a follow-up session Nov. 17 focused on practical applications. Register here.
- Nov. 3 – Banking AI Accelerator
Ready to put AI to work at your bank? This eight-week virtual program offers hands-on instruction, guided learning and banking-specific applications to help participants improve productivity, analyze information and streamline workflows. Participants finish with a customized prompt library and certification. Register here. - Nov. 4 – BSA Peer Group
Connect with fellow BSA/AML/CFT and OFAC professionals without leaving your desk. Facilitated by Saltmarsh's Kristen Stogniew, this interactive virtual meeting features peer discussions, shared best practices and hot topics submitted by participants during registration. Register here.
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Fresh Ideas for Customer Communications at GBA’s Marketing Peer Group
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When fraud threats emerge or unexpected service disruptions occur, getting timely information to customers is critical. But how do banks cut through the digital noise and reach customers who may not use online channels?
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At GBA’s Marketing Peer Group Meeting on Nov. 13 in Macon, Lori Tucker, chief experience officer at United Bank, will tackle these challenges in her session, “Customer Communications: When the Message is Urgent or Challenging.” Tucker will share real-world experiences, lessons learned and how United Bank uses multiple communication channels to reach customers, build awareness and encourage action when it matters most.
The meeting will also feature candid peer discussions facilitated by Beth James, vice president and marketing director at Queensborough National Bank & Trust Company. Attendees can submit hot topics during registration to help shape the conversation and exchange practical ideas with fellow bank marketers.
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GBA Credit Conference: Hotel Deadline Approaching!
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Credit and lending professionals, join us Dec. 3-4 in Savannah for GBA's 2026 Credit Conference. The GBA Credit Committee has planned a timely program focused on the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping lending decisions at Georgia banks. From AI risk and reward, commercial real estate and regulatory developments to legal and economic updates, the agenda offers practical insights to take back to your bank. You'll also have opportunities to exchange ideas with fellow bankers during interactive discussions and networking.
Be sure to reserve your accommodations at The DeSoto in Savannah by Friday, Nov. 6, to take advantage of the special group rates.
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Thank you to our sponsors!
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More Upcoming Events and Training Opportunities
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Legislative and Economic Forum & Reception - Jan. 27, 2027, The Ritz Carlton, Downtown Atlanta
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IRA Academy - Feb. 17-19, 2027, Middle Georgia State University, Macon
- Georgia Banking School - April 25-30, 2027, UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens
- GBA Compliance School - April 25-30, 2027, UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens
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ONLINE LEARNING – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING
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Fraud Investigations, BSA Critical Issues, Legal Foundations in Banking 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.
Want to see the full webinar schedule? Check out our webinar calendar for a full list of upcoming webinars.
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PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
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STRATEGIC PARTNER NCONTRACTS
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TPRM 101: The Complete Guide
to Vendor Risk Assessments
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Effective vendor risk assessments help banks manage operational, cybersecurity, compliance and reputational risks. In a recent article, Micheal Carpenter of GBA Strategic Partner Ncontracts outlines practical steps for evaluating vendors, including assessing inherent risk before controls and residual risk after safeguards are considered. For community banks, a consistent, risk-based approach helps prioritize oversight and meet regulatory expectations. Importantly, outsourcing services does not eliminate a bank’s responsibility for managing associated risks. Read the full article and plan to hear more from Carpenter at GBA’s Operations & Technology Conference in March. Registration opens soon.
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ASSOCIATE MEMBER DARLING CONSULTING GROUP
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Rethinking the 2027 Budget: Applying an ALCO Approach
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As banks develop their 2027 budgets, traditional forecasting methods may not adequately account for changing economic conditions and interest rate uncertainty. A recent article from GBA Associate Member Darling Consulting Group explores how banks can apply ALCO principles to create more flexible and effective budgets. Rather than relying on a single forecast, banks should evaluate multiple scenarios involving interest rates, deposit costs, loan growth and funding needs. This approach helps management better understand potential impacts on earnings, liquidity and capital while identifying risks and opportunities. Read the full article for additional perspectives on budgeting and balance sheet planning. Visit www.darlingconsulting.com to learn more.
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Phil Cleaveland was promoted to senior vice president and Atlanta market leader, and Aubrey Hannon was promoted to vice president and relationship manager. Read more.
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Atlanta – Pinnacle Financial Partners/Synovus
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The merger of Pinnacle Financial Partners and Synovus was recognized as the 2026 Deal of the Year for mergers and acquisitions by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and ACG Atlanta.
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Chatsworth – First National Community Bank
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Lesa Downey has joined the bank as chief retail banking officer overseeing retail banking operations and supporting the bank's continued growth across northwest Georgia. Read more.
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Macon – American Pride Bank
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The Mission Driven Bank Fund announced a second investment in American Bancorp Inc., the holding company for American Pride Bank, a minority depository institution serving underserved communities and small businesses. The fund made its initial investment in March 2025. Since then, the bank has more than doubled in size, surpassing $1 billion in assets as of June 2026. Read more.
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Pembroke – Bryan Bank, a division of Glennville Bank
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Bryan Bank, a division of Glennville Bank, announced plans to open a loan production office at 546 W. Bacon St., Suite A, in Pembroke. The bank is hiring employees for the new location.
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The bank was named Rome's Best Bank for the fourth consecutive year in the Rome News-Tribune's annual Best Of awards. The recognition comes as the bank celebrates its 20th anniversary.
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| Clark Bowers has joined the bank as vice president, commercial banker in Statesboro.
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Ethan Quattlebaum has joined the bank’s deposit operations team.
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Watkinsville – Oconee State Bank
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Joe Smith has joined the bank as senior vice president and director of government guaranteed lending (SBA).
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Atlanta – Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
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The bank announced $20 million in state housing bond investments through the third quarter of 2026 to support homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income families. The bank also committed $120 million this year to community development initiatives and has $3.2 billion in outstanding Community Investment Cash Advances supporting affordable housing and community development.
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Cynthia Sjoberg Radway was appointed deputy to the chairman and chief operating officer. Janie Faulkner was appointed senior counsel to the chairman. Michael Overmyer was appointed senior counsel to the chairman. Ryan Rappa was appointed senior counsel to the chairman. Mark Buresh was appointed deputy general counsel for the Regulation and Policy Branch in the Legal Division. Dean Conway was appointed deputy general counsel for the Litigation Branch in the Legal Division.
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Atlanta – Georgia Banking Company
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The bank sponsored the PACCSE Gala, which celebrates the achievements, leadership and entrepreneurial spirit of the Persian-American business community.
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Atlanta – Huntington Bank
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The bank announced a $1 million commitment from the Huntington Bank Community Foundation to Atlanta's Westside Future Fund. The investment will support down payment assistance, financial literacy education, rental assistance and programs designed to help longtime residents remain in their communities. Read more.
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| Bainbridge – First Port City Bank
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The bank team participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer's at Willis Park, joining community members to raise awareness and support those affected by Alzheimer's disease.
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Cleveland – Apex Banking Company of Georgia
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In recognition of National First Responders Day on Oct. 28, bank employees delivered 35 pizzas, drinks and handwritten thank-you notes to first responders throughout White County. Recipients included local fire, law enforcement, 911 and emergency medical services departments. Read more.
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| The bank sponsored and participated in the Pilot Club's Monster Dash Candy Mile, joining local families for a festive community event featuring children in Halloween costumes.
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The bank's Evans to Locks Road office is collecting nonperishable food items for Golden Harvest Food Bank's Spooky to Be Hungry Food Drive. Donations are being accepted through Nov. 2 to help support families facing food insecurity.
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Swainsboro – Citizens Bank of Swainsboro
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The bank donated report card covers to all Emanuel County schools, demonstrating its continued support for local students and education.
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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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