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paBanker Magazine 2024 Summer

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SUMMER 2024 | VOLUME 25.2Wrap- UFeaturing: DEI Leadership Award Winner

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2 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comAt C/A’s Compliance Hub, we understand where to start and are available via live chat to answer your quesons. We also have tools developed in-house for you to begin using Day One. Once you have a starng point, circle back for any addional clarificaon needed. We answer an unlimited numbers of quesons from our members. This is where our Compliance Hub is vital, built to be next-level compliance support.CMYCMMYCYCMYK

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 3thisISSUEIN EVERY ISSUEFEATURES6 Chairman’s Insights8 From the CEO to the CEO10 Ten on Page Ten12 Community Corner22 Recognition Round-Up26 Government Relations28 A Look Ahead30 Vendor Articles16 PA Bankers 2024 Convention Wrap-Up20 2024 DEI Member Survey Results 12SUMMER 2024 | VOLUME 25.2Wrap- UFeaturing: DEI Leadership Award WinnerON THE COVERBRINGING TIMELY NEWS AND INFORMATION TO THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE PA BANKERSAt C/A’s Compliance Hub, we understand where to start and are available via live chat to answer your quesons. We also have tools developed in-house for you to begin using Day One. Once you have a starng point, circle back for any addional clarificaon needed. We answer an unlimited numbers of quesons from our members. This is where our Compliance Hub is vital, built to be next-level compliance support.CMYCMMYCYCMYK

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4 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comwww.GoBaker.com | 800.937.2257 Oklahoma City, OK | Austin, TX | Long Island, NY | Salt Lake City, UT | Springfield, IL | Member: FINRA and SIPC For 45 years, The Baker Group has been customer focused and industry responsive, providing honest and insightful guidance to our partners through strategic balance sheet and investment solutions.FEATURED SPEAKERDavid Rosenberg – President/Chief Economist & StrategistRosenberg Research & Associates Inc.In honor of The Baker Group’s 45th anniversary, we invite you to our celebration seminar in Scottsdale, AZ. We are looking forward to celebrating this tremendous accomplishment with our clients and friends.November 7-8, 2024ACCOMMODATIONSA block of rooms is available at JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale. The special room rate will be available until October 14, 2024 or until the room block is sold out. Hotel price: $329 + $20 resort fee. There is no cost for this seminar.For more information and to register, visit GoBaker.com/arizona/. Call Skoshi Heron at 888.990.0010 for questions.Scottsdale, AZJW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale5402 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85253CELEBRATION SEMINARAnnivs yInterest Rate Risk andInvestment Strategies SeminarAGENDAWednesday, November 6Welcome Cocktail ReceptionThursday, November 7Breakfast, Economist–David Rosenberg, Seminar, Lunch, Seminar, Adjourn, 45th Anniversary Celebration Cocktails and DinnerFriday, November 8Breakfast, Seminar, Conclusion, Golf Included at the Padre Golf CourseWHO SHOULD ATTENDFinancial institutions’ CEOs, CFOs, investment ocers, board members, and those who are directly or indirectly responsible for financial management functions will benefit from this seminar.10 hours of Economics and Finance CPE credits will be earned for your attendance.The Baker Group is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.NASBARegistry.org.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 5PA Bankers STAFF DIRECTORYGeneral Number (717) 255-6900PA Bankers AssociationJill A. Ametrano, Registrar and Records Coordinator jillametrano@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6927Lisa R. Brandt, Legal and Policy Coordinator lbrandt@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6936J. Duncan Campbell III, President & Chief Executive Ocer dcampbell@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6916Jacqueline A. Catalano, Vice President, Professional Development jcatalano@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6939Amy L. Doyle, Communications and Government Aairs Coordinator adoyle@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6937Connie A. Ferraro, Director, Information Technology cferraro@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6921Michelle L. Henry, Administrative Assistant, Member Engagement & Development mhenry@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6900Sara E. Hocker, Director of Marketing and Communications shocker@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6912Jonathan D. Humma, Vice President, Government Relations jhumma@pabankers.com, (717) 255-6933Annette M. Moshgat, Director, Finance amoshgat@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6938Louise A. Rynd, Esq., General Counsel lrynd@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6935Michelle L. Staton, Chief Operating Ocer mstaton@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6923Marilyn M. Wisniewski, Professional Development Assistant mwisniewski@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6934 PA Bankers Services CorporationTiani A. Chambers, Director, PA Bankers Services Corporation tchambers@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6928Cynthia L. Wallett, President, PA Bankers Services Corporation cwallett@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6913Wayne R. Whipple, Vice President, Business Development wwhipple@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6925magazineSTAFF Managing Sara E. Hocker Editor Editorial J. Duncan Campbell III Advisors Jacqueline A. Catalano Tiani A. Chambers Jonathan D. Humma Louise A. Rynd Michelle L. Staton Cynthia L. Wallett PA Bankers Services Corporation Board of Directors and Ocers Chair M. Theresa Fosko, SPHR Secretary Tracy E. Watkins, SPHR Treasurer J. Duncan Campbell III Directors Mary G. Cummings, Esq. Eugene J. Draganosky Philip L. Freeman, Jr. Scott E. Fritz John C. Gill Ginger G. Kunkel Andrew Linn Brendan J. McGill John H. Montgomery Michael D. Peduzzi Joseph R. Toth Address Correspondence to: paBanker Magazine c/o Pennsylvania Bankers Association 3897 N. Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17110 Tel. (717) 255-6912 Email: shocker@pabankers.compaBanker Magazine is published four times a year by the PA Bankers Services Corporation (Services Corporation), a subsidiary of the Pennsylvania Bankers Association (PA Bankers). The Association serves Pennsylvania banks and nancial institutions with educational programs, member services and represents members on the state and federal level. Since 1895, PA Bankers continuously worked to be the premier nancial services organization supporting a diversied membership through volunteer participation, a knowledgeable sta, state of the art technology and a commitment to excellence.paBanker Magazine is the ocial publication of PA Bankers.EditorialThe opinions expressed in articles by authors other than Association sta and ocers are the responsibility of the authors only and not necessarily those of the PA Bankers, the Services Corporation or its members. All articles, unless otherwise notied, have been written by paBanker Magazine sta. Questions and comments should be addressed to the Managing Editor. PA Bankers members may reproduce any non-commercial part of this publication with verbal permission from the editor. All others must receive written permission from the editor prior to reproduction of any part of this publication. Copyright ©2003 PA Bankers Services Corporation. All Rights Reserved.Designed by: Hot Frog Print & MediaSponsored by:

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6 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comt has been an honor to have spent the last year as your chair. Although at times it felt like an additional job, I loved every minute of it. I am humbled to have had the opportunity to represent all of my fellow PA bankers at various events to advocate with our lawmakers and regulators, discuss our industry’s issues with other state bankers’ associations, help share our industry’s message and hear what is on your minds at your group meetings.I often think wow, how did I get here…a banker? Thinking back to the beginning of my career, the only thing I knew about banking was that I had a large student loan payment, a car payment and a really small checking account! My degree was in technology, not business or finance. I worked for a couple of years out of college in the computer department of a national freight company. I wasn’t loving it, so I started looking for another job. And at that time, we looked for jobs in the papers, right? I saw an ad for a PC Product Specialist at Fulton Bank. It stated, “networking experience required.” This was not networking as in socializing at a cocktail hour…I’ve got that covered. This was working with file servers, nodes and their connections, and I did not have that experience at the time. I was a programmer and Idatabase specialist. And for those of you who really know me, I am a rule follower, so I wasn’t going to apply. My husband, who is NOT a rule follower, thought I was crazy and convinced me to apply anyway. And the rest is history. The moral of that story is to take calculated risks, and yes, I must say it, maybe listen to your spouse more often. That was 32 years ago, and I am a banker; a proud Fulton Banker! While not always considering myself a banker, I have always been a Pennsylvanian. My story starts with growing up in Canton, a small town in northern PA, and then attending the University of Scranton before landing in Lancaster. I look back on my happy childhood and now realize how much it formed me into who I am today. There is something special about growing up in a small town: a sense of peace, family, friends and tight knit community. Although I was blessed with many wonderful family members, my role model was my grandmother. She was a strong, loving woman who instilled my drive for excellence and taught me the importance of being an independent woman. She showed me that you could have it all with hard work. She was the first in my family to get a college degree (and the only one until me). In 1940, she graduated from Mansfield University, at the time known as Mansfield State Teachers College. She taught me to think for myself; be kind, but strong; to love my family; work hard; and only focus on what you can control. She often would say, “don’t trouble trouble until trouble troubles you.” To this day, I still say that to myself…a lot! Some say Bruce Lee was the originator of that quote, but I’m here to tell you it was Eleanor Wooster from Roaring Branch, Pa.! I was blessed to have her in my life until 2018, when she passed at the age of 99. She would be proud to see me fulfilling the role as the fourth female chair of our association.I could talk in detail about all of the challenges we face as an industry, but what I prefer to do instead is share my thoughts on what we can do about it from a more positive perspective. I want to address two key themes: advocacy and working together.Advocacy in banking encompasses a multifaceted approach, ranging from championing consumer rights to shaping policies that foster financial inclusion and stability. In an era marked with rapid technological advancements, ever shifting consumer demands and new regulation coming our way, the role of advocacy in banking has never been more critical. chairman’sINSIGHTSWe Must Step Up and Tell Our StoriesAdapted From Her Remarks at the PA Bankers 2024 ConventionANGIE SARGENTSenior Executive Vice President, Chief Information OfficerFulton Bank

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 7Most of our teammates think advocacy is something the C-suite takes care of - if they even think of it at all. I encourage each of you to not only be more of an advocate for our industry yourself, but to reach out to others in your bank, educate them on its importance and invite them to get involved. We often talk about how we must get the next generation of bankers engaged. This is a great way to do that. Anyone can be an advocate. It can take the form of attending the Washington or state advocacy events to taking one minute to complete the Call-to-Action emails we all receive and everything in between.I heard someone tell this story, so it isn’t an Angie original, but it was impactful, and I wanted to share it. Do you know who William Dawes and Samuel Prescott are? Not many do, but they were the other riders with Paul Revere. Yes, there were multiple riders, but Paul Revere told his story over and over and over, and William Dawes and Samuel Prescott galloped into oblivion, so to speak. We need to tell our story over and over and over, so the financial industry doesn’t fade into oblivion. You’ve heard the regulatory environment referred to as a tsunami coming our way. Rob Nichols, president and CEO for the American Bankers Association, predicted that in a December Newsbyte article, and I quote: “If 2023 brought rough seas, 2024 has the potential to bring a tsunami to our industry.” Man was he right. We have the age-old unfair treatment of credit unions. Talking about advocacy, when the approximately 1,000 bankers were in Washington for our visit this spring, there were 6,000 credit union members in DC the week prior for the same reason. We have the 1071 small business data collection and the CRA Modernization Act - both of which will have meaningful resource and cost impacts to our institutions to comply as written. We have the fee caps and Credit Card Competition Act. And just recently, the CFPB began attacking Health Savings Account fees. It is not just about the impact to our banks, but so many of these regulations have unintended consequences for our customers. Banks are the foundation of our communities, and we work hard to say yes to our customers. We are not anti-regulation; however, we must step up and tell our stories and remind our lawmakers and regulators what we do for our customers and communities across the commonwealth. That is advocacy!Moving onto my second theme, one of the ways I believe we can be more effective is by working together. Earlier this year, PA Bankers introduced a new campaign, Stronger Together, which is aimed at creating a strong, unified voice among all PA Bankers to effect positive change. The banking industry is as unique as the communities it serves. It takes banks of all sizes and geographical locations, working together with our association to make the most impact.This campaign brands all our collective engagement with the PA Bankers Association to show the industry and our communities how we work together to strengthen our commonwealth. Throughout the last half of the year the association has helped bankers recognize how we can be stronger together. This takes the form of advocating at the state and federal level, supporting financial literacy, networking and sharing at conferences, learning together in our schools, developing our future bankers and volunteering within our communities. We must all work together, whether we are small or large, rural or urban, consumer or commercial focused. We need unity to fight the good cause, and we need to share our common ground. At the ABA Washington Summit, I was engaged with a small group of eight fellow bankers, sharing our concerns of specific regulatory proposals with members of congress and their staff, and I thought to myself…this is stronger together. It was very powerful.I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” I think this applies directly to our new campaign. The combination of our efforts, with the association, adds a different quality level and may I say effectiveness level to support the industry and our communities with the association. In closing, I encourage you to explore the myriad of avenues for engagement offered by the PA Bankers Association and seize the opportunity to be part of a vibrant ecosystem that champions excellence, innovation and collaboration in banking. Together, let us pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Pennsylvania's banking industry.We are all proud to be bankers. We need to stand tall, remember all the good we do and tell our story! Thank you again, for the privilege of being your Board Chair this past year.

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8 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.com don’t need to tell anyone in this room that this past year has been another challenging one. Inflationary pressures continue. Interest rates remain high. Margins are tight. As a result, we are having to manage through economic conditions that we have not seen since the late 1970s and early 1980s. On top of that, regulations and rules are being promulgated outside of the legislative boundaries in which they were set.While the past year has had its difficulties, the resilience of our industry has continued to shine through. You all are the backbone of your local communities. You’ve heard me say it before: without the banking industry, think about the hole that would be left within your hometowns—who would sponsor the little league teams; who would lead the United Way campaigns; who would serve on your community boards and commissions; who would do all of these things consistently and without hesitation. And the list goes on. Then you think about the sustenance you provide to the businesses in your community—not just are you the backbone of your localities, you are their heart, too, pumping much needed capital into the economy, in an effort to sustain and grow your hometowns. It is said that one dollar of tax increase takes 8-10 dollars of lending out of the system. That is why we fight so hard against increased tax burden to our industry. That is why we continue to work so diligently to clarify the deductibility of goodwill for bank shares tax purposes. And that is why we will continue to advocate for commonsense tax treatment for our industry. Goodwill, elder financial exploitation, swipe fees, trust modernization, UCC reform for digital assets. The list of state policy issues seems to grow with every day. Then you think about debit interchange, Access to Capital for Rural Economies or ACRE, Cannabis banking or SAFER, level playing fields with credit unions, Farm Credit and other government entities, 1071 small business lending and excessive capital requirements at the federal level. We are on defense while we try to play offense. But we have an experienced community bank representative on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in Miki Bowman. And in a political year when the Presidency, the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House, three PA row offices—Attorney General, Auditor General and Treasurer—the PA Senate and the PA House are all up for grabs. Hang onto your hats, for sure!One thing is for certain, no matter who is in charge of any of these positions or chambers, the PA Bankers Association and the PA Banking industry will be engaged with them to advocate for appropriate regulation and increased economic development opportunities for our industry; and against oppressive tax policies and anti-competitive legislative measures.On behalf of the professional staff at the PA Bankers Association, we are proud to work alongside you and for you. Watching what you do for your customers—what you do to make their dreams come true—well, it makes us want to work even harder on your behalf, so that you can continue to serve your customers and communities in the most meaningful and effective way possible. That’s our pledge to you; and that’s what gives us the motivation to do what we can on your behalf each and every day. Thank you for the confidence that you have placed in us and thank you for allowing us to be a part of all that you do.from the CEO to the CEODUNCAN CAMPBELLPresident & CEO PA Bankers AssociationA Resilient IndustryAdapted From His Remarks at the PA Bankers 2024 ConventionI

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 9We’re Mobile! The PA Bankers App keeps you connected with PA Bankers like never before. SEE HOW YOU CAN UTILIZE THE APP BELOW:1DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP IN THE GOOGLE PLAY AND APPLE APP STORES TODAY.Register for events at your fingertips.2Update your personal/business information on the go.3Have all event details in one place (i.e., handouts, evaluations, speaker bios, etc.).4Access the updated PA Bankers calendar at all times.5Connect directly to the association’s social channels and stay up-to-date on association news.6Browse for products and services for your institution.Read paBanker magazine on the go.78 Access resources designed for PA Bankers' members. Receive "Instant Alerts" to stay informed.9Advocate for the industry from any location.10

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10 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comtenONpageTENThere are more than 50 Bank On certified accounts in PA. If your bank is one of them, what is the next step? Here are 10 things your bank should do now that you offer a Bank On certified account:10 Things Your Bank Should Do When Offering a Bank On Certified Account1. Use the Bank On certified account seal on your website and at your branch locations so that customers looking for a Bank On certified account know your bank offers them.2. Find ways to actively market Bank On certified accounts in the local communities where your bank operates.3. Ensure staff at your branches know that your bank offers a Bank On certified account, as well as the name of your Bank On certified account. The name of your bank’s Bank On certified account most likely does not include “Bank On” in the name of the account. 4. Make sure branch staff are aware of the Bank On certified account features so that they can offer them to customers who may benefit from having a Bank On certified account.5. Train your branch staff on what it means to be unbanked, the reasons why someone may be unbanked, the importance of having a bank account, and how to talk about Bank On certified accounts to potential customers and why they may be a good choice for them. The American Bankers Association offers free training on Bank On certified accounts and the unbanked population.6. Join a local Bank On Coalition to connect with nonprofit agencies, local government and more to increase your bank’s exposure in the community through public and community banking access programming (Financial Empowerment Centers, youth summer programs, workforce development programs, financial literacy programs, etc.)

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 117. Ensure your community reinvestment and compliance teams are aware of your bank offering a Bank On certified account. The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) guidance specifically lists financial services that may benefit low- and moderate-income individuals, including low-cost bank accounts (Bank On certified accounts). Additionally, partnering with community initiatives, like local Bank On Coalitions, to promote financial access are part of the spirit and purpose of CRA and would be of interest during any examinations.8. Report account metrics, such as accounts opened, new customers, account features being used (direct deposit, online bill pay, etc.), to the Bank On National Data (BOND) Hub. The platform was created for financial institutions with Bank On certified accounts by the Cities for Financial Empowerment (CFE) Fund and the Federal Reserve of St. Louis. Banks report data confidentially once a year to the BOND Hub, which is aggregated with other financial institutions’ data. The aggregated data is not identifiable by bank and is only made public at the zip code level if three or more financial institutions have reported data. Data that is collected can demonstrate the impact and reach of these accounts and is a powerful way to show how banks stepped up to meet the needs of the unbanked.9. Take a look at the Bank On certified account data for your community through the BOND Hub. You can also explore Bank On certified account activity at a national or state level as well. Your bank could learn how individual account usage characteristics vary across zip codes or cities. You also can see the accounts using direct deposit, analyze the value and frequency of ATM and branch withdrawals to understand account holder behaviors, or examine the number of accounts conducting noncash transactions (e.g., debit, P2P) to understand how consumers are interacting with mainstream noncash economy.10. Consider using the ChexSystems’ Bank on Bundle Solution that includes three ChexSystems’ products – QualiFile, ChexInsights and ChexEDU Report. The platform can assist your bank open Bank On certified accounts, monitor performance of the accounts over the account lifecycle and provide educational reports for account applicants to improve financial literacy. The ChexSystems’ Bank On Bundle is a joint effort between the CFE Fund and Chex Systems to assess risk and provide actionable insight at account opening, enable management to identify opportunities for efficiency and strategy effectiveness, and help consumers take control of their financial future.Does your bank not yet offer a Bank On Certified Account? Visit our website to learn more about the benefits of Bank On Certified Accounts and how you can get started today.

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12 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comcommunityCORNERCNB BankFarmers National Bank of CanfieldCNB Bank made a donation to the YMCA of Centre County's Annual Giving Campaign, which supports programs like Open Doors Financial Assistance, the Backpack Weekend Food Program, childcare scholarships and more.In honor of Financial Literacy Month, Farmers National Bank of Canfield's Pennsylvania team volunteered at JA BizTown, helping students from Beaver Falls learn to operate banks, write checks and manage money in a simulation of the real world.WelcomeAFFILIATE MEMBERS:• Alliance Advisors • Saifr – Fidelity LabsNEW TO PA BANKERSCommunity Bank, N.A.Community Bank employees joined the Rock Your Socks campaign by wearing colorful and mismatched socks—representing the sock-like appearance of the three (instead of two) copies of chromosome 21 that signifies the genetic makeup of Down Syndrome. Bank employees also presented Gigi’s Playhouse with a $1,000 donation for World Down Syndrome Day.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 13Hatboro Federal Savings LINKBANKHatboro Federal Savings donated $25,000 to the Bucks County Opportunity Council, connecting people with resources to thrive.LINKBANK has invested in the bright futures of at-risk youth through The LINK Foundation with a $2,500 donation to Cornerstone Youth Center's Empower Youth Leadership Initiative, which helps to inspire leadership, empower individuals and create waves of change in local communities.NexTier BankNexTier Bank visited West Hills Primary to present the bank's Teach Children to Save Program, a free interactive program open to all schools (Grades K-12), libraries and non-profit organization that teaches kids lifelong financial knowledge and skills to learn how to save, budget for the real world, develop saving habits and more.Women in Banking ConferenceAttendees of our Women in Banking Conference donated handbags and toiletries to Dress for Success South Central PA & Dress for Success Lackawanna, nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping women achieve economic independence through a network of support, professional attire and development tools to thrive in work and life. Orrstown BankOrrstown Bank participated in the 42nd Bowl For Kids Sake event. The bank sponsored the event and contributed to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berks County.

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14 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comcommunityCORNERS&T Bank The Dime BankThe Neffs National BankS&T Bank presented Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) with a $2,500 donation in support of the 2024 Sickle Cell Walk, with proceeds from the event supporting sickle cell research and care.The Dime Bank donated $13,500 to Lacawac Sanctuary in support of its hands-on academic enrichment and innovative educational programs. The Lacawac Sanctuary is a nonprofit conservation, research and education center providing the community with a host of quality environmental, historical and cultural programs.The bank also supported The Cooperage Project’s Pop-Up Club and Romping Radishes programs with a $10,000 donation. Both programs at The Cooperage are part of the EITC program as an Educational Improvement Organization.Finally, the bank donated $18,000 to United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania to help run Project Hope Day Camp, a safe and healthy place for low-income families who reside in the City of Scranton to learn and grow during the out-of-school months.The Neffs National Bank presented donations to six local educational foundations, including a $5,000 contribution to Circle of Seasons Foundation. These donations will help fund essential educational programs benefiting youth in the community.Univest FinancialUnivest’s Marketing and Communications Team recently volunteered with Bean Bag Food Program to assemble bags with weekend meals for children in the Souderton Area and Quakertown Community School Districts. The Bean Bag Food Program strives to fill the gap of hunger that children face when they are not in school.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 15PA Bankers Staff and MembersIn partnership with Commonwealth Charter Academy, PA Bankers staff and members volunteered at a Financial Reality Fair, where students in grades 6-12 were able to experience independent decision-making, including choosing a career, earning income and paying for living expenses, such as housing, utilities, clothing, transportation, technology and food. Do you have hometown happenings that you'd like to share?Send your bank's community news to Amy Doyle for a chance to be featured in paBanker Magazine or on PA Bankers' social media channels and website.

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16 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comfeatureARTICLEearly 370 bankers, Affiliate Members, sponsors and guests traveled to the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville, Tenn. for the PA Bankers 2024 Convention from May 15 to May 19, 2024. Throughout the event, attendees had the opportunity to network and gain industry insights from professionals specializing in balance sheets, investment banking, CRA, ransomware attacks, strategic leadership, talent acquisition, AI, inclusive leadership, fraud, ALM and more. On Friday, May 17, we celebrated Immediate Past Chair Angie Sargent as she gave her last remarks, and on Saturday, May 18, we officially welcomed Chair Randy Black with a pinning ceremony and his first speech as chair.General session speakers included Rob Nichols, president and CEO for the American Bankers Association, who gave us an update on the American Bankers Association and its initiatives; The Honorable Michelle Bowman, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, who provided a Federal Reserve update; and Chaunté Lowe, four-time Olympian, author, TEDx speaker and breast cancer thriver, who shared about her experience in overcoming adversity and tenacity during challenging times.PA Bankers would like to thank all of its convention guests and sponsors for making the journey with us, especially our Ruby sponsors, PA Bankers Services Corporation and The Baker Group; Diamond sponsors, PNC and Deluxe; and our Platinum sponsors, FHLBank Pittsburgh, Pillar+Aught, PWCampbell, Fulton Bank, UNB Bank, FCCB Bank, The Northumberland National Bank, Benecon, Webber Advisors, Stevens & Lee and Griffin Financial Group.NWrap- U

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PA Bankers Association » Spring 2023 17

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18 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comfeatureARTICLEAs of 4/30/2024THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORSDIAMOND SPONSORRUBY SPONSORSPLATINUM SPONSORSSILVER SPONSORSBRONZE SPONSORSChair’s ReceptionClosing Party “Dancing in the Street…Country Style”American Bankers AssociationApiture, Inc.Atlantic Community Bankers BankBHG FinancialD.A. Davidson Co.First Commonwealth BankICI ConsultingNew Era TechnologyPCBBPiper Sandler & Co.R&T Deposit SolutionsStradley Ronon Stevens & Young, LLPYHB | CPAs & ConsultantsArnold & Porter - Saturday General Session SnacksBaker Tilly - Co-Sponsor Afternoon Welcome ReceptionBarley Snyder - Opening CeremoniesBurns White LLC - Printing of Convention Pocket GuideBybel Rutledge LLP - Afternoon Welcome Reception EntertainmentCOCC - Co-Sponsor Saturday Continental BreakfastCornerstone Advisors - Co-Sponsor Convention WiFiCrowe LLP - Badge Lanyards/HoldersFORVIS - Co-Sponsor Afternoon Welcome ReceptionHartman Executive Advisors - Co-Sponsor Snackbox Room DropHerbein + Company, Inc. - Co-Sponsor Saturday Continental BreakfastJack Henry - Friday General Session SnacksJanney Montgomery Scott LLC - Co-Sponsor Friday Continental BreakfastKeefe, Bruyette & Woods - Co-Sponsor Convention WiFiNcontracts - Legends of Country Music Museum TourPaylocity - Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery TourS.R. Snodgrass - Convention Room KeysSmith & Wilkinson - Co-Sponsor Snackbox Room DropThe Bonadio Group - Co-Sponsor Friday Continental BreakfastThe Kafaan Group, Inc. - Sta ShirtsTroutman Pepper - Digital Conrmation KitsWipi LLP - Origins of the Opry - ThursdayWolf & Company, P.C. - Origins of the Opry - SaturdaySaturday General Session Closing Keynote Speaker (Co-Sponsor)Saturday General Session Closing Keynote Speaker (Co-Sponsor)GOLD SPONSORSBoard, Past Chair & Sta Dinner(Private Event)“Ocer Giveaway”(Co-Sponsor)Board, Past Chair & Sta Dinner (Private Event) & Second Harvest Food Bank Volunteer Event“Ocer Giveaway”(Co-Sponsor)Closing Theme Party - Entertainment(Co-Sponsor)Closing Theme Party - Entertainment(Co-Sponsor)Ocial Family Farewell (Private Event)“Ocer Giveaway”(Co-Sponsor)“Ocer Giveaway”(Co-Sponsor)Closing Party “Dancing in the Street…Country Style” & Ocial Family Farewell (Private Event)Sponsor in Part - Closing Theme PartyFood & Beverage

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 19See How We Can Help.Connect With Us Today.480.423.2030info@crnrstone.comwww.crnrstone.com | gonzobanker.comBuilding Smarter Banks™For more than 20 years, Cornerstone Advisors has delivered griy insights, bold strategies and data-driven soluons to build smarter banks and ntechs. Cornerstone combines its experse with proprietary data to help nancial instuons thrive in today’s challenging environment. Performance SoluonsImprove your bank’s nancial eciency, generate new revenue, and increase customer responsiveness.Strategic Planning We help our clients develop and execute a customized, aconable bank strategy typically delivering $1.5 Million in tangible return for every $1 Billion in assets.Technology Soluons Maximize returns on your technology investments, and improve technology governance and risk management.Payments Soluons Take control of your payments business to ensure increased revenue, reduced expenses, and minimized risk exposure while improving customer loyalty.Contract NegoaonAchieve compeve pricing and agreeable terms while remaining in control of vendor contract negoaon.Mergers & Acquisions We assist in geng the most out of mergers and acquisions by focusing on achieving the value drivers inherent in the underlying combinaon. Digital Channels Evaluate and approach your delivery channels in new ways to help you navigate evolving banking services and delivery channels.Research & Knowledge Sharing Where bank, credit union, and ntech leaders turn for unbiased, data-driven analyses, insights, and perspecves.Our Services

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20 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comfeatureARTICLEDEI Member Survey Results2024The Pennsylvania Bankers Association conducted a follow-up Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) survey to pulse its member banks' work in the DEI space. The results of that survey, as well as the initial results from 2021, can be found below. We thank all participating banks for their support of this eort.40 Survey Responses 71 Survey ResponsesDiversity, Equity and Inclusion Success Stories and Best PracticesWould you like to share what your bank is doing in the diversity, equity and inclusion space with PA Bankers? Please reach out to Michelle Staton, Chief Operating Officer, mstaton@pabankers.com.

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Regulatory Compliance Monitoring + TrainingVulnerability Testing (Internal + external)BSA/AML Model ValidationsBSA/AML ExaminationsRisk Assessment + Gap AnalysisInternal Audit Plans + TestingTrust Department ExamsFraud ExamsInformation Technology ExamsSocial Engineering TestingSOX Documentation/TestingFDICIA Documentation/TestingDebbi S. Fetter, CFIRS, CISA, CFSA, CRCM, CCSA, CERPJeffrey J. Johns, CISA, CRISC, CDPSEThomas R. Strause, CIA, CFE, CBA, CFSA, CISA, CICAHR Consultingwww.herbein.com I 1.855.HC.TodayRisk ManagementRecruitment/Retention HR AuditsHR OutsourcingInterim HRSuccession PlanningExecutive SearchExecutive CompensationAffirmative Action Plan PreparationLeadership Coaching and DevelopmentCompensation StudiesA GREAT TEAM SERVINGEXTRAORDINARY BANKSLaurel E. Cline Karen H. DiGioiaLori L. GlivaScott G. Smith

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22 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comVICKI FOXSVP, Diversity & Inclusion ocer, First Commonwealth BankEach year, PA Bankers’ DEI Leadership Award highlights a banker who shows leadership and a commitment to advancing and celebrating DEI within their bank and across the banking industry.Vicki was honored at the association’s annual DEI Conference on April 18, and we thank her for her exceptional contributions to elevating and celebrating diversity, equity and inclusion across the banking industry.recognitionROUND-UPffiliate Member Kaplan Partners, a leading retained executive search and board advisory firm, celebrated its 30th anniversary in May. Founded three decades ago by Alan J. Kaplan, a nationally recognized executive search professional, the firm continues its primary focus on serving financial institutions and growth-oriented middle market firms.Alan and Kaplan Partners have been longtime supporters of the association, and we congratulate them on this milestone!Kaplan Partners Reaches MilestoneA2024 Wie:Cgratulati

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 23PA BANKERS SERVICES CORPORATIONWayne WhippleVice President, Business Development(717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comCONTACT INFORMATIONWEBBER ADVISORSBrad WebberMarketing/Sales Manager(814) 695-8066 x4186bwebber@webberadvisors.comTHE BENECON GROUPClaudia Burchstead, CSFSRegional VP of Sales(888) 400-4647cburchstead@benecon.com

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24 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comrecognitionROUND-UPINDUCTEESINDUCTEESTHANK YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE INDUSTRY.As of 5/21/2024CARA LYNN CLABAUGHVP Compliance and CRA OfficerACNB BankRICHARD GRAFMYRECEOPenns Woods Bancorp, Inc.DAVID HUNSICKERPresident/ChairmanNew Tripoli BankCgratulatiIs your bank celebrating a charter anniversary? Have your employees been in the banking industry for 30+ years?Contact Michelle Henry to celebrate your achievements in the next paBanker Magazine Recognition Round-Up.RECOGNITION 

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 25FUTURE 40Eligibility CriteriaWho may nominate a qualified candidate?Nominations will be accepted from any membersource; however, submissions may not be anonymous.You may not nominate yourself.Who is eligible for nomination?Future Under 40: Nominees must be a current bankeror Affiliate Member of PA Bankers and 40 years of ageand younger.Young Professionals Champion: Nominees must be aPA Bankers financial institution member.Nomination DetailsThe nomination period is: July 1-Aug. 16, 2024. The nominee will be made aware of the nomination and will be required to attend the PA Bankers Young Professionals Conference on Sept. 26, 2024.Do you know someone under the age of 40 who demonstrates business success, communityinvolvement, leadership ability and influence?Nominate your peers for the Future Under 40 Awards. The Future Under 40 Awards honor youngindustry leaders who have made a tremendous impact in their institution, the community and the industry.FUTURE UNDER 40Questions? Contact: Michelle Staton | mstaton@pabankers.com | (717) 255-6923Honoring Future Leaders of Our IndustryYOUNG PROFESSIONALS CHAMPIONHonoring an Influential Senior Leader in Our IndustryDo you know an influential senior leader who inspires and promotes the growth of young professionals inthe industry? Nominate them for the Young Professionals Champion Award.Nominate Your Peers,Beginning July 1!Thank you to our sponsor:

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26 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comgovernmentRELATIONShe banking agencies are tasked with writing implementing regulations for the laws enacted by Congress, but they do not have free reign. In creating these rules, regulators must act within the boundaries of their statutory authority or run the risk of legal challenge—and ABA has not been afraid to hold them accountable in court when they get it wrong. But Congress can also hold agencies accountable when there are policy disagreements by simply overriding final rules. In ABA’s view, regulators have exceeded their authority in several recent regulatory actions, including the 1071 final rule, the credit card late fee final rule, the new Community Reinvestment Act final rule, and the expansion of UDAAP authority via an update to an examination manual. When I addressed bankers at the 2024 ABA Washington Summit earlier this year, I assured them that ABA would use every tool in our toolbox to push back against the “regulatory tsunami” that regulators have unleashed upon the banking industry. Litigation is obviously a tool that we’ve been forced to use now several times—as evidenced by our four current legal challenges against bank regulators—but it isn’t the only option. Among the other tools available is a lesser-known mechanism called the Congressional Review Act—which we sometimes refer to as “the other CRA.” The Congressional Review Act was enacted in 1996 to provide Congress with an avenue for overturning certain federal regulatory actions, but inexperience with the new law and divided government meant it was only used once in its first 21 years. During the Trump administration, however, when Congress and the White House were controlled by the same party, the CRA was used successfully 16 times. Highlights included ABA-backed resolutions to overturn the CFPB’s rule effectively banning the use of mandatory arbitration for financial products—a rule that ABA strongly opposed—and a resolution to nullify the bureau’s 2013 indirect auto lending guidance, after the Government Accountability Office issued a formal decision in 2017 that the guidance constituted a rule.Congress passed CRA resolutions three more times during the Biden administration, and lawmakers continue to introduce them. Recently, ABA supported a CRA challenge to the CFPB’s 1071 final rule. That CRA challenge was passed by a bipartisan majority in both the House and Senate—and though President Biden ultimately vetoed the measure, it sent a strong and clear signal that Congress disagreed with the bureau’s rule. In addition, a resolution of disproval under the CRA was also passed in May to invalidate the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Staff Accounting Bulletin 121, which changed the way that banks and other publicly traded entities are expected to account for digital assets held in custody. ABA is also supporting a CRA challenge to the CFPB’s recently finalized credit card late fee rule. The House Financial Services Committee favorably reported that resolution of disapproval in April.The Congressional Review Act is so powerful because resolutions can move to the Senate floor quickly through an expedited “fast track” procedure and that, once on the floor, a resolution requires only a simple majority vote to pass—not 60 votes, like most legislation. This fast-track process stipulates a specific timeframe during which rules issued in this Congress can be invalidated by the next Congress: the rule must be issued during a window of 60 session or legislative days prior to Congress’ adjournment at the end of the year in order for the next Congress to have an opportunity to invalidate the rule. We are now nearing the window where any final rules that are issued by the agencies could be challenged under the CRA in the next Congress—yet another reason why electoral outcomes matter. However the elections shake out in November, ABA’s focus will remain unchanged: supporting a policy environment that supports America’s banks in their mission to supply credit to their customers, clients and communities. And we’ll continue to use every tool in the toolbox to ensure that our broad and diverse banking sector can continue to thrive. TThe 'Other' CRA:A Lesser-Known Tool in the Policy ToolboxABOUT THE AUTHOR: ROB NICHOLS, PRESIDENT AND CEO, AMERICAN BANKERS ASSOCIATIONEmail Rob at nichols@aba.com.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 27governmentRELATIONSTwo New Members Join the Pennsylvania HouseIn February, Democrat Jim Prokopiak emerged victorious in a special election to represent the 140th district in Bucks County. Bringing with him a background as an attorney, Jim also boasts local government experience from his tenure as a former township supervisor and school board member. In April, Republican Jeff Olsommer clinched success in a special election for the 139th district in northeast PA. With ownership of a small insurance business and previous service as a township supervisor, Jeff brings valuable insights from both the private sector and local governance. PA Bankers extends a warm welcome to both Jim and Jeff and looks forward to productive collaborations ahead. PA Bankers Joins Business Community in Challenging Senator Bob Casey’s “Greedflation”PA Bankers and fellow business associations authored a letter to U.S. Senator Bob Casey, challenging his “greedflation” narrative. This message which places blame on the business community for rising prices, overlooks crucial factors like inflationary federal spending, COVID-related supply chain disruptions and workforce challenges. While businesses adapt by adjusting prices, market competition drives innovation and consumer benefits. PA Bankers and the broader business community urge Senator Casey to abandon this misleading rhetoric, which unfairly tarnishes the character of hardworking job creators vital to our communities and economy. PA House Passes Data Privacy Legislation with Bank ExemptionIn March, the PA House of Representatives approved HB 1201, which establishes standards for consumer data and privacy disclosure. The legislation also allows consumers to opt out of information sharing. PA Bankers successfully advocated for an exemption for banks, their affiliates and data governed by the federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act given banks’ longstanding compliance with data privacy measures. This exemption aims to prevent conflicting state requirements and unnecessary burdens on the banking sector. HB 1201 advanced to the Senate for consideration. PA Bankers Participates in Flood Insurance Task Force Panel F&M Trust’s Sheryl Snider represented PA Bankers in a panel discussion with realtors and insurance agents during a meeting of the Flood Insurance Task Force, established by Act 22 of 2023. Chaired by the PA Insurance Commissioner, the Task Force is comprised of executive branch and legislative appointees tasked with studying flood insurance issues. The task force is required to issue a report by July 1 to improve affordability and expand access to flood insurance coverage. Sheryl leveraged her 35 years of experience in financial services to emphasize bank lending requirements and regulations related to the National Flood Insurance Program and the importance of homeowners understanding the likelihood of flooding and its devastating financial implications.State Government Relations Update

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28 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comFRAUD ACADEMY Virtual Live EventADVANCED SCHOOL OF BANKING Penn Stater Conference Center, State College, Pa.SCHOOL OF COMPLIANCE PA Bankers Training Room, Harrisburg, Pa. Phillies vs. Yankees, LIVE Casino & Hotel and Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, Pa. Pirates vs. Padres, PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pa. Hershey Country Club, Hershey, Pa. Sunnehanna Country Club, Johnstown, Pa.aug. 6-8july 21-26oct. 1-3july 31aug. 8aug. 12oct. 18GENERAL ASSOCIATIONCOMPLIANCE, REGULATORY & RISK MANAGEMENTa aheadlookAs you plan your training and development, we hope you will consider learning with us. Here is a sneak peek at some of the opportunities to learn with PA Bankers this coming year.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 29WEALTH MANAGEMENT & TRUST CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION The Hotel Hershey, Hershey, Pa.BANK TRAINERS CONFERENCE & EXPO ' St. Louis, Mo.EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE The Hotel Hershey, Hershey, Pa.LENDING CONFERENCE The Hotel Hershey, Hershey, Pa.YOUNG PROFESSIONALS CONFERENCE Hershey Lodge & Convention Center, Hershey, Pa.sept. 15-17oct. 9sept. 9-10nov. 21-22sept. 25-26LENDING & CREDITYOUNG PROFESSIONALSLEADERSHIPWEALTH MANAGEMENT, TRUST & INVESTMENT SERVICESTRAINING & EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENTa aheadlookVisit www.pabankers.com for more information and pricing details about each event.Please note: all dates and locations are subject to change.This includes changing in-person events to virtual oerings.

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30 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comvendorARTICLESESG Mandate: Navigating the SEC’s Climate-Disclosure RuleA look at the implications for PA Bankers members regarding a new Securities and Exchange Commission rule n recent years, the global conversation around climate change has intensified, leading regulatory bodies to take significant steps to address environmental concerns. Through the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net-Zero (GFANZ), over 450 financial institutions totaling over $130 trillion in assets have committed to net-zero initiatives, while the majority of U.S. global systematically important banks (GSIBs) have also signed on to initiatives to reduce their own GHG footprints by 2030 and their financing activity emissions by 2050. Until recently, all efforts have been voluntary.Regulatory developments first uncovered by the European Union, were followed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced a groundbreaking climate disclosure rule in March, underscoring the importance of environmental transparency and accountability for companies across various industries. While the SEC decided in April to pause implementation of the rule to reduce regulatory uncertainty while various legal challenges played out, it is still prudent to plan for some form of future climate-related disclosure rule. This article explores the implications of the SEC's climate ruling specifically for financial institutions.Though banks often feel that they have very little environmental impact within their control, they have immense influence over the economy and how it’s mobilized. Therefore, the financial industry serves as a model for what’s to be expected by considering a broader view of the risk landscape.NEW SEC RULE HIGHLIGHTSThe SEC's climate-disclosure rule represents a bipartisan compromise that will likely serve as the basis for future further action. At a high level, the climate disclosure rule mandates that beginning in 2026 publicly traded companies disclose their greenhouse-gas emissions, climate-related risks, and strategies for mitigating these risks. Specific requirements include disclosure of:• Climate-related risks, and related risk management and oversight; • Material scope 1 and scope 2 emissions (for certain filers only), while notably not requiring disclosure of scope 3 emissions from a filer’s supply chain; • Statement describing financial impact of severe weather events, if the aggregate amount equals or exceeds a 1% threshold against gross profits or expenditures;• Statement describing whether carbon offsets and renewable energy credits or certificates (RECs) have been used as a material component of the company’s plans to achieve its climate-related goals, and • Carbon-reduction goals. This move reflects a broader shift towards greater transparency in corporate reporting, as investors increasingly prioritize environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors in their decision-making processes.FINANCIAL SERVICES IMPACTIt’s worth acknowledging that the SEC climate disclosure will not directly apply to all PA Bankers members. First, the rule’s applicability is limited to companies with publicly-traded securities. Second, the type of emissions that are generated within a publicly-traded company’s supply chain (scope 3), which could potentially impact PA Bankers members that are not publicly-traded, are not required to be disclosed under today’s rule. That said, we anticipate the impact of this rule to include an overall commitment to improving data collection and increased focus on all sources of a company’s emissions, even those within the supply chain. In essence, it is best to get started down this path, rather than waiting for stricter regulations impacting supply chains to be promulgated and enforced. Challenges:• Data Collection and Reporting: Banks must enhance their data collection mechanisms to accurately measure and report their greenhouse-gas emissions. This may require investments in sophisticated monitoring technologies and robust reporting frameworks.• Supply-Chain Transparency: As part of future disclosure requirements, banks may need to provide detailed insights into their supply chain operations, including the environmental footprint associated with their branch facilities and maintenance. Further, environmental, social and governance metrics are being worked I

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 31into investment screening criteria to determine the possibility of long-term value creation and payback on loans.• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with the SEC's climate disclosure rule necessitates a thorough understanding of evolving regulatory frameworks and reporting standards. Banks must stay abreast of updates and ensure adherence to compliance requirements.Opportunities:• Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: Transparent reporting on climate-related risks and mitigation strategies fosters trust and credibility among investors, customers, and other stakeholders. Banks can leverage this opportunity to strengthen relationships and differentiate themselves in the market.• Innovation and Efficiency: The emphasis on climate disclosure incentivizes banks to innovate and implement sustainable practices throughout their operations. From adopting energy-efficient lighting techniques to sourcing renewable energy, significant potential for robust efficiency and environmental gains exist. Though this may seem easy enough for physical assets, requiring resource efficiencies as a component of lending schemes can encourage positive business models and incentivize real change at scale.• Market Leadership: Banks that proactively address climate risks and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability are poised to emerge as industry leaders. By aligning business strategies with environmental objectives, these banks can attract socially responsible investors and gain a competitive edge.By preparing for the U.S. SEC disclosures, PA Bankers members can also make progress toward other pending regulations, such as the those recently introduced by California and the European Union. If financial institutions follow the steps outlined below, they will be better positioned for compliance and to evolve with the ever-changing reporting landscape.HOW TO PREPARE FOR CLIMATE REPORTING:• Conduct a Climate-Risk Assessment: Banks should assess their exposure to climate-related risks, including physical and transition/liability risks. Applying Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD), and now International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) to enterprise-level risk assessment processes, can help identify areas of vulnerability, inform disclosure and shape strategic objectives. • Develop & Maintain a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory Management Plan (IMP): Develop procedures for managing climate-related detail and public disclosure, outline calculation methodologies, assumptions, and data sources. Ensure alignment to recognized standards and frameworks, such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and IFRS. • Conduct a Climate Scenario Analysis: Conduct a climate scenario analysis to assess the potential impacts of different climate pathways on business operations, financial performance, and strategic priorities. Use insights to inform disclosure and strategic growth plans. Experts can help you evaluate different temperature pathways and even integrate the outcomes into your TCFD report.Manage Oversight and Communications:• Establish Governance Structures: Implement robust governance structures to oversee climate-related disclosures, including clear roles and responsibilities, accountability mechanisms and board oversight. • Engage Stakeholders: Engage with stakeholders, including investors, regulators, customers and employees, to understand their expectations regarding climate-related disclosures. • Collaborate with External Experts: Outreach efforts should include external experts, including consultants, auditors, and industry associations, to access specialized knowledge and guidance on climate-related disclosures. Strengthen Data Management and Internal Processes:• Enhance Data Collection and Management: Strengthen data collection and management systems to ensure the availability, accuracy, and reliability of climate-related data. Invest in tools and technologies that facilitate data aggregation, analysis, and reporting. • Conduct a Readiness Assessment: Conducting a readiness assessment prepares companies for third-party assurance of data and other disclosures. It helps test the accuracy of calculations, effectiveness of the management approach and identifies ways to better align with regulatory expectations. • Provide Training and Capacity Building: Provide training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance employees’ understanding of climate-related risks and opportunities and their role in facilitating accurate and timely disclosures. • Foster Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement by regularly reviewing and updating climate-disclosure practices in response to feedback, emerging trends, and regulatory developments. Strive for transparency and relevance in all disclosures! Continued on page 32

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32 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comvendorARTICLESContinued from page 31LEADING THE CHARGE TOWARD SUSTAINABILITYThe SEC's climate disclosure rule represents a pivotal moment for companies and investors, highlighting the imperative of environmental accountability and transparency. While compliance by companies in the banking sector may pose challenges initially, it also presents an opportunity for banks to drive innovation, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and position themselves as sustainability leaders in a rapidly evolving landscape. As stewards of sustainability in the banking industry, PA Bankers members have a unique opportunity to lead by example and drive positive change. By prioritizing energy efficiency and embracing sustainable practices, members can not only reduce operating costs and enhance competitiveness but also demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and corporate citizenship. Experts such as those at Environ Energy, are ready to help PA Bankers members embrace the principles of climate disclosure and integrate sustainable practices into your business models. This, in turn, could help financial institutions navigate the transition to a more resilient and environmentally responsible future. Environ Energy is a full-service energy consulting and management firm with over 25 years of experience delivering innovative, fully integrated, and cost-effective solutions for sustainability, energy efficiency, energy procurement, GHG disclosure & reductions, and energy compliance.Editor’s Note: This article is intended to provide general insights and does not constitute legal or financial advice. PA Bankers members are encouraged to consult with legal and regulatory experts to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL CONNOLLY, APPI ENERGYPNC’S FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS GROUP IMPROVE YOUR COMPETITIVE POSITION Leverage our expertise in capital issuance and M&A through our broad distribution network of financial institution relationships Lower cost of interest rate risk management Enhance product offerings and create opportunities for fee income Gain access to capital markets–based solutions and technology Optimize investment portfolio performance Strengthen and diversify your liquidity positionCollaborate with an experienced team of financial professionals who can help:If you have questions or inquiries, please contact sheryl.jordan@pnc.comPNC is a registered mark of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”). Bank deposit, treasury management and lending products and services are provided by PNC Bank, National Association (“PNC Bank”), a wholly owned subsidiary of PNC and Member FDIC. Investment banking and capital markets activities are conducted by PNC through its subsidiaries PNC Bank, PNC Capital Markets LLC (including through its trade name, PNC FIG Advisory), Harris Williams LLC, and Solebury Capital LLC. Services such as public finance investment banking services, securities underwriting, and securities sales and trading are provided by PNC Capital Markets LLC and PNC FIG Advisory. Mergers & acquisitions advisory and related services are provided by PNC Capital Markets LLC, PNC FIG Advisory, Fortis Advisors LLC and Harris Williams LLC. PNC Capital Markets LLC, Harris Williams LLC, and Solebury Capital LLC are registered broker-dealers and members of FINRA and SIPC. Important Investor Information – Securities, insurance, foreign exchange, and derivative products are: Not FDIC Insured • Not Bank Guaranteed • Not A Deposit Not Insured By Any Federal Government Agency • May Lose Value Lending, leasing and equity products and services, as well as certain other banking products and services, require credit approval. ©2024 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. CIB CM PDF 0224-007-2410003

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34 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comvendorARTICLESIdentification VerificationWhat, Why, How, and Who? hen discussing ID verification, it’s crucial to first understand what it actually means and then to understand how to implement it to protect yourself. It is equally important to understand the landscape, your risk vectors, and which solutions may be used alone or in concert with others to protect your specific environment. Let’s take a look at this very pressing issue and some available solutions.WHAT IS IDENTIFICATION VERIFICATION?Ultimately, we want to know who our clients and customers are. Generally speaking, when someone says that they are a person, we tend to believe them. Some states let people vote without an ID. All states let people cross state lines without an ID. There are a few things, however, that you cannot do without an ID: boarding a plane; purchasing alcohol, tobacco, or firearms; and renting, driving, or buying a car. In some states, you can’t even adopt a pet from a shelter’s death row without an ID, so why would it be any surprise that you should need to present an ID to buy, sell, or mortgage real estate. Frankly, it is not a surprise.Identification verification aims to confirm the identity of clients and customers; however, we have a certain amount of selfinflicted pain with the process. Over the years, ID verification has become synonymous with merely “get a copy of the ID.” The very reason for presenting an ID is not to demonstrate possession or acquire a copy but, rather, to verify the identity of the individual presenting the ID. If you receive a document purporting to be an ID by fax, email, or text, you have not verified identification. You have merely added paper to your file.From this day forward, if someone says get a copy of the ID, you should hear validate that ID, verify identity, and ensure the person in possession of the ID is in fact the person represented in the ID. Anything short of that is not ID VERIFICATION and is not meeting the standard of care.WHY REQUIRE IDENTIFICATION VERIFICATION?The basic premise is as old as the records in the county registry. Since the public records were established, any individual that executed a document presented for recording in the county registry has their signature Wacknowledged by an officially commissioned notary public. As guardians of transactions, the closing party bears significant responsibility, much more so than a pawnshop clerk who is required to verify identity to avoid selling stolen personal property valued a lot less than real property. The importance of knowing who one is dealing with in real estate transactions, which can involve millions of dollars, cannot be overstated.In most states, this task can be performed with “personal knowledge” of the signatory’s identity or by producing valid government-issued ID. Reliance on personal knowledge, however, demands absolute certainty of the individual's identity. For instance, my father was present when I was born. He practiced law for 60 years. Not only was I his son, but I was his law partner for 22 years and introduced him to his grandchildren. We had definitely met! He handled the acquisition and subsequent refinance of my primary residence and asked me for a copy of my ID and verified my identity in both transactions. Let’s face it: he gave me my name, but this was his process that he followed every time. If he had not followed this same process with me, he could not say confidently, “I always verify identity.” Do you always verify identity?When handling a sale transaction, it is quite S.I.M.P.L.E. – Seller Identity Must Precede Literally Everything. If it is a refinance transaction, the same rules apply to the borrower.We need to know with whom we are dealing in order to ensure: 1) the efficacy of the transaction; 2) the trust placed in the closing party; 3) the sanctity of the public record; and 4) basic respect for real-property ownership in our society.HOW TO VERIFY IDENTIFICATION?Differentiating ID verification from wire and account verification is crucial, as they serve distinct purposes and often overlap. If you find a solution that does everything for you, then you have really got something; however, most of these solutions have a niche in which they excel. A certain amount of ID Verification goes into wire verification because, in most cases, you need to verify the person that is providing the wire instructions in order to trust the wire verification. For more on wire verification, please visit W.I.R.E. – What I Require Every Time.Several solutions are available on the market that purport to provide identification verification but have varying degrees of effectiveness for the needs of title and settlement professionals. Finding the solution that meets your needs for the following elements is important:• Ease of Use• Cost • Quality

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 35ABOUT THE AUTHOR: JONATHAN W. BIGGS, INVESTORS TITLE INSURANCE COMPANYIDENTIFICATION VERIFICATIONWhat, Why, How, and Who?Author: Jonathan W. Biggs, VP & Director of Risk Management & EducationWhen discussing ID verification, it’s crucial to first understand what it actually means and then to understand how to implement it to protect yourself. It is equally important to understand the landscape, your risk vectors, and which solutions may be used alone or in concert with others to protect your specific environment. Let’s take a look at this very pressing issue and some available solutions. What is Identification Verification?Ultimately, we want to know who our clients and customers are. Generally speaking, when someone says that they are a person, we tend to believe them. Some states let people vote without an ID. All states let people cross state lines without an ID. There are a few things, however, that you cannot do without an ID: boarding a plane; purchasing alcohol, tobacco, or firearms; and renting, driving, or buying a car. In some states, you can’t even adopt a pet from a shelter’s death row without an ID, so why would it be any surprise that you should need to present an ID to buy, sell, or mortgage real estate. Frankly, it is not a surprise.Identification verification aims to confirm the identity of clients and customers; however, we have a certain amount of self-inflicted pain with the process. Over the years, ID verification has become synonymous with merely “get a copy of the ID.” The very reason for presenting an ID is not to demonstrate possession or acquire a copy but, rather, to verify the identity of the individual presenting the ID. If you receive a document purporting to be an ID by fax, email, or text, you have not verified identification. You have merely added paper to your file.From this day forward, if someone says get a copy of the ID, you should hear validate that ID, verify identity, and ensure the person in possession of the ID is in fact the person represented in the ID. Anything short of that is not ID VERIFICATION and is not meeting the standard of care.Why Require Identification Verification? The basic premise is as old as the records in the county registry. Since the public records were established, any individual that executed a document presented for recording in the county registry has their signature acknowledged by an officially commissioned notary public. As guardians of transactions, the closing party bears significant responsibility, much more so than a pawnshop clerk who is required to verify identity to avoid selling stolen personal property valued a lot less than real property. The importance of knowing who one is dealing with in real estate transactions, which can involve millions of dollars, cannot be overstated.In most states, this task can be performed with “personal knowledge” of the signatory’s identity or by producing valid government-issued ID. Reliance on personal knowledge, however, demands absolute certainty of the individual's identity. For instance, my father was present when I was born. He practiced law for 60 years. Not only was I his son, but I was his law partner for 22 years and introduced him to his grandchildren. We had definitely met! He handled the acquisition and subsequent refinance of my primary residence and asked me for a copy of my ID and verified my identity in both transactions. Let’s face it: he gave me my name, but this was his process that he followed every time. If he had not followed this same process with me, he could not say confidently, “I always verify identity.” Do you always verify identity?It takes more than good intentions to transform communities. It takes capital, development capacity and trusted partnerships. In our 30+ years, Cinnaire has delivered more than $10 billion in community impact. Overcoming challenges. Solving problems. Backed by a commitment to creating healthy communities that has never wavered.The Return on Investment: Safe, Aordable Homes. Healthy Communities. Better Lives.Transforming Communities. Transforming Lives.CINNAIRE.COMGetting all three of these elements is often difficult, but each of them remains a factor in the equation. If it does not work or you do not know how to work it, then it is definitely overpriced. If the cost is $1000 per identification, then no one really cares how effective it is or how easy it is to use. You must apply your own evaluation of the ROI, the impact on your workflow, and the ability of the solution to meet your security needs.Linked below is a non-inclusive list of some solutions that can aid in your battle against the fraudsters.WHO PAYS FOR THE SERVICE?The party closing the transaction writes the check to pay for the service. If that’s you, then they send you a bill that you pay at closing from the closing funds, charged to the benefiting party. The real question is ultimately who bears the cost. No one would argue that the seller’s payoff is the financial obligation of the closing provider. What about the termite report, recording, overnight shipping charges? No, no, and no. The settlement statement outlines all of the buyer/borrower and seller costs. Insuring or protecting the transaction is just another cost that is necessitated by one of the parties, and that party should bear the expense with the charge properly delineated on the settlement statement. This is a legitimate and justifiable expense that will become commonplace, accepted, and expected in future closings. This approach ensures that the cost of safeguarding the transaction does not detract from the provider's bottom line while protecting all of those involved.IDENTIFICATION VERIFICATION SOLUTIONSDISCLAIMER: As with any solution in which you choose to place your trust, we strongly encourage you to perform your own due diligence, inquire with the solution provider, view their demonstrations, and make the decision that is best for your business and your clients. The above list is intended to assist in your journey of examination and not serve as a substitution for your own thorough evaluation process.

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36 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comvendorARTICLESWhat You Need to Know:New and Existing Tax-Saving Opportunities for Community Bankshen it comes to the world of banking, we all know change is more often the rule than the exception. The same can be said for tax regulations and changes that affect banks. To take full advantage of new (and existing) opportunities to reduce tax liability wherever possible, today’s community banks must be acutely aware of tax changes and ready to adapt—quickly and efficiently. This article provides some insights into several tax-saving opportunities—some new and some existing—that are often overlooked.TIMING DIFFERENCES IN A RISING INTEREST RATE/INCREASED MARGIN PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT. The benefits of timing differences for tax purposes have typically been minimized by financial institutions, especially when interest rates were at, or near, zero percent. With no direct benefit on the effective tax rate for reporting purposes and the time value of money being what it is in a low interest rate environment, institutions have historically found it difficult to justify tax strategies that resulted only in deferring taxes, not eliminating them. Times have now changed, and with interest rates rising, these strategies deserve another look. Areas that can often benefit from a timing perspective include loan fees/costs, mortgage servicing rights, depreciation, and loan charge-offs. Examining the different methods available for tax and/or the analysis going into arriving at these deductions can often result in accelerating deductions or deferring income for tax purposes. The result can be significant tax savings, even when only temporary.AND LOANS.Another result of rising interest rates with tax planning impact is tax-free income earned via tax-free investments and loans, and the required interest expense add-back penalty banks face, often referred to as the “Section 291 disallowance” or “TEFRA disallowance.” Banks have always been required to disallow a portion of their total interest expense deduction for tax purposes based on a specific formula based on their total tax-free interest assets, total assets, and total interest expense. The mechanics of this formula create a situation where the disallowance can be significantly increased when total interest expense increases, even when there has been no change in the level of tax-free investments/loans. Because of this, a closer examination of what is being recorded as interest expense and classified as tax-free investments can be worth the additional work if it might result in a lower interest expense add-back. In addition, since the use of this specific formula is required only for banking institutions, there is an ability, using subsidiaries and holding companies, to avoid the disallowed deduction all together. Another result of an increased interest expense disallowance is its impact on evaluating taxable vs. tax-free investments and correctly pricing tax-free loans. While many use the simple calculation for tax equivalent yield comparisons of [tax free rate / (1 – tax rate)], this calculation does not consider the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA) interest expense add-back. During periods of low total interest expense, this may not be significant; however, the current environment can increase the impact of leaving this add-back out and lead to improper investment decisions. If not already doing so, institutions should be careful to incorporate the impact of the interest expense disallowance in its tax equivalent yield calculations.THE 2022 INFLATION REDUCTION ACT PROVIDED SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO MANY ENERGY INCOME TAX CREDITS.The use of tax credits, such as low-income housing credits and rehabilitation credits, has been a long-used tax savings strategy that many institutions have employed to not only reduce tax liability but also decrease reported effective tax rates. Changes resulting from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act may make sense for certain institutions, and it is worth investigating these opportunities. The Act provided more favorable rules, allowing the direct purchase of some credits, and increasing the carryback period for unused credits to three years from one year. Recent changes in the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) rules related to the accounting treatment of certain relationships involving the use of tax credits have, in some cases, provided more favorable treatment on annual financial statements as well.W

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 37ACCESS COLLABORATIVE LENDING SOLUTIONS: Expand Your Loan and Lease Oerings for Ag & Forestry ClientsAgri-Access specializes in secondary market financing for agriculture, aquaculture, forest products and rural land, providing capital for community banks across the nation.Visit our website at agri-access.comMatthew SenterVice President – Lender RelationsPhone: 507-810-0837matthew.senter@agri-access.comDEDUCTION FOR BUSINESS MEALS AS OF 2023.After a brief period of allowing 100 percent deduction, as of 2023, the deduction for business meals has returned to a 50 percent. This means businesses need to again separate their business meal expenses so the 50 percent limitation can be properly applied on tax returns. One mistake often made is how the cost of meals provided for employee events, such as holiday parties and team building events, is treated. Current tax law allows a 100 percent deduction in cases where meals are provided to events such as these for employees. Typically, these costs are lumped in with other limited meal expenses. Properly identifying these costs allows the taxpayer to benefit from a 100 percent deduction.KNOW YOUR STATE’S RULES REGARDING “MARKET BASED” OR “BENEFIT BASED” INCOME SOURCING.A major tax risk that many institutions have, whether known, or in many cases, unknown, is related to state tax exposure. Each state has its own rules related to how income may be sourced, and many states have recently revised their rules to provide for a form of “market based” or “benefit based” sourcing as opposed to the older “cost of performance” method. As a result, these changes have increased the possibility that a bank may be subject to tax in states that they may have never considered. The flip side of this is that taxes may also be currently overpaid to the institution’s home state. Another significant related issue here is the increased use of remote employees by banks. Often, having remote employees in a different state can have an impact on an institution’s state tax exposure. Today, more than ever, it is extremely important that institutions analyze their potential state tax exposure so that they are aware of what risks they may have.ABOUT THE AUTHOR: CHARLES E. MARSTON, CPA, MST, PRESIDENT AND PRINCIPAL, TAX GROUP, SNODGRASSChuck Marston has over 25 years’ experience in tax preparation and planning, working primarily with financial institutions. He is a member of the Pennsylvania and American Institutes of Certified Public Accountants, has published several articles on tax issues related to the banking industry, and is a frequent speaker at various seminars.AGRI-ACCESS ..................................................................................................... 37BANK HEALTH CARE CONSORTIUM OF PA ................................. 23BANKTALENTHQ .......................................................................................... IBC BANKERS ALLIANCE ..................................................................................... 39CINNAIRE ..............................................................................................................35COMPLIANCE ALLIANCE .........................................................................IFCCORNERSTONE ADVISORS ...................................................................... 19CSI ..............................................................................................................................45DELUXE ................................................................................................................... 33EVOLV ......................................................................................................................39HERBEIN ................................................................................................................ 21INVESTORS TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY..................................44PNC ............................................................................................................................ 32S.R. SNODGRASS, P.C. .................................................................................BCTHE BAKER GROUP ..........................................................................................4adINDEX

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38 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comvendorARTICLESfter a little more than two years and 525bp worth of rate hikes, the Federal Reserve has started to signal that rate cuts are on the horizon. During that period of rapid rate hikes we saw an increased focus on asset liability management (ALM)/interest rate risk (IRR) model assumption review and documentation. Along with rising rates, we also saw an increasingly competitive environment for deposits, which drove cost of funds up much faster than assumed across the board.So how does this impact institutions from an ALM and IRR standpoint? Specifically, how do model assumptions impact earnings at risk and capital at risk as rates fall?First let’s talk about loan constant prepayment rates (CPRs), a method of measuring prepayments that assumes a constant portion of the outstanding loan principal will prepay. For example, a 15% CPR assumes 15% of the outstanding principal balance will prepay in one year. Historically as rates start to fall, we see CPRs rise as people are now able to refinance their loans down to lower rates. Given the rapid rise in rates from the Fed, this may not be the case this time. According to the St. Louis Fed, the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage in July of 2021 was 2.87% compared to March of 2024 at 6.87%. That means if you locked in your mortgage in July 2021, it would take 400bps worth of cuts before you would start thinking about refinancing. Existing home sales are at all-time lows as people feel “locked in” to their current homes and low interest rates. It may take a significant cut from the Fed before we see an increase in prepayment activity on our loan portfolios. Due to this possibility, it is a great time to review current CPR assumptions and understand how they can impact earnings at risk. Overstating prepayment activity can lead to a misleading figure in change-in-interest income and provide an inaccurate projection in a falling rate scenario.On the other side of the balance sheet, we have deposits. The competition for deposits has been evident as we have seen cost of funds steadily rise for the last two years. The big question is, as rates start to fall will we be able to cut those deposit rates as fast as we originally had to AInterest Rate Risk in 2024:Model Assumptions in a Falling Rate EnvironmentABOUT THE AUTHOR: LUKE MIKLES, VICE PRESIDENT, THE BAKER GROUPLuke Mikles is a Vice President in the Financial Strategies Group at The Baker Group. He joined the firm in 2019, serving in the Interest Rate Risk Department. In 2023, Luke moved to the Financial Strategies Group, where he assists institutions with the risk management process and speaks at Baker’s educational seminars across the country. Luke holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in energy economics from the University of Central Oklahoma. Contact: 405-415-7307, LMikles@GoBaker.com.raise them? The assumption in play here is going to be the deposit beta, or shift sensitivity. This is the metric that shows us how much deposit rates change in line with a move from the Fed. A beta of 35% would show a 35bp move for every 100bp move from the Fed. The impact of an overly optimistic, or higher, beta in a falling rate environment could provide a misleading model output on changes to interest expense. Because depositors are now aware of the possible earnings and rates they can receive on their money, the fight for deposits remains high. The “sleepy depositor” for the most part has awoken. If this trend continues, institutions may not be able to drop their deposit rates as quickly as in past falling rate cycles. This will directly affect how interest expense fluctuates as rates fall; therefore, institutions should review and discuss this probability and the impact on the bottom line. As rates started to rise, the resurgence of the CD came right along with it. The composition of the balance sheet is another aspect of interest rate risk that changes along with the movement in rates. CD specials are a prime example due to the increased rates offered. As these products start to reach maturity, the institution should discuss the likelihood of whether those maturing dollars will continue into a similar product or possibly flow out into something else. For example, we have seen a migration of non-maturing deposits into CDs over the last two years. Will this trend start to reverse as rates fall? The review of model assumptions is by far one of the most important pieces of the ALM process. While it may not have seemed important in the past to discuss falling rate assumptions, considering rates were near zero for so long, it is at the forefront of the interest rate risk world now. Understanding how institutions will operate as rates fall will have a direct impact on modeling, and thus a direct impact on model outputs. The more accurate the assumption, the more useful the model when it comes to making informed decisions for institutions. In this current environment, this discussion around assumptions can help put an institution on the best path forward.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 39Learn how budgeng for top-er support andguidance can save your program money.That’s Bankers Alliance.info@bankersalliance.org or (833) 683-0701.Holding Company of Compliance Allianceand Review AllianceWhat if outsourcing for guidance, research, tools, annual training, special projects, staffing, even complete CMS oversight is really the answer for your compliance budget issues?CMYCMMYCYCMYK888.311.7248 ext 3009nschlachter@poweredbyevolv.comwww.poweredbyevolv.comStop LosingCommercialDepositorsto SquareIncrease Non-Interest IncomeRetain & attract commercial depositorsProvide solutions for startups, growing& established businessesAccess to four processing platformsOffer revenue-driving ancillary productsPartnership BenefitsSquare is aggressively pursuing--and winning--accounts that are typically the domain ofcommercial banks. In addition to giving you toolsto win these accounts, Evolv will increase yournon-interest income! Nellie SchlachterEvolv, Inc. is a registered ISO of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Concord, CA and Fifth Third Bank, N.A., Cincinnati, OH.Schedule A DiscoveryCall to Learn More

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40 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comAs I settled into a meeting at the local Panera Bread, the vibrant hub of my town, the rhythm of modern customer interactions played out around me. Opting for eciency, I sidestepped the bustling lines by placing my order through the digital kiosk, while my perpetually tardy colleague seamlessly navigated the Panera mobile app on his phone. The uid convergence of in-person, kiosk, and mobile ordering at the bakery stirred a thought: if a bakery chain could adapt so seamlessly to diverse customer preferences, surely community and regional banks, deeply rooted in local communities, could draw inspiration from such exibility. Community and Regional Banks: Anchors in Local Relationships In the same way the Panera staff knows the regulars by name and understands their preferred orders, community, and regional banks function as anchors in their communities. These nancial institutions boast long-standing relationships with clients, akin to the familiar faces at your local business who understand your tastes and preferences, creating a sense of trust that transcends mere nancial transactions.As Panera is to comfort food, community banks are to nancial comfort, providing a welcoming and personalized touch that distinguishes them in an era increasingly dominated by faceless digital transactions. Balancing Act: Remote Convenience vs. Personalized Attention It became evident to me that banks, much like the bakery, must execute a delicate balancing act between offering remote convenience and maintaining a personalized touch. The bakery manages to cater to both those who crave the speed of digital ordering and those who prefer the familiarity of in-person transactions. Community and regional banks Are You Meeting Your Customer’ Preferred Banking Channels?A Story About My Visit to Panera BreadBy Nancy Schneiers I settled into a meeting at the local Panera Bread, the vibrant hub of my town, the rhythm of modern customer interactions played out around me. Opting for efficiency, I sidestepped the bustling lines by placing my order through the digital kiosk, while my perpetually tardy colleague seamlessly navigated the Panera mobile app on his phone. The fluid convergence of in-person, kiosk, and mobile ordering at the bakery stirred a thought: if a bakery chain could adapt so seamlessly to diverse customer preferences, surely community and regional banks, deeply rooted in local communities, could draw inspiration from such flexibility. COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL BANKS: ANCHORS IN LOCAL RELATIONSHIPSIn the same way the Panera staff knows the regulars by name and understands their preferred orders, community, and regional banks function as anchors in their communities. These financial institutions boast long-standing relationships with clients, akin to the familiar faces at your local business who understand your tastes and preferences, creating a sense of trust that transcends mere financial transactions. As Panera is to comfort food, community banks are to financial comfort, providing a welcoming and personalized touch that distinguishes them in an era increasingly dominated by faceless digital transactions.BALANCING ACT: REMOTE CONVENIENCE VS. PERSONALIZED ATTENTIONIt became evident to me that banks, much like the bakery, must execute a delicate balancing act between offering remote convenience and maintaining a personalized touch. The bakery manages to cater to both those who crave the speed of digital ordering and those who prefer the familiarity of in-person transactions.Community and regional banks face a similar challenge—meeting the seemingly divergent demands of a digital-savvy clientele while preserving the personal relationships that have been the cornerstone of their success.FOSTERING PARTNERSHIPS: A STRENGTH OF COMMUNITY BANKSMuch like the personal approach observed at various local businesses, community banks excel in establishing meaningful connections beyond financial transactions. These banks actively participate in local business vendorARTICLESAAre You Meeting Your Customer’s Preferred Banking Channels?A Story About My Visit to Panera Bread

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 41ABOUT THE AUTHOR: NANCY SCHNEIER, CRO, VIKARNancy Schneier is Chief Revenue Officer and founder at Vikar Technologies, a provider of account opening and lending software. Nancy has over 35 years of experience in selling and delivering banking solutions with a focus on new product innovation. Nancy holds a BS in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School.collaborations and community initiatives, thereby strengthening their ties to the neighborhoods they serve.The parallel lies in the ability to transcend the traditional role of a business entity and become an integral part of the community, cultivating partnerships that go beyond the realm of banking.DELIVERING A CONCIERGE SERVICE: BREAKING DOWN INTERNAL SILOSObserving the efficient coordination of tasks in various service-oriented businesses, there is a lesson for community banks in breaking down internal silos. Offering a concierge service tailored to individual needs is the key, streamlining processes and ensuring a more seamless experience for both clients and bank officers.Community banks can create an environment where internal collaboration mirrors the external service—efficient, seamless, and customer-centric.DIGITAL PLATFORMS: THE BACKBONE OF CONCIERGE BANKINGThe effectiveness of businesses in handling various service channels, —be it through kiosks or mobile apps—underscores the importance of a robust digital platform. Community banks, in their pursuit of a concierge banking experience, require sophisticated software infrastructure.This digital backbone must unite departments, effectively manage client information, and digitize back-office processes. Just as Panera relies on technology to enhance the customer experience, community banks can leverage digital platforms to bring efficiency and personalization to the forefront of their services.INTERNAL MARKETING THROUGH DIGITAL TRANSFORMATIONJust as businesses embrace digital innovation to underscore their dedication to customer-centric services, community banks can utilize digital workflows not just for enhanced account management but also as a powerful internal marketing initiative.Implementing digitized workflows isn’t just an operational necessity— it is a strategic move that signals to clients and stakeholders alike that the bank is committed to evolving with the times and providing cutting-edge, customer-focused solutions.Drawing inspiration from the efficiency of Panera in serving first-time customers, community banks, armed with advanced digital platforms, can offer a packaged experience that transforms initial interactions into enduring relationships. This transformative approach solidifies the bank’s position as a trusted financial partner, encouraging clients not merely to engage but to become loyal customers.Much like the seamless and memorable experiences that turn first-time visitors into regular patrons in various successful establishments, community banks can convert the curiosity of new clients into sustained loyalty, ensuring that each interaction leaves an indelible mark on the customer’s financial journey.In navigating the ever-evolving banking landscape, community and regional banks stand at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Drawing inspiration from the adaptable and customercentric practices of a national bakery chain, these financial institutions can carve a path that not only embraces the diverse preferences of their clientele but also positions them as indispensable pillars of their communities.Vikar is revolutionizing the way banks do business today. We are the only company providing software in which customers, lenders, branch managers, underwriters, KYC, and operation teams collaborate from a common interface across loans, deposits, treasury, and wealth management. Vikar offers One Vikar, a modern solution with built-in rules and automation supporting today’s demands from both bank clients and employees. The One Vikar solution is built with a holistic view of a bank’s business and completely integrates into the core banking system.For more information about this article or to learn more about Vikar products and services please contact Nancy Schneier at nancy@vikartech.com.

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42 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comDEALERTRACK COLLATERALMANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC.Electronic Lien and Title ProgramWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comDELUXE CORPORATION*Check ProgramTodd Wroblewski, (724) 625-5599todd.wroblewski@deluxe.comBANK HEALTH CARECONSORTIUM OF PA*A Unique Health Care Alternative for PA-Based Financial Institutions and Affiliate Members of the PA Bankers AssociationWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comPA Bankers Services Corporation Select Vendors Provide PA Bankers Members Savings, Service and Quality*Vendors provide products and services to both financial institution members and Affiliate Members. As of 3/8/2024ABA INSURANCE SERVICES*Bond, D&O, Cyber Insurance, andEmployment Practices LiabilityPatricia Williams, (216) 220-1280pwilliams@abais.comBANKERS ALLIANCE*A Family of Bank Compliance ServicesThat Includes Compliance Alliance,Review Alliance andVirtual Compliance OfficerWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comBANZAI!*Interactive, Award-Winning CourseTeaching Students Real-WorldFinance, No Upfront CostKatie Rigby, (801) 821-9055katie@banzai.orgCOMMONWEALTH CHARITABLEMANAGEMENT*Application and Administrationof EITC ProgramsCristine Clayton, (570) 278-3800cclayton@commonwealthcharitable.orgBANKTALENTHQ*Diversity is Essential -Find Talent in all the Right PlacesWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comBANK PERFORMANCE REPORT*A Proven Tool for Improving SuccessQuarterly performance reports subscription available for all states; custom/historical reports upon requestWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comCORNERSTONE ADVISORS*Core, Debit EFT, Card Program, LoanOrigination, Bill Pay, Mobile Banking &ATM Contract NegotiationJennifer Wagner, (480) 425-5204jwagner@crnrstone.comAPPI ENERGY*Electricity and Natural Gas Procurement Services, Utilities Management PlatformKathryn S. Allen, (667) 330-1161KAllen@APPIEnergy.comTHE BAKER GROUPAsset/Liability ManagementSoftware and ServicesCharles Amis, (405) 415-7231Charlie@gobaker.com

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 43GLOBALVISION SYSTEMS, INC.Anti-Money LaunderingCatherine Lew, (818) 998-7851 x128clew@gv-systems.comINNOVATIVE FINANCING SOLUTIONS, LLC.Your Trusted SBA/USDA ExpertsMichael D. Ryan, (610) 733-9955mryan@innovfs.netEVOLV*Merchant Processing, Search EngineOptimization, Website Design and SocialMedia ManagementNellie Schlachter, (888) 311-7248x3009nschlachter@poweredbyevolv.comPAYLOCITY*HCM Solutions andEngagement SoftwareLisa DeJoy, (717) 303-7663ldejoy@paylocity.comMARKETSCANImmediate Financial Impact Through NegotiationsWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.comINVESTORS TITLEINSURANCE COMPANYMulti-Bank Owned TitleInsurance ProgramKaren Barnett, (419) 577-5900kbarnett@invtitle.comKLARIVIS*Data Analytics Solution Designed by Bankers for BankersAmber Robinson, (603) 860-3162amberrobinson@klarivis.comWEBBER ADVISORS*Multiple Medical, Drug, Dental &Vision Options and EB SolutionsBrad Webber, (814) 695-8066bwebber@lrwebber.comNCONTRACTS*Integrated Compliance, Vendor and Risk Management, Board Encouragement PlatformKara D'Argenzio, (412) 370-4391kara.dargenzio@ncontracts.comNFP EXECUTIVE BENEFITS*BOLI, Executive Compensationand Long-Term CareDavid Shoemaker, CPA/PFS, CFP®(901) 754-4924david.shoemaker@nfp.comPNC FIRSTPreferred Derivatives ProgramAmber L. Evanco, (724) 689-2178amber.evanco@pnc.comASSET EXCHANGEOnline Marketplace Jack Payne, 610-295-5555jack.payne@pnc.comPWCAMPBELL*Design-build, Branch Experience and Consulting ServicesErin Campbell, (800) 253-7430erin.campbell@pwcampbell.comVIKAR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Digital Account Opening and Lending Solutions: One View, One Vendor, One VikarNancy Schneier, (973) 495-4835nancy@vikartech.comNEW ERA TECHNOLOGY*Managed Service Provider for Voiceand Data CommunicationMichael Foglia, (973) 503-5809michael.foglia@neweratech.comVendor selections and recommendations are made in accordance with PA Bankers Services Corporation’s stated mission. It is believed that the promoted products and services merit strong consideration by PA Bankers member banks. PA Bankers Services Corporation due diligence and selection criteria should not be construed as a guarantee, as the ultimate appropriateness may vary from bank to bank. In addition, member banks are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence reviews of recommended vendors. Remuneration received by PA Bankers Services Corporation is utilized in-part to support the PA Bankers Association through contracted agreements, corporate sponsorships and overhead coverage. This financial support expands resources and strengthens the services and programs of the PA Bankers Association.THE PLATEAU GROUP, INC.Tailored Credit Enhancement and Debt Protection SolutionsWayne Whipple, (717) 255-6925wwhipple@pabankers.com

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44 » PA Bankers Association pabankers.comPA Bankers Association 50 Volume 21.1 | Quarter 1SOMEONE IS MAKING MONEY ON TITLE INSURANCE. IT SHOULD BE YOU.It’s like owning your own title insurance company, only better. PA Bankers Services Corporation – along with Investors Title Insurance Company – will help you become part of a multi-bank owned title insurance agency and share in the profits every time title insurance is written. To learn more, simply give us a call at (717) 255-6925 and we’ll show you how your bank can earn non-interest income from title insurance.

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PA Bankers Association » Summer 2023 45High Tech, meet high touch.Modern software and open technologies that help your bank rival the competition—without sacrificing service.LEARN MORE AT CSIWEB.COMTech you need.Agility you want.Service you deserve.CMYCMMYCYCMYKPBA-0424-TechYouNeed-v3.pdf 1 4/26/24 3:41 PM

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                                        CMYCMMYCYCMYK240209_Snodgrass_Full-Page-Ads_Why-To-Why-Not_Revised_2024_v5.pdf 51 2/9/24 2:21 PM