Despite overarching concerns about the economy, competitors and threats from bad actors, community bankers expressed widespread optimism for the future and targeted plans to increase deposits.

Long-term pressures like M&A activity, the economy’s ebb and flow, financial crimes and regulatory compliance are nothing new. What sets today’s landscape apart are the new opportunities to stay competitive and further their customer-centric, personalized approach.

After several years of disruption, 2024 will no doubt have its surprises. But with 2023 behind them, community bankers have their eyes set on strategically engaging consumers and capitalizing on emerging opportunities in domains like digital banking, AI and open banking for many years to come. Overall, their outlook is one of measured confidence and a continued commitment to evolving with the changing financial landscape.