In the wake of the high-profile cyberattacks on SolarWinds and Colonial Pipeline affecting national security and the everyday lives of Americans, cybersecurity has never been a more pressing concern to community banks.

CBDCs are taking center stage around the globe, with multiple research projects underway. As central banks lay the framework for digital currencies, how money movement is architected could have a significant impact on community banks.

What is galvanizing the world market to pursue central bank digital currencies? The factors are varied. In this edition of ICBA’s Digital Dollar Digest series, we explore the catalysts for global interest in central bank digital currency (CBDC).

Black-owned community banks have a long history of serving Americans historically left out of the mainstream banking system. Many well-established community banks continue this legacy today, but one troubling trend has emerged in the past two decades.

The payments industry is abuzz with excitement as one topic continues capturing headlines, with profound implications for community banks: Bitcoin. With digital currencies reshaping the U.S. payments system that community banks and their customers depend on, what exactly is Bitcoin and where did it come from?

While community banks have again proven their importance to local communities as Paycheck Protection Program leaders, public banking proponents in some states and municipalities threaten to undermine this system and its benefits to consumers.

To better protect their institutions and customers from email scams, community banks can make incremental technological changes. The following enhancements to email settings will increase email deliverability and improve security against phishing scams.

For community banks looking to strike a balance between high-touch services and high-tech capabilities, selecting the right technology partner is more critical than ever. This decision is amplified when it comes to selecting a core processor.

Buy now, pay later or BNPL, is the latest cautionary payments tale for community banks. Much like digital wallets, its appeal—with instant gratification and integrated payment at checkout—has taken hold with Gen Z and millennials.

Community banks’ focus on next-generation digital solutions was on full display during a recent symposium hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and the Conference of State Bank Supervisors.