Main Street Matters Blog

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.

Generation Z already outnumbers millennials and baby boomers and in a matter of years they’ll become the most financially powerful generation in our lifetimes. This generation represents a huge opportunity for community banks

April may be Financial Literacy Month, but at Community Spirit Bank our focus on providing young people with a strong foundational knowledge of money management concepts and skills remains a priority throughout the year.

Since its debut, Bitcoin has experienced spectacular fluctuations in value. While some accept the risks that come with such swings, others are working to blend the potential benefits of cryptocurrency with enhanced stability mechanisms. These digital currencies are collectively known as stablecoins.