Strategic Foresight

Community banks have long been trusted for their personalized service and deep community roots. However, as technology reshapes consumer expectations and larger institutions dominate the digital and marketing landscape, community banks face increasing challenges in maintaining relevance. SLD conducted a consumer study to uncover perceptions of community banking, identify unmet needs, and reveal strategies that […]

The definition of community is shifting, and with it, the role of financial institutions in fostering trust, engagement, and long-term loyalty. Traditionally, community banks thrived on their physical presence, local involvement, and personalized services. However, changing consumer behaviors, the rise of digital banking, and the increasing importance of social media have blurred the boundaries of

Community banks, once the backbone of the U.S. financial sector, are facing an existential crisis. More than 3,800 institutions have disappeared since 2004 due to industry consolidation, digital disruption, and changing consumer expectations. With competition from national banks, credit unions, and online-only financial institutions intensifying, community banks must rethink their role and redefine what it