Archive for month: January, 2025

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Oak Bank: Caden Moyer Promoted to Credit Analyst at Oak Bank

Caden Moyer

Oak Bank, Fitchburg’s trusted community bank since 2000, is pleased to announce the promotion of Caden Moyer from Loan Operations Specialist to Credit Analyst.

Moyer’s professional growth at Oak Bank reflects his dedication and adaptability. His recent experience in the Loan Department, combined with a background in auditing, has honed his analytical skills and attention to detail, enabling him to deliver exceptional service to clients.

“I’m thrilled to continue my career at Oak Bank, working alongside a talented team focused on delivering the best possible experience for our clients,” said Moyer.

As a Credit Analyst, Moyer is responsible for evaluating financial data to provide objective risk assessments for both business and individual clients, ensuring comprehensive support for Oak Bank’s Business Banking team.

“Caden brings an impressive skill set and great enthusiasm to our Credit Department,” said Matt Hill, Senior Vice President of Credit at Oak Bank. “We are excited to see the positive impact he will continue to make for our clients and the bank.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Moyer is passionate about giving back to the community through organizations like Special Olympics and World Vision. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, traveling, fitness, outdoor activities, and cheering on his favorite sports teams.

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One Community Bank: One Community Bank Welcomes Lukas Trow as SVP – Commercial Banking Manager

Lukas Trow

One Community Bank is excited to welcome Lukas Trow as SVP – Commercial Banking Manager.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lukas back to One Community Bank,” said Dan Carey, Chief Commercial Officer. “His deep passion for community banking, extensive experience, and leadership in the industry make him an invaluable asset to our team. Lukas has proven time and again his commitment to serving our clients and supporting our communities, and we are excited to have him as a leader in our Commercial Banking team as we continue to grow and invest in the areas we serve.”

Lukas began his banking career while still in high school at Evergreen State Bank, quickly advancing from a teller into personal banking and then mortgage processing. After Evergreen was acquired by McFarland State Bank in 2011, he took on roles as Commercial Loan Administrator, Portfolio Manager, and Commercial Lender. In 2020, following the merger with Oregon Community Bank, Lukas became Market President for Stoughton. After 16 years in the banking industry, he briefly served as CFO for a Stoughton-based home builder before returning to One Community Bank to continue his passion for community banking.

“Community Banking is my passion and where my heart lies,” said Lukas. “I am excited to be back on the team, ready to once again serve clients, support colleagues, and invest in our communities.”

Lukas shares One Community Bank’s dedication to community investment. “OCB is a financial institution that truly invests in its communities – whether through donations, outreach, providing personal deposits and lending, or helping small businesses expand and grow,” Lukas said. “OCB is here to serve the needs of our communities.”

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lukas is actively involved in his community. He serves as a board member for the Stoughton Chamber, Vice President for the Stoughton Hospital Foundation, and Vice – Chair for Stoughton Redevelopment Authority.

Outside of work, Lukas enjoys spending time with his family. He is married to his high school sweetheart, and together they have twin three-year-old boys. The family enjoys going on walks, visiting parks, and experiencing life through the eyes of their young children.

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Strategic Connections: In My Data Era

By Grace Bruins

Grace Bruins

Somewhere between deciphering what is “sus” in Gen Z slang and making sure we manage the AI robots (instead of the other way around), marketers continue to rank data strategy as a top priority for their team. So why does it feel so … cringe?

The topic of data strategy is not new to the Wisconsin Bankers Association Marketing Committee or Marketing Connect Groups. If you’re right there with the rest of us, here are a few ideas to take your data plans from “basic” to “bussin”:

Locate Your Data
Start by discovering exactly where your data lives and what metrics are available.
•  Website analytics: traffic, audience behavior, conversions on your site
•  Social media: engagement metrics and audience demographics
•  Market data: local community demographics and competitor data
•  Customer data/CRM: customer insights, interactions, communication history, contact information, current products, and transactions

Define Success
Have proactive conversations with your leadership team about what you are hoping to accomplish with your data strategy.
•  What are we trying to measure? What are those measurements telling us?
•  What does a successful campaign look like? Higher click throughs? Increased accounts? Additional deposits?
•  Are there assumptions about our customers and our markets that we make that can be validated (or challenged) by additional data?
•  How do you hope our data can inform business decisions?

Get Compliant
Make sure Compliance knows you understood the assignment.
•  Know your privacy policy (and stick to it).
•  Collaborate with your Compliance team to ensure transparency and security.

Dig In
You’ve got your hands on your data; you know what metrics your leadership team values, and Compliance is on board. Now what?
•  Keep your data current. If email is a primary channel of communication, work closely with your front-line teams to verify customer contact information when a customer is at the teller line or on the phone. This doesn’t need to feel like an aggressive demand for email addresses. It can be a simple conversation about the way the bank likes to communicate important information and updates with customers.
•  Personalize the customer experience. Look at data points that tell you something about your customer’s stage in life.
o Did they just open a checking account for their teenager? Consider talking to the parent about student credit cards.
o Does your customer have regular transfers into their savings? Consider educational information about saving for the future or better yet, offer a higher interest-bearing account option to help grow their savings.
o Did your customer’s transactions suddenly increase at furniture stores or home improvement stores? Consider reaching out about home loan or home equity line of credit options.
•  Create customer segments and profiles. Use your data to inform demographic and behavioral information about your customers. Creating customer segments and concise profiles offers valuable decision-making power to future projects. Have a product idea you think is perfect for your customers? Test it against your customer profiles. Ask yourself “Is this right for Customer A – a blue-collar worker with three kids and low personal debt?” If the answer is “yes” – move forward! If the answer is “no” – move on.
•  Watch for trends in activity. Watch for signs of customer disengagement. Has transaction activity started to drop off? Have recurring transfers or automatic payments been cancelled? Maybe it’s time to re-engage with that customer before they move on completely.
•  Don’t be afraid to communicate. Regularly. Nobody wants to feel like a “big bank” – hammering customers with offers that aren’t relevant to their life. But remember, your customers have put a lot of trust in you. You hold all their personal information and should know them better than any big bank could. So, reach out. Remind customers they are more than an account or loan. Find ways to show what a valuable partner your bank can be in their financial journey.

If your data is giving main character energy in 2025, it’s time to create a strategy that slays.

Bruins, marketing officer, AVP at Horicon Bank, is a member of the WBA Marketing Committee.

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Bankers’ Bank: Bankers’ Bank Announces Appointment of Stacy Smith as Operations Lead, Bank Cards

Stacy Smith

Bankers’ Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Stacy Smith as Operations Lead, Bank Cards. With 12 years of banking experience, Stacy brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this critical role.

In her new position, Stacy will be responsible for ensuring the smooth, efficient, and compliant processing of credit card transactions. She will manage operational workflows, optimize customer service and satisfaction, and collaborate with multiple teams within Bankers’ Bank. Stacy will also drive process and procedural improvements and ensure adherence to industry regulations and internal policies.

Stacy’s unique background includes education in cosmetology, which has contributed to her diverse skill set and customer-focused approach. Her dedication to creating a healthy and exciting work environment will be instrumental in better serving the needs of our clients and providing an exceptional service experience.

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Executive Letter: Happy New Year – 2025 Brings Adjusted Regulatory Thresholds

From the Desk of Rose Oswald PoelsBy Rose Oswald Poels

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, there are many thresholds which have been adjusted by both state and federal regulators which go into effect now that the new year has arrived. Below is a collection of thresholds effective January 1, 2025. A link has been provided for each as a reference.

Regulation Z, TILA  

  • The exemption threshold for Regulation Z (Truth in Lending Act) will increase to $71,900, up from $69,500. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-10-15/pdf/2024-23275.pdf
  • The exemption threshold under Regulation Z for HPML appraisals will increase to $33,500, up from $32,400. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-10-15/pdf/2024-23277.pdf
  • The asset-size threshold under Regulation Z which exempts creditors from the requirement to establish an escrow account for HPMLs will be:
    • For creditors and their affiliates that regularly extended covered transactions secured by first liens, the asset-size threshold is adjusted to $2.717 billion, up from $2.640 billion; and
    • The exemption threshold for certain insured depository institutions with assets of $10 billion or less is adjusted to $12.179 billion, up from $11.835 billion. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-12-23/pdf/2024-30653.pdf
  • The dollar amount thresholds under Regulation Z for HOEPA and QM-related loans have been adjusted as follows:
    • For HOEPA loans, the adjusted total loan amount threshold for high-cost mortgages will be $26,968.
    • The adjusted points-and-fees dollar trigger for high-cost mortgages will be $1,348.
    • For QMs under the General QM loan definition in § 1026.43(e)(2), the thresholds for the spread between the annual percentage rate (APR) and the average prime offer rate (APOR) will be:
      • 2.25 or more percentage points for a first-lien covered transaction with a loan amount greater than or equal to $134,841;
      • 3.5 or more percentage points for a first-lien covered transaction with a loan amount greater than or equal to $80,905 but less than $134,841;
      • 6.5 or more percentage points for a first-lien covered transaction with a loan amount less than $80,905;
      • 6.5 or more percentage points for a first-lien covered transaction secured by a manufactured home with a loan amount less than $134,841;
      • 3.5 or more percentage points for a subordinate-lien covered transaction with a loan amount greater than or equal to $80,905; or
      • 6.5 or more percentage points for a subordinate-lien covered transaction with a loan amount less than $80,905.
    • For all categories of QMs, the thresholds for total points and fees will be:
      • 3 percent of the total loan amount for a loan greater than or equal to $134,841;
      • $4,045 for a loan amount greater than or equal to $80,905 but less than $134,841;
      • 5 percent of the total loan amount for a loan greater than or equal to $26,968 but less than $80,905;
      • $1,348 for a loan amount greater than or equal to $16,855 but less than $26,968; and
      • 8 percent of the total loan amount for a loan amount less than $16,855.
  • For open-end consumer credit plans under TILA, the threshold that triggers requirements to disclose minimum interest charges will remain unchanged at $1.00 for 2025. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-12-02/pdf/2024-27553.pdf

Regulation C, HMDA

Community Reinvestment Act (CRA)  

  • The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (FRB) and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) CRA regulations have adjusted the asset-size thresholds used to define “small bank” and “intermediate small bank” to be:
    • Small bank means a bank that, as of December 31 of either of the prior two calendar years, had assets of less than $1.609 billion; and
    • Intermediate small bank means a small bank with assets of at least $402 million as of December 31 of both of the prior two calendar years and less than $1.609 billion as of December 31 of either of the prior two calendar years. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-12-30/pdf/2024-30849.pdf
  • The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) made the identical adjustments to the asset-size thresholds used to define “small bank or savings association” and “intermediate small bank or savings association.” https://www.occ.gov/news-issuances/bulletins/2024/bulletin-2024-36.html

Required Escrow Rate under Wisconsin Law

Other Regulatory Thresholds and Limits  

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Association Update: Help Drive the Future of Wisconsin Banking

By Daryll Lund

Apply to join a committee, section, or advisory board

The success of the Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) is powered by one key ingredient: you. As a member-driven organization, we rely on the passion, expertise, and collaboration of bankers across the state to shape our initiatives and strengthen Wisconsin’s banking industry.

Now is your chance to make a difference! Through March 15, WBA is accepting applications for volunteers to join our diverse committees, sections, or advisory boards. These groups — made up of dedicated bankers from various roles — play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the WBA and the banking industry at large. Whether your focus is financial crimes, mortgage lending, human resources, marketing, IT or another vital area, this is your opportunity to make your voice heard.

Why Volunteer with WBA?
•  Shape the Future: Collaborate with fellow bankers and WBA staff to design programs, advocacy efforts, and resources that address the ever-changing needs of the banking industry.
•  Expand Your Network: Build valuable connections with peers from across Wisconsin, sharing insights and ideas that will enrich your career and strengthen your bank.
•  Make an Impact: Your expertise will directly influence the success of WBA and help elevate Wisconsin’s banking sector.

If you welcome the chance to lead, apply to join a WBA committee, section, or advisory board by completing the application at wisbank.com/Committees.

Lund is WBA executive vice president – chief of staff and president of EBC and MBIS.

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Prevail Bank: $20,885 Gifted Through Prevail Bank’s Matching Campaign

Children’s Wisconsin Child Advocacy Center professionals Anne LaChapelle, Child & Family Services Manager; Kayla Libby, Forensic Interviewer; and Maggie Daniels, Operational Support Specialist accepted the big check from Luke Champine, Prevail Bank Branch Manager. The $2,420 donation will be used to provide emergency support to the children and families they serve in Wausau. The Advocacy Center supports and protects children affected by abuse and neglect.

This holiday season, communities are shining a little brighter thanks to Prevail Bank’s annual Holiday Matching Funds campaign. With public donations amounting to $13,763 and Prevail Bank contributing $7,122, a remarkable $20,885 was raised to support nine nonprofit organizations. Each branch selected a nonprofit to champion, matching public donations up to $1,000 per organization. Together, meaningful differences were made.

The benefiting nonprofits were: Sauk County Children’s Giving Tree $2,070,  Eau Claire County Department of Human Services’ Children’s Giving Tree received 149 gifts totaling approximately $2,160, Marshfield Rotary $4,506 in support of the meals they make for the Ronald McDonald House, Taylor County Supportive Housing homeless shelter $482, Owen-Withee Food Pantry $3,095 with a special acknowledgement going to the Owen-Withee Lions Club that contributed $1,000, Loggers United Booster Club (Phillips) $1,020, Operation Bootstrap $842 to support the Portage County Holiday Basket Project, Children’s Wisconsin Child Advocacy Center (Wausau) $2,420, and the Wisconsin Rapids Family Center $4,290.

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Bankers’ Bank: Bankers’ Bank Announces Appointment of Kevin Volker as VP, Commercial Banking

Kevin Volker

Bankers’ Bank is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kevin Volker as Vice President, Commercial Banking. Kevin will be stepping into the role of Commercial Lender for the Wisconsin market, succeeding Pete Aarvold, who retired at the end of 2024.

Kevin brings with him 18 years of community banking experience, with a strong background in commercial lending, credit, and operational services. He has spent 9 years with Bankers’ Bank, interspersed with other professional experiences, and holds a degree in Business Management from the University of Wisconsin Platteville.

In his new role, Kevin will be responsible for cultivating and maintaining high-quality correspondent banking relationships with community banks across Wisconsin. His key services will include bank stock financing, director and officer loans, as well as the purchase and sale of loan participations.

“I am most excited about working with community bankers to help with their lending needs,” said Kevin Volker. “I look forward to continuing the excellent work Pete Aarvold has done and building strong, supportive relationships with our clients.”

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One Community Bank: Wes Reynolds Joins One Community Bank’s Advisory Board

Wes Reynolds

One Community Bank is excited to welcome Wes Reynolds, Principal and Owner at OPN Architects, to the One Community Bank Advisory Board.

“Wes is an excellent addition to our board, and I look forward to working with him. As we look to the future, Wes’ business background and leadership skills will help shape One Community Bank’s growth and achieve our strategic goals,” said Jim Walker, Advisory Board Independent Chair.

With 25 years of experience in architecture, Wes has built a successful career with OPN Architects that began following his graduation from Iowa State University. Wes founded OPN’s Madison studio in 2013 and has led it to significant growth and success over the past 13 years with the support of his dedicated team. As a practicing architect, Wes focuses on outstanding design, commitment to the environment, and integration of technology into architecture. Wes is passionate about working on community-focused projects, such as the UW Madison HSLC, Oregon Public Library, Waunakee Public Library, and he is currently leading the Madison Metropolitan School District’s 504-million-dollar referendum school design project.

“I am excited to join the OCB Advisory Board and be a part of such a dedicated team. I’m eager to continue supporting OCB’s growth and innovation, all while staying true to the values that have guided its success so far,” said Wes.

Wes is a proud American Institute of Architects member who also supports community events such as Kids Building Wisconsin and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night.

Outside of work, Wes loves spending time with his wife and two sons. He spends his free time traveling, exploring art, antique hunting, or fishing.

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Forward Bank: Jake Brunette Joins Forward Bank as VP/General Counsel

Jake Brunette

Jake Brunette has joined Forward Bank as a Vice President/General Counsel. In this critical leadership role, Jake will oversee the bank’s legal strategies, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide expert guidance on corporate governance, contract negotiation, and risk management.

“I’ve watched Forward Bank purposefully grow in smaller communities in Central Wisconsin and have strong connections to employees,” commented Jake Brunette, VP/ General Counsel at Forward Bank. “Hearing Forward’s story from the perspective of the employees made me what to learn even more. Once I saw the alignment between my values and those of the company, it was a clear choice to join this team.”

Brunette joins Forward with an impressive legal career spanning over 12 years, specializing in corporate governance, employment law, business law, contracts, civil litigation, dispute resolution, risk management, and real property. His expertise will strengthen the bank’s ability to navigate the complex legal landscape of the financial industry and ensure the bank remains a trusted partner for its customers and community.

He lives the Forward mission through service on his church council, former school board member, and youth athletics involvement. Brunette is a proud husband and father of five children and Berna doodle named Hazel and enjoys golf, cooking, and being outdoors.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jake to Forward,” commented Sheri Dick, Chief Operating Officer at Forward Bank. “As the banking industry continues to evolve, having a dedicated and highly skilled General Counsel ensures we are well-positioned to meet the legal and regulatory demands of today and the future. Jake’s wealth of experience and strategic approach will be invaluable as we continue to serve our customers with the highest levels of integrity and innovation.”

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questions@wisbank.com

608-441-1200

4721 S Biltmore Ln.
Madison, WI 53718

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