In this episode of "Branching Out," host Bill Dworsky sits down with Aisha Chandraker, Head of Fintech Research at CB Insights, for a deep dive into the dynamic fintech environment of 2026. Drawing on insights from CB Insights' "State of Fintech" and "Fintech 100" reports, the conversation explores the significant momentum in the private markets, including a surge in exit activity and venture funding for wealth tech. Bill and Aisha discuss the rise of agentic AI, the maturing stablecoin ecosystem, and the strategic shift toward "co-opetition" as banks and fintechs forge new partnerships. For insights on the future of financial services, the convergence of AI and blockchain, and the opportunities these trends create for retail banking, tune in to the latest episode.

Banking is becoming less about rates and products and more about how the experience feels. In this episode of Branching Out, host Bill Dworsky is joined by Erin Pryor of First Horizon and Deloitte's Lauren Holohan to explore how marketing, product, and experience design come together to earn trust, drive growth, and build relationship primacy in an increasingly competitive market. Erin shares how First Horizon's Big Bank Muscle, Small Bank Hustle strategy blends scale with local decisioning, and why seamless cross channel delivery from mobile to branch to contact center depends on connected data and empowered associates. The conversation also digs into community based brand building, life stage journeys across consumer and commercial clients, and where generative AI can help personalize and scale without losing the human creativity that makes brands resonate.

A landmark law is poised to transform the financial landscape, and the industry is moving fast to adapt. In this episode of "Branching Out," host Bill Dworsky welcomes David Portilla of Davis Polk and Richard Rosenthal of Deloitte for a clear-eyed look at the implications of the new GENIUS Act—groundbreaking bipartisan legislation that sets federal guardrails for payment stablecoins. Together, the guests unpack how the GENIUS Act delivers long-awaited regulatory clarity, unleashing a new wave of innovation and sparking competition among banks, fintech disruptors, and technology leaders vying for a piece of the digital money ecosystem. The conversation highlights the intensifying contest for retail deposits, as nonbanks and new entrants leverage features like programmability and customer rewards to accelerate stablecoin adoption. For further insights on the changing rules of digital finance and the crucial strategic decisions facing banks and financial institutions in the wake of this law, tune in for this episode of "Branching Out."

In this episode of the "Branching Out" podcast, host Bill Dworsky welcomes Nathan Stovall, Director of Financial Institutions Research at S&P Global, to discuss the latest trends shaping retail banking. Nathan explains how new data-driven deposit rankings highlight the success of tech-savvy, digitally focused banks—particularly those excelling in commercial banking—which are both outperforming their peers and drawing acquisition interest. Together, Bill and Nathan examine the value of building customer relationships through bundled products and enhanced experiences, rather than relying solely on high deposit rates. They also explore the changing role of physical branches, which are evolving beyond simple transaction centers. For further insights on current developments in loan growth, consumer credit trends, and the increasing momentum of M&A activity in the sector, check out the latest episode of "Branching Out".

In Season 2, Episode 5 of "Branching Out", host Bill Dworsky meets with Carolina Ko, a business banking executive at Bank of America, for a conversation on the evolving landscape of business banking and the opportunities it presents within retail and beyond. Carolina shares insights into her role as the business banking market executive for the Charlotte and Triad markets in North Carolina, where she leads a team dedicated to supporting business clients ranging from startups to companies with up to $50 million in revenue. The discussion highlights how her team helps these businesses grow by providing access to capital and tailored financial solutions. Throughout the episode, Bill and Carolina discuss the importance of community engagement, the unique challenges faced by business clients, and the ways in which business banking is expanding its impact beyond traditional branch services.

In this episode of Branching Out, host Bill Dworsky and guests Ramya Murali and Deirdre O'Connell explore retail banking customer loyalty. Ramya defines loyalty as a mutually beneficial relationship, while Deirdre emphasizes formal programs ("big L" loyalty) and broader engagement ("little L" loyalty). Insights from a consumer loyalty survey highlight the importance of exclusive partner experiences and Gen Z's preferences, and how this generation is shaping the future of loyalty programs. The discussion underscores the need for agile, personalized loyalty programs and the role of partnerships in extending brand relationships. Effective execution requires cross-functional alignment and clear communication of value. The conversation also addresses the complexity of executing loyalty programs, requiring cross-functional alignment and the role of employees as brand ambassadors.

Consumers are quickly wising up to the fact that they don't necessarily need a brick-and-mortar retail bank. Discover how fintech organizations and traditional banks are identifying innovative approaches to distinguish themselves while continuing to collaborate effectively.

Greg Murray sits down with hosts Kristin Korzekwa and Bill Dworsky to discuss how banks can expand on their business strategy to find success in the future of transaction banking.

Dave Wasik, Partner at 2nd Order Solutions, joins our hosts, Kristin Korzekwa and Bill Dworsky to discuss credit risk, loans, advancing customer experiences, and more. In 2024, we already see trends of struggle within credit for students, along with homeowners as well and this is due to elevated interest rates that slow traditional processes. Importance of advanced analytics and digital collections have also been important in the credit space in 2024, and banks should look to expand on strategy to be successful in these areas.

Michelle Gauchat, US head of banking and capital markets consulting at Deloitte, joins hosts Kristin Korzekwa and Bill Dworsky to discuss how 2023 has shaped retail banking strategy. Gauchat also talks about the importance of deposits and AI, challenges facing small businesses, and improving customer banking experiences. This episode explores retail banking trends, digital transformation in banking, and changes we can expect for payments and deposits in 2024.