Leaders is a forum that brings together innovators and senior voices to share their leadership experiences and perspectives on today’s most pressing topics.

James Ragan

Thursday, March 21, 2024
1:00 pm ET / 10:00 am PT

Upcoming Livestream

Municipal bonds on the rise

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Jeffrey Scruggs, Managing Director and Head of Public Sector and Infrastructure Group at Goldman Sachs, sits down with Bond Buyer Executive Editor Lynne Funk on the state of the muni industry.

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UBS' Head of Municipal Trading Doug Vissicchio joins Bond Buyer's Lynne Funk to talk muni shop.

Leadership & the Workplace
Market forces and munis

Vivian Altman, Head of Public Finance at Janney, sits down with Bond Buyer Executive Editor Lynne Funk to discuss the state of the muni market, how the new-issue market is faring and where risks and opportunities exist in the space.

Municipal market momentum – A pivotal year

Charlie Giffin, Public Finance Head, and Jamison Feheley, Head of Public Finance Investment Banking, at J.P. Morgan Securities, talk shop on risks and opportunities in the public finance industry with Bond Buyer Executive Editor Lynne Funk.

The Evolution of the Muni Bond Buyer

BlackRock's Peter Hayes talks demand, liquidity challenges and how the muni industry has changed during his 35-year career — and where it's headed. Lynne Funk hosts.

Elevating racial equity in the bond markets

The Bond Markets and Racial Equity Project is an effort to center equity in municipal bond-funded investments.

Women executives on boards and beyond

Senior Bank of America investment banker Jill Schwartz discusses her own board roles, how women can serve on nonprofit boards, and how they can drive change, in conversation with Chana Schoenberger, American Banker's Editor-in-Chief.

May 23
In conversation with Patti Cook, CEO of Finance of America Companies

In conversation with Patti Cook, CEO of Finance of America Companies

Banking & Bourbon

Join Maggie Kimberl, President of the Bourbon Women Association for a peek behind the scenes of the bourbon industry. Learn more about the women that are rising in the male-dominated spirits sector, the proper bourbon tasting technique and a little bit of the history of bourbon.

Inclusion: What it Means and How to Implement

Experts discuss the proliferation of chief diversity officers across the industry and what it may mean for future progress in diversity.

December 21
Has the Delta Variant thrown a wrench in your plans?

Hopes that the pandemic has been curbed have dimmed as infections and hospitalizations are on the rise again due to the introduction of the extremely dangerous Delta strain. For some companies, this has disrupted their plans to bring remote employees back to their offices or institute a “hybrid” arrangement. While some are going ahead with their reopening plans. Join Danielle Caricofe, EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer at Machias Saving Bank and Hollen Spatz, VP of People & Operations at ClassPass as they discuss: (1) What companies should consider as they weigh their options; (2) The impact on employee morale and mental well being from this prolonged pandemic and how organization improve morale and support mental well being; and (3) How should companies rethink employee experience

Navigating pay for performance during a pandemic

2020 was a challenging year for banks. The impact of COVID on the economy as well as changes to accounting for loan loss provisions were evident in weaker financial and stock price performance in 2020 for many banks and yet CEO compensation increased. Learn from experienced executive compensation consultants about the challenges Compensation Committees faced in 2020, why pay levels increased relative to 2019, what were common COVID-related compensation changes, and what changes were made for 2021 incentive plan design.

Meeting customers’ needs in the age of contactless and digital payments

People want their payments to be quicker, safer, and more readily available across a wider range of channels. How are industry leaders leveraging data to build stronger relationships with their clients?

April 29
The muni market one year after COVID-19

The pandemic has disrupted all businesses and governments, large and small. But how has the municipal market fared? This panel draws on research conducted by the Bond Buyer in partnership with Assured Guaranty to explore the state of muni finance amid COVID-19.

April 27
2021 Muni Outlook: Are the storm clouds clearing?

Because of COVID-19 and its effects on economic activity, the sector will continue to face some headwinds. So what do industry experts and leaders anticipate for the market this year?

April 27
How cities can recover

An interview with Kathy Wylde, President, Partnership for New York City

Rewriting the rules: Why and how LGBTQ is this challenger bank’s focus

New brands are emerging to improve banking services to targeted consumer segments, and Daylight is one intent on winning over the LGBTQ market. What are mainstream banks getting wrong that leaves an opening for niche brands like Daylight?

Team over everything: Taking care of employees during times of uncertainty

As the pandemic continues to weigh on us all, BlueVine shares how it is putting employees first.

Revamping the LGBTQ+ Strategy to Improve Recruitment and Foster Inclusion

Reimagining LGBTQ+ efforts at UBS for improving diversity in their recruitment process

Leaders_Livestream VOD_Can fintech bring financial inclusion to all_V1.mp4

Financial inclusion is a key enabler to reducing poverty and Fintech is leading the way forward. New businesses and creative banking services are emerging with new means of providing financial services to the financially underserved. But technology is just part of the equation, not the whole solution. Join Daniel Wolfe, Editor-in-Chief of PaymentSource as he explores the issues surrounding financial services as infrastructure and how it can address the wealth gap in various communities with our special guests Wole Coaxum, Founder & CEO of MoCaFi and Marc Weill, Partner & Senior Advisor at Two Sigma Ventures.

Purpose is now mainstream: how Citi is leading the way

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have moved from nice-to-have to business critical. Hear how Citi is facilitating and driving change.

Leadership Lessons Learned From An Undercover CIA Agent

Amaryllis Fox, former CIA Clandestine Service Officer, offers powership insights into leadership lessons gained from serving in conflicts across the globe. Using experiences from her overseas operations she will provide an inside look at the CIA’s practice of “red-teaming,” and how this practice can help negotiations and resolve conflicts, build empathy, and empower teams to work together.

Wall Street Pioneer on the Economy, Leadership and DE&I

If you haven't met Suzanne Shank you should. She is the chair and CEO of Siebert Williams Shank & Co. LLC, the nation’s largest female-and minority-owned, privately held finance firm, which she started with the legendary Muriel Siebert. Join us in an intimate conversation and hear her perspective on some of the most critical issues of the day.

January 6
Digital Banking 2020: Digital transformation - The cultural imperative

During 2020, our society has been faced with an economic crisis, health crisis, social justice crisis and environmental crisis. The pandemic has rapidly changed how banks engage with customers and employees; accelerating the shift from in-person interactions to digital engagements. Successfully leading a digital transformation requires much more than smart technology choices, culture is key.

December 31
Five Ways Women are Delivering on the Leadership Promise

It’s been proven time and again that women look at problems differently than male counterparts. It’s part of what makes balanced teams critical to the success of any organization. Women leaders, in particular, demonstrate heightened communication skills, a dedication to mentorship, a willingness to invest in continuous learning, a knack for building effective teams, and the ability to motivate employees with empathy and empowerment. This episode will provide perspectives from women leaders with real-world examples of achieving company goals without sacrificing humanity along the way.

December 22

The flow of assets and capital in manager selection, municipal bonds and business and mortgage capital reveals forms of systemic racism that often get overlooked.

December 7
Authenticity & allyship: Building corporate LGBTQ+ inclusivity

Invaluable insight for those in the LGBTQ community and all those who want to be better allies from the lived experience of Maeve DuVally from Goldman Sachs

November 25
Why haven't diversity efforts worked?

While many companies and organizations try, diversity and inclusion efforts within the financial services have generally failed. What needs to be done in order to succeed? Join us for a panel discussion featuring guests from the Access Denied: Systemic Racism in Financial Services podcast.

In the first episode of the five-part Arizent documentary series, we look at how disparities in net worth and mortgage discrimination impact Black home ownership — and why it's impossible to close the gaps without attacking systemic racism.

October 26
Racism at the branch and workplace

From pervasive discrimination at work to the dangers of #BankingWhileBlack, Black people in America face serious hurdles when engaging with the financial services. Join us for a panel discussion featuring guests from the upcoming Access Denied: Systemic Racism in Financial Services podcast.

Is representation a step in the right direction — or a solution?

Despite tangible evidence dispelling that it's hard to find Black talent, the financial services have yet to crack the code when it comes to building a representational workforce. But is it a sufficient solution on its own?

The Most Powerful Women in Banking 2020: Women do support other women

Jane Fraser, President of Citigroup and CEO of Global Consumer Bank, shares her thoughts on becoming the firm’s next CEO, expresses her gratitude for the outpouring of support she’s received, and pays homage to all the women who have paved the path before her.

October 16
The Most Powerful Women in Banking 2020: Leadership and challenging assumptions

Innovation is key in today's dynamic market. Suni Harford, president, asset management at UBS walks us through two significant innovations she drove in the asset management industry this year — including a ground-breaking approach to climate change and sustainable investing.

October 15
The Most Powerful Women in Banking 2020: The new rules of customer experience

Customers' needs and expectations changed drastically in 2020, overturning conventional thinking about their experience in the process. How can we strike the right balance between embracing digital channels and recognizing the value of human touch?

October 15
Entrepreneurship in the WFH Era

What Jason Gardner, founder and CEO of Marqeta, has learned leading a 450-person fintech from home.

October 8

2020 has been a year of adapting and accelerating customer experience goals based on changing customer behaviors. Arizent CEO Gemma Postlethwaite speaks with Beth Johnson, Chief Experience Officer at Citizens Financial Group, about aligning an organization around the voice of the customer, taking a holistic view of front-end and back-end investments, and designing experiences for a full range of customer interactions, from answering daily needs to delivering higher value insights and deep advice.

October 6
Diversity and inclusion in municipal finance

The Bond Buyer's Rising Stars Week continues as three members of the newly minted class -- Moody's Investors Service senior analyst Adebola Kushimo, Stifel director Roberto Ruiz, and Fieldman, Rolapp & Associates senior vice president Rachel Chang-Kwei -- join moderator Andrew Belinfanti-Knight, a managing director at UBS and a member of the inaugural Rising Stars class of 2016, for a discussion on diversity and inclusion in municipal finance.

Wells Fargo: How to reinvent a culture
Mary Mack, who heads Wells Fargo's consumer banking and small business division, talks about the challenges of reforming a bank's culture from the inside, the rise of women in the banking industry and reaching customers who need their services the most
How to manage the workforce of tomorrow
City National Bank CEO Kelly Coffey talks about what she’s doing to create a more transparent and supportive workplace, as well as the challenges of expanding during a pandemic.
A small-business ‘dream job’ at BofA
Bank of America's Managing Director for Small Business Sharon Miller led the company's involvement in the Paycheck Protection Program, which produced more than 343.000 loans, most in the country.
Accelerating change during the pandemic

A conversation with Greg Carmichael, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fifth Third Bancorp discussing the consumer banking trends and lessons learned during the pandemic.

California State Treasurer Ma talks diversity

Treasurer Ma has championed programs to give minority and women-owned businesses a seat at the table throughout her career. A mission of the Treasurer is increasing diversity to increase equitable outcomes.

August 20
Is corporate travel dead?

It may be a long time before corporate travel resembles anything close to normal. While most organizations keep their generic travel bans in place, which increasingly look likely to last for the remainder of the year, what are the predictions around restarting business travel in the near future?

How 2020 rocked talent management

This year's social and economic upheaval due to the pandemic and protests against racism is also impacting hiring and recruitment at banks. Hear what companies are doing to change employment practices in response to these crises.

July 31

Claudine Gallagher, Head of Americas at PNB Paribas speaks with Arizent CEO Gemma Postlethwaite about servant leadership, sponsorship vs mentorship, and what it will take to attract and retain women in financial services.

July 31

Stephanie Epstein, Managing Director, Global Head of Models Infrastructure at BlackRock talked with Gemma Postlethwaite, CEO of Arizent in the early days of the Covid-19 crisis about purpose-led workforce management and how the crisis may have lessons for leadership in supporting the needs of diverse teams.

July 31

Michal Katz, Head of Investment and Corporate Banking in the Americas at Mizuho talks with Gemma Postlethwaite, CEO of Arizent, about organizational flexibility born out of the Covid-19 crisis and supporting the long-term diverse needs of a distributed workforce.

July 31

Erminia Johannson, Group Head North America, Personal and Business Banking at BMO and Gemma Postlethwaite, CEO of Arizent talk about adapting to new modes of working, discernment and decision making, and how the Covid-19 crisis has shown how to accelerate change in an organization.

July 31
The big decisions now facing all CEOs

Managing a major lender in the midst of COVID fears and social unrest has required a rethink of banking norms. Exploring the executive decisions all leaders must consider is the recipient of American Banker’s Banker of the Year award.

How banks can lead positive change

How Berkshire Bank is facilitating and driving change, inclusion and equity within their institution in an effort to authentically connect to the communities in which they serve.

Emerging Technology
Innovation and Governance and the FHFA

Anne Marie Pippin, associate director in the Federal Housing Finance Agency's Office of Financial Technology, weighs the forces shaping the industry's future.

December 1
NYC's Chief Technology Officer Shares How Artificial Intelligence is Modernizing America's Largest City

The artificial intelligence revolution has arrived. NYC's CTO, Matthew Fraser, tells American Banker's Executive Editor of Technology, Penny Crosman, how new technology is shaping policy in America's largest city.

Examining the muni sector’s accelerated adoption of technology

Experts discuss electronic trading, machine learning and more in this Leaders forum interview.

December 23
Security & privacy highlight: What are the implications for banks, payment companies and fintechs building trust post-COVID?

Experts discuss the latest ways firms are defining their value propositions and evolving their customer communications, experience and support.

December 16
Marketing to millennials: Time to rethink personalized banking for the next generation

An industry expert shares key takeaways on how institutions can implement sophisticated technologies to attract a younger generation of customers.

December 15
Solving for security as contactless payments grow

There is no doubt 2020 was a year of contactless transactions. But what implications do contactless payments present when it comes to security?

May 4
Bias in AI-based financial services: Is your firm at risk?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly gaining ground in a number of areas of banking and financial services. It’s deployed to identify fraud, make trading decisions, recommend banking and financial products, and evaluate loan applications. This helps to reduce the costs of financial products and improve their efficiency and efficacy. However, there is growing evidence that AI systems are biased. Join American Banker’s Executive Technology Editor, Penny Crosman as she explores key AI-bias issues for the banking and financial services industry with Sonja Kelly, Director of Research and Advocacy at Women’s World Banking and Wisam Dakka, Co-Founder of Meemo.

Databits: AI & automation

The industry has long talked about embracing digital technology — but the time for talk may be over.

October 6
How to make your AI dreams a reality

One banks journey of taking an AI idea from inception to experience. How organizations can ensure the shift from pilot projects to full-scale AI fluency goes right

August 27
Highlighting Wealth Management

The wealth management business is undergoing considerable transformation. The pandemic has created a new breed of investors, with distinct expectations and tastes formed by new technology and having lived through the financial crisis. This has resulted in new industry standards in terms of how advice and investment products are given. Join Tobias Salinger, Chief Correspondent at Financial Planning as he explores the state of the industry and the trends that will impact wealth management with Erinn Ford, Executive Vice President of Advisor Engagement at Advisor Group and Debra Shannon, Chief Compliance Officer and Co-Founder of Veritas Independent Partners.

Disruption & Innovation
Where does ESG fit into the global investing landscape?

As ESG issuance has grown around the globe, so have investor demands, international standards for it and regulatory rulemaking around it. Citi's Aoiffe McGarry and Fitch's Megan Neuburger discuss with The Bond Buyer's Lynne Funk.

July 25
The changing landscape of retail investing

Join Peter O'Neill, Director and Senior Fixed Income Portfolio Manager, at Bank of America, and Blake Lynch, Head of Business Development, IMTC, as they discuss the role of separately managed accounts in the muni market with The Bond Buyer's Lynne Funk.

After tumultuous first half, muni performance still rate driven

BlackRock's Head of Municipals Peter Hayes lays out the muni landscape for the rest of the year, highlighting opportunities for the asset class after the severe volatility so far in 2022.

ESG: A view from the borrower and the investor
How a two-way conversation on ESG can help boost demand for municipals.
Looking ahead through turbulent times

Hilltop's Tom Kozlik joins Bond Buyer Editor Kyle Glazier for an in-depth discussion on Tom's research and what to expect in the months ahead.

Talking P3s with infrastructure leaders Shawn Wilson and DJ Gribbin

Louisiana's Transportation Secretary and the former Assistant to the President for Infrastructure discuss the state of play in the U.S. P3 sector, the impact of the new infrastructure law, and what's in store for the next decade.

Climate change, ESG and its future in public finance

The evolution of environmental, social and governance investment has been rapid in the muni market. Early adapters discuss its implications.

Bridging the future of finance: How Bitcoin is making its mark

Is Bitcoin at a "tipping point" and could it one day be the currency of choice for trade? The future for digital currencies can be bright, but there are still risks involved. In this session join Yan Zhao, President of NYDIG as she explores: (1) the overall discussion of how Bitcoin is experiencing wider adoption in the traditional finance world, and why that is; (2) Recent partnerships in the financial sector and how they've helped evolve the space; and (3) how and why organization are embedding Bitcoin in various financial services products like lending, payroll, banking, and investing.

Rewriting the rules: Why this neobank is building a financial brand for Black America

Dozens of digital tools are billed as democratizing finance. But a number of entrepreneurs still see massive gaps. Here’s why Donald Hawkins and Asya Bradley, co-founders of First Boulevard, believe building a financial brand for Black America is imperative. Join us in a conversation with Mary Wisniewski, editor at Bankrate and First Boulevard’s co-founders as they discuss what banks have missed in serving Black America and how the neobank aims to improve the financial livelihood of the community.

The future of wealth management with Catherine Keating, CEO, BNY Mellon Wealth Management

How the pandemic is accelerating trends in financial advice and changing the way Americans manage their money.

What's amazing in fintech now: Maria Gotsch, President and CEO, Partnership Fund for New York City

What are the most exciting trends in financial technology today, and which startups are poised to win?

May 11
Tech and the city: Attracting innovative companies and workers

Juliet Weissman of New York City's Cornell Tech campus discusses the role of higher education and partnerships in luring startups and their workforces.

May 10
Fixed Income and ESG — A natural investing partnership

ESG is here to stay and it matters to investors.

The next phase of payments transformation

The digital transformation of payments has reached its next phase — with banks and fintechs leading the way. Avoiding the one-size-fits-all approach to deliver the experience customers want is key.

May 5
Is inflation about to take off?

The markets and the Fed are not on the same page about the future of inflation. Luke Tilley Senior Vice President and Chief Economist at Wilmington Trust will discuss the economy and inflation.

Building a one-stop shop in the global digital payments ecosystem

Bradley Riss is chief commercial officer at Checkout.com, a firm that acts as a payment gateway, acquirer and processor through a single channel, covering cards, passthrough wallets, stored value wallets and alternative payment options such as point of sale credit. It charges a fee based on processing and card payment costs rather than the percentage+ model that most payment API companies charge. The model is designed to make the service customized to different merchants and serve as a base to offer other merchant products.

March 26
Incumbents and Fintechs: Collaborate or Compete?
Industry analysts say we will see more Fintechs and incumbents collaborating in the post-pandemic era. We have already seen this phenomenon play out and it will continue as online advisory, banking, lending, and digital payments are most likely permanent. In this episode, we explore: (1) what’s ahead for Fintech and incumbents in investments, acquisitions, and partnerships; (2) how incumbents are closing the gap in Fintech collaboration; and (3) what a successful partnership looks like.
Policy Risks, Infrastructure Needs and Global Demands

Hector Negroni, a leader in pushing the needle in municipal finance, talks policy, infrastructure, ESG and a growing global audience for investing in state and local governments.

How to adjust your business response to changing macro conditions

Like so many other businesses, Credit Karma was not spared by the pandemic and its rippling effects on the economy. Their business was prone to the same macro conditions, particularly the tightening of lending standards and credit limits. Join Paul Centopani, National Mortgage News’ reporter and Andy Taylor, Credit Karma’s General Manager of Home & Mortgage as they discuss how FinTechs can pivot to adapt to the new normal.

How venture capital sees Fintech now

The fintech world is expanding at a sometimes breathtaking pace. Much of that growth is driven by venture capital, but how do VCs decide which companies to invest it in--or not? Join Greycroft partner Will Szczerbiak in a discussion with Olugbenga Agboola, the founder and CEO of Flutterwave, the San Francisco-based startup building the largest payments infrastructure in Africa. Guest host James Ledbetter, editor and publisher of the fintech newsletter FIN, will explore these questions: What are VCs looking for in a fintech startup? What are the hottest fintech sectors in 2021? How has the rise in fintech valuations affected the market? Where will growth be strongest in the next few years?

Surveillance capitalism and the new economic order

An exclusive Arizent consumer survey indicates that consumers are becoming increasingly uneasy with the tradeoff of letting companies use their personal data in exchange for a customized experience. What does that portend for the future? Mark Weinstein is already tackling this head-on in the social media sphere. Join us in a conversion with Mark Weinstein, as we discuss: Privacy and security Combating the virus of disinformation Corporate social responsibility and ethical business practices

Innovation and Strategy in the Post-COVID Economy

New technological innovations, consumer behavior shifts, competition from fresh digital entrants, and regulatory reforms herald the payment environment of tomorrow. In addition, the current pandemic is pushing players to rethink their market fundamentals in an already transitioning industry. Join John Adams, Executive Editor of PaymentsSource and our special guest, Andrew Jamison a virtual card expert with twelve plus years at American Express and CEO & Co-Founder of Extend, in a discussion about the business strategy, management, and innovations in the post pandemic ecosystem and how it can serve the way the economy is headed.

Serving the underbanked

If you are underbanked you probably have limited access to mainstream financial services normally offered by retail banks. Many fintech startups offer alternative ways to measure credit risk, and assert that their products can help extend financial services to consumers who have not been well-served by traditional banks.

Mapping Jiko’s Innovation

A new path forward for digital banks and their customers.

The fintech industry in 2021

Join Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Square as he offers his insights into where the Fintech industry is headed next year. Will a Biden administration insist on greater regulation? What will happen in the cryptocurrency markets? What will be the big IPOs in the sector? Will GooglePlex make a big splash? What new technologies or applications should we be expecting?

How Aflac is preparing for next-generation consumers

There is an emotional and human aspect in all relationships and that holds true for the bond between individuals and brands. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought both the strengths and weaknesses in customer experience under the spotlight. This episode will focus on how connecting with customers and ensuring they have a positive experience with a company is paramount, particularly in a pandemic-driven world. Join our host, Brooke Worden, President of The Rudin Group and guest speaker, Virgil Miller, Chief Operating Officer of Aflac U.S. and President of Aflac Group in a discussion that will highlight how and why Aflac is emphasizing three key aspects of the customer experience in 2020.

December 11
Databits: The future of money

The COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed consumers’ attitudes and behaviors toward money and payments. What has changed?

December 8
DigMo 2020: The Importance of Agility in an Uncertain Time

When both origination and forbearance demand spiked in the early weeks of COVID-19, quick thinking lenders were able to leverage their expertise and tech stacks to respond quickly.

October 22
DigMo 2020: How Can Fintechs Best Position Themselves For an Acquisition?

From finding new efficiencies to redefining the customer experience; fintechs are permanently changing financial services. But what does the actual acquisition process look like?

October 22
DigMo 2020: The Year of Unexpected Disruption

The coronavirus pandemic has turned every industry on its head. For lending, it exposed the need for modernized, fully digital platforms.

October 22
DigMo 2020: The pandemic’s impact on mortgage digitization

Banks, lenders, and fintechs have been on a path toward digitizing the mortgage process from end-to-end — long before the term coronavirus entered our daily lexicon. How has the pandemic affected progress?

October 22
Municipal finance in the age of COVID-19

Kicking off its Rising Stars Week, The Bond Buyer announces the 2020 class and sits down with three newly-minted members to discuss the muni market's adaptation to and recovery from pandemic-driven challenges.

The Most Powerful Women in Banking 2020: The future of consumer banking

The events of 2020 have only served to accelerate a number of potentially disruptive trends among consumers when it comes to banking and financial services — What does the emerging future of consumer and retail banking now look like?

October 16
How COVID-19 changed consumer spending

The pandemic has had a tremendous impact on the global and US economies, household incomes, and consumer spending. The world's most valuable financial services firm is ready to share insight around the global and US effects of COVID-19.

July 31
How fintechs can survive — and thrive — during crises

Fintechs are facing unique challenges in the pandemic. There might be a resurgence in funding on the horizon, but startups are looking to see what they can do now to weather the storm.

July 31
The power of persistence

Great leaders emerge from failure in the world of financial services and fintech is no exception. Moven founder Brett King shares his take on persistence and how it’s worked for him.

The importance of digital and retail in a post-pandemic world

Nationwide lockdowns forced banks to close brick and mortar outlets and rely heavily on drive up windows, mobile and online access. BBVA has proven that even in the middle of crisis and chaos, retail still fits into the banks overall strategy.

Policy, Politics & Regulation
When will the FOMC cut rates?

The Federal Reserve expects to cut interest rates three times this year, some say as early as March, if data alllow those moves. Following the Jan. 30-31 FOMC meeting, Garrett Melson, portfolio strategist at Natixis Investment Managers Solutions, will provide his take on the meeting and Chair Jerome Powell's press conference.

A look ahead with Scott Colbert

Commerce Bank Executive Vice President Scott Colbert joins us for a discussion of what to expect in 2024.

Watching Fed monetary policy

The Federal Open Market Committee meets Dec. 12 and 13 and in addition to their statement, they will issue a Summary of Economic Projections.

Analyzing the FOMC Meeting

All eyes are on the Federal Reserve and monetary policy. Join us as Scott Anderson, chief U.S. economist and managing director at BMO Economics, breaks down the latest FOMC meeting.

Analyzing the FOMC decision

The Federal Reserve is expected to pause at its September meeting. Jeff Timlin, a managing partner at Sage Advisory, will join us on Sept. 21 to provide analysis of the meeting.

Hike or hold: which will the Federal Reserve choose?

After holding at its last meeting, the Federal Open Market Committee may decide to raise rates again in July.

Analyzing the Federal Reserve's latest monetary policy action

The FOMC meets June 13-14. Join us June 15 at 2 p.m., Eastern time, as Jeffrey Cleveland, chief economist at Payden & Rygel, provides his take on the meeting statement, Federal Reserve Board Chair Jerome Powell's press conference and the latest Fed projections.

Yelena Shulyatyeva

The Federal Reserve meeting May 2-3 will be closely watched for hints about what the FOMC's next move is. Join BNP Pariba U.S. Economist Yelena Shulyatyeva at 11 a.m. May 4 as she takes a look at the meeting and Chair Powell's press conference.

What's next for banks after the Silicon Valley Bank failure

Is the banking sector in crisis? What happened, and what can bankers learn from this turmoil? Two of American Banker's reporters discuss the fallout and what comes next with the magazine's editor-in-chief.

What's next in banking regulation?

Navigating challenges and what's ahead in banking regulation.

March 15
With inflation cooling, what's the Fed's next move?

The markets are looking for a Fed pivot, but central bankers continue to say more hikes are coming and rates will stay higher longer. OANDA's Ed Moya joins us after the meeting to give a comprehensive look at what the Fed signals for the future.

Leaders_Regulation Best Interest

The central bank has raised rates aggressively for nearly a year, but experts believe the hiking cycle is nearly over.

Where does the FOMC go from here?

The day after the FOMC announces its policy decision, Christian Scherrmann, U.S. Economist at DWS Group, will offer his take on the meeting, Fed Chair Powell's press conference and what comes next.

How banks will navigate the geopolitical storms

As the world reshapes its alliances around the Ukraine war, how will banks work with companies and governments to keep trade and the financial system running?

Using data for ESG efforts
Join the MSRB’s Mark Kim and Harvard University’s Lourdes Germán as they discuss opportunities to leverage MSRB data to help contribute to better understanding in the evolving ESG area.
Tracking the FOMC

The Federal Reserve has started a hiking cycle that's expected to continue with half-point increases in June and July, Marvin Loh, senior macro strategist at State Street Global Markets, will assess the June Federal Open Market Committee meeting and tell what he expects the panel to do in the future.

Our Bond Buyer series, Build What Better?, concludes as author and host Peter Keating talks with visionary leaders in infrastructure design, policy and funding.
In conversation with issuers

Experts share their insights on the current state and road ahead for the public finance sector.

December 23
How does ESG fit in the muni industry?

Experts explore the E, S and G and what it means for issuers and investors.

December 22
Regulation and policy outlook: How climate change impacts banking

Join industry experts to explore how financial institutions can better prepare for future compliance issues associated with the evolving landscape.

December 15
What will the FOMC do?

As the Federal Open Market Committee meets to discuss monetary policy, Gary Pzegeo, head of fixed income at CIBC Private Wealth will discuss his thoughts about what will come from the meeting.

The MSRB's year ahead

MSRB Executive Director Mark Kim, as well as the board's new chair and vice chair sit down for a talk about the board's priorities in the new fiscal year.

Maintaining municipal credit during a crisis

An interview with Maine Treasurer Henry Beck

Politics, public finance and infrastructure

Tom Kozlik, head of municipal strategy and credit, Hilltop Securities

Community banks: Their role in political advocacy and supporting local economies across the country

Community banks have played and will continue to play a key role in supporting local economies across the country. Join us in a lively conversation with Dennis E. Nixon, President & CEO of International Bank of Commerce (Laredo, Texas) & Chairman, International Bancshares Corporation and Eddie Aldrete, Senior Vice President at International Bank of Commerce as we discuss: (1) the need for bankers and the business community to become involved in political issues. From minimum wage and issues that affect small businesses to regulatory issues that directly affect the banking industry, banking and business leaders need to be thought leaders in the public conversation and (2) how bankers can play a pivotal advocacy role in the free trade process.

The rise of ESG in the municipal market th

Will the sector embrace the global trend toward greater transparency?

July 30

Experts weigh in on the potential impact of severe weather events and investigate the risks and solutions that may change the sector.

July 29

Market leaders present their viewpoints on the macroeconomic picture and prospects for the U.S. munis market.

July 29

Experts explore the tangible and intangible costs of cyber breaches and potential risk mitigation strategies.

July 29
State budgets through COVID-19 and beyond

Bill Glasgall of the Volcker Alliance and Bond Buyer Northeast Regional Editor Paul Burton will explore how states have balanced priorities during the pandemic, and what challenges await.

Resilience challenges and opportunities

Alan Rubin, principal, Blank Rome Government Relations

The economy, inflation and the Federal Reserve

Edward Al-Hussainy, senior interest rate and currency analyst at Columbia Threadneedle, will discuss the economy, inflation and the Federal Reserve.

The Biden Administration's impact on the muni market

A deep dive into how President Biden's plans will affect infrastructure spending, ESG, tax-exempt munis and the municipal bond market at large.

April 28
Munis, inequity, and future of the American city

Municipal bonds have a direct effect on the social and cultural character of cities, metropolitan areas, counties, and states. Munis and the initiatives they support such as public education, housing subsidies, public transit systems, and more, can often be linked to local or regional politics. Join Lynne Funk, Executive Editor at The Bond Buyer and Destin Jenkins, Neubauer Family Assistant Professor of History at the University of Chicago as they explore how municipal bond mismanagement can have contrasting influences on the different ethnic groups in our cities.

The role of business in a winning recovery

John Boyd Jr., a principal at Boyd Co. in Princeton, N.J., explores what corporate leaders expect from states and cities.

How credit scores could change under Biden & the impact on consumers

Credit scores have an effect on almost every aspect of a person's financial life. A less-than-ideal credit score can make it much harder to get a house or car loan, start a business, or even get a job. President Biden plans to change credit reporting So what does the new administration’s plan mean for consumers and lenders? In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of the Biden proposal, what it means for consumers, and how it will impact lending institutions’ strategy and operations.

Prospects for transportation infrastructure

A conversation with Rodney Slater and Bill Shuster

How banks can thrive amidst new financial and operational challenges

The operating environment is dramatically different than it was pre-pandemic and presents all-new challenges for financial institutions. Tried-and-true strategies that led to high performance for many years are no longer going to be successful. Join Bonnie McGeer, Executive Editor of American Banker, and Claude Hanley, Partner at Capital Performance Group, as they highlight important trends and comb through data from top-performing banks across the country for insights that will help regional and community financial institutions thrive in 2021. Executives will learn what metrics will be most critical to focus on to maintain high performance going forward.

The SAR Landscape in 2021: Four Things You Must Know

Come away better prepared for what’s ahead after hearing Satish Kini and David Sewell of Debevoise & Plimpton and Darin Jarrett, Deputy BSA/AML Officer at American Express, in conversation with Bonnie McGeer, Executive Editor of American Banker, as they explore: •How the new administration might change the BSA/AML Act •Are there easy wins in relieving the burden of suspicious activity reports without undermining effectiveness? •New ways that companies are innovating within AML compliance and risk •What banks are doing to drive next-gen efficiency and effectiveness of risk and compliance

Digital dollar, inclusion and the stimulus bill

The events of 2020 have only helped to intensify a range of potentially disruptive developments in the payment industry. As the central bank's digital currencies advance, how will the government and the private sector work together to bring projects to an effective conclusion?

November 16
Election Impact: The Future of Banking

The pivotal issue of the November vote will be a divided government versus a united government, and its possible effect on policies that can drive the economy and markets.

The Future of Cities
Former HUD Secretary Henry Cisneros and Regional Plan Association president Tom Wright join The Bond Buyer for a discussion on the ways life and work in American cities are being altered by the pandemic — and future challenges it illuminates.
Are you prepared for regulatory shocks?

The regulatory road ahead is as uncertain and risky to banks as the pandemic.

A new beginning for digital banking

A historic charter award defines a new beginning for digital banking, Varo Money becomes the first consumer fintech in US history to gain full regulatory approval to become a national bank

With continued economic instability as a result of the coronavirus, how will the US manage the uncertainty that appears to have no end in sight.

August 20