Sam Wilmes

4 days ago | bankbeat.biz | Sam Wilmes

Manufacturing output increased 0.1 percent last month amid a nearly 5 percent rise in motor vehicles and parts, according to the Federal Reserve. The indexes for fabricated metal products, nonmetallic mineral products and machinery fell at least 1 percent. The production of nondurable manufacturing dropped 0.2 percent amid decreases in the indexes for printing and support, petroleum and coal products, and food, beverage and tobacco products.

4 days ago | bankbeat.biz | Sam Wilmes

In 2014, Congress passed the Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, law, which authorizes a savings program designed to help people with disabilities save money without jeopardizing disability payments subject to income caps. Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid, for example, have a $2,000 asset limit. Saving more could mean the curtailment of benefits.

1 week ago | bankbeat.biz | Sam Wilmes

Bank CEOs have a positive view of current economic conditions, even as many remain pessimistic over short-term economic projections, according to a Creighton University survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region. The Rural Mainstreet Index increased to 51.9 from 44.0 in May, according to the report. Any reading above 50 indicates positive economic sentiments.

1 week ago | bankbeat.biz | Sam Wilmes

It’s not enough to be financially sound — banks today have to be seen, trusted and remembered. Products are increasingly commoditized, customer expectations are rising and tech-driven banks are capturing market share. To compete, community and mid-sized banks need more than strong balance sheets — they need strong communication. Yet many institutions continue to undervalue marketing, not out of neglect, but from a long–held belief that it’s risky, optional or secondary to core operations.

1 week ago | bankbeat.biz | Sam Wilmes

Warsaw, Ind.-based Lake City Bank hired Gregory C. Brown as senior vice president, commercial Elkhart regional manager. Chair and CEO David M. Findlay said the new, Elkhart-focused team Brown will lead reflects the success of the bank in the community over the past 35 years and the continued growth of the bank in the market.