Banking Trends 2025: Key Insights from Our Expert-Led Webinar
In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, staying ahead of the curve is not just beneficial—it's essential. We recently hosted a dynamic webinar with Neil Stanley, Founder and CEO of The CorePoint, to explore the key issues shaping banking in 2025. Drawing on over 30 years of banking leadership and economic analysis, Neil unpacked the factors redefining the industry—from economic volatility to emerging technology.
Whether you missed the session or want a quick recap, here are the top takeaways every banking professional should know:
1. The Economy Is Shifting—and So Are Expectations
Neil kicked off the session by framing the U.S. economy in terms of foundational factors: workforce, resources, infrastructure, technology, and expectations. While recent data suggested optimism, he emphasized the psychological and emotional components of market behavior. “Economics isn’t just data—it’s driven by how we feel about the future,” he noted.
Key Point: Economic confidence, not just numbers, drives banking behaviors—making customer sentiment tracking essential.
2. Interest Rates: The New Normal Is Uncertainty
After a decade of steady interest rates, 2022–2024 brought dramatic shifts. The Federal Reserve's policies, coupled with inflation spikes, have left bankers navigating unpredictable waters. Stanley highlighted that while current rates feel high compared to the past decade, they are historically moderate.
Key Point: Don’t expect a return to ultra-low rates. Volatility is here to stay—strategy needs to account for a range of scenarios.
3. Inflation Is Stickier Than You Think
Despite hopes that inflation would taper, month-to-month data tells a more volatile story. Annual averages can mislead—January’s numbers pointed to inflation levels still well above the Fed’s 2% target. For banks, this means continued pressure on cost of funds and deposit pricing.
Key Point: Inflation is not “under control.” Base your strategies on monthly trends, not just yearly summaries.
4. The Baby Boomer Wealth Transfer Will Change Everything
As baby boomers continue retiring, they are also poised to transfer over $70 trillion in wealth—a shift with massive implications for retail banking, investment services, and customer expectations.
Key Point: Banking institutions must prepare for a younger, more digitally savvy generation inheriting and managing wealth.
5. AI & Digital Transformation: From Buzzword to Backbone
One of the most discussed topics? Artificial Intelligence in banking. From fraud detection and compliance to personalized financial planning, AI is reshaping operations. Neil challenged attendees to start by using AI tools to draft internal policies and explore automation opportunities.
Key Point: AI adoption is no longer optional—it’s a strategic necessity. Start experimenting now.
6. Banking Is Splintering Into Haves and Have-Nots
Neil presented FDIC data showing a stark divide: while some institutions are thriving, others are reporting negative net income. Small banks, in particular, are facing rising compliance costs and tightening margins.
Key Point: Success is increasingly tied to agility. Banks that fail to innovate risk falling behind—fast.
7. Cybersecurity, Compliance & Fraud Are Top Concerns
According to pre-webinar survey results, the three dominant issues for attendees were:
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Fraud and security threats
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Balancing compliance with business growth
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AI and digital transformation
Key Point: Risk management isn’t just a back-office function—it's critical at all levels.
Final Thoughts: Plan to Pivot
Neil left attendees with this powerful insight: “Plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.” With the pace of change accelerating across every facet of banking, your institution needs to be proactive, not reactive. Whether you're exploring deposit product innovation or rethinking your AI strategy, the time to act is now.
Interested in more?
Stay tuned for upcoming live sessions and check out our full course catalog for in-depth training on fraud, payments, compliance, and more.
Lastly, be sure to download our State of Banking in 2025 Report to view our industry survey results.