Be on the Lookout for Scams Related to COVID-19

blog-tags
Author Image
by: Saadia M., Director of Enterprise Risk & Chief Information Security Officer
COVID-19 has created more opportunities for phishing scams and cybersecurity attacks. These can come in the form of fraudulent emails from health organizations or your employer about changes in processes, websites with malicious maps, or fictitious requests from charities needing your help.   What can you do to help keep…

The Safety of Online and Mobile Banking

blog-tags
Author Image
by: Kitty T., Marketing Coordinator
Online and mobile banking lowers your risk of identity theft resulting from stolen mail. With the constantly increasing delivery of goods ranging from groceries to clothing to tech gadgets, it’s no surprise that doorstep thieves are on the rise. This has become so commonplace that videos have gone viral on…

How to Create a Budget 101

blog-tags
Author Image
by: Nicole H., Marketing Coordinator
In the simplest terms, a budget is a plan for your money. And following one is essential for reaching your financial goals. Like using a map for a road trip, having a budget provides direction. It lets you decide how you’re going to spend your money before you actually spend…

Community banks must use personal connection to partner with small businesses

blog-tags
Author Image
by: Patrick S., Executive Vice President, Business and Consumer Banking
The rise of financial technology firms has been shaking up the world of banking and lending. Fintech firms last year made up 38%& of the personal loan market, up from 5%& in 2013, and are starting to focus more on small-business lending. And their impact is not just being felt locally. An Accenture report last…

Longer SBA Real Estate Loans Heating Up Business Property Market

blog-tags
Author Image
by: Mark A., SBA Division Director
A relatively new extended-maturity loan option from the U.S. Small Business Administration is heating up the real estate market among small businesses that are anxious to purchase properties while the economy is booming and interest rates remain low. In April 2018, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced changes to its 504 loan…