Alex Okerman

Since 2014, First Bank & Trust’s FOCUS event has grown into one of South Dakota’s most anticipated business gatherings, a platform dedicated to inspiring innovation, elevating leadership, and strengthening rural communities. More than a conference, it’s a commitment to advancing local businesses by creating space for connection, strategy, and bold ideas. Held bi-annually, FOCUS brings […]

— Preston J. Tetzlaff and Charles D. Gullickson, Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, LLP The attorney-client privilege protects communications between attorneys and their clients from compelled disclosure. This well-established privilege is deeply rooted in both common law and statutory frameworks across the country. Banks occasionally receive requests from regulators to produce communications protected by this

— Megan Olson, President & CEO, ICBSD As we approach the summer months, many of us eagerly anticipate a change of pace—a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect. For South Dakota’s community bankers, there’s no better place to do that than at the Black Hills Retreat. This year, as we prepare to gather once again

— Jodi Eich, Vice Chairwoman of ICBSD, Chief Operating Officer, Rivers Edge Bank Attending the ICBA Capital Summit in Washington, DC in May as a first-time attendee was a valuable experience. The passion, energy and support for community banks and bank customers in South Dakota as well as across the nation was astounding!  In addition

When it comes to community banking, we are a nation unto ourselves. When I traveled to the World Savings Bank Institute Conference, attendees from other countries were shocked to hear about the number of community banks we have and how our model fuels the success of our small business economy. Globally, no other country can

— Josh Hogue, Immediate Past Chairman of ICBSD & ICBA Federal Delegate, President, Reliabank Dakota Years of persistent advocacy, grassroots engagement, and a commitment to doing what’s right for our customers have led to a remarkable milestone: the inclusion of the Access to Credit for our Rural Economy (ACRE) Act in the current federal tax

COVID accelerated the digital banking landscape, and as a result, community banks have embraced front-facing technology that’s user-friendly for our small-business customers, offering a better experience. From remote deposit capture and digital banking to electronic payments, we’re seeing much higher adoption of technological products because they meet the needs of today’s customers. Once our small

— James Reber, President and CEO, ICBA Securities We are suddenly mid-decade of the 2020s, and if there’s a recurring theme, it’s “anomaly.” First, record low yields and rates. (Remember the 10-year treasury note hitting 0.55% in July 2020?) Then, record rate hikes of 525 basis points concentrated in a torturous 16-month window, followed by

In a rapidly evolving banking industry where foresight and strategic planning are more critical than ever, Michael Klinger stands out as a trusted guide. As Vice President and BankValue Manager at United Bankers’ Bank (UBB), Michael helps community banks navigate complex valuation challenges, ownership transitions, and succession planning with a forward-thinking, people-first approach. While valuations

For many community bankers across South Dakota and the surrounding region, the seamless experience of a business debit card swipe or a reliable ATM transaction is something they—and their customers—count on without a second thought. But behind those moments of convenience is a network of dedicated professionals ensuring everything works as it should. One of