In this final episode of Cornerstone's Plugged In series for 2024, Al and Steve reflect on the year's significant events and trends in the banking industry. They discuss the resurgence in mergers & acquisitions, challenges posed by technology and compliance, and trends that will continue into 2025. The episode then transitions to a replay of the 2024 GonzoBanker Awards, featuring Al and co-host Ron Shevlin (What's Going On in Banking), along with special guests Steve, Sam Kilmer (Fintech Hustle), and Mary Wisniewski (Money Isn't Everything). Together, they highlight some of the winners from Cornerstone Advisors' annual industry awards.

Hans Morris is used to following fintech trends. He’s a managing partner at Nyca Partners, a fintech venture capital firm in New York and San Francisco, and the chairman of the board of Lending Club. In today’s Punk Rock-themed show, Hans talks to Al and Steve about some of his portfolio investments that touch on juicy industry themes, like: Generative AI (and interesting ways to use it), automated tax prep services and fresher ways to screen tenants than requesting their credit scores.

Hans will also share some of his favorite wine picks just in time for the holidays.

Citizens Business Bank has made money in every single quarter of every single year for more than 47 years.

Today on the show, Al and Steve talk to Dave Brager, CEO of Citizens Business Bank and 2022 GonzoBanker of the Year Bank award winner, about the bank’s impressive growth. Among the topics they explore for the $15.4 billion asset bank that a dairy farmer founded: the ability to deliver and lend through all economic cycles, remaining realistic about organic growth strategies and the importance of the talent pipeline.

Oh... Al also applauds Dave for his dapper style.