Palmetto Banker 2019-1

PALMETTO SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

Winter Issue 2019-1

Banker

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2009 Park Street I PO Box 1483 Columbia, S.C., 29202-1483 803.779.0850 I Fax: 803.779.0890

www.scbankers.org 2018-19 SC BA EXEC U TIV E CO M M ITTE E Chairman.....................................................................................David L. Morrow, CresCom Bank Chairman-Elect.............................................................................. Samuel L. Erwin, IBERIABANK First Vice-Chairman.............................................................. James A. Bennett, First Citizens Bank Treasurer............................................................................. K. Wayne Wicker, South Atlantic Bank Immediate Past Chairman................................................... R. Thornwell Dunlap III, Countybank

Contents 5 6 8 11 12 14 16 18 20

President’s Message

Financial Institutions 2018-19 SC BA BOARD O F D IR E CTO R S 2nd Immediate Past Chairman.................................................Robert R. Hill, Jr., South State Bank SCBA President & CEO.............................. Fred L. Green III, South Carolina Bankers Association Directors.......................................................................J. Neal Anderson, Anderson Brothers Bank Feature: Optus Bank

Laurence S. Bolchoz, Jr., Coastal Carolina National Bank

Curtis T. Evatt, Oconee Federal Savings & Loan

Fred Gilmer III, Southern First Bank

Fleetwood S. Hassell, The Bank of South Carolina ABA Update

Boyd B. Jones, Synovus

Jennifer T. Jones, CBL State Savings Bank

Jan M. Malinowski, Palmetto State Bank

Ford P. Menefee, The Bank of South Carolina New Preferred Vendor

Rose Buyck Newton, Bank of Clarendon

K. Reid Pollard, Enterprise Bank of SC

James B. Schwiers, GrandSouth Bank

Samuel R. Small, Jr., First Palmetto Bank Legislative Reception

James B. Smith, Sandhills Bank

Charles K. Talbert, The Bank of South Carolina

2018-19 SC BA C OMM UN ITY B A N KE R S D IV IS IO N B OA R D Legislator Update Chairman............................................................................... Fred Gilmer III, Southern First Bank Chairman-Elect..................................................................... J. Ted Nissen, First Community Bank Immediate Past Chairman...............................................Robert L. McKinney, South Atlantic Bank Directors.............................................................. Marion E. Freeman, The Conway National Bank

L. E. Griffin, Home Federal Savings & Loan SCBA BankPAC

James A. Kimbell III, Coastal Carolina National Bank

Richard N. McIntyre, First Reliance Bank

Jamie O. Morphis III, Carolina Bank & Trust Co.

Barry L. Slider, First South Bank Education and Professional

C. Kyle Thomas, Blue Ridge Bank 2018-19 SOUTH C ARO LIN A B A N KE R S S CH O O L B O A R D Chairman ................................................................. Ford P. Menefee, The Bank of South Carolina Chairman-Elect ................................................................................Annette L. Scott, Countybank Past Chairman.............................................................................Scott M. Frierson, CresCom Bank Directors............................................................................. Richard N. Burch, South Atlantic Bank

Robert P. Hucks II, Coastal Carolina National Bank

Calvin C. Hurst, TD Bank, N.A.

John M. Leighton, South State Bank

Joseph A. Painter, First Community Bank

Marvin E. Robinson, Jr., CresCom Bank

J. Reeves Skeen, First Citizens Bank

Tricia P. Springfield, Southern First Bank Robert L. White, Bank of Travelers Rest

Course Coordinators...........................................................James R. Clarkson, First Reliance Bank

John C. Griggs III, Synovus

W. David Keller, Coastal Carolina National Bank

Francis A. Townsend III, South State Bank 2018-19 Y OUNG BAN KE R S D IV IS IO N B O A R D O F D I R EC T OR S Chairman ............................................................. Charles K. Talbert, The Bank of South Carolina Chairman-Elect..............................................................Elizabeth S. Steifle, Bank of Travelers Rest First Vice Chairman.................................................................Allison B. Cranford, TD Bank, N.A. Past Chairman.................................................................Jennifer T. Jones, CBL State Savings Bank Directors........................................................................... Thomas H. Anderson, South State Bank

Bradley R. Cantrell, Oconee Federal Savings & Loan

Rufus T. Dunlap V, Countybank

Casey L. Earl, United Community Bank

Margi M. Fleming, The Citizens Bank

Austin J. Goforth, Southern First Bank

Lauren D. Greene, Synovus

Jamin M. Hujik, CresCom Bank

Othniel W. Laffitte, GrandSouth Bank

David P. Looper, Wells Fargo

Jared A. Polk, Enterprise Bank of SC

Charles H. Redmond, South State Bank

B. Oneal Staples, Ameris Bank

H. Gibson Tucker, First Palmetto Bank

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Development

Young Bankers Division Welcome New Members Personal Transactions Banking News

SC B A St a f f President & CEO............................. Fred L. Green III Executive Vice President & CFO...... Donna S. Taylor Senior Vice President....................... Carolyn L. Bradley Senior Vice President....................... E. Anne Gillespie Senior Vice President & Counsel..... A. O’Neil Rashley, Jr., Esq. Director, Advertising & IT............... M. Caroline Snijders Administrative Assistant................... Bonnie E. Nelson The Palmetto Banker is a publication of the South Carolina Bankers Association. The magazine exists to serve its members by communicating news of interest, education and SCBA activities.

Items from members are welcome, however the editor reserves the right to refuse copy. With the exception of official announcements, the SCBA disclaims responsibility for opinions expressed and statements made in articles published in the Palmetto Banker.

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President’s Message

OUR MEMBERSHIP

Created the

Collective Success As consolidation reduces the number of bank charters both nationally and in South Carolina, our membership has actually grown to an all-time high. The number of banks we have as members have dropped, but the consolidated market share of deposits of our members has grown to 99.4%. There are less than a handful of banks doing business in South Carolina that are not our members.

I think there are several important reasons our membership stays strong even with the industry consolidations. There is diversity among our members in terms of size, business, model, and geography. Even with this diversity, all of our members share the common goals of promoting the banking industry in legislative and regulatory matters, staying abreast of changes through educational opportunities, promoting professional development, and simply enjoying peer-to-peer interaction.

The SCBA provides a unique value proposition that begins with the work we do in representing our industry at the State House and in Washington. Our advocacy saves our banks and their customers millions of dollars each year by challenging needless and costly regulations and processes. We continue to be a strong voice in opposing proposals that would negatively impact the South Carolina banking industry.

Although many issues emerge each year, we cannot afford to be complacent. Instead, we need to actively oppose harmful legislation even as it is being discussed and considered. This can often be done by maintaining good, professional relationships with our elected officials.

As competition, technology, regulatory oversight and economic pressures all intensify, we recognize the critical importance of high-quality professional development programs for our members’ continuing success.

Fred L. Green, III, President & CEO South Carolina Bankers Association

Over the years, our professional development programs have evolved and improved. We offer a wide range of training options customized to meet the need of senior leaders, commercial bankers, credit administrators, and all operational and compliance professionals. We recently formed a new Mortgage Bankers Committee to focus on this unique business line.

Our programs are both in-person conferences and area specific webinars that allow our members to enhance their skills in their area of expertise conveniently and efficiently. We are constantly expanding and refining our educational offerings.

In addition to these more formal offerings, your SCBA membership can be your ticket to network with peers, learn from each other’s experiences, build important relationships and share information with other bankers from around the state.

Our association – like our profession – can only be as strong as the people involved. Together, we can reinforce the contributions our banks make every day to the economic, health and quality of life in our state. We can work successfully with legislators that may not fully appreciate our business, and effectively counteract the effort of non-bank competitors who mischaracterize our banks. We can help each other develop the skills we need to better serve our customers and communities.

And we can enjoy the pride of accomplishment that comes with working with one another and the SCBA. Given these values, South Carolina bankers should be proud to belong to the SCBA. We have tremendous appreciation for your membership, your engagement, your support, and your friendship.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 • PALMETTO BANKER

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S tat e B o a r d News

Davis Retires as Banking Commissioner; Green Named Successor

Fred Green, Bob Davis, Curtis Loftis

Bob Davis’ tenure as South Carolina Banking Commissioner was relatively brief – a little more than 24 months – but he packed a lot into those two years.

Davis, who retired on Feb. 1, modernized the department, implementing regulatory best practices, increased staff education and recruited a number of talented professionals. Perhaps his biggest achievement was helping the Office of the Commissioner of Banking gain accreditation. Prior to that accomplishment in 2018, South Carolina was one of just four states nationwide without an accredited State Banking Department.

“Bob did an outstanding job during his two years as the commissioner of banking,” State Treasurer Curtis Loftis said. “He focused on modernizing the division’s operations, and his extraordinary efforts to achieve national accreditation in such a short time frame speaks volumes to his work ethic and determination.”

Davis also identified and mentored his eventual replacement, Richards H. “Rick” Green, who was named permanent banking commissioner on Feb. 11.

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Green, 42, is a native of Clinton and graduate of Presbyterian College.

“Rick is very capable,” Davis said. “When I first arrived at the office I knew nothing like this gets accomplished alone, so I looked from the outset to assemble a small operations team, and that was Rick Green and (now-Deputy Commissioner of Banking) Kathy Bickham. The three of us worked very closely day in and day.

“Rick has a great work ethic and a terrific level of experience,” Davis added.

Green worked with Bob during their two years together to improve the agency’s policies and procedures, staffing, technology and overall operations to support a strong financial services industry in South Carolina. ”I’ve enjoyed working with Bob on banking issues since his first day in office. I’ve also gotten to know Rick over the last two years, and look forward to working with him and his staff,” said Fred Green, president and chief executive officer of the South Carolina Bankers Association.

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Richards H. “Rick” Green

The Office of the Commissioner of Banking is responsible for the chartering and supervising all South Carolina state-chartered banks, savings and loan associations, savings banks, credit unions and trust companies.

Davis was appointed commissioner of banking in early 2017. Fleetwood Hassell, president and chief executive officer of The Bank of South Carolina and a member of the State Board of Financial Institutions, was on the search committee tasked with filling the position, beginning in 2016.

“I chaired the search committee when we were looking for someone to replace Louie Jacobs, and we weren’t having much success with applicants,” Hassell said.

“We were getting down to the end and actually considering reopening the search when I got an email from a gentleman named Bob Davis asking if the position was still open.”

Davis had 40 years of financial and legal expertise, having served as a bank regulator with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, an attorney in private practice and as a member of the executive

management teams and general counsel for three different bank holding companies, including the parent of First Federal Bank of Charleston. The latter was merged into South Carolina Bank and Trust in 2013, and the combined company was later rebranded as South State Bank.

State Bank Supervisors, in October 2018.

The purpose of accreditation is to help state bank regulatory agencies enhance their capabilities to supervise and regulate state-chartered depository institutions with a minimum of regulatory burden and cost.

“The comparison I have always used is “All his background lent itself to the position when you go to a medical doctor you want of banking commissioner,” Hassell said. your doctor to be board certified. It says that your doctor adheres to a whole set of At the point Davis decided to throw his professional standards, and it’s the same hat in the ring for the state banking with the bank offices,” Davis said. “It says commissioner’s position, he’d been retired to the institution you supervise that you a short while. But he decided he wasn’t operate at a best-practice level.” quite ready to call it a career.

Added Rick Green, “Achieving CSBS During Davis’s first year as commissioner, accreditation was truly a team effort. We he identified what was going on in the all had significant roles to play in this office, who was doing what, what was and process, and I am grateful that our team was not being done, and then set about was able to work together to accomplish making gradual improvements, he said. this undertaking in such a short time frame. Although achieving accreditation is “By the end of that first year, we had great, it isn’t the end of the story. We can’t become much more active in the national rest on our laurels or become complacent.” association of state bank offices,” Davis said.

Green added that he’s looking forward In early 2018, Davis learned that South to building on the positive momentum Carolina was one of just four states with in the division to improve and enhance an unaccredited banking division. He operations, efficiency and accountability. made it his goal to change that, achieving accreditation from the Conference of

“I plan to continue to build on the already good relationships we have with our banking and credit union leaders, and to make sure we are all working together to protect South Carolinians’ financial well-being,” he said.

Loftis said he believes Green will carry on Davis’s successful record.

“Rick has a proven track record of performance and leadership with the Banking Division and he will make a fine commissioner of banking for the state,” he said.

Davis, who said he and his wife had to cut short a vacation in the Canadian Maritimes in 2016 when he interviewed for the commissioner’s job, said this time around he’s much more comfortable with the concept of retirement. The first thing on his to-do list: travel, including driving U.S. Route 66, which begins in the Midwest and ends in Santa Monica, Calif.

“The last time I retired was six years ago, so I’m six years older and I think I’m more comfortable with the idea of being retired than I was before,” Davis said. “This time I think it’s going to stick.”

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7

F e at u r e Story

Optus Out to Prove A SMALL BANK CAN

Leverage Technology

Dominik Mjartan admits there’s been occasional apprehension since he took over as president and chief executive officer of South Carolina’s only AfricanAmerican-owned bank.

A 40-year-old white banker who grew up in Czechoslovakia and received a master’s degree from the University of Ulster in the United Kingdom, Mjartan may at first glance appear an unlikely choice to lead Optus Bank, one of just a handful of minority-owned financial institutions remaining nationwide.

Mjartan spent 12 years as a senior executive with Arkansas-based Southern Bancorp, a $1.3 billion community development bank, prior to arriving in Columbia, and isn’t interested in having Optus, formerly known as South Carolina Community Bank, simply tread water.

Optus Bank Chairman Paul Mitchell and CEO Dominik Mjartan

Optus Bank Headquarters......................Columbia Founded....................................................1999 Assets.........................................................$65 million CEO............................................................Dominik Mjartan

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His board and team are in the midst of a dramatic overhaul which involved a name change, a relocation of headquarters and a revamping of strategy. Among goals is to use innovative financial technology to create lasting wealth for all stakeholders: community, customers, employees and shareholders, he said.

To emphasize his commitment, Mjartan invested a substantial amount of his own money into Optus and moved his family – wife, three children and in-laws – from Arkansas to Columbia.

Innovative technology developments and a new business model is the key to the bank’s future, according to Mjartan, no small undertaking for a bank with a little more than $60 million in assets.

“Banking is a commodity to most people,” he said. “In the age of neobanks, fintechs and megabanks, for a small bank to be impactful and add value it has to do things that haven’t been done before.”

Mjartan wants to bring the knowledge he gained working both for Southern and for Dell Computers to Optus.

“When I was with Dell in Round Rock, Texas, I saw how customers could build their own computers, adding on what they needed and skipping over what they didn’t,” he said. “I want to do the same here by giving customers the ability to design their own services and gain better control over their financial resources.

“Given today’s technology available to all banks,” he added, “there’s no reason why we can’t give individuals the option of choosing the features they need and anticipating their needs, starting at account opening.”

When a customer fills out the forms to opens an account a bank has much of the information it needs to also determine if they are a good candidate for a future loan, Mjartan said.

“So, in the future, we can use that information when the customer wants a loan, rather than making them come in and go through a mountain of paperwork to get that loan,” he added. “We’ve already collected much of the information required for underwriting.”

Optus’s goal is to seamlessly integrate banking into its customers’ lives “Banks have access to technology to give customers instant access to their money, along with the ability to move funds quickly and do so much more, no matter what the size of the institution,” Mjartan said. “We want our customers to have access to these tools so they are empowered to make the right financial decisions for themselves.”

Balancing Past, Present and Future The emphasis on innovative technology is strong at Optus, but staff and executives don’t want to overlook the bank’s history and founding mission, either.

In early 2019, the name change to Optus from South Carolina Community Bank will be final. SCCB was formed in 1999 when a

group of mostly African-American business leaders purchased the assets of the failed Victory State Bank, also a minority-owned institution, from regulators.

Victory was begun in the 1920s and in its early decades it served those who would not be served by traditional banks and credit unions. With the end of segregation, though, that model became more difficult to sustain, as non-minority-owned banks snared many profitable customers.

“The capacity and commitment of our board and staff is evident in the financial progress we’ve made,” Mjartan said. “They have truly given of themselves to preserve and grow the impact of bank, now positioned to change the lives of many more people than ever before. The new name – which is Latin for ‘to choose’ – is meant to illustrate that the institution is no longer the bank of last resort.”

South Carolina Community Bank increasingly found itself the bank of last resort, the only option for individuals other banks wouldn’t serve.

Today, Optus customers range from those with several million dollars in net worth to those who are less fortunate financially.

In addition, the bank was badly hurt by the Great Recession: At the end of September 2009, it had more than $95 million in assets; five years later that figure was less than $55 million as the bank struggled with problem loans brought to light during the economic downturn of 2007-10. Its assets would later sink below $50 million.

“A lot of the latter are good hardworking people who simply don’t earn enough to get out of that hole without some extra help. Our goal is to help them close that gap and empower them to build lasting wealth,” Mjartan said.

The bank recently moved its headquarters to 1241 Main St. in downtown Columbia, into more modern facilities, and revamped the structure to not only include a coffee bar, but remove the traditional teller lines.

Chairman Paul Mitchell, a successful Columbia entrepreneur, and other members of the board of directors began recapitalizing the bank and disposing of non-performing assets in 2015. They brought in Mjartan in late 2017.

“The board understood that in order to accomplish the founding purpose of the bank, we needed a leader who could carefully balance the mission and manage objectives of the bank,” Mitchell said. “We want to build on the significant and patient investments our shareholders made while recognizing that our previous business model needs to evolve to create a thriving high-impact organization.”

The bank’s total assets increased from $47.8 million in September 2017 to more than $64 million as of Dec. 31, 2018, according to bank information. Net loans also increased during the same time period, from $28.8 million to $43 million, as did deposits, from $41.5 million to $55 million. Non-performing assets reached a record high of $13.32 million in 2014; they were at $1.25 million as of Dec. 31, 2018.

In March 2018 the FDIC informed the bank that a consent order issued in 2010 had been terminated and the institution was no longer designated as a “Troubled Bank.”

In 2018, the bank earned approximately $170,000, compared to a $1.6 million loss in 2017. 2018 represented its first profitable year in more than a decade, according to Mjartan.

“When we open the new headquarters in early 2019, we won’t have tellers, we will have universal bankers,” Mjartan said.

“They can help customers, but they’re not necessary to open an account. And they can do much more than open accounts, take deposits and cash checks. They can add value beyond the transaction by providing advice, coaching on use of our products and basic financial empowerment education.”

Optus wants to add value to the community beyond financial services.

Among examples is the new Women in Banking Management Training Program the bank has started with Columbia College.

The eight-month internship program is designed to provide an opportunity for women to gain experiences in banking.

Using Technology to Carve a Niche Optus Bank’s progress has rapidly accelerated since Mjartan’s arrival.

With the advantages offered by technology, Mjartan believes he can not only serve the Columbia area, Optus’ traditional home

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F e at u r e Story base, but reach out to customers across the state and the nation.

“We’re trying to find gaps in the marketplace, both locally and nationally,” he said. “The Midlands of South Carolina is not our sole market anymore. It may be our base of operation, but there’s no reason we’re limited to the Midlands. Our goal is to serve niche areas and people that are underserved, regardless of their geography.”

Among his first steps was to enlist Sageworks, a vendor that enabled significant loan administration cost savings, including digitization of the bank’s loan files. This led to Optus adopting other programs that have increased the speed and efficiency of loan processing and credit portfolio management, all of which has reduced the time needed to handle paper files and increased cost savings.

During his time with Southern Bancorp, the Little Rock-based financial services company grew into a $1.3 billion institution that gained a reputation for being a major player in community development.

Southern, which has nearly 50 locations in the Mississippi Delta, emphasizes rural development.

“Focusing on underserved communities, Southern combines traditional banking and lending services with financial development tools and public policy advocacy to help families and communities grow stronger,” according to its webpage.

Community development is a crucial part of Optus’ mission, Mjartan said.

So how did a white man who grew up behind the Iron Curtain and received a graduate degree from a European university gain an abiding interest in aiding underserved people and communities in the United States?

Mjartan came to this country through a student-exchange program, arriving at age 16 in Camden, Ark., a Mississippi River Delta community about two hours south of Little Rock. Camden, like much of the Delta, was predominantly black, rural and poor.

Back row: Optus Bank CEO Dominik Mjartan and Senior Vice President Deborah Dawson at the institution’s Main Street office. Front row: Optus customer Orlando Snipes of Snipes Commercial Cleaning and Lawn Care with Vice President of Lending Jessica Addison.

Optus is also involved with a number of Fintech partners who are assisting in other areas, including new-product development to improve customer experience as well as improve the basic functions such as cash management, remote deposits, merchant services, ACH and wire origination, and payroll services. The goal is to make the bank relevant to customers who might have never considered it in the past.

The strategy is the result of knowledge gained by Mjartan from positions at companies such as Dell and Southern Bancorp but also from his life experience when he first arrived in the United States.

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“There were some very nice houses and well-off people, but there were also a lot of poor people, kids I went to school with, who never had a fair chance to make it because of the circumstances they had been born into,” he said.

He has seen folks from both sides of the tracks, so to speak, and believes banks can help both the well-to-do and those who are struggling to build lasting wealth through access to credit, savings tools and capacity to manage their financial lives.

While Mjartan understands that AfricanAmerican customers cannot be the sole base for the bank, he is committed to building on the founding purpose and mission to help close the racial wealth gap in America.

“The bank has provided an economic floor for a lot of families and business who

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would have otherwise gone unserved, individuals and businesses who would have not been able to be banked anywhere else,” he said. “The bank has stepped into the void, helping those without financial means at times, intentionally banking people who didn’t have the advantage of inherited wealth and other opportunities, and the shareholders have paid the price for it.”

The goal is to create an institution that parlays the advantages of innovative financial technology to offer the responsible and responsive products and services, but continue to focus on those who have struggled to make ends meet, empowering them to improve their financial situation.

Mjartan said banks used to make much of their money from interest income, but he said non-interest income from fees has been growing rapidly in recent years.

“It’s primarily the customers with more limited means who generate the transaction-fee income for the banks – it’s people who use debit cards, who pay overdraft fees, who pay account fees,” he said. “What we’re trying to do is change that model to design an experience where people have more control over the cost and responsiveness of their banking services.”

Instead of picking a pre-existing account, Optus wants to let customers tailor accounts with the services and products they need, so they’re not paying for that which they don’t require.

The bank will earn money off services and deposits in those accounts, but these will ultimately cost the customers less than charges generated by, say, overdraft fees, Mjartan said.

If all goes according to plan, the bank, its customers and its shareholders will all reap benefits, proving that even small institutions can turn technology to its advantage and fill unserved niches.

“We don’t need to grow to $1 billion to make this work,” Mjartan said. “We’re building a bank that can be solidly profitably at $100 million.”

ABA U p d at e

2019: Different Approach

Same Agenda Significant progress at the regulatory agencies as well as the passage and implementation of long-sought bipartisan regulatory reform made 2018 a breakthrough year in many ways.

The new year brings fresh challenges, including how to maintain momentum for policy improvements in the face of a newly divided Congress.

But as I have said on many occasions, the fundamental business of banking—from the deployment of credit to the building of communities—does not belong to one party. Banking issues can and should be bipartisan. So while our tactics might change with the new dynamic in Washington, our agenda hasn’t, and won’t.

ABA will actively advocate on a range of policy issues in 2019, including additional regulatory reforms that didn’t make it into S. 2155, such as exam-fairness provisions that would establish deadlines for banking agencies to issue exam reports and create an independent examination review and appeal process. Other topics we think are ripe for bipartisan action include: BANK SECRECY ACT REFORM There is growing consensus that now is the time to update the compliance structure surrounding the nation’s anti-money laundering rules, which has not changed since 1970.

We will be working to build bipartisan support for BSA/AML reform, including updated Suspicious Activity Report and Currency Transaction Report thresholds, further modifications to customer due-diligence rules and better communication between banks and law enforcement.

CANNABIS BANKING As cannabis is now legal in some form in 33 states, the growth in dispensaries as well as numerous fast-growing offshoot businesses is putting our industry in an untenable position. A bank might choose not to serve a marijuana grower or dispensary since cannabis remains illegal under federal law, yet still face significant legal, operational and regulatory risk if it offers services to a customer with a tangential connection to cannabis. We’ve heard many stories, like the bank that was told by its regulator not to lend any more to a local mall owner after it leased space to a cannabis dispensary.

This conflict between federal and state law is reaching a tipping point, and we believe Congress and regulators must provide greater legal clarity. Watch for hearings, likely to begin with the House Financial Services Committee, and for the introduction of bills that address banks’ challenges. While ABA is not weighing in on the societal, cultural or moral aspects of this issue, we do want legal protections for banks providing services in states where cannabis is legal.

CECL ACCOUNTING STANDARD Understanding the impact that the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Current Expected Credit Loss accounting standard will have when fully implemented is a significant challenge.

But we know that the standard’s upfront loss recognition changes the economics of lending and could force hundreds of banks to raise capital or limit their product offerings. For this reason, ABA is advocating that a thorough quantitative impact study be conducted before allowing the standard take effect.

Rob Nichols, President and CEO American Bankers Association nichols@aba.com

The standard is scheduled to take effect in 2020 for Securities Exchange Commission registrants, 2021 for non-registrant banks with outside equity/debt holders, and 2022 for privately held and mutual banks.

COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT ACT MODERNIZATION Regulations implementing the Community Reinvestment Act have not kept pace with changes in banking and technology, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has taken the lead in modernizing them. The comment period following OCC’s issue of an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking closed in November 2018, with some 300 banks weighing in. That kind of engagement will be needed again in 2019, when we expect the banking agencies to jointly issue a proposed rule.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to move CRA into the future, but it will face substantial headwinds from those who fear (wrongly) that modernization will reduce banks’ commitment to their communities. We will be working to allay those fears and make the case for commonsense improvements.

Fortunately or unfortunately, banking always has a full pipeline of issues demanding attention. So while those above seem ripe for action in the coming months, ABA will be advocating on a host of other, equally important issues, from data security and housing finance reform to flood insurance and student debt concerns.

Your continued engagement will be the key to advancing any of these issues, and creating smarter, more effective bank regulation.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 • PALMETTO BANKER

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WELCOME to the SCBA FAMILY

By Fred L. Green III, President & CEO, SCBA

As our members know, the SCBA puts our potential Preferred Vendors through a rigorous review process. An official endorsement from our organization is not given lightly. To earn our trust and to demonstrate value of interest to the SCBA membership, a Preferred Vendor must demonstrate a proven history of helping community banks increase efficiency and profitability.

Fitech Payments delivers on exactly that. Based in Fort Worth, Texas, the company specializes in payment processing solutions, delivered directly to business owners through their community bank. These solutions include all aspects of payments acceptance, from processing transactions to providing the related solutions and integrations. Community banks offer these products to create higher value customer portfolios and increase revenue. Fitech’s performance is substantiated by its extensive and loyal client base, spanning community banks across 38% of the U.S. We are thrilled to welcome them to the SCBA family as our newest Preferred Vendor!

CHECK OUT THESE TESTIMONIALS FROM COMMUNITY BANKERS IN OUR NEIGHBORING STATE OF GEORGIA. “I can tell you to this day, Fitech has done everything they said they would do and more. From the outset, Matt and Shawn said to us that they wanted to go out and see our customers and the customers feel that they were an extension of Flint Community Bank. Without exception, they represented Flint Community Bank well, such that our customers made comment that they felt like they were dealing with folks from Flint Community Bank. I highly recommend Fitech Payments.”

— Frank Griffin, Flint Community Bank, Albany, Georgia

“In community banking the most important thing is the customer experience. Fitech understands how to deliver the customer experience the way we deliver the customer experience. They also understand how to deliver the partner experience. They have a relationship manager who actually answers the phone when we call. He replies to our emails immediately and he solves our problems – and they sent [a team member] to our locations to train our people live and in person. They [also] do customized marketing material for us. And in addition to all that, Fitech Payments beat [the other companies we looked at] on the empirical metrics. Talk to Fitech Payments. It will be worth your time.”

— Lon Langston, Heritage Bank, Atlanta, Georgia

Our representative Matt Mingenback, Director of Sales, has already attended several SCBA events and is looking forward to getting to know you and your bank’s needs. If you’d like to connect with Matt, you may call him at (817) 698-2268 or by email, mmingenback@fitech.com.

Our Preferred Vendors provide top quality service, offer generous benefits, and can add value to each institution. SCBA members value and appreciate the level of integrity associated with our Preferred Vendors Program. For a full listing, check out our website. You may also contact Carolyn Laffitte Bradley, (803) 779-0850 or carolynbradley@scbankers.org for more information.

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JOIN THE

$15 ,000 CHALLENGE Fitech Payments promises to make you more money with your existing merchant services portfolio or we will pay you $1 5,000 - no strings attached

Let Matt Mingenback, Director of Sales at Fitech Payments, provide a proposal that beats your current bank’s program.

FOR MORE INFORMATION,CONTACT Matt Mingenback, Director of Sales mmingenback@fitech.com 81 7.698.2268

www.fitech.com 301 Commerce Street, Suite 1400 Fort Worth, TX 76102

© Copyright 2019 Fitech Payments, LLC. All rights reserved. Fitech Payments, LLC is a registered ISOof Fifth Third Bank, Cincinnati, OH.

L e g i s l at i v e Reception

2019 Legislative Reception On January 8th the South Carolina Bankers Association hosted its annual Legislative Reception.

In line with tradition, the reception was held on the evening of the first day of the legislative session. This reception allowed our members to discuss issues of importance to our industry and to thank our elected officials for their continued support. With 400 guests in attendance, this is always one of our best attended events.

David Morrow, Luke Rankin, Jr., Judge James E. Lockemy, Chairman Luke Rankin, Nancy Morrow

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Richard Westbrook, Chairwoman Katrina Shealy, and Hugh Mobley (USC trustee) Rick Saunders, Drew Painter, State Treasurer Curtis Loftis

Fred Green, former Governor James H. Hodges, David Morrow

Fred Green, Rep. Shedron Williams

Sen. Tom Davis, Dwight Neese, Rep. Jerry Govan

James Bennett, Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty

Secretary of State Mark Hammond, Fred Moore

Chairman Weston Newton, Neil Rashley

Dorn Smith, Rep. Bill Hixson

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L e g i s l at u r e U p d at e

MEET

South Carolina’s

Newest

Legislators The South Carolina General Assembly includes many new faces this year – 17 in the House and one in the Senate – and the maps on these pages feature these new legislators. This is a diverse and exciting group of elected officials and SCBA is looking forward to working with each of them. SCBA also urges its members to advocate on behalf of the banking industry through building relationships with your state legislator and to particularly reach out to these new legislators to let them know what banking does for their communities. Relationship building is the first step to a strong grassroots legislative program – and SCBA is dedicated to providing its members with the support and resources to make it happen.

District 10: Anderson County Westley P. “West” Cox (R) • Attorney • Clemson University, B.A., 2008 • University of S.C., J.D., 2014 • Member, Piedmont Lions Club

District 20: Greenville County Adam M. Morgan (R) • Attorney • President, Majesty Music, Inc.

District 21: Greenville County Bobby J. Cox (R) • Businessman & Military Officer • Military Service: USA, 2002-2015; Lt. Col., USAR, 2015-

District 32: Spartanburg County Max T. Hyde, Jr. (R) • Attorney • Spartanburg County Commission for Higher Education, 2015-2017

District 87: Lexington County Paula Rawl Calhoon (R)

District 20: Lexington & Richland Counties Senator Richard A. “Dick” Harpootlian (D)

• Business Owner • Teacher, Lexington District One, 1981-1989 • Deputy Director, S.C. Commission on Prosecution Coordination, 1991-2011

• Attorney • Solicitor for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, 1991-1995

District 69: Lexington County Chris Wooten (R) • BodyShop Athletics • Presidential Protection Detail, (Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush) 1986-1991, S.C. State Trooper, 1992-1999 • Military Service, USMC, 1987-1991

District 122: Beaufort, Hampton & Jasper Counties Shedron D. Williams (D) • Public Health • Hampton County Council, 2010-2018

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District 42: Laurens & Union Counties Leon D. “Doug” Gilliam (R) • Retired Army • Military Service: SCANG, 1984-89; USA 1989-2015

District 43: Chester & York Counties Thomas R. “Randy” Ligon (R) • Realtor, Auctioneer & Farmer • Member Charlotte Regional Commercial Board of Realtors

District 41: Chester, Fairfield & Richland Counties Annie E. McDaniel (D) • Retired Consultant • S.C. School Boards Association, Board of Directors, 2016-

District 104: Horry County William H. Bailey (R) • Retired Public Safety, Law Encorcement & Fire • City of North Myrtle Beach, Public Safety, Officer,1990-2004; Director, 2005-2010

District 77: Richland County Kambrell H. Garvin (D) • Law Clerk • University of South Carolina School of Law, anticipated graduation May 2019 • Public School Teacher, Colleton County School District, 2013-2016

District 117: Berkeley & Charleston Counties KrystJe N. Simmons (D) District 97: Colleton & Dorchester Counties Mandy W. Kimmons (R) • Attorney • Assistant Solicitor, First Judicial Circuit, 2008-2016

District 72: Richland County Seth C. Rose (D)

• Engineering Planner • Bowling Green University of Ohio, A.D.

District 94: Charleston & Dorchester Counties Converse A. Chellis, IV (R) • Insurance Agent • Dorchester County Council 2017-2018

District 15: Berkeley & Charleston Counties J.A. Moore (D)

• Attorney • Richland County Councilman, 2011-2019 • University of South Carolina Athletic Hall of fame Inductee, 2014 (Men’s Tennis)

• Chef & Business Owner • Member, Military, Medical and Municipal Affairs Committee, 1st VC, 2018-

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The South Carolina Bankers Association Political Action Committee says

Thank You.

It is critical that the banking industry support candidates who believe in a competitive, fair-banking climate. The governing bodies of South Carolina will spend months considering proposed legislation that impacts our bottom lines. The risk of not supporting them is detrimental to the banking business, employees and customers. Please assist in this effort by contributing to BankPAC.

2018 TOTAL RAISED: $87,700

2018 GOAL: $70,000

SCBA BankPAC had a remarkable 2018 Campaign, raising $87,700, the highest amount in BankPAC history. Listed below are those who made this campaign such a success.

1st Federal Savings Bank of SC Ameris Bank Anderson Brothers Bank Arthur State Bank Bank of Travelers Rest Bank of Walterboro Bank of York BB&T Blue Ridge Bank Capital Bank Carolina Alliance Bank Carolina Bank & Trust Co. CBL State Savings Bank Coastal Carolina National Bank CoastalStates Bank Community First Bank Countybank CresCom Bank Entegra Bank Enterprise Bank of SC First Citizens Bank

For more information about SCBA BankPAC, contact Donna S. Taylor at dtaylor@scbankers.org.

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First Community Bank First Palmetto Bank GrandSouth Bank Home Federal Savings & Loan IBERIABANK Kingstree Federal Savings & Loan Oconee Federal Savings & Loan Palmetto State Bank Sandhills Bank Security Federal Bank ServisFirst Bank South Atlantic Bank South Carolina Bankers Association South State Bank Southern First Bank Spratt Savings & Loan SunTrust Synovus The Bank of Clarendon The Citizens Bank Wells Fargo

Serving Banks, Helping People Centrant Community Capital strengthens communities by providing perm debt solutions to finance affordable multifamily housing.

With more than a quarter-century of experience and nearly 100 member banks, we offer a partnership that is built upon proficiency, financial strength and stability.

To date, our funding impact exceeds 22,000 multifamily units at more than 400 properties across the Southeast.

Join us today – we’re ready to assist you and the communities you serve.

SC

NC

VA

Manor at Broad Street, Fairburn, GA

GA

TN

TX

984.344.9992 PO Box 19999 Raleigh, NC 27619 www.centrant.org

E ducation and P rofessional D evelopment

2019 Women in Banking LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM

Over 100 women leaders gathered in Columbia January 29-30 for two days of education, connection and motivation. Attendees enjoyed sessions on women and communication, the economy, disrupting labels, the importance of mentorship, skills to transform behaviors that impact an organization, and a banking panel of women leaders. Attendees were especially honored to hear Lieutenant Governor Pamela S. Evette speak on leadership and being a female business owner. This event is about and for women in the banking industry, and one of the attendees had the following to say about her experience:

“Wow, is the word that comes to mind in response to the symposium. All of the speakers were very inspiring and I learned something from each of them. Thanks to the SCBA for putting on such a top-notch event!”

— Sarah Donley, First Community Bank, Lexington, SC

Thank You to Our Sponsors

SAPPHIRE SPONSOR

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GOLD SPONSOR

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SILVER SPONSORS

Sharon W. Bryant, First Citizens Bank

Roslyn Clark Artis, President, Benedict College

Susan Waring Koch, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

The Honorable Pamela S. Evette, SC Lieutenant Governor

Tricia P. Springfield, Southern First Bank; Robin D. Brown, First Community Bank; Jennifer T. Jones, CBL State Savings Bank; Rhonda D. Midgette, TD Bank, N.A.; Mary Jo Rogers, South Atlantic Bank

Meridith Elliott Powel, Business Growth Expert & Keynote Speaker

Lauren Green, Synovus; Tricia P. “Trish” Springfield, Southern First Bank; Lisa Tolbert, Countybank

“I think the girl who is able to earn her own living and pay her own way should be as happy as anybody on earth. The sense of independence and security is very sweet.”

— Susan B. Anthony, Women’s Rights Activist, New York Press interview, February 26, 1905

2019

E ducation and P rofessional D evelopment

South Carolina Bankers Association

EDUCATION CALENDAR MARCH 2019

APRIL 2019

5 Directors and Managers Workshop

Inn @ USC Wyndham Garden Columbia, SC

8-10 Young Bankers Division Annual Conference Omni Grove Park Inn Asheville, NC

19 Spring Compliance Conference

23 Trust and Wealth

Management Conference and Trade Show

Convention and Trade Show The Sanctuary Kiawah Island, SC

Economic Developers Conference

JULY 2019 17-12 SC Bankers School Lander University Greenwood, SC

2 Asset Liability

Management Conference

26 Bank Operations

Inn @ USC Wyndham Garden Columbia, SC

Conference and Trade Show Courtyard by Marriott 630 Assembly St. Columbia, SC

28 Call Report Seminar

Inn @ USC Wyndham Garden Columbia, SC

Do you want

9-12 SCBA Annual

Courtyard by Marriott 630 Assembly St. Columbia, SC

MAY 2019

Marriott Downtown Main & Hampton Sts. Columbia, SC

JUNE 2019

Visit www.scbankers.org to see complete training and webinar schedules.

ACCESS,

recognition and exposure to the banking industry?

Sponsorships through the SCBA is a great way to enhance your company’s visibility and brand recognition among a select group of banking industry representatives and event attendees, including C-suite executives and key decision makers within South Carolina’s financial institutions. Don’t miss out on the chance to develop new business leads, meet and network with South Carolina’s banking decision makers, and show your support for our state’s banks.

Visit our website scbankers.org to learn more or contact Anne Gillespie, agillespie@scbankers.org

New Mortgage Committee SCBA Forms

Mortgage Banking has become a more important contributor to many of our banks. Because of its unique nature, it requires dedicated professionals with knowledge of current issues. From pricing, packaging, product development, and compliance there is a need to stay abreast of changes.

SCBA has formed a new Mortgage Banking Committee that will work with us on creating the necessary training and peer exchange sessions that will benefit all of our membership that has a mortgage area.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS INCLUDE: Travis A. Minter, Chairman.................................................... South Atlantic Bank Scott Bailey............................................................................. Southern First Bank Ken Cox.................................................................................. First Citizens Bank John Girardeau....................................................................... Security Federal Bank Kevin Jones............................................................................. First Community Bank Leslie Minnis.......................................................................... Carolina Alliance Bank Chris Roberts......................................................................... Countybank Carson Williams..................................................................... The Bank of South Carolina

Travis A. Minter, Chairman

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Young Bankers Division

PALMETTO

Scholarship

One of the most important initiatives of the South Carolina Bankers Association’s Young Bankers Division is the Palmetto Scholarship program. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been awarded over the years to deserving students. The Young Bankers Division Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament is the sole fundraiser for the Palmetto Scholarship. Thanks to many sponsors and supporters of the annual tournament, we are able to continue giving through this program. To reinforce the SCBA’s commitment to growing and assist students with the ever-increasing cost of higher education, the South Carolina Bankers Association will continue its scholarship giving with the SCBA Palmetto Scholarship. A key component of the program is the emphasis on offering scholarships to the children of employees or a part time employee* of SCBA member banks who are college students.

For more than a century, the SCBA has been blessed with the strong support of its member institutions and their employees. The Bankers Association believes offering scholarships to deserving children of bank employees helps demonstrate both its appreciation to member banks and their employees. It also serves as a means for building a path to a better, more prosperous South Carolina.

The SCBA understands that many students today often find themselves burdened by significant debt upon graduation.

By offering scholarships to children of bank employees, the SCBA seeks to help students pursue higher education while also laying the foundation for the next generation of South Carolina’s leaders. Each Palmetto Scholarship awards $1,000.

Additionally, the SCBA Board of Directors is honoring the memory of two members of the South Carolina banking family whose lives were tragically taken during a bank robbery in 2017. We have established two $2,500 scholarships named after Katie Skeen and Donna Major of CresCom Bank. The Palmetto Scholarship Committee will select two individuals from the pool of applicants who will receive the “Katie Skeen Palmetto Scholarship” and the “Donna Major Palmetto Scholarship.”

TO BE CONSIDERED FOR A SCBA PALMETTO SCHOLARSHIP STUDENTS MUST: • Be a resident of South Carolina; • Be a rising junior or rising senior in COLLEGE, in South Carolina (must be an accredited four-year college or university in South Carolina); • Have a parent/legal guardian who lives in South Carolina and works for a SCBA member bank, bank holding company, or wholly owned subsidiary in South Carolina OR [the student] must be a part-time employee at a member bank working a minimum of 20 hours per week; • Have a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; • Be active in his or her school and community, demonstrate a solid work ethic, and possess strong leadership abilities, good teamwork and a desire to succeed; and • Submit a resume and letter of recommendation from a dean or professor when completing the online application. If you [the student] are a part time employee of a member bank, you must also have a letter of recommendation from senior management.

THE SUBMISSION PROCESS FOR CONSIDERATION IN THE SCBA PALMETTO SCHOLARSHIP INVOLVES: •

• •

Completing the electronic application (handwritten and/or incomplete applications will not be processed), Uploading a resume, and Uploading a letter of recommendation from a dean or professor.

D

Applications are accepted January – March each year.

EADLINE TO APPLY: FRIDAY MARCH 15

2019

Once the application closes each year, the Scholarship Committee will review and grade all applications and the students will be notified in the spring. A dessert reception and check presentation will be held May 21st.

Please visit our website, scbankers.org, for more details or to apply.

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Young Bankers Division

2019

101

Banking Careers

Each year the Young Bankers Division coordinates an annual educational banking program. Banking Careers 101 is designed to help students with banking, finance and accounting interest learn more about the world of banking. Our industry is about more than just numbers and opening accounts. Not only do our bankers help with financial needs, but they are also very well-respected and active within their communities.

Our goal is to recruit and attract bright, young talent to become part of this rewarding career.

This year around 150 students from colleges around the state were in attendance.

“There was someone from every one of our sessions asking about Corporate Social Responsibility. I really feel like that is a sign that the next generation of bankers will make good on the promise of true community service.”

— Rhonda Midgette, VP- Advice Partner, TD Bank and Panelist for Banking Careers 101

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Save the date

SCBA BankPAC Sporting Clay Tournament Fundraiser WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2019

The Young Bankers Division will host the first BankPAC Sporting Clay Tournament at The Palmetto Shooting Complex, Edgefield, SC. The proceeds from this tournament will be contributed to the SCBA StatePAC. Save the date for this special day. Sponsorships will be available.

For more information about the tournament: Carolyn L. Bradley, carolynbradley@scbankers.org For more information about the SCBA’s BankPAC: Donna S. Taylor, dtaylor@scbankers.org

New

M e mb e r s

Welcome

We are fortunate to have an active and engaged roster Associate members and proudly welcome these new members: t NEW

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Eddystone Capital, LLC 602 East Morehead St.

Charlotte, NC 28202 980.938.8887 www.eddystonecap.com Contact: David K. Maynard 602 East Morehead St. Charlotte, NC 28202

980.938.8887 dmaynard@eddystonecap.com

Haberfeld 206 S. 13th St., Suite 1500 Lincoln, NE 68508 402.323.3605 www.haberfeld.com Contact: David R. Maynard 206 S. 13th St., Suite 1500 Lincoln, NE 60508 402.323.3605 gossenkop@haberfeld.com

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Eddystone Capital helps small-to mid-sized banks and boutique investment firms navigate their distressed loans or portfolios toward successful resolution. We are a full-service firm specializing in commercial loan restructuring and turnaround services. Eddystone can manage everything from a specific troubled loan to an entire portfolio of distressed debt. In short, Eddystone can serve as your organization’s restructuring arm when your loan portfolio weathers a period of financial distress. Over the past 20 years, Eddystone Founder David Maynard has negotiated and managed distressed loans ranging from $500,000 to $1 billion. He has particular expertise in C&I, CRE and Oil & Gas loans. David has a proven track record of devising successful strategies to right a loan or portfolio that’s gone off-course. He has negotiated loans on behalf of single lenders; served as agent of large bank syndicates in complex transactions with bond holders, equity holders and other constituents; and navigated other multi-faceted lending structures.

Haberfeld is an employee owned company with over three decades of experience helping community banks profitably grow by acquiring more profitable customers and increasing core deposits. Haberfeld helps banks more than double new customer acquisitions and increase profitability using a disciplined activity system that embraces technology-based, ROI-focused marketing. Haberfeld provides banks with an extensive, on-site training regimen, and assists banks in product development, policy and procedure evaluations, and enhanced service through mystery shopping.

Holliday Ingram LLC 25 E. Court St., Suite 201 Greenville, SC 29601 864.232.3541 www.hollidayingram.com Contact: J. Hayes Holliday 25 E. Court St., Suite 201 Greenville, SC 29601 864.232.3541 Hayes@HollidayLawFirm.com

Holliday Ingram is a real estate law firm in downtown Greenville, SC, with a passion for loving people and doing great closings. What began as a dream for Hayes Holliday in the fall of 2015 transformed into Holliday Law Firm; a small but growing team of dedicated attorneys and support staff, who help hundreds of buyers and borrowers close on their mortgages each year. In 2018, Trey Ingram left his partnership with a large, regional firm to join Hayes and form what is now Holliday Ingram. As the firm grows, Hayes and Trey will continue taking their caring, warm, and intentional approach into the closing room, bringing that certain “exceptional service” to more borrowers, lenders, and realtors across the Upstate.

Hutchens Law Firm 240 Stoneridge Dr., Suite 400 Columbia, SC 29210 803.726.2700

www.hutchenslawfirm.com

Hutchens Law Firm has provided comprehensive legal services for the banking industry in foreclosure, evictions, bankruptcy, litigation, REO, and title curative matters since 1980. The firm practices in state and federal courts across the state of South Carolina from our offices in Columbia and Myrtle Beach.

Contact: John S. Kay 240 Stoneridge Dr., Suite 400 Columbia, SC 29210 803.726.2700 john.kay@hutchenslawfirm.com

We have practiced law for over thirty years in South Carolina. We are a full-service law firm for banks and other lenders of credit, providing legal services in areas such as default servicing, regulatory compliance, consumer and commercial collections, litigation, real estate, and more.

The Firm is proactive to ensure that our clients’ interests are protected while maintaining compliance with the requirements of the OCC and CFPB. We are constantly evolving to ensure that our infrastructure both from a technology and management standpoint is tailored to ensure timeline adherence, timely communication and escalation of matters, accurate reporting, and cost-effective, competent legal representation.

Our Firm’s internal operational standards focus on sustainability, efficiency, accountability, responsiveness, creativity, flexibility, and robust quality control and quality assurance in our work product and practices.

NOTIFICATION OF NON-RENEWING ASSOCIATE MEMBERS The SCBA reports the following companies did not renew their membership and ask that you please update your listings to reflect these changes:

BFS Group

Computer Services, Inc. We thank these companies for their past support and would welcome each of them to rejoin.

With all of the evolving financial industry changes, we are thankful for business alliances that meet our members’ needs. The SCBA is dedicated to supporting and promoting cutting-edge industry providers to our member banks.

For more information about Associate Membership, please contact SCBA Senior Vice President Carolyn Laffitte Bradley by email at carolynbradley@scbankers.org To view our Associate Membership Directory, click here.

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Community Bankers Conference Invest Today. Capitalize Tomorrow.

April 8-10, 2019 | Four Seasons Resort and Club, Dallas at Las Colinas

During this robust two day event, our speakers and industry leaders will focus on the future of community banks and current issues facing community banks and show you what it takes to lead a high-performing community bank now and in the future.

Reserve your seat today.

Learn more: spglobal.com/CBC-N

Top 5 reasons to attend: 1. Top 100 performing banks are in attendance: giving you an opportunity to gather ideas from other successful executives.

2. Bankers as speakers: panels include bank executives providing practical and unbiased views on how to maximize performance.

3. Panel format: each topic is covered from multiple perspectives and sales pitches from vendors are not allowed.

4. Efficient use of time: we cover only the most essential information, allowing you to gather a wealth of knowledge in a short amount of time.

5. Access to the investment community: hear from prominent bank investors and have the opportunity to talk with them one-on-one at the conference.

SCBA Webinars:

another source for your training needs!

The SCBA has partnered with Total Training Solutions to provide webinars to your financial institution on topics most important to the success and compliance of your bank. Whatever your online training needs may be, SCBA/TTS can assist you. We have webinars ranging from customer service to sales to underwriting—and everything in between. We can’t wait to show you how we can make your job easier!

Visit https://scbankers.org/scba/webinars/ to learn more about the SCBA/TTS webinars and to see the schedule for a myriad of topics. There are over 63 webinars to choose from.

HERE IS A SAMPLING OF UPCOMING WEBINARS: MARCH 14..............FFIEC Information Security Handbook Review MARCH 18..............Handling Deceased Deposit Accounts MARCH 21..............Legal Liabilities when Check Fraud Occurs APRIL 4...................Successful Workout Strategies for Problem Loans APRIL 10.................Marketing & Advertising Compliance APRIL 18.................Escrow Accounts Compliance APRIL 23.................Opening Fiduciary Accounts MAY 7.....................Equipment Lease Financing MAY 10...................Introduction to ACH: The Basics

Visit www.scbankers.org for new webinars added daily.

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Personal

Transactions

Austen Carroll

Doug Strange

Debbie Cook

Jessica Toney

Darryl Broome

AMERIS BANK

COUNTYBANK

Austen Carroll has been promoted to chief banking officer. He will be responsible for the oversight of core banking activities throughout the Ameris Bank footprint, including Alabama, Florida, South Carolina and a majority of Georgia.

Michael Wooles has joined Countybank as Anderson Market Executive. Mr. Wooles comes to Countybank having served in a bank leadership capacity in Anderson for the past 17 years.

Doug Strange has been promoted to chief credit officer. He will be responsible for the day-to-day functions of ensuring the Ameris Bank’s credit culture is followed in all aspects of the credit life cycle through acquisition, underwriting, approval and monitoring practices.

ANDERSON BROTHERS BANK Anderson Brothers Bank advances Debbie Cook to Loan Compliance Services.

Jessica Toney has been promoted to Branch Operations Coordinator of the Johnsonville office.

CRESCOM BANK Heather DeCharme has been promoted to Mortgage Loan Originator.

Ryan Earwaker has joined CresCom Bank as Greenville Market Executive and Senior Vice President.

Matt Smith has joined CresCom Bank as Information Technology Manager based in Charleston.

Thomas DiDonato has joined CresCom Bank as a new Mortgage Loan Originator based in Charleston.

Chris Russell has joined CresCom Bank as a Financial Analyst based in Charleston.

Jeff Turner

John Rowe

Blake G. Taylor

Roddey B. Gettys will serve as President and CEO of Pickens Savings and Loan Association, as of December 31, 2018.

SOUTH ATLANTIC BANK South Atlantic Bank welcomes John Rowe to the South Atlantic Family.

Rowe joins the bank as senior vice president, commercial relationship manager in the Myrtle Beach office.

Mary Jo Rogers has been promoted to the new role of chief lending officer.

Danny Siau has been promoted to Grand Strand regional executive, overseeing area executives in North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, and South Strand offices.

Derick Powers has been promoted to senior vice president, credit risk officer.

Karen Atwood has been named construction loan manager.

SOUTH STATE BANK BLUE RIDGE BANK Darryl Broome has joined the Bank as Vice President and Business Development Officer in Oconee County.

Jeff Turner has joined Blue Ridge Bank as Senior Vice President and Pickens/ County/Powdersville Market Executive.

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PICKENS SAVING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION G. Alex Gettys, Jr., President and CEO of Pickens Savings and Loan Association since 1993, announced his retirement as of December 31, 2018.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 • PALMETTO BANKER

Ally Powell has joined the South State Private Banking Team and will be located at the South State Bank office at 200 E Broad Street in Greenville.

Darrell Cassidy has been named VP/ Regional Executive based in Hartsville.

SOUTHERN FIRST BANK

SYNOVUS

Southern First Bank is pleased to announce that Anna T. Locke has joined the company and bank as Director. Locke is president and owner of A. T. Locke, PC, an outsourced accounting management company.

Robert W. Derrick has been promoted to Chief Credit Officer.

Blake G. Taylor has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Columbia Regional Executive. Blake’s leadership role will include the growth and performance of the entire Columbia market.

John C. Griggs III has been named South Carolina Central Region market executive.

Duffy Scarborough has been named VP/ Mortgage Originator based in Hartsville.

Sam Baxter has been named senior director of Private Wealth for South Carolina.

Dave Starnes has been named VP/City Executive based in Georgetown.

Glenn Buddin has been hired as VP/ Branch Administration based in Florence.

Steven Cook has been named AVP/ Branch Manager in Sumter.

THE CITIZENS BANK STATE BOARD OF FINANCIAL INSTUTIONS

Thomas Bouchette has been named President and COO.

Robert L. Davis has retired as the State Banking Commission, effective February 1, 2019. Rick Green has been appointed to serve as the interim Commissioner of Banking.

Blake Gibbons has been named Vice Chairman.

Denise Tedder has been named Branch Manager in Hartsville.

Carmen Jackson has been named AVP and Branch Manager in McBee. Deborah Outlaw has been named VP and Branch Manager in Camden.

Jim Roberts has been named Senior Vice President and CFO. Ashley Wheeler has been named Chief Administrative Officer.

Today’s bank leaders teaching tomorrow’s

GRADUATE SCHOOL of BANKING at louisiana state university

My decision to attend GSBLSU and commit to the three years of learning was one of the best choices I have made in my own personal and professional development.

”

Angie Lewis

bank innovators.

GSB

“

Group Executive, Enterprise Risk Synovus® Bank Columbus, GA

2019 SESSION MAY 1 9 —31 , 201 9 (225) 766 - 8595 BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

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Banking News

ANDERSON BROTHERS BANK Anderson Brothers Bank donated $2500 to American Cancer Society, Dillon County Relay for Life to kick off its 2019 year.

BANK OF AMERICA The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce has named Kim Wilkerson of U.S. Trust/Bank of America, their 2018 Business Leader of the Year.

COASTAL CAROLINA NATIONAL BANK CCNB and the City of Simpsonville have entered into a three-year agreement to name the City’s outdoor entertainment facility at Heritage Park, “CCNB Amphitheatre.”

ENTEGRA BANK SmarkFinancial, Inc., the parent company of SmartBank, and Entegra Financial Corp, the parent company

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W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 • PALMETTO BANKER

of Entegra Bank, jointly announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement. Entegra will combine with SmartFinancial in a strategic merger of equals.

FIRST CITIZENS BANK First Citizens Bank & Trust Company and First South Bancorp, Inc. announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement. The agreement provides for the acquisition of Spartanburg-based First South Bancorp by First Citizen Bank, which is headquartered in Raleigh, N.C. The announcement was made jointly by Frank B. Holding, chairman and chief executive officer of First Citizens Bank, and Barry L. Slider, vice chairman, chief executive officer and president of First South Bancorp.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANK United Community Bank announced its Upstate branches provided 354 Christmas gifts to local children through its annual Angel Tree program. United partnered with a variety of social service agencies and humanitarian organizations across the Upstate to carry out the initiative.

SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE SAYS

Join us

HELP WASHINGTON GET IT RIGHT

We’ve fought hard for banking policy changes that allow banks to better serve their customers and communities, but the work isn’t done.

Now more than ever, regulators and Congress need to hear from bankers across America to keep policy moving in the right direction. Make sure policymakers get the details right.

Registration is COMPLIMENTARY for the Government Relations Summit, Mutual Community Bank Forum, Emerging Leaders Forum and the Women’s Leadership Forum.

Open to Bankers, Bank Directors & Trustees, State Association Executives and Service Members.

RESERVE YOUR HOTEL NOW. ROOMS SELL OUT QUICKLY! www.aba.com/Training/Conferences/Pages/GRS.aspx The room rate is $348 per night, single/double occupancy.

APRIL 1-3, 2019 Washington Marriott Marquis 901 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington DC For more Information, please contact Anne Gillespie at 803.779.0850, or agillespie@scbankers.org.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 • PALMETTO BANKER

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2009 Park Street • PO Box 1483 Columbia, SC 29202-1483

Annual Convention & Trade Show

2019 SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

JUNE 9-12 | THE SANCTUARY, KIAWAH ISLAND, SC REGISTRATION FEES:

Banker/Associates Members – $545 Spouses/Guests – $425 The Sanctuary room rates are $439++ per evening.

EXHIBITOR BOOTH FEES: Member – $1600 Preferred Vendor – $1475 Non-member – $3000