modernization efforts, signaling a balanced and diversified approach. Leading Investment in 2026: Efficiency Drivers Like Automation or AI Efficiency technologies remain the top investment priority, with 37% of bankers citing automation or AI as critical to improving operations, especially in improving back-office processes. As community banks face increased competition from all sides, they look to AI and automation to do more with less. Conversational AI is gaining momentum, but many institutions are still searching for its most valuable use cases. The real differentiator ahead will be how prepared institutions are to use their data, both to support AI initiatives and strengthen decision-making. Secondary Investment in 2026: Data Analytics/ Actionable Insights & Digital Account Opening Many institutions recognize the value of analytics but are still working through data silos and integration challenges that limit the insights that can be gained. AI and clear analytics dashboards can be useful tools for turning data into action. Smart use of data helps institutions understand account holder behavior and identify areas to better serve them, including customizing offerings and promoting them digitally. Interpreting data to create a personalized experience also helps institutions solidify relationships and decrease attrition. Continued focus on digital account opening suggests that even institutions with established solutions see opportunities to streamline onboarding and back-office processes, with open banking increasingly serving as an enabling layer that accelerates integration. Bankers’ Top Opportunities for 2026 Bankers are strategically engaging with consumers and embracing transformative trends that promise to redefine banking operations and customer service in the years to come. Greatest Opportunity in 2026: Harnessing the Power of AI AI is increasingly top of mind for executives as they explore ways to transform operations, drive efficiency, fight fraud and sharpen decision-making. AI-powered tools present a unique opportunity to level the playing field against big banks by offering assistance and smart automation. Generative AI applications, in particular, hold the promise of hyper-personalized, around-the-clock service, allowing banks to leapfrog their capabilities and retain a competitive edge. From virtual assistants to content creation tools, the applications of generative AI are vast, offering financial institutions newfound agility and efficiency in meeting customer needs. Secondary Opportunity in 2026: Digital Assets 20% of bankers surveyed named digital assets (including stablecoins, tokenized deposits and cryptocurrencies) as one of their top opportunities, signaling growing curiosity about how these technologies could fit into future banking models. While most institutions remain in the early stages of exploration, interest is being driven by potential use cases around payments, efficiency and new revenue streams as the market continues to evolve. While interest in these assets grows, the regulatory landscape for stablecoins and tokenization is still evolving. At the end of 2025, the FDIC released its first rule for the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act. Most near-term applications remain limited, primarily in cross-border transactions, and any strategic engagement will require careful analysis and strong compliance frameworks. Navigating the Road Ahead for Community Banking Strategic focus and adaptability will be essential for community banks this year. While challenges remain, 86% of bankers report optimism about the future, signaling confidence in the industry’s direction. By strengthening foundational capabilities and embracing emerging technologies, institutions can position themselves not just to adapt, but to compete. This article only scratches the surface. For a more complete picture, scan the QR code to read the 2026 Banking Priorities Executive Report. https://www.csiweb.com/docs/bankingpriorities-2026/ Jason Young serves as vice president of product management, helping guide the development of solutions that support CSI’s vision and strategy. With extensive experience in product development and integration, he plays a key role in advancing CSI’s products and services. NEBRASKA INDEPENDENT BANKER 17
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