Corporate governance

Mergers and acquisitions were largely on ice in 2020, but banks' mounting need to control expenses and invest heavily in technology could spur a comeback this year.

Amaryllis Fox, former CIA Clandestine Service Officer, offers powership insights into leadership lessons gained from serving in conflicts across the globe. Using experiences from her overseas operations she will provide an inside look at the CIA’s practice of “red-teaming,” and how this practice can help negotiations and resolve conflicts, build empathy, and empower teams to work together.

Pandemic-induced shifts in how people work and bank will allow the Tennessee company to shed more branches and office space. It now projects it will slash expenses by an additional $30 million a year.

A recent agreement with the California Cannabis Industry Association will make it easier for legal cannabis businesses across the state to join the $92 million-asset credit union.

The Connecticut company said it will take several years to shut down the locations, which are located in Stop & Shop stores. About 80% of the branches are within five miles of traditional locations.

Southern Bancorp, which recently raised $35 million in capital, agreed to acquire DeWitt First Bankshares, the parent of Arkansas County Bank.

The company, poised to complete its purchase of Radius Bank, will enjoy new cross-selling opportunities, gain additional sources of fee income and capital as well as benefit from greater regulatory clarity, CEO Scott Sanborn says.

Citigroup will reduce bonuses for dozens of its top executives after the bank was reprimanded by regulators last year.

Hundreds of branches temporarily shuttered during the pandemic are now permanently closed.

The Illinois company has agreed to pay $191 million for the parent of Glenview State Bank.