Fireside Chat: An Interview with U.S. Bank's Sekou Kaalund

Empowering Small and Mid-Sized Businesses: A Bank's Role in Local Economies

Financial institutions play a critical role  in supporting small and midsized businesses (SMBs) and local economies. In an up-close and thoughtful fireside chat, the  session will uncover strategies and insights aimed at solidifying the role of banks as indispensable partners in the SMB ecosystem. In today's economic landscape, discover how embracing digital transformation, leveraging data-driven intelligence, and fostering relationships can unlock new growth opportunities for banks as well as the entrepreneurs, families, and communities they serve. Insights include:

- Explore how an evolving banking model approach, centering SMBs not just as entities but as vital components of local economies and the livelihoods of individuals, is critical to maintaining competitive relevance.

- Examine operational and growth challenges many SMBs face, and how personalized, efficient, and scalable financial solutions address these issues to empower the people behind the businesses and strengthen the communities they serve.

- Understand how fostering deeper, more collaborative relationships with SMBs can create sustainable revenue streams and long-term loyalty for financial institutions, while directly contributing to the success of small businesses, individuals and overall community vitality.