Esther George, Speech: Looking Back, A 40-Year Perspective on Community Banking

“The economic vitality of thousands of communities and rural geographies depends on reliable access to credit and other financial services. Over the past 40 years, much has changed in the delivery of those services, driven by demographics, technological innovation, and regulation. Over this time, community banks have continued to play an instrumental role in meeting the needs of rural places and their communities. With the right mix of strategy and innovation, and a well-calibrated regulatory approach, the community bank model can continue to be a trusted cornerstone of the U.S. financial system for thousands of households and small businesses who look to them for essential credit needs and services.”