Earlier this month, members of our Financial Services team at The Bonadio Group attended the AICPA & CIMA Banking and Credit Union Conference in National Harbor, Maryland. The three-day program gathered economists, regulators, standard setters, and industry leaders to share perspectives on the current environment for financial institutions. Below are several insights that matter most for banks and credit unions as they plan for the future.
The Economy, Regulation, & Credit Trends
Day one featured economic outlooks from well-known economists, Todd Buchholz and Douglas Duncan, who discussed consumer debt levels, housing indicators, and the broader economic cycle. Buchholz noted that debt levels are increasing, however, consumer debt service levels are relatively in line with historical norms. Duncan remarked that while he did not think we are headed toward a recession, he noted the level of new housing permits is a leading indicator of financial stress and said that they are trending downward.
Chief accountants from the federal banking agencies shared policy updates, including how banks will report loan modifications for distressed borrowers and upcoming changes to FDICIA Part 363 thresholds. Kurt Hohl, SEC Chief Accountant, emphasized the PCAOB’s importance to capital markets, noting the upcoming issuance of QC 1000: “A Firm’s System of Quality Control,” which was just recently delayed until December 2026. He additionally added his thoughts on whether future inspections should focus more on firm-wide quality control systems than making inferences from inspection of individual issuer audits.
For credit unions, Curt Long, Chief Economist at America’s Credit Unions, pointed to subdued lending amid tight liquidity and rising delinquencies — but noted that earnings are improving and merger activity is increasing.
Innovation & Supervisory Posture
Day two spotlighted technology and regulatory philosophy. Dr. Lamont Black, professional speaker and educator from DePaul University in Chicago, presented a history of artificial intelligence and encouraged institutions to adopt deliberate AI roadmaps to transform operations responsibly.
In his remarks, Jonathan Gould, U.S. Comptroller of the Currency, suggested that supervisory risk tolerance has been too low for too long, potentially limiting banks’ ability to innovate and serve as effective intermediaries. Gould believed the focus should be redirected to the largest, and most risky, of financial institutions going forward.
From a standard-setting perspective, FASB board member Fred Cannon and staff outlined progress on the longtime coming ASU addressing purchased financial assets, which is expected to be finalized and issued in the coming months. Panelists from the SEC’s Office of the Chief Accountant and Division of Corporation Finance discussed hot button comment letter themes, including loan concentration disclosures, fintech restatements, and digital asset lending.
Talent, Technology, & Industry Direction
The final day emphasized leadership and forward-looking strategy. Jamelle Lindo, CEO of Paradigm People Development, outlined how developing emotional intelligence can strengthen leaders’ ability to guide organizations through rapid change.
A community bank panel moderated by Jeffrey J. Geer, Associate Chief Accountant at the OCC, explored credit risk trends, fintech partnerships, and the FASB’s agenda. In a candid exchange, large financial institution executives shared differing views on goodwill accounting, the usefulness of cash flow statements, and the right format for interim reporting.
Meanwhile, credit union CFOs discussed regulatory thresholds, project management discipline, and the push to diversify revenue beyond interest income. They also highlighted technology and AI adoption as critical tools for managing efficiency, liquidity, and member credit quality.
Why It Matters
Taken together, the sessions underscored that financial institutions are navigating a dual track: traditional pressures around credit, capital, and compliance, alongside emerging opportunities and risks tied to technology such as artificial intelligence and a shift toward less regulatory burden.
At The Bonadio Group, we see these themes reflected directly in our practice. From preparing for evolving disclosure expectations to assessing fintech partnerships and AI use cases, institutions that act early and strategically will be best positioned for long-term stability.
If you’re seeking a more in-depth analysis of the conference themes and how they may impact your institution, we invite you to attend our upcoming Annual Financial Institutions Professionals Webinar Series on December 9, 10, and 11, 2025. This complimentary, multi-session event brings together leading industry experts to share the latest trends, challenges, and insights shaping the future of financial institutions. Learn more and secure your spot HERE.
And if you need further guidance or have any questions, we are here to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out to discuss your specific situation.
This material has been prepared for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. Should you require any such advice, please contact us directly. The information contained herein does not create, and your review or use of the information does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship.
