Finance teams are working frantically to provide reliable decision information, and fast. The strategic and financial stakes of big decisions continue to increase.

During this hands-on workshop, participants will engage in thought-provoking discussions around real-life opportunities and challenges, including:

• Why traditional KPIs may not work in this environment and how to help key stakeholders understand why it may be critical to have a mindset shift
• Considerations for linking strategic liquidity and funding strategies with the desired type of membership growth, lending relationships, and pricing philosophy
• How to visualize data you have now to make it easier for key stakeholders to grasp – enabling better and faster decision-making
• Top-of-mind scenarios to consider over the short-, intermediate-, and long-term and how to engage other stakeholders

Participants will also walk away with information, and visualization ideas and tools that can be put into action immediately.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze how many external forces are unstoppable – appropriate and timely mindset shifts are necessary
• Determine how making your communication with various key stakeholders easier to digest can be a competitive advantage
• Identify how connecting decision-making on loan pricing and packaging, with deposit and funding strategies can provide strategic flexibility

Following a second wave of the CECL adoption, credit union auditors need to establish an effective and efficient process to audit the CECL models that is fit for the size and complexity of the organization. This session will leverage what we’ve learned from auditing with the first wave of CECL adopters to guide participants in audit approach that fit in line with the CECL A&A guidance. We will walk through example CECL calculations of common approaches and discuss audit approaches via a workshop.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze key risk areas relating to CECL for the audit
• Determine ways to audit the quantitative and qualitative components of the CECL reserve
• Identify what testing is typically performed over controls and/or data relating to the model
• Calculate how benchmark data can be used in the auditing process

This session will review the past year, focusing on the impact of the many disruptors; Federal Reserve rate increases at a speed and level not seen, regulatory, auditor and accountants’ response and responsibility due to the banking turmoil, deposit wars in a new competitive environment, and a look at the rapidly changing consumer expectations and technology advancements needed to stay in the game. We will look at the challenges, as well as potential opportunities, facing credit unions in the future.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the year’s economic and industry trends impacting credit unions
• Recognize the changing landscape of competitors and the increased war on deposits
• Identify risk management & regulatory changes auditors and accountants need to address
• Indicate consumer expectation changes and fast-paced technology investment needed to support them

This session will provide an update on regulatory and supervisory changes and emerging issues. Topics to cover the current environment, FINTECH, Cybersecurity threats, Fraud and BSA and MERIT.  

Learning Objectives:

• Identify NCUA regulatory changes
• Recognize NCUA supervisory changes
• Distinguish Credit union emerging issues

In this engaging session with visionary author and Best Innovation Group CEO John Best will lead participants through a transformative exploration of the credit union landscape. With a focus on cutting-edge technologies, the session will cover the transformative potential of AI-driven enhancements, the revolutionary impact of blockchain on security and efficiency, the vital role of digital transformation in modernization, proactive strategies for cybersecurity amidst digital risks, and the empowering embrace of change to foster innovation. This session is a must-attend for credit union leaders, managers, and professionals seeking actionable insights to navigate and leverage the dynamic technological trends shaping the industry.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key technological trends, including AI applications such as LLMS, blockchain's impact on security and transparency, the significance of digital transformation, and proactive cybersecurity measures.
• Recognize strategic insights into the integration of emerging technologies within credit unions.
• Determine their own credit union's current operations, assess opportunities for incorporating AI, blockchain, and other innovations, and outline actionable steps to enhance member experiences, operational efficiency, and cybersecurity measures while fostering a culture of innovation.

Finance leaders need to complete their transitions from being doers to thinking and acting strategically. The sense of urgency has increased exponentially. Their members, team members, and communities are relying on them to help guide them through unyielding uncertainty while continuing to be highly competitive.

Although many wish for a pause button – it does not exist. Falling behind strategically comes at a much higher cost today.

During this session, we will share keys to success that financial leaders can put into action.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify effective leadership practices that can help finance leaders thrive in an environment of constant change and competition
• Determine the importance of practicing critical thinking in the context of strategic decision-making as the environment continues to change
• Analyze how the 1% mindset can be highly effective

Dr. Eyler provides a forecast of the US economy, with headwinds and tailwinds, starting with global issues down through how some states may be more affected than others by recent changes in interest rates and labor markets toward 2025 and beyond. With another president election coming in 2024 and geopolitical issues across the world, there are fiscal, economic and social costs and benefits yet to unfold. How will current forecasts change and in what ways? How will interest rates evolve given the latest data and forecasts and also different political and economic settings? How will credit unions and their members changes as a result, and what are credit unions facing as challenges and opportunities? Dr. Eyler shares his insights on labor markets, lending conditions and broader challenges and opportunities toward the next decade.

Learning Objectives:

• Determine headwinds and tailwinds coming in the US and Global Economy
• Identify short- and long-term issues for labor, housing and financial markets as well as demographic change for the US economy.

This session provides an update on recent changes in GAAP as well as proposed standards and emerging issues.  The session also provides practical guidance with GAAP application and a forum to answer audience questions.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify changes with GAAP.
• Recognize GAAP for its application in financial reporting.

A historic Fed tightening cycle contributed to multiple bank failures in 2023 and shined a light on poor risk management practices. With significant rate movements happening in a short period of time, depositories everywhere have experienced shifts in their interest rate risk exposure and balance sheet dynamics. In this session, we will review recent events and focus on timeless balance sheet management fundamentals, including understanding hedging and funding strategies.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key risk management practices for financial institutions
• Indicate hedging strategies for risk management
• Estimate hedging strategies for risk management

Has your credit union or auditee delved into new programs that may provide accounting challenges to your staff or auditors. Such areas may include: purchased financial assets, leases, deferred compensation plans, ECIP, Grants and Single Audits, and more. With these new programs there may be certain accounting and reporting that can be missed. In today's session we will cover some of these more complex accounting areas and explore ways to ensure proper accounting and reporting is performed.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify challenges with current accounting and reporting.
• Analyze ways to properly account for these matters.
• Determine solutions to enhance efficiencies in audit and accounting.

This session is a higher level, presentation only version of the Auditing CECL Workshop. Following a second wave of the CECL adoption, credit union auditors need to establish an effective and efficient process to audit the CECL models that is fit for the size and complexity of the organization. This session will leverage what we’ve learned from auditing with the first wave of CECL adopters to guide participants in audit approach that fit in line with the CECL A&A guidance. We will walk through example CECL calculations of common approaches and discuss audit approaches.

Learning Objectives:

• Determine key risk areas relating to CECL for the audit
• Use ways to audit the quantitative and qualitative components of the CECL reserve.
• Analyze what testing is typically performed over controls and/or data relating to the model
• Identify how benchmark data can be used in the auditing process

This session will go through what Financial Institutions are battling when it comes to fraud. The pandemic raised a new generation of fraudsters and fraud in todays world is at an all-time high. Fraud is being talked about from the Oval Office all the way down to the front level staff of your business. Come learn about all the different things fraudsters are doing to exploit your customers and your business. 

Learning Objectives:

• Indicate why there is a large increase in fraud happening throughout the US and world.
• Identify new fraud threat vectors that are using new technology to enhance their ability to fool systems.
• Recognize things to watch for as you onboard new customers, accounts and transactions to mitigate as much fraud loss as possible.

Financial institutions are resilient organizations and regularly faced with a cycle of challenges. We will dig into the balance between loan growth and credit quality in an environment marked by economic uncertainty, changing market dynamics, and evolving regulatory frameworks. Ensuring lenders are prepared to navigate these complexities to ensure sustainable growth and minimize potential risks is critical. We will explore the key factors that contribute to the uncertainty on the horizon, such as fluctuating interest rates, shifting borrower profiles, and broader economic indicators.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze factors impacting credit quality
• Select best practices for balancing growth and quality

Changes in business operations as a result of the pandemic, talent shortages, rising interest rates, and a liquidity crunch has created new challenges for credit unions. These circumstances have also provided opportunities for credit union partnerships and mergers. This session will include a panel of experts who have assisted credit unions successfully navigate the strategic merger process. Topics will include current trends in credit unions and bank acquisitions, member value proposition, common pitfalls and keys to success.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze current trends in credit unions and bank acquisitions
• Determine common pitfalls and keys to success

Regulatory and accounting rule changes have made it easier than ever for institutions of all sizes to implement hedging strategies, and for many, the environment is right to do so. In this session, we will explore how to set policies and procedures in place to be able to use derivatives, then look to real world examples of how institutions have recently been using hedging strategies to reduce interest rate risk, lower cost of funds, and achieve broader strategic objectives.

Learning Objectives:

• Compare lessons for achieving board support of a hedging program through key messaging and education, critical foundations of policy development, and internal team setup to handle processes of the hedging platform.
• Select several important strategies for hedging both net interest income and net economic value variability across a range of scenarios, with practical considerations for the hedge relationships constructed to house those derivative strategies.

Times have changed and remote auditing has become increasingly popular. Join us for a discussion on applying auditing standards to real-life examples of remote auditing.  Explore ways to overcome the challenges of remote auditing and conduct efficient engagements for your clients.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the differences between conducting a traditional audit and a remote audit.
• Identify engagement-wide considerations under a remote audit, risk assessment, fraud, and documentation.
• Select use of technology to assist in remote auditing.
• Identify the advantages and disadvantages of remote auditing and the challenges of remote auditing and using a hybrid audit approach.

Compliance with the new CECL rules is crucial for financial institutions, and failure to comply can result in earnings and capital mismanagement, audit and regulatory risk, and reputational damage. To ensure compliance, institutions need to develop a comprehensive CECL policy and maintain robust governance and control frameworks.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze an in-depth overview of the governance framework for CECL
• Identify the significant risks related to CECL control structures
• Calculate audit risks and day 2 concerns

Dive into the fascinating world of Data Analytics featuring two seasoned leaders from the Credit Union industry on how to stay ahead by channeling the power of data. Gain invaluable insights on practical data analytics applications, pitfalls to steer clear of, and best practices for implementing data analytics. We will also touch upon the future trends that will shape the landscape of data analytics in Credit Unions.

Learning Objectives:

• Determine practical applications of data analytics in Credit Unions/Finance.
• Identify lessons learned/pitfalls to avoid.
• Analyze Advanced Analytics and Future Trends in Credit Unions/Finance.

Can you get the best of the experts? 

Use this session as an opportunity to challenge industry experts with technical questions that have been swirling in your head. Come prepared with questions and see if you can stump your colleagues.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize technical accounting and auditing issues facing the credit union industry today.
• Identify insights into the different interpretations of complex accounting guidance.

Challenging times are always full of opportunity. During the most stressful times, we all want to know that we can survive and thrive no matter what. International trainer and author MK Mueller has graduated from life's school of hard knocks with a sense of humor and an amazing "can do" perspective. Her engaging presentation is especially powerful because it is based on an 8-step practical process from her award-winning book, 8 to Great. Join us for this “I’m so grateful I came” experience that you’ll be talking about for months to come.

Learning Objectives:

• Distinguish the importance of Personal Power and how not to give yours away
• Recognize the importance of connecting and believing in dreams
• Estimate how to make every decision and know it’s the best for you
• Select a process for building trust and positivity in a community

There used to be just a few major risks that credit unions cared about – credit, rates and fraud. In the era of continuous tech innovation, fintech competition and erosion of customer loyalty, new risks are taking center stage that have a compounding effect on each other. The old ways of quantifying and managing risks — as one-offs, in silos — no longer cut it. We need a new mindset by understanding risk through a growing body of knowledge and increasingly powerful analytical tools. Learn from a panel of Moody's experts about emerging risks that credit unions are facing, such as cybersecurity and climate, and how these are inter-connected with traditional risks. Additionally, learn strategies that exist for credit unions, accountants and regulators to manage this ever-changing landscape.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key risks facing credit unions and how today, more than ever, these risks are connected and inter-dependent
• Determine what this means for credit unions and accountants, and how both they and regulators can better analyze and mitigate these risks

In the ever-transforming battle for customers/members, fintechs seek to be the new rulers of the banking universe. And the tides have turned. From 2019 to 2022, digital banks have the largest growth rates of primary relationships. Now, for the first time ever, more consumers in the Gen Y and Gen Z age groups name a digital bank as their primary institution than all of the community banks and credit unions combined! Experience live demonstrations of the banking apps that are reimagining the definition of PFI as Primary Financial Interactions, instead of Primary Financial Institution, and changing consumer attitudes and banking behaviors.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the evolution of AI powered chat bots, such as Erica from Bank of America, and how they are reducing complexity of the basic user experiences of mobile banking
• Identify how challenger banks like MoneyLion, use unique fintech features designed for lowincome designated segments, including friendly subscription pricing strategies instead of the penalty-based fee structures that dominate traditional banking
• Distinguish what the intersection of retail and payments looks like from Amazon One, an innovative new merchant payment system from Amazon that uses a person’s palm to reinvent the shopping and payment experience
• Indicate why the secret to customer/member growth will lie in understanding the changing role of banking products in the financial lives of today’s consumers

During the session, participants will hear about completed, current, and future activities of the Auditing Standards Board of the AICPA.  These activities will be linked to the ASB's current work plan and strategic plan.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify ASB's recently issued auditing standards and the implications of those standards.
• Indicate the ASB's standard setting process.
• Identify current and possible future ASB standard setting projects.

Who says compliance is boring? Compliance is anything but, given the changing dynamics in DC and the waves of regulatory changes impacting credit unions. We discuss the dramatic shift in regulatory policy, controversial moves by federal agencies, and the fallout being felt across the credit union industry. You will learn the top compliance risks imperative to your role in credit union leadership. We discuss several key take aways that will help your credit union improve its compliance performance while reducing the risk of a poor examination.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the most pressing compliance issues facing credit unions
• Recall how best to navigate the controversial shift in compliance policy and enforcement
• Recognize through real examples of compliance missteps and how to avoid them

Our panel of credit union executives, from institutions across the country, will share their experiences strategizing and managing in the face of rapidly increasing interest rates, volatility in deposits, persistent inflation, ever-evolving employment and housing data, and the ongoing possibility of recession. Whether it's managing interest rate risk and asset/liability management in a turbulent rate environment, budgeting in the midst of immense uncertainty, attracting and retaining top talent in a hybrid world, or evaluating the constantly changing impact of technology and automation, this group of professionals will provide insight into how their organizations are navigating all of these issues.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the breadth of strategic issues facing today's credit unions
• Recognize how institutions are actively managing through the challenges of this current economic environment

Listen to three credit union professionals describe their unique credit union journeys. Everyone has a story to tell of lessons learned in their own journey. Consider what your path may look like along your credit union journey.

Learning Objectives:

• Recall the path of your credit union journey
• Identify what you can do to improve your own the path