As we approach Thanksgiving next week, it is a time for pause and appreciation. I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey of the banking industry this year. In the spirit of gratitude, it’s fitting to acknowledge the resilience, innovation, and dedication that have defined our sector amidst a landscape of evolving challenges and opportunities. Over my career, I have witnessed cycles of disruption and renewal, but 2025 stands out as a pivotal chapter, one where stability has been hard-won, and the path forward gleams with promise.

Earlier this month, the Federal Reserve’s latest Financial Stability Report was released, paints a picture of a system that has weathered macroeconomic headwinds with commendable fortitude. Inflation has moderated, growth remains steady, and earnings are stabilizing, setting the stage for potential rate cuts that could invigorate lending and investment. These developments aren’t mere statistics, they represent the collective efforts of bankers, regulators, and fintech pioneers who have navigated uncertainty with grace and grit. I’m deeply thankful for the professionals on the frontlines, the compliance officers ensuring regulatory harmony in a fragmented environment, the technologists scaling AI to enhance customer experiences, and the leaders fostering digital transformations that make banking more inclusive and efficient.

Consider the strides in payments and digital assets, highlighted at Sibos 2025 earlier this fall. ISO 20022 is revolutionizing cross-border transactions, while stablecoins and other innovations are bridging traditional finance with the digital economy. At CCG Catalyst, we’ve partnered with over 600 institutions to harness these tools, turning potential disruptions into growth engines. Yet, as McKinsey’s Global Banking Annual Review underscores, the key to thriving lies in a targeted approach, focused on core strengths while addressing risks like financial crime and data fragmentation. Deloitte’s outlook for 2026 echoes this, reminding us that preparation today builds resilience tomorrow.

On a personal note, Thanksgiving evokes heartfelt thanks for the human element in banking. To the credit union executives who’ve expanded access in underserved communities, the fintech entrepreneurs pushing boundaries, and the families supporting those long hours, your contributions make our industry not just functional, but meaningful. In a world where economic easing signals hope, let’s carry this gratitude into the new year, embracing collaboration and innovation to create a more equitable financial future.

From all of us at CCG Catalyst, wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, reflection, and renewed optimism. Here’s to the bankers who build bridges, may your tables be bountiful and your horizons bright.

Paul P. Schaus Founder and Managing Partner, CCG Catalyst Consulting