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Bank First in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, has completed its acquisition of Centre 1 Bancorp in Beloit; Citi plans to shed its remaining Russian operations; Heritage Financial in Olympia, Washington, has received regulatory approvals to acquire Olympic Bancorp; and more in this week's banking news roundup.

The lender traps consumers in an "exploitative cycle of debt," Brandon Scott said.

Vishal Sankhla is co-founder and CEO of Outmarket.

Sankhla has dedicated his career to building intelligent, automated systems that replace inefficiency with speed, clarity, and action. He previously led the platform team at Uber, was Director of Engineering at Facebook, and Head of Product at Ethos Life Insurance. 

At Outmarket, Sankhla leads a team that delivers a comprehensive AI solution to the manual workflows, siloed data, and outdated processes that cost brokers and carriers billions in lost productivity each year. Outmarket is now trusted by over 200 of the world's most successful insurance agencies to streamline operations, reduce E&O exposure and drive growth.  Connect with Vishal on LinkedIn.

Mike Gerhard is chief data and AI officer at BDO USA, where he is responsible for integrating AI into BDO's operations. He has led numerous technology initiatives, including the enterprise digital transformation and innovation program. Additionally, he leads the research and AI development team.

Following the passage of federal legislation, stablecoins are generating a lot of buzz, but are still seeking uses beyond investment. Payment firms are pushing technology to entice merchants and consumers to support the digital asset.

The merger of equals, which received a chilly reception from investors when it was announced in July, closed faster than analysts had expected.

As artificial intelligence is integrated into more and more core banking operations, bank boards of directors need to make sure business continuity plans account for the possibility of AI system failures.

Last year highlighted the risks for banks in lending to nondepository financial institutions. A new approach by Trump-era regulators could change the playing field.

Articles about the AI deployments of big banks and of scammers generated clicks from American Banker readers.

Community banks are always looking for ways to expand local engagement. But for some banks, sponsoring disc golf courses, clubs and events offers a relatively inexpensive way to boost their profile among a very loyal customer base.