www.marktreichel.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-treichel/

Episode Summary:

In this episode of With Flying Colors, host Mark Treichel sits down with Thomas Griswold, Managing Director at ALM First, to explore the financial forces shaping credit unions in 2025 and beyond. From balance sheet risk to liquidity pressures and loan participation strategies, Thomas shares insights into how ALM First helps credit unions navigate a dynamic economic environment with capital discipline at the center.

They also dive into recent industry trends, including:

• The slowdown in consumer loan growth
• Rebalancing liquidity post-rate hikes
• Strategic use of CDs, borrowings, and non-member funding
• Pricing risk wisely (and knowing when not to chase volume)
• Mergers of equals and the evolving landscape of consolidation
• New developments in ALM First's services—including on-demand liquidity tools and talent retention strategies

Whether you're a CEO, CFO, or board member, this episode is packed with practical takeaways on managing risk and optimizing performance in uncertain times.

🔍 Topics Covered:

• Why capital is the “hub” of the strategic wheel
• How loan demand is shaping balance sheet strategy
• Risks of chasing growth versus pricing risk correctly
• Tools ALM First has built to model stress and liquidity in real-time
• The pilot program for credit union loan funds
• How credit unions can improve executive retention and benefits
• Trends in mergers, profitability, and deposit behavior

🧠 Key Quote:

“There’s no such thing as risk—if you price it right.” – Thomas Griswold

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• ALM First
• Contact Thomas: tgriswold@almfirst.com

🎧 Listen + Subscribe:

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you get your podcasts.